What are the prominent features of usability that your organization considers while purchasing the ERP system?

When purchasing an ERP system, several prominent features of usability should be considered to ensure the system meets the organization's needs and enhances user adoption and efficiency. Here are some key aspects:

User Interface (UI) Design

• The UI should be intuitive, simple, and visually appealing. This includes clear and concise labels, icons, and menus that are easy to understand and navigate15.
• Consistency in design, layout, and functionality across all modules is crucial to create a seamless user experience15.

Navigation and Workflow

• Effective navigation involves a logical structure of menus and modules that reflect the users’ workflows. This helps users find information and complete tasks with minimal effort13.
• Robust search functionalities and guided workflows can significantly enhance usability by allowing users to quickly locate information and complete complex tasks step-by-step13.
• Shortcuts, such as keyboard shortcuts and quick access menus, can also improve efficiency1.

Flexibility and Customization

• The system should have a modular design that allows businesses to customize and add functionality as needed. This includes the ability to personalize dashboards and settings to match user preferences15.
• Role-based access controls ensure users see only the information relevant to their roles, enhancing security and usability1.

Real-Time Data and Visualization

• Access to real-time data is essential for making informed decisions quickly. The system should provide 360-degree views of business operations and role-based project information instantly4.

Ease of Integration and Scalability

• The ERP system should be easy to integrate with other systems and scale as the business grows. This prevents data silos and ensures the system can accommodate the evolving needs of the organization25.

Training and Support

• Comprehensive training and ongoing support are vital. Systems with high usability often require less extensive training, reducing training and support costs over time1.
• Strong vendor support can also contribute significantly to the overall usability of the system1.

Automation and Error Reduction

• Automation features should streamline repetitive processes, reducing manual intervention and the likelihood of errors. This allows employees to focus on higher-value tasks while improving operational efficiency3.

User Engagement and Feedback

• Involving users early and often in the design and testing phases can provide invaluable insights and feedback, helping to refine the system to meet user needs1.
• Conducting usability testing with real users can help identify and address usability issues before full deployment1.

By focusing on these features, an organization can ensure that the ERP system is user-friendly, efficient, and aligns with the needs of its users, ultimately leading to higher adoption rates, increased productivity, and reduced errors.