When it comes to ERP systems, the grass isn’t greener on the other side. Only two out of five companies want to change their ERP system, but not necessarily because they are satisfied with the current software.

Has your company recently switched to a different ERP system? Then you are more the exception than the rule. This is the result of a survey by myBrandConclusion, SAP and OutSystems service provider, for which 500 IT decision-makers were interviewed. Only a minority of companies consider migrating to another ERP system, and those that do see challenges above all.

No transfer necessary

Only two out of five companies state that they want to switch ERP software. Of these, only one in three is really satisfied with the current system. Companies are more likely not to change their software for fear of investing too much (40%). A lack of capacity (24%) and insufficient short-term value creation (24%) are also frequent reasons for staying with the previous supplier.

Anyone who decides to take the plunge also sees a big mountain to climb: Two out of three participants see the introduction of a new ERP system as a challenge. The main challenge lies in the complexity. For example, 45 percent say that introducing a new ERP solution would be too much of a burden for current staff. Knowledge, on the other hand, does not appear to be an obstacle, say 60 percent.

step by step

Marcel Antons, director of strategy and innovation at myBrand Conclusion, is not surprised that companies are reluctant to change their ERP system. “Each software implementation takes time, involves risks and has a major impact on the employees who have to work with the new software. Above all, the time required for employees makes companies hesitate.”

An ERP migration should therefore not be approached as an IT project, but as a comprehensive change program. And this inevitably involves the necessary change management. Antons: “With a good, step-by-step approach, you minimize the risks associated with an ERP implementation. Additionally, it ensures that employees can keep up with the pace of change in the organization. The result is greater acceptance and greater employee satisfaction.”

Telenet can confirm that this process needs to be approached carefully. An ERP migration went as planned for the telecom provider, resulting in severe service disruptions and a record number of complaints.