For building material suppliers and distributors, choosing between a customized ERP and an off-the-shelf solution can feel like walking a tightrope. On one side, customization offers the perfect fit for your workflows. On the other, off-the-shelf systems promise faster, simpler setups. But here’s the truth: most distributors struggle with both paths—not because of the software, but because of how they approach the decision.
Here’s why so many ERP projects miss the mark—and how to make sure yours doesn’t.
- They Don’t Define Their Processes First
Many distributors jump into ERP decisions without clearly mapping out their current workflows. Whether it’s how they manage bundled inventory, job-site deliveries, or pricing tiers, they assume the software will “figure it out.”
The result?
Off-the-shelf ERPs don’t match their operations
Custom solutions get built on unclear or broken processes
Tip: Nail down your workflows before choosing a system. You can’t customize—or adapt—what you don’t understand.
- They Overestimate What Needs to Be Customized
Distributors often assume every process is unique and must be built from scratch. In reality, many ERPs have highly configurable features that solve 80–90% of the need without a single line of custom code.
The result?
Bloated budgets
Overly complex systems
Long delays in go-live
Tip: Customize only where it gives you a competitive advantage. For the rest, use standard features or light configuration.
- They Underestimate What Off-the-Shelf Can’t Do
On the flip side, some distributors grab a one-size-fits-all ERP and try to force it to handle industry-specific needs—like managing mixed-unit inventory, contractor-specific pricing, or complex deliveries.
The result?
Endless workarounds
Shadow systems in Excel
Frustrated teams who stop trusting the ERP
Tip: Be honest about what an off-the-shelf ERP can do without breaking your workflows. If critical features are missing, you’ll pay for it later.
- They Ignore End-User Needs
Whether it’s a fully custom system or a pre-built platform, too many ERP rollouts are decided in the boardroom—without input from the people using it daily: yard managers, drivers, and sales staff.
The result?
Low adoption
Process mismatches
Workarounds and wasted money
Tip: Bring your frontline teams into the conversation early. Their input will guide whether you need flexibility or simplicity—and where to invest.
- They Focus on the Short-Term, Not the Lifecycle
Custom ERPs can be hard to maintain. Off-the-shelf ERPs may lack flexibility down the line. The mistake most distributors make is not planning beyond the first year.
The result?
Expensive rework when business evolves
Missed opportunities for automation or integration
High cost of ownership
Tip: Think long-term. Ask how easy it is to adapt, integrate, and support the system after go-live.
- They Pick the Software, Not the Partner
A common trap: falling in love with the platform, while overlooking who’s actually implementing and supporting it. Whether custom or off-the-shelf, your success depends on the team guiding the process.
The result?
Poor project management
Miscommunication
A system that doesn’t deliver on its promises
Tip: Vet the vendor, not just the software. Choose a partner who understands your industry, not just ERP in general.
Final Thought
Most distributors don’t fail because they chose the wrong type of ERP—they fail because they approached the decision without a clear plan, realistic expectations, or the right support.
The real win isn’t choosing between “custom” or “off-the-shelf.” It’s knowing where you need flexibility, where you can adapt, and how to implement with your people and processes at the center of it all.
