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A great Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system can make all of the difference in your business’s success, helping manage operations, data, and resources—so your company can maintain a competitive edge and pave the way for fast, seamless growth.
Proper ERP implementation is crucial, though, and for an optimal, headache-free process, it’s important to have the right team on board—someone who’s well-versed in the ins and outs of your ERP.
Organizations have two options to choose from when it comes to ERP implementation: relying on their in-house IT team or hiring an ERP consultant. This isn’t a decision to take lightly. That’s why we put together this guide to help you make an informed choice based on your business’s unique needs.
Pros and Cons of an ERP Consultant
Most internal IT teams don’t handle ERP implementation and optimization on a regular basis—which is why it can be a good idea to hire an ERP consultant who specializes in systems like NetSuite, SAP, Oracle, and more.
A seasoned expert can bring in-depth knowledge of best practices, system architecture, configuration, and integration strategies, helping you align your technology investment with your unique business goals. Whether you’re moving from legacy systems or scaling operations, a consultant knows what to look for, what to prioritize, and how to avoid costly missteps.
Pros of ERP Consultants
- Specialized expertise and certifications: Consultants live and breathe ERP systems. They often hold advanced certifications and stay current with the latest platform updates and features.
- Faster implementation with fewer errors: Thanks to their experience, consultants can streamline the project timeline and reduce rework.
- Objective, third-party perspective: Unlike internal teams who may be attached to your current processes, consultants bring fresh eyes and impartial advice.
- Scalable engagement: You can bring in consultants on a part-time, full-time, or per-project basis—offering flexibility that adapts to your needs.
- Access to a broader talent pool: With platforms like OdeCloud, you’re not limited to local resources. You can tap into a vetted network of senior ERP professionals with exactly the right expertise.
Cons of ERP Consultants
- May seem more expensive upfront: Hiring a consultant can come with a higher price tag than using internal resources—but it often pays off in efficiency and risk reduction.
- Risk of misalignment and poor communication: If not properly integrated, external consultants can feel disconnected from the rest of your team—but this risk is minimized when you hire experienced professionals like those from OdeCloud’s network.
- Risk of poor quality: Not all consultants are created equal. Choosing a reliable source—like OdeCloud’s curated network—ensures you get vetted, high-performing talent.
Pros and Cons of In-House IT
When planning an ERP implementation, many companies consider leaning on their internal IT team to manage the project. After all, your in-house team already understands your infrastructure, knows your people, and is embedded in the day-to-day operations of the business.
They’re familiar with the existing systems, workflows, and organizational quirks that an external consultant might need time to learn. They also tend to have established relationships with department leaders, which can help facilitate change management during an ERP rollout.
Pros of In-House Teams
- Deep understanding of internal operations and systems: Your internal team knows how things actually work—not just how they should work on paper. This insight can help tailor the ERP system to your unique needs.
- Long-term availability: After the ERP system goes live, in-house IT can provide ongoing support, maintenance, and training without needing to onboard new talent.
- Potentially lower ongoing cost: If your team is already salaried, relying on them might seem like the most cost-effective option—especially for smaller businesses with tighter budgets.
Cons of In-House Teams
- Lack of ERP-specific expertise: ERP systems are complex, and most in-house teams don’t have the depth of experience required for a smooth, successful implementation.
- Overstretched bandwidth: IT teams are often juggling multiple responsibilities. Adding an ERP implementation on top of their existing workload can lead to delays, burnout, or mistakes.
- Higher risk of errors: Without prior ERP experience, your team may struggle to navigate system configuration, data migration, and integration challenges.
- Potential internal bias: In-house teams may unconsciously replicate old workflows in the new system instead of taking advantage of the full potential of the ERP platform.
Why OdeCloud’s Consultant Model Stands Out
At OdeCloud, we know how important your ERP can be to your business—which is why our platform was built specifically to solve the challenges that come with traditional ERP consulting.
We connect you with a vetted, experienced community of seasoned ERP experts with experience in NetSuite, SAP, Oracle, and beyond.
Our flexible, on-demand model allows you to engage the right expert exactly when you need them—no long-term contracts or overhead required. Just what you need, only when you need it.
And unlike one-size-fits-all consulting firms, OdeCloud’s professionals work seamlessly with your internal team, transferring knowledge as they go—so you’re set up for long-term success.
Learn about the different ERP consultants OdeCloud provides:
Ready to Maximize Your ERP Success?
Whether you’re planning your first ERP implementation or looking to optimize an existing system, OdeCloud is here to help. Our curated network of ERP professionals is ready to help—with whatever you need, whenever you need it.
Contact us today to get started on your journey to successful ERP implementation and optimization.
