Are You Being Extorted by Your Software Vendor? Probably. Here’s How to Fight Back.
When dealing with enterprise software vendors, many organizations find themselves caught in a cycle of forced upgrades, misleading promises, and vendor lock-in. If you feel like you’re being extorted by your software vendor, you probably are. Software vendors have mastered the art of coercion—convincing businesses to make decisions that may not be in their best […]
The Love-Hate Relationship with ERP Software: Why It Drives Me Crazy
ERP software is often seen as a game-changer for organizations looking to streamline operations and improve efficiency. But here’s the reality—ERP implementations are notorious for cost overruns, business disruptions, and failed expectations. After 25 years in ERP consulting, I have worked with every major ERP system—SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, Infor, NetSuite, and more. And while […]
Why is ERP Software Important to Small Businesses?
At some point, most entrepreneurs will see their business needs start to outgrow the capabilities of their basic accounting software. When that happens, it can be a stressful time. Without knowing what the future holds, small business owners must make decisions that will affect their business, especially when it comes to investments in new tech. […]
The Value of Evaluating Lesser-Known ERP Software Vendors
Since the dawn of the internet, companies looking for a new ERP software have tended to begin their search by plugging something to the effect of “best ERP for manufacturing”, “ERP for service companies”, “top ERP for small business”, etc. into a search engine. This practice is even more commonplace in recent years. It’s true […]
Independent Review of Odoo
Formerly known as Open ERP, Odoo is one of the leading ERP systems and the only open-source ERP to make our Top 10 ERP Systems for Small Business list. Below is a product review of the Odoo ERP suite, including positives and considerations to support your software selection process. (NOTE: Third Stage Consulting Group is […]
Organizational Change Management Considerations for Small Businesses
When discussing digital transformation with small business owners, the mention of organizational change management is (OCM) followed by blank stares. As a small, tightly-knit group where everyone knows each other and has direct access to leadership, OCM may not seem like a top priority while implementing one of the top ERP systems for small businesses. […]
How To Begin Your First ERP Implementation: Considerations for Small Businesses
By Brian Potts and Kristy Barber At some point during its evolution, every growing business faces the decision of when the time is right to replace QuickBooks or other accounting system with a consolidated ERP. Once you have decided the time is now and you have determined to select and implement a new ERP, now […]
Is It Time to Replace QuickBooks with a New ERP System?
Collaboration with Kristy Barber, Third Stage Consulting Change is hard. It is difficult enough when switching to a new ERP from an old one but can be even more of a tumultuous journey when leaving your QuickBooks environment and implementing an ERP for the very first time. We talk to companies on a daily basis […]