Five Common (and Inaccurate) Myths of ERP Systems
ERP implementations and digital transformations are plagued with failure points perpetuated by ERP software industry hoaxes. Some of these are self-serving, while others are based on In this blog we’ll talk about five myths, and it’s my hope that’s there’s a couple that will be covered you haven’t thought of. At Third Stage Consulting we’re […]
Why Tier 2ERP Software Might be Right for You
In ERP world there’s no shortage of software solutions and a variety of pricing. Software is sometimes described as Tier 1 solutions (examples include SAP and Oracle) and Tier 2 solutions (software companies like IQMS or NetSuite) and the list goes on. The concept is the lower the number the more sophisticated the system. Tier […]
The Convergence of ERP Configuration and Customization
The words configuration and customization can be equally challenging to understand. As related to ERP software – the challenge comes from the fact that every software company builds and defines their software a little differently. Configuration typically refers to the ability of a software to natively perform a certain function. A general way to think […]
Why Software Evaluation RFPs are a Bad Idea
A company often comes to the realization that their existing systems are constraining growth. They may also be unreliable, dependent on manual input, etc. There is little debate that modern ERP software will help … but what’s the best way to get there? Unfortunately, many companies believe that an ERP request for proposal (RFP) is […]
Could Your ERP Software Licenses Cost More Than You Think?
ERP software from any of the top ERP vendors isn’t inexpensive. It’s helpful to be aware of some “watch outs” or topics like licensing costs since more attention goes to things like software fit or deployment methods. While few will select or deselect a software because of licensing pricing and structure, it’s a pertinent subject, […]
Assembling an ERP Project Team: Three Things You Didn’t Anticipate
ERP projects are never easy. Companies typically have an internal project team designated to the initiative as well as experienced external resources. Theoretically this should be a winning combination. Let’s dig a little deeper into what we as outside independent ERP consultants sometimes find are drawbacks when forming and maintaining your internal project team: 1. […]
How To Learn About and Get Involved with ERP Implementations
We often hear from people wanting to learn more about enterprise resource planning (ERP). Sometimes it’s because they become involved with an ERP project while others recognize the career opportunities. It’s a broad topic with broader implications. With that said, most people are created equal when it comes to knowledge about ERP – most have […]
The Pitfalls of Selecting ERP Software
For any company considering new technology, the world of ERP is exploding with possibilities. So much so that the risk of choosing the wrong software may be greater than the chance of getting it right. While not getting too technical let’s talk about a couple of the biases, considerations or obstacles. The process of selecting […]
The Strategy of ERP Implementation
Organizations large and small often seek the assistance of ERP consultants. Companies realize that ERP initiatives are complex, and an effective ERP consultant is a different type of independent resource that can add to your chances of success. While companies seek guidance for a variety of help, software selection and implementation are two of the […]
Is My Company’s ERP Data Safe in the Cloud?
I recently proposed this question to Daryl Crockett, well known for her role specializing in data cleansing and data security. As in much of consulting, the answer often “depends” on many variables. Let’s start the discussion by using the Equifax situation as a glaring and public example of a high-profile cybersecurity breach. Sure, they stored […]
Is Your Legacy System a Cybersecurity Ticking Time Bomb?
We encounter many clients who, given the chance, readily talk about the pain points of their IT systems. Many have been living with these symptoms for years and seem eerily accepting of them. Others are unknowingly increasing their cybersecurity threats during digital transformation and ERP initiatives. Since I can turn anything into a car analogy, […]
Digital Transformation Gone Wrong at PG&E
Even if you don’t live in California, you’re probably aware of the devastating fires that sadly took lives and property over the last few years. A big part of this story can be pointed at electrical utility grids and lines and the poor maintenance thereof. When tested by high winds, massive fires and outages have […]