Typically, a relationship starts with expectation and excitement. And you invest in it to see where it will lead you.  Investment comes in many forms, and varies based on the type of relationship. You may invest resources, money, time, and assets, not to mention emotional equity into something that has value to you.

Over a period of time you either discover that the relationship is working for you, or you determine that it’s not. In the event that the relationship isn’t working, there is usually a natural parting of ways, a “conscious uncoupling”, or a dramatic scene that finally spells “the end”. No matter how it happens, getting out of a bad relationship is liberating.

Think of all the business relationships you have developed over the years. Often, these relationships are good and built on mutual benefit. On occasion, you will find yourself clinging to something that just isn’t working.  This can happen for a number of reasons:

1.  Fear – What if truly doesn’t get any better than this?
2.  Time investment – When you invest time and effort into a relationship, it can be difficult to know when to call it quits.
3.  Money – When capital has been invested in a relationship or project, it is hard to face the reality that you may have to step back and punt.
4.  Co-dependency – When a relationship has the appearance of dependence, then there is that feeling that you need the other party to continue on. Most of the time, that isn’t true.  There is always a way.

When you first start to recognize that the relationship between you and your current ERP software isn’t working, it can be difficult to figure out what your next move should be. Depending on the age of the system, it may be an opportunity to go back to the software vendor and address issues and concerns and ultimately find solutions. However, if the ERP software you are using is 5+ years old (and not upgraded), then it may be time to look at other options. Take the time to really determine what you like about the current ERP Software, and what you don’t like. Don’t create a wish list, create a must-have list! Chances are, there is a group of power users that already know what functionality they want or need in order to streamline and update your current production processes.

Capitalize on what you know works, and what doesn’t, and find the right fit for you! It will make the difference in having a production process that is mediocre to one that provides you with flexibility, reliability, increased revenue, and more efficiency.

Have a closer look at current, state-of-the-art ERP and it’s capabilities here.