
11. How can store owners benefit from using an omnichannel approach to digitalization?
9 costly mistakes made by Children’s Clothing store owners when selecting an ERP and how to avoid them.
What is an ERP?
ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is a software solution used to collect, store, manage and interpret data from different business activities. Used by retailers, an ERP system can help automate and streamline the daily operations of a business by providing a platform from which to manage the activities of all of the departments in the business. It provides real-time data for product inventory levels and customer data, which can be used to make better informed strategic decisions.
Measurement of Successful ERP Selection
In order for an ERP selection to be successful, there must be clear objectives in place to measure the implementation and performance of the ERP. There must be established goals to identify how the ERP will help reduce operational costs, increase customer satisfaction and help the business remain competitive. The long-term success of the ERP system depends on understanding its benefits and setting realistic expectations.
5 Common Mistakes and solutions in ERP Selection
When it comes to selecting an ERP system for a Children’s Clothing store, there are often mistakes made that can have costly long-term impacts. Here is a list of 5 of the most common mistakes and how they can be avoided:
- Not enough clarity on the business requirements: Before any ERP system can be successfully selected, the business should thoroughly review their current requirements and any future needs. Without this clarity, it’s difficult to identify which system is best suited to fulfill the business’s needs. Solution: Thoroughly review the business requirements to identify potential gaps and determine the best system that can fulfil those needs.
- Not taking advantage of the potential features and benefits: Many ERP systems available for Children’s Clothing stores offer features and benefits that can significantly reduce operational costs, increase customer satisfaction and help the business remain competitive. Solution: Research the potential features and benefits that come with each option and use this information to make an informed decision on the best system for your business.
- Not considering the scalability of the ERP: ERP systems must be able to scale with the business as it grows. Failing to consider the scalability of the system could result in costly future investments. Solution: Carefully review each system to ensure it can scale with the ever-changing needs of the business.
- Not setting realistic expectations: In order for an ERP selection to be successful, realistic goals must be set in order to measure the implementation and performance of the ERP. Solution: Before selecting an ERP system, be sure to clearly identify how the ERP will help reduce operational costs, increase customer satisfaction and help the business remain competitive.
- Not considering the cost of hiring new staff: ERP systems often require new staff to manage and maintain the system. This cost should be taken into account when selecting an ERP system. Solution: Consider the cost of staffing before making a final selection.
Summarized Table of the Mistakes and Solutions
| Mistake made | Solution |
|---|---|
| Not enough clarity on the business requirements | Thoroughly review the business requirements |
| Not taking advantage of the potential features and benefits | Research the potential features and benefits |
| Not considering the scalability of the ERP | Carefully review each system for scalability |
| Not setting realistic expectations | Set realistic goals to measure implementation and performance |
| Not considering the cost of hiring new staff | Consider the cost of staffing |
Conclusion
The selection of an ERP system for a Children’s Clothing store is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. If the decision is made without adequate research and understanding of the potential features and benefits, it can have costly long-term impacts. By taking the proper steps to ensure that the correct system is selected, the store can improve efficiency, remain competitive and increase profitability.