We are pretty keen on IT and how good application of IT can really enhance businesses. The projects concerning ERP though continue to get a mixed reception and there are many illustrious organisations with failed IT projects to their name. Ade McCormack continues to make some good observations on the broader case for improving IT leadership. Our opinion is that successful processes underpinned and in some cases created by supportive IT is a competitive advantage. ERP is where IT has been heading for a number of years. Retailers have been a little slow on the up take though this is now changing in recent years.
At the top table we have SAP retail and Oracle Retail (formerly Retek). Mid and small businesses have other cheaper options. We know them all though it’s a little like selecting a partner or bride.. arranged marriages are as successful as chosen marriages. Our point? A successful marriage is a dynamic being; one has to get stuck in and work at it. Ok we might have some ground rules to help but you have to allow for individuality and flexibility as well as recognise that this is not for the faint hearted. A retailer must listen as well as be listened to. You will need a top team. Here the adage holds true that you get what you asked for in life.
