Choosing an ERP vendor is more than picking a software platform—it’s choosing a long-term partner who will shape how your business runs for years to come. But too often, businesses focus on surface-level questions like “Can your ERP do inventory management?” instead of digging into what really matters.
The best questions don’t just confirm features—they reveal how well the vendor understands your industry, supports your growth, and handles real-world challenges. So what makes a great question to ask an ERP vendor before you sign on the dotted line?
Here’s what to look for:
- It Goes Beyond the Sales Pitch
Great questions cut through the polished demo and scripted answers. Instead of asking “Can your system handle job-site deliveries?” try:
“Can you show how your system tracks partial deliveries to job sites, including backorders and driver notes?”
This kind of question forces the vendor to demonstrate how things actually work—not just say “yes.”
- It’s Specific to Your Workflow
Generic questions get generic answers. The best questions reflect how your business really operates. For example:
“How does your ERP handle bundled products that are sold together but inventoried separately?”
“Can we track multiple units of measure for the same item—like linear feet and bundles?”
These details matter in the building materials world, and good vendors should speak your language.
- It Uncovers Support and Scalability
Don’t just ask about the launch—ask about what comes after. Great questions dig into post-implementation realities, such as:
“What does your typical support response time look like during peak season?”
“How do updates or new features get rolled out—will we need downtime?”
These questions show you’re thinking long-term, and they’ll help you gauge how responsive and future-ready the vendor really is.
- It Explores Integration in the Real World
Your ERP doesn’t live in a vacuum. Ask how it works with tools your team already uses, or systems you’ll need later:
“How does your ERP integrate with barcode scanners, delivery apps, or CRM platforms? Is this out-of-the-box or custom?”
“Can we sync data between warehouse locations without delays or manual workarounds?”
This helps you avoid surprise costs or limitations after go-live.
- It Tests Their Industry Knowledge
Great vendors know your industry. Try questions like:
“What’s the most common mistake you see distributors in the building materials space make when implementing ERP?”
“Can you share an example of how you helped a company like ours cut down loading errors or streamline dispatch?”
The right partner should offer insights and lessons learned—not just software.
- It Gets Clear About the Fine Print
Before you sign a contract, ask questions that clarify what’s really included:
“Which modules are included in the quoted price, and which ones are considered add-ons?”
“What happens if we need to scale up licenses or locations mid-contract?”
These questions help you avoid scope creep, licensing surprises, and unexpected fees.
Final Thought
A great question is one that helps you see the truth behind the tech. It’s not about stumping the vendor—it’s about making sure they understand your business, support your goals, and can deliver a system that works in the real world.
Choose your ERP partner the way you’d choose a subcontractor: look past the sales brochure and ask the questions that show who’s really ready to build with you.
