Are you planning to implement a new ERP system to manage your business operations? Then it is time to examine an ERP Requirement Checklist to efficiently complete the ERP selection process. A checklist will help you approach the ERP implementation process in a structured manner by identifying the pain points, goals and objectives. The checklist will help you eliminate the risk of choosing any ERP and help you pick the best ERP for your business.
Using an ERP requirements checklist template, we can simplify and speed up evaluating and selecting the right software solution. Prominder 360 brings you a complete guide to help you through the ERP implementation process. We will examine the method to effectively use a requirements template, including the essential categories. This blog will also check the ways to build a detailed ERP evaluation checklist tailored to your organisation’s needs.
Why Are ERP Requirements Crucial?
An ERP turns out to be a comprehensive support system only if it integrates with diverse software solutions. ERP software integration helps businesses to manage multiple operations from finance and HR to inventory and sales using a single platform. Different businesses will have different requirements based on their workflow goals and workflow. When you plan to implement an ERP, it is essential to prepare an ERP requirement checklist based on your workflow and goals. Always try to define your ERP functional requirements to make sure that the software aligns with your goals.
Key reasons why the ERP Evaluation Checklist is essential:
Eliminates guesswork: Be prepared for the features needed for your ERP.
Eases vendor selection: Helps to review ERP system providers’ performance and the services they offer.
Reduces implementation risks: Reduce customisation hassles by helping you pick the right ERP system.
Improves collaboration among departments: Ensures all stakeholders have input into what the ERP should deliver.
If you list the requirements in the proper order, you can make sure that the ERP you choose promises comprehensive support to your business. Besides, it ensures higher ROI and minimal disruptions.
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How to Use an ERP Requirements Template?
An ERP requirements checklist template is a structured document that guides organisations through the evaluation of ERP solutions. It typically includes predefined requirement categories and fields for your specific business needs.
Steps to use an ERP requirements checklist template:
Gather Input from All Departments: Make sure that you collect the specific needs of all stakeholders and departments, including finance, operations, sales, HR, and supply chain, in the checklist.
Identify Must-Have vs. Nice-to-Have Features: Prioritise features that are essential for business management.
Score or Rate Each Requirement: Examine the features of different ERP tools and evaluate how these ERP tools meet the requirements. Use a rating scale based on priorities.
Review Compliance and Integration: Ensure the ERP system can integrate with existing tools and meets regulatory standards.
Use the Template in Vendor Demos: Compare ERP vendors against your checklist during demos and proposals.
It is always better to use an editable ERP requirements checklist Excel template for managing this process.
Key Categories in an ERP Requirements Template
Your ERP requirements checklist should be broken down into categories for easy tracking. Some of the key areas to include are:
1. General Business Requirements
- Multi-language and multi-currency support
- Cloud-based vs. on-premise deployment
- Mobile access and remote usability
- User access and role management
2. Finance & Accounting
- General ledger, accounts payable/receivable
- Budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting
- Tax management and compliance
3. Sales & CRM
- Lead and opportunity tracking
- Quotation and invoicing integration
- Customer interaction and communication history
4. Inventory and Supply Chain
- Stock control and inventory levels
- Supplier management and purchase orders
- Warehouse and logistics tracking
5. Human Resources
- Employee records management
- Payroll and benefits
- Attendance and shift scheduling
6. Manufacturing (if applicable)
- Bill of materials (BOM)
- Production planning and scheduling
- Quality control and reporting
7. Reporting & Analytics
- Custom dashboard creation
- Real-time analytics
- Data export and BI tool integration
ERP Requirements Checklist
Here is a sample ERP requirements checklist you can use to assess potential ERP vendors:
| Category | Requirement | Priority | Vendor A | Vendor B |
| Finance | Automated billing and invoicing | High | ✓ | ✓ |
| Inventory | Real-time stock tracking | High | ✓ | ✗ |
| CRM | Integrated customer communication logs | Medium | ✓ | ✓ |
| HR | Automated payroll processing | High | ✗ | ✓ |
| Manufacturing | Production scheduling | Low | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reporting | Customizable dashboard reports | High | ✓ | ✓ |
This format allows stakeholders to easily visualise which ERP software aligns best with the company’s needs.
📰 Must-Read: What is an ERP Inventory System?
Tips for Creating an Effective ERP Requirements Document
Creating a strong ERP requirements checklist template is essential for a smooth ERP selection process. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:
Be Specific: General requirements like “good reporting” are too vague. Instead, state “real-time financial reports with drill-down capability.”
Include Use Cases: Real scenarios help vendors understand how you will use the ERP.
Allow for Future Growth: Your ERP system should scale as your business expands.
Get Executive Buy-in: Ensure leadership is aligned on business objectives and budget.
Review and Refine: As you learn more during demos, refine the checklist to reflect updated needs.
Using an ERP selection criteria checklist ensures all parties are on the same page throughout the process.
Conclusion
An ERP system is a long-term investment that impacts every aspect of your business. Having a clearly defined ERP requirements checklist is your best defence against costly implementation mistakes and unmet expectations. It provides a roadmap for evaluation, encourages stakeholder input, and ensures the selected ERP software fits your workflows, industry, and growth plans.
Whether you’re selecting an ERP order management software, upgrading your current solution, or starting from scratch, using a structured ERP functional requirements checklist will help you make informed decisions with confidence.
At Bassam Infotech, we help businesses select, customise, and implement ERP systems that meet their specific requirements. Need help building your ERP requirements checklist Excel file or evaluating ERP vendors? Contact us today for a consultation.
Planning to implement your ERP? Start your ERP selection process with an ERP Requirement Checklist. Reach out to Prominder 360 and talk to our expert consultants now!