How to Choose an ERP: A Vendor Selection Checklist

A good ERP choice starts with your processes, not the vendor brochure. Write down what must work, then test each vendor against it.

1. Write your requirement list

• The ten processes that must work: for example quotation to invoice, purchase to payment, stock transfer.
• Compliance needs: GST, e-invoice, e-way bill, PF, ESI, TDS.
• Reports management uses each week.
• Number of users, branches and warehouses.

2. Run a scripted demo

Give each vendor the same scenario with your own data: create an item, raise a purchase order, receive stock, sell it, issue the GST invoice, see the ledger and stock report. A generic demo hides gaps.

3. Score vendors

4. Contract points

• Written scope and what is out of scope.
• Data ownership and export on exit.
• Training days and go-live support period.
• Payment milestones tied to delivery.

A simple scoring method

Score each vendor from 1 to 5 on fit, compliance, integration, technology, support and track record, then weight the criteria by importance to you. Fit and support usually deserve the highest weights. Share the scores with the team so the decision is explained, not just announced.

• Involve one person from every department in the demo.
• Ask for a trial or sandbox with your data where possible.
• Check that the vendor will still exist and support the product in five years.

ERP Software Development Company IndiaERP Cost in IndiaCustom ERP vs Ready-Made ERPERP Implementation Guide India