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ERP Consulting: What It Is, How To Choose The Right Partner
- ittg-emkt
- Apr 18
- 6 min read
Updated: Apr 21
Choosing and implementing an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system is one of the most critical investments a business can make.
This is especially true in demanding industries like electronics, and machinery & factory automation. However, many decision-makers wonder whether hiring an ERP consultant is necessary.
This article will walk you through what ERP consulting is, the benefits it brings, the consulting process, and how to choose the right partner for your business success.
What is Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)?
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) refers to integrated software systems that manage a company’s core business functions, such as finance, manufacturing, supply chain, human resources, and customer relations.
ERP systems unify data across departments, enabling real-time information flow, improving decision-making, increasing efficiency, and reducing operational costs.
Modern ERP solutions are built to support scalability and digital transformation, helping businesses adapt to changing market conditions and regulatory requirements.
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Interested to learn how ERP helps specific industries? Read our article on ERP Software for Manufacturing: How Epicor is Shaping the Future.
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What is ERP Consulting?
ERP consulting involves professional advisory services that help businesses select, implement, customise, and optimise ERP systems.
ERP consultants are experts who understand both the technology and the business processes of different industries.
They guide businesses through assessing their needs, choosing the right ERP solution, planning the implementation, training staff, and ensuring the system is fully aligned with operational goals.
What are the benefits of ERP consulting?
Engaging an ERP consultant offers several critical advantages:
Expertise and Industry Knowledge: ERP consultants bring deep knowledge of specific industry requirements, ensuring that the ERP solution fits the unique operational needs of sectors like the medical devices or high-tech manufacturing industry.
Risk Reduction: Consultants help identify potential risks early in the project, such as integration issues or data migration challenges, and develop strategies to mitigate them before they affect operations.
Time and Cost Efficiency: An experienced consultant streamlines the selection and implementation process, helping you avoid costly mistakes and delays, while ensuring faster time-to-value.
Customisation and Integration: ERP consultants can tailor the ERP system to match your workflows and integrate it with existing tools like CRM, MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), or IoT platforms.
Change Management and Training: Consultants support employee training and change management, ensuring smooth user adoption and minimizing disruption to day-to-day operations.
A Look at the ERP Consulting Process
Understanding the ERP consulting process helps you know what to expect when working with a consultant:
Step 1: Needs Assessment
The consultant evaluates your current systems, processes, and pain points to define your ERP requirements accurately.
Step 2: ERP Selection
Based on your needs, industry, and budget, the consultant recommends ERP solutions that align best with your business goals.
Step 3: Project Planning and Strategy
The consultant develops a clear project roadmap, detailing phases, timelines, resources, and key milestones.
Step 4: System Customisation and Integration
Custom features and integrations are designed to ensure the ERP system fits your specific workflows, compliance requirements, and reporting needs.
Step 5: Implementation and Testing
The ERP system is configured, tested, and adjusted to ensure optimal performance across departments before full deployment.
Step 6: Training and Change Management
Staff are trained to use the new system efficiently, with consultants managing change initiatives to ease the transition.
Step 7: Post-Implementation Support
Consultants provide ongoing support to resolve any issues, optimise system performance, and plan for future upgrades.
How can AI be used in an ERP system?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) enhances ERP systems by introducing predictive analytics, process automation, and smarter decision-making capabilities.
In industries like manufacturing and medical devices, AI-powered ERP can:
forecast demand
optimise inventory
detect anomalies in production
automate routine financial tasks
AI also personalises user experiences, enabling intelligent dashboards that surface critical insights in real time.
As AI continues to evolve, it becomes a vital component in maximizing the ROI of your ERP investment.
Who Needs ERP Consulting?
Many businesses can benefit from ERP consulting, particularly those in complex or fast-evolving industries. Here’s a simple table to guide you:
Business Situation | Why ERP Consulting Helps |
Expanding rapidly across regions | Ensures scalable system architecture |
Struggling with outdated, disconnected systems | Provides expert system integration advice |
Operating in highly regulated industries | Helps achieve compliance and validation faster |
Facing complex manufacturing processes | Tailors ERP modules to specific workflows |
Limited in-house IT or ERP expertise | Brings external knowledge and support |
First-time ERP implementation | Guides through end-to-end project management |
How Do I Choose an ERP Consultant?
