It's not uncommon for manufacturing companies to switch ERP software. Achieving a better ROI, improving functionality, receiving better customer and tech support, and obtaining a lower total cost of ownership are all reasons to upgrade. Software functionality gaps and other signs can indicate it's time to upgrade to new manufacturing software.

Relationships built on trust are the heart of a manufacturing company. If you don't find your manufacturing software to be reliable and trustworthy, it's time to switch. An excellent way to assess the relationship you have with your software vendor is to evaluate the communication the two of you share. 

Does each phone call from your vendor include a promotional aspect that attempts to get you to purchase extra features? Does the vendor call to see if your operational needs are being met? If you answered yes to the first question and no to the second, you may want to invest in new software provided by a different vendor. When your current vendor doesn't have a genuine concern for your needs, this attitude can put a strain on vendor and channel partner relationships.

Slow Customer Service

ERP systems are known for improving efficiency, but you can experience problems that may occur with them. Superior customer support is a vital factor to consider when switching software. Poor customer and tech support can result in the inability to deliver on your promises to clients, which can negatively impact your manufacturing operation. If you frequently have to wait for customer support to resolve manufacturing software issues, you should consider switching systems.

Constant Changes in Business Processes

Manufacturing software should complement your existing business processes (BPs), not the other way around. ERP software worth investing in will accommodate your existing workflow and will require minimal changes in BPs. Keep in mind, however, that changes in BPs due to organizational growth will be needed as your company scales. You'll need to make these changes in accordance with your manufacturing software. However, if you have to adjust your BPs often to match your ERP, it's time to upgrade your manufacturing software. 

Lack of Remote Functionality

If your manufacturing software doesn't come with remote access, you should think about searching for a new software vendor. To achieve optimal efficiency and reduced overhead, the software should be accessible while you are out of the office so that you can access it via your smartphone, laptop, and other mobile devices as long as you have an internet connection. 

Ideally, the software will come with a specific mobile app. Even though the mobile app will not come with the same level of insight that you'll receive from the software's desktop application, it will allow you to capture and view valuable data on the go. For example, the app should come with features allowing you to input orders, create invoices, and update the status of projects.

Manufacturing software has the ability to increase revenue, streamline your administrative workflow, optimize remote productivity, and improve vendor and channel partner relationships. Ask yourself this question: Is my software complementing my Business Processes?