Finding the best ERP software for your educational institute can be an overwhelming process as the requirements and standards need to be met is a long list.
Though it appears to be that all the ERP systems offer the same features, you will realize that there are slight differences in many cases that can make all the difference for your educational institution. Especially when you closely study each product.
Therefore, understanding the right parameters to identify the best ERP software for your educational institution before the purchase is a must – which is why we listed 8 factors you should pay attention to when you are in search of the right ERP product for your business.
Education level of the institute
The requirements of a grade school are different from the requirements of a university or a similar higher education institute. Likewise searching for an ERP software, after you have a clear list of requirements can help immensely in finding the right software product for your institute. So, you won’t have to pay for features you’ll never use.
Size
When you manage a larger institute, the number of records and data that has to enter is massive due to the large number of students, teachers and other resources you have to keep in track with. Thus, you will need to have a large database and fast command processing speed to cater to the many users log in to the system at the same time. If you are a small institute you don’t have to worry about getting a large database and a higher processing power.
Back up functions
No matter how much of a reputation your ERP software vendors own for delivering a high-quality product, always make sure to check for back up functionalities. Because waking up to a day where all your data of your institute is gone for some reason is the last thing you want in your educational institute to happen.
Customizability
Every educational institute has different needs. Therefore it’s important to make sure that the ERP software you select for your institute can be altered to fit your needs. The system should be customisable not only to the requirements of the administration but of the teachers as well as students.
Scalability
Does the system have the necessary room and upgrades when you are ready to expand your institute? Maybe you are going to open a new branch in another location or going to introduce a new course… Either way, make sure the software is easily compatible with your business goals for the next 5 to 10 years.
Remote access
Allowing your system users access the system anytime anywhere will improve the collaboration opportunities and overall educational experience. For an example, with an ERP system, students can access their assessments and course materials remotely. Check whether the ERP system you are planning to purchase has remote access functionality as you don’t want to be another old school onsite educational institute like your competitors.
Less complexity
If the software makes things even more complex than they are now, your investment will be a waste. Therefore, the user-friendliness of your ERP software is a must to consider if you want to find the best ERP system for your educational institute.
Cost
Though the price of a system should not be the first factor to select an ERP system for your institute on if your concern about quality, finding a product within your budget is also essential. Here, you must consider the value you receive for the price you pay for. In other terms a higher ROI.
