Before Selecting a System

In the early 1980s “experts” on Japanese management were isolating distinctive practices that seemed to account for Japan’s remarkable economic success. The ‘Ringiseido’ decision-making practice was one of these. It offers an opportunity for equals to participate in the decisions that the executives will have to take. The purpose was to adhere to the Japanese cultural desire of harmony among people.

Taking Ownership of Your ROI

In a previous blog I referred to the unpredictability of measuring the ROI of your ERP investment. One key issue relating to this is the understanding of the core functions of your business now and in the future - before you consider an ERP system, take ownership of your Return on Investment (ROI).

There is a lot of debate about who coined the phrase, “form must follow function” (or words to that effect). It is commonly attributed to the American architect, Louis Sullivan, for whom it was the rule that “shall permit of no exception”. Sullivan was talking about aesthetics, but he might as well have been talking about ERP projects. When considering whether to install an ERP system the same rule applies, and similarly “permits no exception.”

Fifteen years ago, it would have been tough to believe a little device no bigger than your palm would have enough computer power to not only render high-definition videos, but also be able to secure sensitive data with the swipe of a finger and provide access to your corporate network.

Oh, and you would also be able to make phone calls with it.

Today smartphones and mobile devices have evolved so quickly that they are now little offices that you can access anytime, anywhere. In fact, mobility is an area I am personally very interested in because I believe it’s changing society rapidly and offers many business benefits today and into the future.