In my line of work, I get to spend a lot of time with Epicor prospects, discussing digitisation and modernisation in the context of their systems and manufacturing operations. Typically, a large chunk of those conversations revolves around the pros and cons of remaining on their current outdated solutions versus the upheaval and change of selecting and implementing a new system.
ERP generally tends to be rather esoteric, and it sometimes helps to use a more run-of-the-mill analogy to get the message across. When I compare using an ancient legacy ERP system to driving a 25-year-old car, people tend to more readily grasp the comparison (as well as laughing at the idea of driving such an archaic vehicle despite being happy with using an equally ancient business solution within their company). Both tend to come with their own set of challenges and limitations that can impact performance, cost, and overall experience.
Your antique car may have been a speedster in its prime, but now it lags behind newer models. It takes longer to reach desired speeds, and the engine might not run as smoothly. Just like an old car that struggles to accelerate, a legacy ERP system often suffers from slow performance. It can take ages to process data and generate reports, leading to frustration and inefficiency.
Aging cars are also prone to mechanical issues. Regular trips to the mechanic become the norm, disrupting your daily commute and adding to your stress. Legacy ERPs are built on outdated technology that can't keep up with modern business demands. This can result in frequent system crashes and downtime, much like an old car breaking down on the motorway.
Old cars are less fuel-efficient, leading to higher fuel costs. This is strikingly similar to how a legacy ERP system consumes more resources, both in terms of time and money.
As cars age, the cost of repairs increases. Parts become harder to find, and labour costs rise. You might find yourself spending more on repairs than the car is worth. Maintaining a legacy ERP system can also be ruinously expensive. The cost of keeping the system running, including hardware upgrades and software patches, can quickly add up. Finding experts who can work with outdated ERP systems is challenging and costly. These specialists often charge a premium for their services.
An outdated car lacks modern conveniences like GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and advanced safety features. Driving it feels like a step back in time. Older cars do not have the passenger comfort and luxury features of newer models. The ride can be bumpy, and the interior may feel cramped and outdated. Likewise, Legacy ERPs lack the advanced features and capabilities of modern systems. They may not support mobile access, real-time analytics, or API integration with other software. Good luck with leveraging the latest technologies like AI, machine learning or the cloud with your antique system.
A 25-year-old car may show signs of wear and tear, with faded paint, outdated interiors, and a generally worn-out look. This can affect the overall driving experience and pride of ownership. Similarly aging ERP systems often have outdated, clunky interfaces that are not user-friendly. The design can be unintuitive, making it difficult for employees to navigate and perform tasks efficiently. This can particularly impact younger workers entering the workplace who have grown up utilising modern applications with user friendly UXs, leading to higher levels of end-user dissatisfaction with the company’s core business application.
Driving a 25-year-old car and using a legacy ERP system come with significant drawbacks. While both may have served well in the past, their limitations in performance, cost of maintenance, and missing features make them less viable in today's environment. Upgrading to a modern ERP system or a new car can provide better performance, lower maintenance costs, and access to the latest features and capabilities, ultimately leading to a more efficient and enjoyable experience.
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