Choosing ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software is one of the most important technology decisions for any business. The right ERP integrates finance, operations, supply chain, production, and customer management into a single platform, while the wrong choice can lead to inefficiency and wasted investment.

Steps to choose ERP software:

  1. Assess Your Needs: Document current challenges, processes, and future growth goals.
  2. Define Requirements: List functional needs (finance, manufacturing, supply chain, CRM) and technical criteria (cloud, on-premise, integrations).
  3. Set a Budget & Timeline: Consider software, implementation, training, and long-term support costs.
  4. Evaluate Vendors: Shortlist ERP options that fit your industry and size (e.g., Infor, Acumatica).
  5. See Demonstrations: Request demos tailored to your workflows.
  6. Check References: Speak with similar companies that use the ERP.
  7. Choose the Right Partner: Success depends not just on the software, but on the consultant who implements and supports it.

At WM Synergy, we help manufacturers and distributors choose ERP software through structured selection services—ensuring the chosen system aligns with business processes, scalability, and ROI goals.

How to Choose ERP Software: A Step-by-Step Guide

ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software is the digital backbone of a modern business. It connects finance, operations, production, supply chain, and customer management into one unified system. But with dozens of vendors promising to be “the best,” how do you choose ERP software that truly fits your needs?

The answer is a structured, step-by-step approach.

Step 1: Assess Your Business Needs

Begin by analyzing current challenges and opportunities:

  • Are manual processes slowing down operations?
  • Do departments lack real-time visibility?
  • Is reporting inconsistent or delayed?
  • Are you struggling with inventory, scheduling, or compliance?

Your ERP should solve your pain points while supporting tomorrow’s growth.

Step 2: Define Functional & Technical Requirements

Document requirements in two categories:

  • Functional Needs: Finance, accounting, supply chain, production scheduling, quality control, CRM, HR, analytics.
  • Technical Needs: Deployment model (cloud, on-premise, hybrid), integration with MES/PLM/CRM, mobility, security, compliance.

This requirements list becomes the foundation for evaluating vendors.

Step 3: Establish a Budget and Timeline

ERP pricing includes:

  • Software licenses or subscriptions
  • Implementation services (configuration, data migration, training)
  • Integrations and customizations
  • Ongoing support and upgrades

Small businesses may spend $2,000–$5,000/month on cloud ERP. Larger enterprises may invest hundreds of thousands annually.

Step 4: Shortlist ERP Vendors

Match requirements to vendor strengths. For manufacturers and distributors, leading options often include:

  • Infor CloudSuite Industrial (SyteLine): Advanced planning, scheduling, and supply chain capabilities.
  • Acumatica Cloud ERP: Cloud-native with consumption-based pricing, ideal for growing SMBs.
  • Infor VISUAL: Reliable ERP for job shops and custom manufacturing.
  • Infor XA: IBM i-based ERP for stability and modernization.

Step 5: Request Demonstrations

Vendor demos should not be generic. Ask for scenarios that reflect your workflows—such as order entry, scheduling, or quality checks. Score each ERP based on usability, alignment, and fit-gap analysis.

Step 6: Validate Through References & Proof of Concept

Ask vendors for references from similar companies. Better yet, consider a limited proof-of-concept pilot before a full rollout.

Step 7: Choose the Right ERP Partner

Software selection is only half the equation. The implementation partner determines whether ERP succeeds or fails. Look for a partner with:

  • Industry-specific expertise (manufacturing, distribution).
  • Proven methodology for implementation.
  • Strong change management and training focus.
  • Long-term support capabilities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Choosing based only on price.
  • Over-customizing the system (leading to upgrade challenges).
  • Ignoring change management and training.
  • Failing to involve key users in the selection process.

How WM Synergy Helps Businesses Choose ERP

At WM Synergy, we specialize in ERP selection for manufacturers and distributors. With 35+ years of experience and 1,800+ successful projects, we help businesses navigate the complexity of ERP choices.

Our approach includes:

  • Software-Agnostic Evaluation: We compare multiple ERP systems (Infor CloudSuite, Acumatica, VISUAL, XA).
  • Operational Excellence Focus: We align ERP with lean manufacturing and process efficiency.
  • Structured Methodology: From needs assessment to demos and final selection.
  • Change Management Support: Ensuring employees adopt and embrace the system.
  • Long-Term Partnership: Beyond selection, we implement and optimize ERP for sustained ROI.

Final Thoughts

Choosing ERP software isn’t about finding the “biggest name” in the market—it’s about finding the right fit for your processes, people, and growth strategy. By following a structured evaluation process and partnering with experienced consultants, you can confidently select ERP software that delivers efficiency, scalability, and competitive advantage.

At WM Synergy, we help manufacturers and distributors choose ERP systems that unlock their full potential.