How to Navigate ERP Adoption

ERP systems have been around for years, promising efficiency and streamlined operations. Yet, for companies grappling with complex supply chains, the idea of adopting an ERP can feel overwhelming.

And that got me thinking.

If ERPs are supposed to make things simpler, why does the transition seem so daunting for so many companies?

This Q&A isn’t just about ERPs as a concept. It’s about what really matters for companies considering ERP adoption: why ERPs remain finance-first, and what companies should think about to make sure their investment actually supports their operations.

Because when you think about it, an ERP has the potential to go beyond organizing financials. It can:

• Connect teams, 

• Bridge critical systems, and 

• Provide a unified view across all operations. 

However, achieving this isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Especially for companies transitioning from spreadsheets, implementing an ERP requires careful planning to align it with both financial and operational goals.

So I wanted to dig into this deeper. I wanted to understand the hidden pitfalls and real opportunities in ERP adoption, particularly for companies where visibility and agility are critical. 

And I wanted to hear from someone who’s been through it all.

That’s why I reached out to Grant Sernick, Head of Sales and Marketing at 3rdwave. With extensive experience in ERP technology, Grant has helped numerous companies make sense of ERP adoption in the real world. 

Table of Contents

1. The Financial Focus of ERPs

2. Defining the Ideal ERP for Supply Chains

3. Integrating TMS and WMS with ERPs

4. Advice for Companies Adopting ERP

5. Future of ERPs with Emerging Tech