Creating an enterprise resource planning requirements document is one of the most important steps in implementing an enterprise resource planning system. It lays the foundation for the successful selection of suppliers and the implementation of suitable solutions. For this reason, those in charge often ask themselves what the best requirements document structure looks like in practice.
On the one hand, it is important to keep costs to a minimum, and on the other hand, to choose a level of detail that takes into account all important factors. This guide shows what an ideal ERP requirements document should look like.
Requirements documentation requires a structured approach. First, to clarify some basic issues:
What does a company need an ERP system for?
What business objectives should be achieved by introducing the system?
Which processes do you want to optimize?
An in-depth discussion of these factors is the basis for the successful implementation of the system. Your future needs should always be guided by these goals and never lose sight of the company strategy. Especially in the context of digitalization and Industry 4.0, the future direction of the company must be considered. In the requirements document, you finally express how the new ERP system specifically contributes to supporting your goals, strategies, and processes.
The ERP requirements document is used many times
Keep in mind that writing a requirements table is not just about evaluating ERP vendors. It will later be converted into a functional ERP requirements document and become part of the contract with the selected ERP vendor. In addition, during implementation, it will also provide a basis for testing and acceptance. Therefore, requirements documentation must be written in a way that is understandable to both ERP vendors and users within your company.