Questions to ask your ERP vendor that will set you up for success

If you’re in the middle of choosing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, chances are you’ve been deep-diving into nearly every platform on the market. You’re comparing features, costs, timelines and reviews, all while juggling the day-to-day demands of running a business. No pressure, right?

The truth is, choosing the right ERP system is one of the most high-stakes decisions a mid-sized business can make. Get it right and you’ll gain visibility, efficiency and scalability. Get it wrong and the consequences can be painful. We’re talking hidden costs, support headaches and even full-blown implementation failures.

Unfortunately, the numbers aren’t encouraging. According to the Rand Group, between 55 and 75 percent of ERP implementations fail to meet their objectives. Local regulations, reporting standards and compliance requirements can trip up global platforms that weren’t built with the Australian and New Zealand markets in mind.

So how do you ensure success? It starts by asking the sort of questions that cut through the sales pitch and expose whether a platform will actually work for you.

Let’s get into it.

1. Does the system actually fit the way your business works?

It’s tempting to start with features, but your first question should always be about fit. Ask your vendor:

• Does the platform support local workflows and industry-specific needs?

• Can it handle multi-entity structures, AU/NZ payroll, tax compliance and reporting?

• Is it intuitive enough for non-technical teams?

After years of wrestling with systems that didn’t fit their needs, Hanlon Plumbing moved to MYOB Acumatica and saw results fast. They now save around $35,000 a year through improved workflows, and their finance team has reclaimed 20 hours per month from payroll processing, all with better visibility and zero need for heavy customisation.

2. What is the real cost and what’s hiding in the fine print?

ERP pricing is rarely straightforward. Some platforms quote low up front, but sting you later with integration costs, upgrade fees, or third-party support. Ask:

• What does the price actually include?

• Are upgrades, implementation, ongoing support and training covered?

• Will adding users or connecting other systems cost more?

This is where a lot of buyer regret begins. Businesses are lured in by headline pricing, only to watch costs snowball. A clear and transparent pricing structure is one of the reasons Lights & Tracks reported a 62% reduction in admin hours and faster ROI after implementation.

3. Who’s actually implementing the system?

Implementation is where many ERP projects hit the wall. You need to know exactly who’s guiding the process and how involved they’ll be. Ask:

• Will implementation be handled by the vendor or a third-party?

• How long does it typically take for businesses like mine?

• What kind of support is available before, during and after launch?

For PolyNovo, direct implementation meant a smoother rollout across teams, faster time to value, and expert support that didn’t disappear after go-live. One major advantage is MYOB’s Phase Zero process, which helps businesses define success early and avoid costly surprises later.

4. Is the platform built for Australian and New Zealand compliance and data security?

If a platform isn’t built for the local regulatory environment, it’s only a matter of time before problems show up. Ask:

• Is it designed to handle AU/NZ tax, reporting and compliance requirements?

• Where is data stored, and who manages compliance updates?

5. Will the system grow with your business?

Some ERP systems are great at the start, but begin to show limitations as you expand. Whether it’s adding new entities, more users, or additional integrations, your system needs to keep up. Ask:

• What kind of upgrades and innovations are included?

• Does the platform scale easily across regions or business units?

• Is there a clear roadmap for ongoing development?

More than anything else you need to ensure your platform is designed with flexibility and long-term growth in mind. Whether you’re planning to open a new warehouse, enter a new market or simply get more from your data, your choice of ERP has to be able to scale alongside you.

6. Can you show results from businesses like mine?

Nothing beats proof. Ask for case studies from businesses that look like yours. They should be able to show examples from companies that are comparable in size, industry and complexity. Ask:

• Can we speak with reference customers in our sector?

• What kind of ROI have your clients seen, and how quickly?

Look for real numbers. Businesses like PolyNovo reported over $80,000 in annual savings, while Lights & Tracks saw an 18% revenue increase post-implementation.

7. What should raise a red flag?

Sometimes what vendors say sounds helpful, until you dig deeper. Watch out for:

• “We can customise anything,” with no clarity on time or cost

• “We’ll figure that out later,” instead of clear planning upfront

• “Local support? Well, we have a mix,” if the help desk isn’t‌ local, it’s not local support

ERP regret usually begins with assumptions. The more transparent your vendor is from the outset, the better your outcomes will be.

MYOB Acumatica stands apart

Choosing an ERP system is more than just ticking boxes; it’s finding a partner that understands your market, your industry, and your growth plans.

MYOB Acumatica is purpose-built for mid-sized ANZ businesses. It delivers clarity, compliance, and confidence, not just during onboarding, but long after you go live. With transparent pricing, quality local support, and a commitment to continuous improvement, it’s no surprise MYOB Acumatica is now the most chosen ERP for mid-sized businesses in the region* (iStart Buyer’s Guide 2025–26).

Avoid regret by asking the right questions

ERP projects fail when the wrong questions go unanswered. By digging deeper and demanding specifics around cost, compliance, support and growth, you’ll reduce your risk and make a decision you won’t regret later.

And if you want help cutting through the noise, speak to an MYOB ERP expert. We’ll walk you through what success looks like and help you get there faster.

*iStart ERP Buyer's Guide 2025-26, based on upper range of each vendor's declared installed base in the region.

Information provided in this article is of a general nature and does not consider your personal situation. It does not constitute legal, financial, or other professional advice and should not be relied upon as a statement of law, policy or advice. You should consider whether this information is appropriate to your needs and, if necessary, seek independent advice. This information is only accurate at the time of publication. Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of the information contained on this webpage, MYOB disclaims, to the extent permitted by law, all liability for the information contained on this webpage or any loss or damage suffered by any person directly or indirectly through relying on this information.

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