Investing in a cloud ERP is one of the biggest technology decisions a business can make. The challenge isn’t just choosing new software, it’s building a case that shows why change is needed, how the system will solve real problems and which partner can deliver it successfully.
This guide walks through how to define your needs, evaluate vendors and select the right implementation partner so your ERP investment delivers lasting value.
1. Evaluating cloud ERP vendors
Choosing a cloud ERP is about selecting software but it’s also about ensuring it solves real business challenges, delivers measurable impact and supports long-term growth. Understanding what problems you are solving will ensure your ERP decision is both strategic and technical.
Identify pain points to find the friction
Every business runs into operational bottlenecks – manual data entry, scattered reporting or processes held together by a fragile web of spreadsheets. Be specific about what’s slowing you down.
- Are financial reports taking days instead of minutes?
- Is inventory management a guessing game?
- Are departments operating in silos, creating data inconsistencies?
Assess ERP benefits to uncover the true payoff
We know that cloud ERPs improve efficiency – but that’s very vague. Instead, focus on measurable wins – like cost reductions, time savings and revenue growth – to make the business case more outcomes-driven.
For example, cloud ERPs can deliver:
- Automated invoicing, real-time cash flow insights and seamless tax compliance
- A unified customer view across departments – from marketing to fulfilment
- Real time inventory tracking, automated replenishment and demand forecasting
Demonstrate support for organisational objectives
- Scaling operations? Cloud ERPs grow with you – no need for costly system migrations down the line
- Going global? Multi-subsidiary management, multi-currency transactions and built-in compliance tools make international expansion easier
- Customer experience a priority? Centralised data means faster order processing, better service and improved retention
By mapping out business pain points, quantifiable benefits and alignment with company goals, your cloud ERP investment will be better positioned to drive real, lasting value.
2. Evaluating cloud ERP vendors
With so many cloud ERPs promising transformation, how do you separate real value from the noise? Choosing the right cloud ERP is about finding a system that fits your business today and scales for the future.
Scalability – will it support your future growth?
Your cloud ERP should be able to handle increasing transaction volumes, expanding product lines, multi-entity management and international operations – without requiring a costly upgrade in a few years.
- Can it scale with more users, locations and subsidiaries?
- Does it support multi-currency, multi-language and global compliance needs?
- Is the system built on modern, cloud-native architecture, ensuring automatic updates without disrupting operations?
A scalable cloud ERP will eliminate the need for major re-implementations as your business grows.
Flexibility & integrations – how well does it fit into your tech stack?
No ERP operates in isolation. Seamless integration with existing CRM, eCommerce, supply chain, payroll and financial systems is essential to avoid costly workarounds.
- Does it offer pre-built integrations with key platforms like Salesforce, Shopify, Magento and Stripe?
- How robust is its API? Can it connect with third-party apps, custom-built solutions or iPaaS?
- Can it adapt to unique business processes without excessive customisation that could make future updates difficult?
Your cloud ERP should act as a central nervous system, ensuring smooth data flow across all business functions, even third party solutions.
Industry fit – is it designed for businesses like yours?
A generic ERP may require expensive modifications to align with your industry-specific processes. Many cloud ERPs offer tailored solutions for manufacturing, wholesale distribution, SaaS, professional services and retail.
- Does the vendor offer industry-specific modules or templates that reduce setup time?
- Is there a proven track record of successful implementations in your sector? See examples in our customer case studies.
A well-matched ERP means faster deployment, lower costs and fewer customisations, which equates to a better return on investment.
Vendor support – will they be there when you need them?
ERP implementation and ongoing use come with learning curves and challenges. A vendor with strong support can be the difference between success and failure.
- Is there an ecosystem of implementation partners and developers?
- Does the vendor provide regular product updates, security patches and compliance updates?
Reliable vendor support means your ERP continues to evolve with your business, rather than becoming a relic over time.
Reputation & market presence – who else trusts this ERP?
A well-established ERP vendor should have a strong reputation, a solid customer base and case studies demonstrating real-world success.
- What do independent analyst reports (e.g., Gartner, Forrester) say about the vendor?
- Are there positive customer reviews and testimonials in your industry?
- Is the company financially stable and continuing to invest in R&D, AI and automation?
Choosing an ERP with a strong market presence and proven success reduces the risk of investing in technology that becomes obsolete or unsupported.
