Determining the search requirements for your business

One of the tasks that can often be frustrating and time consuming for users is trying to find the information they need. When datasets are small and simple, there is not much of an issue. As the number of records in the system grows, it can become increasingly difficult to find information.

When implementing an ERP system, you will want to take the time to work with users and get familiar with the data they use each day. If you are working with a purchasing system that only produces an average of 10 purchase orders a day, you will have far less concern over advanced searching in that application. However, if you have 20 purchasing agents cutting 450 purchase orders a day, it will be critical that the users have a firm grasp on the search functionality of the system. Trying to locate a particular order can be like trying to find a needle in a haystack.

Tip

Take the time to sit with users and watch them use the system. Often, users will...