Innovative, proactive and responsive ERP vendors, the need-Study

An international study carried out by TNS Sifo on behalf of IFS said that companies should look for innovative, proactive and responsive ERP vendors to achieve successful implementation projects.

The vendor's ability to listen and be close to the customer, to involve the customer in product development and testing, to provide comprehensive support and be present with the customer is crucial for a productive, long-term investment.

The study examined the attitude of 216 decision makers in the USA, the UK, Germany, Sweden and the Benelux countries on the returns on investment, procurement strategy and vendor relations when purchasing business solutions.

The survey revealed that 68 percent of the respondents consider their latest business software projects as being successful, while another18 percent perceive their projects as successful.

Projects become successful when customers select a vendor who is innovative and proactive when it comes to the needs of the customer. Other key factors that influence project success are customer involvement in product development and testing, a continuous support offering and the vendor's local presence.

The study finds that the success rate doubles, when projects combine the four important factors described above.

"This research confirms our long-held belief that successful business software projects depend on the vendor's willingness to go that extra mile," IFS CEO, Alastair Sorbie said. "At IFS, we promote a culture of accessibility and commitment to provide added value and speedy ROI to our customers. Our industry experience combined with our leading-edge, innovative products makes IFS equipped to take any ERP project from good to great."

The second most important factor for ERP success is customer involvement in product development and testing. For example, participation in an early adopter program brings customers closer to the vendor, enabling them to provide timely feedback and steer development to suit business needs.

"My experience of working with IFS is positive. We have established a real partnership based on two-way communication, which makes our day-to-day business productive and collaborative," said James Greaves, Systems Manager at Portsmouth Aviation, Early Adopter of IFSApplications 8.