Many businesses today rely on technology to manage daily operations, reduce errors, and improve overall performance. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are at the center of this shift. But an ERP system alone cannot solve business challenges unless it is planned, implemented, and used correctly. This is where an ERP consultant becomes important.
In this beginner-friendly guide, we will explain what is ERP consultant, how they work, what skills they need, types of ERP consultants, real-world examples, and how businesses benefit from hiring one. If you are new to ERP, don’t worry — this guide is easy to understand and packed with practical insights.
What Is ERP Consultant?
An ERP consultant is a professional who helps organizations select, implement, manage, and optimize ERP systems. Their main role is to make sure the ERP software supports business needs such as finance, HR, supply chain, sales, inventory, or manufacturing.
In simple terms:
An ERP consultant connects business processes with the ERP system so everything works smoothly and efficiently.
They act as a bridge between:
- Business teams
- Technical developers
- ERP software vendors
Their work reduces mistakes, speeds up tasks, and helps businesses make decisions using real-time data.
Why Do Companies Need ERP Consultants?
ERP systems manage critical business operations. A wrong setup can cause delays, reporting errors, or even financial losses. Research from multiple ERP research groups shows that over 55% of ERP projects fail or go over budget due to poor planning or lack of guidance. This is why ERP consultants are important.
Businesses hire ERP consultants when they:
- Want to implement a new ERP system
- Need to upgrade their existing ERP software
- Need help training their staff
- Want to fix issues with their current ERP setup
- Want to automate manual processes
The consultant ensures the system runs properly from start to finish.
Types of ERP Consultants
To understand what is ERP consultant, you first need to know that ERP consulting is divided into different categories. Each type has a specific focus.
1. Functional ERP Consultant
A functional consultant focuses on business processes. They understand how departments such as accounting, procurement, HR, or sales work.
Their responsibilities include:
- Gathering business requirements
- Mapping processes with ERP modules
- Testing functionalities
- Training end-users
Functional consultants do not write code. They work with business teams to configure ERP settings.
2. Technical ERP Consultant
Technical consultants handle the technical side of the ERP system.
Their responsibilities include:
- Customizing ERP modules
- Writing code
- Integrating third-party systems
- Managing database and system performance
Companies rely on technical consultants when they need system-level changes or advanced automation.
3. Techno-Functional ERP Consultant
A techno-functional consultant understands both business processes and technical development. They can manage requirement discussions and also provide technical solutions.
This role is valuable because it reduces gaps between business needs and software development.
4. ERP Project Manager
The ERP Project Manager oversees the entire implementation project, ensuring deadlines, budget, and quality.
They coordinate:
- Consultants
- Vendors
- Developers
- Stakeholders
Their main job is to make sure the ERP project stays on track.
What Does an ERP Consultant Do?
If you want to understand what is ERP consultant in real working conditions, the tasks below will make it clear. Although tasks vary based on industry and software, most ERP consultants focus on these core responsibilities:
1. Business Process Analysis
They study how a business currently works. This includes:
- Identifying gaps
- Understanding workflows
- Reviewing pain points
- Checking compliance and reporting needs
This helps them decide how to configure the ERP system.
2. ERP Selection
Not every ERP fits every business. Consultants analyze business size, budget, industry, and operational needs to choose the right ERP solution.
Examples of ERP systems include:
- SAP
- Oracle NetSuite
- Microsoft Dynamics 365
- Odoo
- Infor
- Sage
3. System Configuration
Consultants set up ERP modules according to business requirements. This includes:
- Creating user roles
- Setting workflows
- Defining approval levels
- Setting tax rules
- Configuring reports
4. Data Migration
Data is at the core of every business. Consultants help move existing data into the new ERP system. This involves:
- Cleaning old data
- Mapping fields
- Validating migrated data
- Ensuring no data loss
5. Training Users
Employees need to understand how to use the ERP system. Consultants train staff so they feel comfortable with daily tasks such as:
- Making invoices
- Tracking inventory
- Creating employee records
- Running reports
6. System Testing
Consultants test everything before the system goes live. This includes process testing and user acceptance testing (UAT).
