For wholesalers and e-commerce businesses, making the shift to an ERP cloud migration is critical for optimizing operations and driving long-term growth. However, without thorough preparation and the right approach, these migrations can lead to significant disruptions. Jorgos Thravalos, ERP and e-commerce expert at Logic4, stresses that a successful ERP cloud migration goes beyond technology—it requires careful planning and a company-wide commitment.
A poorly executed ERP cloud migration can cause serious disruptions in essential business areas such as inventory management, logistics, and customer relationships. This is particularly concerning for wholesalers and e-commerce companies, where smooth operations and customer satisfaction are key. Thravalos warns that without a solid strategy and collaborative mindset, the risks of failure are higher. To avoid such challenges, here are key steps to ensure a smooth ERP cloud migration for wholesalers and e-commerce businesses:
1. Understand the why behind ERP cloud migration
Before embarking, it’s vital for wholesalers and e-commerce businesses to assess their core processes. Understanding the reasons behind the migration is essential to its success. What are the specific improvements you aim to achieve? Thravalos points out that businesses often adopt new technologies without fully considering their long-term benefits. “An ERP cloud solution is only effective if it aligns with concrete business objectives, especially in fast-paced sectors like wholesale and e-commerce.”
2. Create team buy-In
A successful ERP cloud migration relies heavily on team involvement, especially for wholesalers and e-commerce companies that manage large volumes of inventory and customer orders. The introduction of a new ERP system changes daily work processes, and employee buy-in is essential for a smooth transition. “Involve your teams early in the process and gather their input on the challenges they face in their day-to-day operations,” says Thravalos.
By identifying each department’s top 3 priorities, wholesalers and e-commerce businesses can ensure their ERP migration addresses key pain points and drives efficiency.
3. Avoid overly detailed RFPs
When selecting an ERP system, many businesses, particularly in wholesale and e-commerce, rely on highly detailed Requests for Proposal (RFPs). However, this approach can hinder the success of an ERP cloud migration. “Extremely detailed RFPs can cause companies to lose sight of the bigger picture,” explains Thravalos. For wholesalers and e-commerce businesses, it’s more important to focus on the system’s practical functionality and its compatibility with the company’s overall operations.
4. Ensure strong leadership
The role of strong leadership is critical during an ERP cloud migration, especially for large-scale wholesalers and e-commerce businesses with complex workflows. Without clear leadership and strong communication, even the best technology can fail. Thravalos advises businesses to appoint internal and external champions who can lead the project and guide employees through the changes. “Strong leadership and alignment with the implementation partner are crucial to the success.”
5. Be selective with customization in ERP cloud migration
Wholesalers and e-commerce businesses often face the temptation to customize their ERP system to meet specific customer demands. However, Thravalos warns against over-customization. “Saying no to certain customer requests can actually benefit your business in the long run. Excessive customization can result in inefficiencies and higher maintenance costs.”
Standardization is key to a successful ERP cloud migration for wholesalers and e-commerce companies, as it simplifies operations and lowers costs.
6. Focus on scalability and multichannel sales
A successful ERP migration should set wholesalers and e-commerce businesses up for future growth. Expanding sales channels—whether through B2B, B2C, or online marketplaces like Amazon and Bol.com—is critical for long-term success. “Multichannel sales strengthen the foundation of wholesale and e-commerce businesses,” Thravalos explains.
Moreover, the ERP system must support international scaling with minimal complexity, allowing companies to serve multiple markets efficiently without additional systems.
7. Implement robust product information management (PIM)
For wholesalers and e-commerce businesses, an effective ERP cloud migration must include a strong Product Information Management (PIM) system. “PIM is critical for managing large inventories and maintaining customer satisfaction,” notes Thravalos. Efficient management of product data is a cornerstone of success for businesses that rely on accurate inventory control, order processing, and product listings.
Centralizing product information within the ERP system eliminates inefficiencies and errors, allowing wholesalers and e-commerce companies to streamline operations and reduce costs.
8. Limit integrations
One of the main risks in an ERP cloud migration is overcomplicating the system with too many integrations, especially for wholesalers and e-commerce businesses handling large volumes of transactions. “Every additional system integration increases the chances of errors and delays,” Thravalos warns.
By minimizing the number of integrations and centralizing operations within a single ERP system, businesses can maintain stability and scalability—both essential for long-term success in wholesale and e-commerce.
9. Learn from experienced ERP cloud migration professionals
Thravalos highlights the importance of learning from other companies that have already gone through an ERP cloud migration. This is particularly beneficial for wholesalers and e-commerce companies, where peers can offer invaluable insights into handling large inventories, multichannel sales, and customer service challenges. “Networking with businesses that have faced similar challenges can provide valuable guidance and help avoid common pitfalls,” he says.
Attending industry events, joining online communities, and sharing knowledge with others in wholesale and e-commerce can help companies make the most of their ERP cloud migration and ensure a smoother process.