By focusing on these criteria, you’ll ensure your cloud ERP investment delivers long-term value, efficiency and competitive advantage.
3. Evaluating implementation partners
Enterprise technology implementations are complex. The right partner can mean the difference between a streamlined, efficient system that transforms your operations and a costly failure that disrupts your business. Here’s what to look for in an implementation partner.
Industry experience
A partner with deep experience in your industry will understand your unique challenges, compliance requirements and workflows. This means faster implementation, fewer customisations and a system that fits your business needs from day one. Explore Annexa’s industry expertise.
How to assess:
- Request case studies or project summaries from your industry
- Ask for client references
- Look for industry-specific solutions they have developed
Technical expertise
Your partner should know the software inside out and have a team with strong problem-solving skills and a structured approach to implementation. Learn more about our development and integration capability.
How to assess:
- Review their certifications and technical qualifications
- Ask about complex challenges they have solved
- Evaluate their experience integrating the software with other business systems you use
Implementation methodology
A structured, well-defined methodology ensures a smooth transition from planning to go-live. Partners should have clear processes for gathering requirements, system design, testing, deployment and post-implementation support. See our approach to implementation.
How to assess:
- Request an overview of their implementation process
- Ask how they mitigate common implementation risks
- Ensure they follow best practices for data migration, system testing and user training
Customisation & integration capabilities
Most businesses require some level of customisation and integration with existing tools. The right partner will tailor the system to meet your needs while ensuring long-term scalability. Explore our customisation and integration solutions.
How to assess:
- Ask for examples of past customisations they have delivered
- Review their integration expertise with your current tech stack
- Ensure they balance customisation with future system updates and upgrades
Partner ecosystem & vendor network
Cloud ERPs are built to be extensible, and the right implementation partner ensures you can take full advantage of that. A strong partner network connects you with best-in-class tools to enhance your ERP – whether it’s finance automation, warehouse management, eCommerce or analytics. See our technology partnerships including Celigo.
How to assess:
- Ask which technology partners they work with.
- Review case studies of extended ERP capabilities.
- Understand their drivers for evaluating and selecting partners
Post-implementation support & training
The job doesn’t end at go-live. Ongoing support and training are closely tied to user adoption and long-term success. Consider an optimisation review and ongoing enhancements to keep pace with change.
How to assess:
- Review their support packages (response times, availability communication channels)
- Check if they offer structured training programs
- Ask about their approach to continuous system optimisation
Cultural fit
A good implementation partner should feel like an extension of your team. Shared values, a collaborative approach and aligned working styles contribute to a smoother engagement. Learn more about Annexa.
How to assess:
- Observe their communication style during meetings
- Assess their responsiveness and flexibility
- Look for long-term client relationships as a sign of good collaboration
Selecting the right implementation partner is just as important as the software solution you decide upon. Take the time to assess your options carefully and choose a partner who aligns with your needs, values and business goals.
4. The partner selection process
Choosing the right implementation partner is just as important as selecting the ERP itself. A structured approach ensures you find a partner with the right expertise, methodology and support to drive long-term success.
- Define your requirements
- Outline your goals, challenges and key system requirements
- Identify must-have and nice-to-have features
- Research potential partners
- Look for providers with relevant experience
- Review case studies, testimonials and industry credentials
- Shortlist & evaluate
- Conduct interviews to assess methodology, technical skills and cultural fit
- Request demonstrations and detailed proposals
- Check references
- Speak with past clients to understand their experience
- Ask about strengths, weaknesses and post-go-live support
- Make an informed decision
- Compare proposals side by side
- Ensure alignment with long-term business strategy
Curious about what ERP could do for you?
Talk to the team at Annexa — we’ll walk you through the options and help you find the right fit.
You might find these resources helpful
- Assessing business readiness: is it time to implement an ERP? — helps identify the signs that it’s time to move beyond entry-level systems
- 6 signs you’ve outgrown your accounting software — lays out clear indicators that basic accounting tools are becoming a drag.
- Signs it’s time to make the switch from MYOB to NetSuite — case-for-change and real signals to watch for.
- Common questions answered: from Xero to NetSuite — addresses typical concerns and questions businesses have when considering the move.
- NetSuite vs MYOB: the essential guide to upgrading your business systems — deep dive for comparing capabilities-costs-fit between MYOB and NetSuite.
- NetSuite vs MYOB Advanced — choosing the best ERP for your business — more detailed comparison when requirements are more complex.