Essential skills to look for when hiring an ERP developer

The success of your business can be significantly influenced by the implementation and management of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. It streamlines operations and drives growth. However, the challenge lies in selecting the right ERP developer. It’s crucial to identify a dedicated ERP developer with extensive experience and the necessary skill set to ensure a seamless implementation and effective management of your ERP system.

In this blog post, we look at the essential skills to look for when hiring an ERP developer so you can make informed decisions and achieve your business goals.

Technical skills of ERP developers

The ERP developer you hire should have extensive experience and knowledge of ERP software and systems, including their technical side. Proficiency in programming languages and databases, API integration and customization, and experience in developing modules and plugins are essential. Your ERP developer should also be capable of troubleshooting and debugging complex problems, ensuring that any downtime incurred is kept to a minimum.

Communication skills of ERP developers

Excellent communication skills are essential when hiring ERP developers. Your developer should be able to understand client requirements and translate them into technical specifications. They should be able to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and work collaboratively with clients, team members, and stakeholders. Effective communication is key to the success of any ERP implementation project.

Project management skills 

Your ERP developer should be well-versed in project management, including project planning and execution. They should be able to manage project timelines and budgets, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects simultaneously. Familiarity with Agile methodology and other project management frameworks is a plus.

If your business needs to manage large, complex enterprise resource planning development projects, you may want to consider hiring a dedicated ERP project manager as an alternative. A project manager with strong ERP experience can ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and with high-quality results, while also ensuring effective communication and collaboration with all stakeholders.

Problem-solving skills

When it comes to ERP implementation, problems are bound to arise. Your ERP developers should be able to identify and analyze problems and provide creative and innovative solutions. They should be willing to work outside of the box to provide solutions, troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.

Business acumen

Understanding business processes and requirements is essential when implementing ERP systems. Your ERP developers should have a good understanding of industry-specific ERP solutions, provide ERP solutions that align with business goals, and anticipate future business needs.

Human resources skills

Human resources are often a key part of ERP implementation. Your ERP developer should have experience in HR services, including payroll management, employee benefits management, and time and attendance tracking.

Financial management skills

Your ERP developers should be knowledgeable in financial management, including financial data management and raw data silos. They should have experience in inventory management and data infrastructure, ensuring that financial data is accurate and up-to-date.

Supply chain skills

ERP systems are an integral part of supply chain management. Your ERP developer should have experience in supply chain management, including customizable dashboards for tracking supplier performance, inventory levels, and order fulfillment.

Legacy systems skills

If you have legacy data or legacy systems, your ERP developer should be able to ensure data integrity and manage the migration of data to the new system. Your ERP developer should be able to work both on-site and remotely, depending on your business needs.

Technical lead skills

Your ERP developer should be able to take on the role of technical lead, working with implementation partners and other software solutions to ensure that your ERP system is running smoothly. They should be an expert in Microsoft Dynamics, ensuring that your ERP system is up-to-date with the latest software updates.

Quality assurance skills

Quality assurance is essential when implementing ERP systems. Your ERP developer should be able to provide quality assurance, ensuring that your ERP system is running smoothly and that there is little or no downtime.

Step-by-step guide for hiring an expert ERP developer

Now that you know what skills to look for when hiring a freelance ERP developer, here are some step-by-step tips to help you find the right fit for your business:

1. Determine your ERP needs: Before you start searching for an ERP developer, it’s essential to determine your ERP needs. What are your pain points? What are the business processes that need streamlining? What are the key features and functionalities that you require in an ERP system? Defining your requirements will help you find an ERP developer that can meet your specific needs.

2. Search for ERP developers: Once you have defined your ERP needs, start searching for ERP developers. You can use marketplaces like Onsiter to find experienced ERP developers in Europe or, if you want to find your expert fast, get in touch with us. We take care of the search and screening processes to find the best match for your needs within 24 hours.

3. Check their portfolio: When you have a list of potential candidates, check their portfolio to see if they have experience in developing ERP systems similar to what you need. Check for case studies, testimonials, and references from past clients to gauge their experience and expertise.

4. Conduct interviews: Once you have narrowed down your list of potential candidates, conduct interviews to assess their technical and communication skills. Ask questions related to their experience with ERP development, their approach to problem-solving, and their project management skills. Use this opportunity to determine if the ERP developer is a good fit for your business.

5. Check their availability: Before making a final decision, make sure to check the ERP developer’s availability. Are they available to work on your project immediately? What is their estimated timeline for completion? Make sure to clarify these details before hiring an ERP developer.

6. Negotiate the terms: Once you have selected an ERP developer, negotiate the terms of the project, including the budget, payment terms, and project timeline. Make sure to have a clear agreement in writing to avoid any misunderstandings later on.

7. Monitor the project progress: During the ERP development process, make sure to monitor the project’s progress regularly. Have frequent check-ins with the ERP developer to ensure that the project is progressing as planned.

By following these step-by-step tips, you can find the right ERP developer for your business and ensure a successful ERP implementation project.

Conclusion

When looking for an ERP developer, it is essential to find someone who has the skills and experience to meet your business’s specific needs. From technical skills to communication skills, project management skills to problem-solving skills, there are a variety of skills that a good ERP developer should have. If you want to save time, discover our pre-vetted ERP professionals tailored for your business. Browse Now.