ERP Acquisition Planning: A Critical Dimension for Making the Right Choice

Organisations that invest in new ERP software packages are making a big commitment in terms of both time and money, especially given the complexity of such systems and the risk that their implementation will bring unforeseen problems. This paper looks at the process of planning in the acquisition of ERP systems, basing its findings in an extensive study of four organisations that have gone through the planning process. Six activities are identified and examined: project team formation, requirements definition, establishment of evaluation and selection criteria, marketplace analysis, choice of acquisition strategy, and anticipated acquisition issues. By planning the acquisition systematically and thoroughly, organisations can substantially increase the likelihood that they will identify ERP software and vendors that genuinely meet their needs.