5 benefits of using an independent IFS consultant

So, you’ve chosen IFS as your ERP system or you’re planning an upgrade to a newer version of the application.

Next, the tricky part: implementing or upgrading the software.

Holly Rascagneres, Gtech’s Founder and Managing Director, explains why independent IFS experts can give your project the best chance of success.

5 benefits of using an independent IFS consultant

1. Honest advice and support

Independent consultants aren’t partnered with or part of the IFS company, so they’ll give their unbiased, expert opinion on how best to implement or upgrade your software. Their focus is on delivering a project that’s right for you, your business and your team, rather than the needs of the vendor.

But being independent from IFS doesn’t mean they don’t have a deep understanding of this ERP application – far from it.

A lot of consultants have worked inhouse at IFS before going freelance, while others may have grown their skills and expertise as customers of the software. The best ones know the capabilities of the system, but more importantly they understand the challenges and how to tackle them.

2. A fresh perspective

Not only are these specialists independent of IFS – but also of your business. So, they’ll bring a fresh, impartial perspective when it comes to what your organisation needs and how the software can help. That said, any good consultant will be keen to get an understanding of your company and its operations, so they can tailor the project to suit your business and its plans.

Plus, they’ll devote their full attention to your IFS project and won’t be distracted by business as usual.

3. IFS expertise – without expanding your internal team

Budget is, of course, a key consideration when you’re building your project team. But remember: when you use an independent consultant, you’re not adding that external specialist to your permanent payroll.

A consultant will work with you for a contracted period of time, for as long as you need them. Plus, they can train your team to get the most out of the software. And that’s central to the success of any ERP project: how your people use the system after go-live.

But even if you have superusers in your team who understand the application, they probably won’t have the same level of expertise as an IFS consultant. Plus, these specialists aren’t just experts on what the software can do, they’re also experienced at working under pressure to deliver ERP projects for a range of different clients.

So, using the best people is a sound investment you’ll continue to benefit from long after go-live.

4. Experts who hit the ground running – and save you valuable time

A good consultant will slot into your business and get started. They’ll explain what they need from you and how you can best work together.

These specialists aren’t new to IFS delivery. They’re seasoned professionals who have worked at the coalface, often in different industries and on projects of varying sizes and complexities.

Bringing in skilled professionals will give your project the best chance of being delivered with all your requirements and within a reasonable time frame. Crucially, they know how to avoid potential pitfalls that could slow down or even derail your implementation.

5. Access to niche skills

The structure and size of your IFS project team will depend on several things, like the size of your business, your budget, and the complexity of your operations.

You’ll need to think about which modules you’re adopting and if you need a functional consultant skilled in a particular area, such as finance or supply chain.

You may also need to include IFS reporting or data migration specialists.

These professionals really know their stuff. And when you bring the right expertise in, your project has a higher chance of success.