Choosing the right ERP consultant is essential to project success. Use this table to evaluate your options:
Criteria | What to Look For |
Industry Expertise | Proven experience in your sector (e.g., printing, machinery, electronics) |
Track Record | References, case studies, and success stories |
Approach | Clear methodology for needs analysis, selection, and implementation |
Technical Skills | Ability to handle integrations, customisations, and AI capabilities |
Communication | Transparent, responsive, and aligned with your company culture |
Cost Structure | Clear pricing with detailed scope and deliverables |
Looking for an ERP Consultant Firm? Contact iTTG Consultancy. We’re a trusted and certified Epicor partner in Malaysia with over 20 years of experience.
We take pride in offering cross-regional system implementation, with over 200 successful projects spanning China, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and the United States.
Case Study
These case studies reveal how iTTG Consultancy helped Wing Fat Printing, a printing business in Hong Kong, and Shanghai Wu Teng, an automotive part business in China, successfully implement ERP systems and achieve operational efficiency:
ERP Implementation in the Printing & Packaging Industry
Wing Fat Printing, a leader in packaging solutions, partnered with iTTG to implement the Epicor ERP system and streamline their expanding product operations.
With a growing range that includes traditional packaging, molded fiber products, and intelligent medical packaging, Wing Fat needed a solution to manage complexity while maintaining its industry leadership.
Epicor ERP enabled Wing Fat to transition seamlessly to:
more efficient processes
improving product management
operational agility
However, the project's success was not just about the technology — iTTG’s proactive, expert guidance and dedication to excellence ensured a smooth implementation, minimizing disruption and setting the company up for sustained growth and innovation.
Today, Wing Fat Printing stands as a benchmark for operational excellence and innovation in the printing and packaging industry.
Their partnership with iTTG and their embrace of Epicor ERP showcase how strategic collaboration and the right technology can drive long-term success.
ERP Implementation in the Automotive Part Industry
In the highly competitive automotive parts industry, Shanghai Wu Teng Metal Products Co., Ltd. needed to elevate its operations to meet the evolving demands of top clients like BYD and Harman.
To achieve this, Wu Teng partnered with iTTG to implement the Epicor ERP system, aiming to streamline processes, boost product quality, and drive innovation.
With iTTG’s deep expertise in automotive manufacturing, a tailored Epicor ERP solution was rolled out across key areas including project management, production, supply chain, warehouse, and financial management.
Over just eight months, Wu Teng underwent a major transformation:
enhanced project and mold lifecycle management
mobile MES for real-time shop floor data
a mobile warehouse system reducing scrap and material loss
real-time cost monitoring for smarter financial decisions
The results were striking. Wu Teng achieved new levels of operational efficiency, improved product quality, and strengthened its position as a leader in automotive parts manufacturing.
Thanks to the strategic partnership with iTTG and the power of Epicor ERP, Wu Teng is now well-equipped to meet future industry challenges with innovation and agility.
Conclusion
ERP systems are powerful tools that can transform businesses, but the journey to successful implementation is complex.
Partnering with the right ERP consultant ensures you avoid costly mistakes, align technology with business goals, and unlock the full potential of your ERP investment.
Choosing a knowledgeable, experienced consultant is not just helpful — it’s essential to long-term success.
Ready to find the right ERP consultant for your business? Contact us today and take the first step toward a smoother, more successful ERP journey.
FAQ
What industries does iTTG specialise in?
iTTG specialises in Manufacturing, Printing & Packaging, Medical Device Industry, High-Tech & Electronics, Machinery & Factory Automation, and Garment.
What type of software can be integrated with ERP software?
ERP systems can integrate with CRM, eCommerce, HRM, accounting, and supply chain management software. Integration helps streamline operations and improve data accuracy across departments.
How long does it take to implement an ERP system?
Implementing an ERP system typically takes between 3 to 12 months, depending on the project’s complexity and business size. Proper planning and support can speed up the process.
How much does ERP consulting cost?
ERP consulting costs vary widely. Project-based pricing can range from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on scope.
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