7. Go-Live Support
Once the ERP system launches, consultants stay available to solve issues and ensure operations run smoothly.
8. Post-Implementation Optimization
Even after the system goes live, consultants help businesses improve workflows and add new features.
Skills Required to Become an ERP Consultant
To understand what is ERP consultant fully, you also need to know the skills required for this career.
1. Business Knowledge
Consultants must understand:
- Finance
- Supply chain
- Human resources
- Procurement
- Sales
- Inventory
This helps them align the ERP system with business needs.
2. Communication Skills
They interact with managers, employees, and developers. Clear communication avoids misunderstandings and ensures smooth implementation.
3. Problem-Solving Ability
ERP consultants find solutions to workflow issues and help teams overcome technical or process-related challenges.
4. Technical Skills (for technical consultants)
These may include:
- SQL
- Programming languages
- Database management
- API integrations
5. Project Management Skills
Consultants often work on strict deadlines. They need to plan tasks, manage time, and coordinate with multiple teams.
6. Analytical Thinking
Since ERP systems involve data-driven decisions, consultants must analyze data and identify trends or issues.
How Much Do ERP Consultants Earn?
Earnings can vary based on location, experience, and ERP specialization.
Approximate global data from market surveys show:
| ERP Consultant Type | Average Salary (per year) |
| Functional Consultant | USD 55,000 – 90,000 |
| Technical Consultant | USD 65,000 – 110,000 |
| Techno-Functional Consultant | USD 75,000 – 130,000 |
| ERP Project Manager | USD 85,000 – 150,000 |
Freelance ERP consultants often charge between USD 50 to USD 150 per hour, depending on expertise and project complexity.
Industries That Hire ERP Consultants
ERP systems are used across many industries. Some industries rely heavily on ERP consultants due to complex operations.
These include:
- Manufacturing
- Retail
- Healthcare
- Logistics
- Construction
- Finance
- Education
- E-commerce
- Government organizations
The demand for ERP consultants continues to grow as more companies move to digital systems.
Common ERP Systems Consultants Work With
A major part of understanding what is ERP consultant involves knowing which ERP systems they handle.
Here are the most common:
SAP
One of the most popular ERP systems worldwide, used by large organizations.
Oracle NetSuite
A cloud-based ERP used by medium-sized and growing businesses.
Microsoft Dynamics 365
Used across many industries for finance, operations, HR, and sales.
Odoo
A flexible open-source ERP used by small and medium businesses.
Sage, Infor & Epicor
Used by manufacturing, retail, and service-based companies.
Benefits of Hiring an ERP Consultant
Companies that work with professional ERP consultants enjoy many advantages.
1. Smooth Implementation
Consultants ensure the ERP system is installed correctly without disrupting daily operations.
2. Reduced Risk of Failure
Their expertise lowers the risk of project delays, errors, or budget overruns.
3. Faster User Adoption
Employees learn the system faster due to expert guidance.
4. Better ROI
A well-configured ERP system improves efficiency, reduces manual work, and supports long-term growth.
5. Accurate Reporting
Consultants ensure the business gets real-time dashboards, reports, and performance insights.
How to Become an ERP Consultant
If you want to build a career in this field, here are the steps:
1. Learn Business Processes
Start by understanding accounting, HR, logistics, and supply chain management.
2. Get ERP Training
Choose an ERP system you want to specialize in such as SAP, Oracle, Dynamics 365, or Odoo.
3. Build Technical or Functional Expertise
Decide whether you want to focus on the business side or technical side.
4. Gain Hands-On Experience
Work on real projects, internships, or sandbox environments.
5. Earn Certifications
Many vendors offer certifications that improve your chances of getting hired.
Conclusion
Understanding what is ERP consultant is important for any business or individual interested in digital transformation. ERP consultants play a key role in helping companies improve their operations, automate tasks, and make better decisions. They bring technical knowledge, business understanding, and project management experience to guide businesses toward successful ERP implementation.
Whether you are a business owner planning to implement an ERP system or someone exploring a career in ERP consulting, the role offers strong demand and long-term growth opportunities.
