During briefings with small ERP vendors, I often hear the argument that they are more flexible and can better respond to their customers' needs than larger vendors. The ultimate example: "You can even talk to the CEO if you need to."

But would you want to? Bypassing the usual workflows and calling the CEO (this actually really happens) may not be a recipe for the best technical support ever.

Besides, from my experience working with and for small ERP vendors, I know that if you want to talk with the CEO, it's likely that you're unhappy about something (customers rarely call to congratulate the CEO for the team's great work). Or, you're trying to get something from the vendor without going through the formal process of, say, submitting a developmental request for new features.

I know that small ERP vendors are more willing to make compromises and create special relationships with their customers, but there are also disadvantages that you need to consider. Let's take a look at the challenges you might encounter during the selection and implementation process, and some of the things that you can do to avoid them.

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