Enterprise Resource Planning

Companies are implementing ERP systems at a record pace. With this, comes the growing demand for people who have the skills necessary to implement Enterprise Resource Planning software.

This demand has created a severe shortage of ERP staff, so there are on now opportunities for qualified professionals to consider a career in ERP. In addition to the generic positions available in any IT project such as database administration, testing, network administration; ERP implementation has two primary job options. These are Functional and Technical consultants.

FUNCTIONAL CONSULTANTS

Functional Consultants are experts in specific business processes. The consultant needs to be able to analyse the business processes of an organisation after the ERP system has been implemented. He or she would then design the new process for that particular function.

Ideally, a functional consultant would have a degree in business, possibly even an MBA. Furthermore the consultant will need additional training in the ERP software he is implementing. This training is best sourced from the vendor of the software.

Once the consultant has demonstrated his ability is, he many takes on more of an architectural and be responsible for the design of the entire ERP system – not just one business function.

TECHNICAL CONSULTANTS

Technical Consultants developed the reports, screens and forums as specified by the Functional Consultants. They are essentially software developers and code software to accommodate business requirements.

Technical Consultants should have a degree in Information Technology (IT). As in the case of Functional Consultants, they will need specialised training from the software vendor. Companies often prefer to train their own staff in the nuances of their software environment so there is no need for you to invest in this training prior to applying for these jobs at an entry-level. You will probably need at least eight years experience in traditional IT applications to be considered for roles.

As you get more senior, you will probably end up working as a typical architect being responsible for the overall technical design of the implementation.

ERP staff are very well paid. In general, they will receive 50 to 60% more than the equivalent traditional IT role. In addition, there are always opportunities for the excitement of international travel. Benefits always come at a price. These roles are very demanding and challenging. It is not uncommon for ERP consultants to 18 hour days for periods of weeks at a time in a high-pressure environment.