Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is the beating heart of your business. When properly implemented and supported, it helps you skillfully and efficiently manage core processes across the organisation.
In other words, ERP is way too important to leave to chance. To make sure your ERP solution is working optimally on your behalf, you need the best software for your business needs and, beyond that, an implementation and support partner that you trust implicitly. ERP systems can be complex. The team that supports it needs to have expertise, dedication and an absolute understanding of your business requirements and goals.
In this article we’ll take a deeper dive into five things you should demand from an ERP partner, and explain why switching your service might be the smartest move you can make.
1. Expertise and Experience
Expertise in a support provider is a given. Your chosen partner should have an in-depth knowledge of your ERP software and any add-ons and integrations you use. ERP software rarely exists in isolation, so the team that supports it should also be able to support your complete resource planning ecosystem. If in doubt, ask them to show their credentials.
But an expertise in the software alone isn’t enough. Different businesses use ERP systems in different ways. Different sectors have different organisational priorities. A support provider should also have hands-on experience of the industry you operate in and organisations similar to your own. Let them explain how they would implement and support an ERP system in ways that are specific to your circumstances.
2. A Talent for Change Management
Whether you’re implementing a new ERP system or changing from one support partner to another, you need to know how it will be done. That means timelines, methodology and the minutia of managing complex projects. Does the provider have their own proprietary methodology and how does it work to overcome challenges and minimise disruption? If they’re taking over ERP support mid contract, how will they ensure a seamless transition? The wider point is that a digital transformation partner shouldn’t just be great at the tech stuff. They need to be great communicators, problem solvers and relationship builders, too.
3. Competitive and Transparent Pricing
It’s not all about price, but in these testing times, price has to be part of the equation. Overall cost is important, but so are other factors. A transparency around cost means that invoices never contain nasty surprises. Customised service packages ensure that your ERP support comes with everything you need and nothing you don’t. It should all be part of a competitive pricing model that provides comprehensive ERP support while avoiding unnecessary expense.
4. A Partnership Model
The right support provider is the one you can work with. ERP implementations are complex and continually evolving, so the people who support and develop that system need to act as an extension of your team. They need to take the time to acquire an in-depth knowledge of your business and be proactive in suggesting new solutions and better ways of working.
And they have to be there when you need them. Expect a dedicated account manager who you can contact directly, not just a random support line. Demand anytime access to subject matter experts whether you need a technical fix or a quick chat about an interesting bookkeeping add-on. And, because extended downtime isn’t an option, make sure you can get hold of the help desk at 11pm on bank holiday Monday. If that all sounds like something beyond a traditional vendor relationship, that’s because it has to be.
5. An End-to-End Service
As we’ve said, your partner should be an expert in ERP. Ideally, they should also be an expert in everything it’s built on. You can simplify supplier management and potentially reduce costs by having one provider take care of your entire IT landscape. More than that, if your partner also looks after the foundational platform, either on-premise or in the cloud, they can optimise it for ERP, monitor it for problems and maintain it in a way that makes the very best of your ERP investment. Transitioning to the cloud also becomes so much more straightforward.
Codestone: Your Strategic ERP Partner for Transformation
If you’re experiencing service gaps, lacking proactive support, or struggling with unpredictable support costs, it’s time to consider a change. Codestone doesn’t just offer ERP support – we deliver strategic transformation with transparent, fixed-price options that give you complete cost certainty.
As both a SAP Gold Partner and Microsoft Gold Partner, we bring unique dual expertise that ensures your SAP ERP implementation achieves maximum efficiency, whether on-premise or in a dynamic cloud environment. This dual certification means we can optimise your entire technology stack, not just your ERP system.
Why Leading Organisations Choose Codestone:
- Fixed-Price Peace of Mind: Unlike traditional variable pricing models, our fixed-price options eliminate budget uncertainty and ensure you never face unexpected support costs
- Proven Transition Excellence: With over 130 successful support takeovers, we’ve refined a seamless transition methodology that minimises disruption
- Superior Service Delivery: Our industry-leading 97% customer retention rate and SAP Customer Satisfaction Award reflect our commitment to exceptional service
- 24/7/365 Proactive Support: Beyond reactive problem-solving, we actively monitor and optimise your ERP ecosystem to prevent issues before they impact your business
- All-Inclusive Support: Our fixed pricing includes comprehensive support coverage – no hidden fees, no surprise charges, and no complex billing structures
Commercial Clarity That Makes Sense
Our fixed-price approach means:
- Predictable monthly or annual costs for easier budgeting
- No unexpected charges for standard support services
- Transparent pricing that aligns with your service needs
- Simplified procurement and approval processes
- Lower administrative burden for your finance team
Take the First Step
If you’re considering a change in ERP support partners, let’s start with a no-obligation discussion about your challenges and objectives. Our team can:
- Review your current support costs and demonstrate potential savings
- Present our fixed-price options tailored to your needs
- Outline a clear transition plan with minimal business disruption
- Help you build a compelling business case for change
Don’t let unpredictable ERP support costs and suboptimal service hold your business back. Contact us today to explore how Codestone can transform your ERP experience with fixed-price certainty and strategic partnership.
