The global range of ERP software solutions consists of thousands of different systems. There are large and small providers. Some companies only offer one system, others have many similar ERP systems. There are locally active providers and real global players. And there are undoubtedly providers who are at the forefront of technology and, unfortunately, there are also those who are no longer up to date. With today's rapid technological development, it is an interesting question as to which of these systems are strategic and future-proof and which will fail at some point. The location of the solution you are currently using also plays an important role.
Modern cloud-based, AI-powered solutions are widely viewed as the future of ERP. But how does your current provider feel about these technologies? Does he have an AI strategy? For all the different systems he brings to market? And if so, what does this strategy mean in terms of support (version) of the system you currently use? Explosive question: Can you continue to use your current system? Or should you prepare for the transition to another system?
For providers, the transition to cloud and AI is essentially a similar problem to the year 2000. Do you remember that? Nobody really believed that the traditional systems would work in the new century. And all providers were forced to review their portfolio and make strategic decisions that led to a major restructuring of the product offering. The result was that many companies were forced to switch to other systems.
So the question is what the future of the "older" systems is ordered. In vendor language: Is your current solution a strategic system for the future? Or should it be better referred to as a cash cow? The provider's website often provides the first indication of this distinction. If your solution is no longer on the homepage, you should be concerned. If your solution isn't mentioned at all, you probably have a big problem!
In today's markets, ERP systems are the heart of a company. So you can't afford to settle for anything less than the very best. If you want to avoid unpleasant surprises, you should closely monitor your current provider and get a clear idea of what the future of your system might look like. What support services can you expect? Is there a clear strategy for new features? Is there a migration path to a newer solution? This will give you an overview of whether you need to take action.
In your research, you should pay attention to the distinction between support and development. Of course, every provider wants to support your system for a certain period of time. The crucial question is whether your provider plans to actively develop (the version of) your existing solution.
Conclusion: if your ERP system is of strategic importance for your company, you must do everything possible to avoid reaching a dead end!