Choosing ERP for manufacturing – 12 key questions
Selecting the right ERP system is crucial for manufacturing companies looking to scale, streamline, and digitize their operations. But how do you know which system is right – and what you actually need?
Here are twelve essential questions to ask before making a decision that will impact your production, inventory management, and long-term competitiveness.
12 Questions to help you choose the right ERP for manufacturing
1. Does the system support your core business processes – beyond just finance?
Your ERP shouldn’t stop at accounting. It should connect with inventory, order flows, production, and delivery.
2. Is it cloud-based?
A modern ERP should be cloud-based to offer flexibility, real-time data, and cost-efficient operations – without heavy installations.
3. How scalable is it?
The ERP system must grow with your business – without needing a full reimplementation in a few years.
4. Does it support multiple production methods?
Can it handle both make-to-stock and make-to-order processes? What about hybrid models?
5. Can it automate and streamline operations?
Automated workflows for purchasing, production, and invoicing save both time and money.
6. Do you get real-time data and smart dashboards?
Real-time reporting and customizable dashboards enable faster, data-driven decisions – without waiting on reports from different systems.
7. Does it support advanced inventory and purchasing?
Features like traceability, batch control, min/max levels, and replenishment are essential.
8. Can it manage the entire value chain – from raw material to finished product?
A modern ERP should follow the full process, from supplier to customer – not just handle the books.
9. How long is the implementation – and what support is offered?
Choose a partner who understands manufacturing and has experience implementing ERP in complex environments.
10. Can it handle multiple sites, plants, or countries?
Global operations require multi-currency, multilingual, and tax regulation support – especially for distributed production.
11. How easily does it integrate with other systems?
You shouldn’t have to build everything into one tool – but your ERP should easily integrate with the ones you already use.
12. What about updates, security, and future-proofing?
Choose an ERP that updates regularly without disrupting operations – and with built-in security from the ground up.
Why your ERP system impacts the entire production chain
An ERP system isn’t just a financial tool – it’s the backbone of how you plan, produce, and deliver. By asking the right questions early in the process, you lay the foundation for a system that truly supports your manufacturing – from inventory to delivery.
Want to learn how NetSuite works for manufacturers? Contact us – we’re happy to tell you more.
