Choosing an ERP is one of the biggest decisions your business will make—especially in the building materials industry, where supply chain, inventory, pricing, and delivery logistics are complex and fast-moving. That’s why sitting through a demo isn’t just a formality—it’s your opportunity to dig deep and make sure the system is the right fit.
Use this ultimate demo checklist to evaluate ERP vendors like a pro, and avoid buyer’s remorse down the line.
✅ 1. Industry-Specific Features
Does the ERP support unit-based pricing (e.g., by ton, pallet, or linear foot)?
Can it handle bulky or multi-component products?
Is there functionality for job site deliveries, builder accounts, or contractor billing?
Does it support multiple yards or branches with shared inventory?
Generic ERPs might struggle here—make sure the demo addresses real workflows from your industry.
✅ 2. Inventory and Warehouse Management
Can you view real-time inventory across all locations?
Is barcode scanning supported (and how well does it integrate)?
How easy is it to track stock transfers between yards?
Can it flag low stock, damaged goods, or slow-moving items?
Ask them to show your inventory use cases—not just canned demos.
✅ 3. Order Processing and Quoting
Can sales reps create quotes quickly, including price tiers or discounts?
How are special orders or backorders handled?
Can quotes easily convert to orders and be tracked through to fulfillment?
Is there customer-specific pricing logic?
A strong ERP should reduce steps and errors in the sales process, not add to them.
✅ 4. Delivery and Logistics
Can delivery routes be scheduled and tracked in the system?
Does it allow for proof of delivery (signatures, photos)?
How does it handle partial deliveries or returns?
Are dispatch teams and drivers connected via mobile?
Real-time delivery visibility is a must-have—not a luxury.
✅ 5. Mobile and Remote Access
Is there a mobile interface for yard managers, drivers, or sales teams?
Can it work offline in low-signal areas?
Are tasks like stock adjustments or delivery confirmations mobile-enabled?
Ask them to demo this on a phone—not just a desktop.
✅ 6. Reporting and Dashboards
Can you build custom reports without IT help?
Are dashboards real-time and role-specific?
Does it offer insights into performance by yard, product, customer, or sales rep?
Data should help you make decisions, not create more spreadsheets.
✅ 7. Integration and Customization
Does it integrate with your existing systems (accounting, CRM, ecommerce)?
How customizable are fields, workflows, and reports?
Is there an open API for future growth?
What does “customization” cost in terms of time and support?
You want flexibility without getting trapped in expensive, ongoing dev work.
✅ 8. Support and Vendor Relationship
What does onboarding look like?
Is training included—and is it industry-specific?
Who provides support (in-house team or third-party)?
Can you talk to other construction supply customers using the ERP?
Your ERP vendor should be a long-term partner, not just a software provider.
✅ 9. Cost and ROI Clarity
Are all modules and user fees clearly outlined?
What’s included in the base price—and what’s extra?
What kind of ROI can you expect in year one?
Ask for transparent pricing and real-world examples of payback.
Final Tip
Make the vendor demo your show. Give them real workflows, real data, and real pain points. If they can’t show how the system handles your business during the demo, it’s unlikely to improve post-launch.
Bring this checklist to every demo—and you’ll walk away with clarity, confidence, and a clear winner.
