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Episode 88

Niche ERP Success: Insights from CDR Software

In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of niche ERP solutions success with valuable insights from a leader of a top-tier software vendor. We dissect the defining aspects of ERP, discuss its unique advantages, and uncover the subtleties of product differentiation in the competitive ERP market. We also explore the vital interplay between technology, people, and process, revealing trends, challenges, and success factors in the ERP niche. This episode is essential for those striving for business process improvement and organizational change through successful ERP implementation.”

by | Aug 3, 2023

Guest

Dr. Jebb Maginnis

Dr. Jebb Maginnis

President, Creative Data Research

Jebb Maginnis has 33 years of experience leading and managing CDR Software, a software development company focused on providing an ERP system to wholesale distributors in the Convenience Products Industry. Maginnis is skilled in operations management, business development, business process improvement, budgeting, and sales. Maginnis works closely with CDR Software’s development team to deliver industry-specific software to the convenience distribution vertical market.

Prior to joining CDR Software, Maginnis was president of Maginnis Oil Company, a bulk fuel supplier which also operated a chain of convenience stores.

Connect

Host & Founding Partner of Nestell & Associates

Dr. Jack G. Nestell

Dr. Jack G. Nestell

Founding Partner | Nestell & Associates

Dr. Jack G. Nestell is a highly accomplished IT and ERP business advisor, author, and speaker with over 30 years of experience in leadership and implementation of ERP systems across various industries. He is the founding partner of Nestell & Associates, a management and strategy firm that specializes in organizational change, readiness, and ERP implementation. Dr. Nestell is also an accomplished academic researcher who has contributed to ERP research. With his practical expertise and academic knowledge, he provides innovative and proven solutions for his clients.

Episode Highlights Timeline 

 

[05:00]  Segment 1: General Understanding of ERP
1. How would you define ERP for our listeners who may not be familiar with the term?
2. There are many “Tier 1” players that provide ERP functionality. In your opinion, what are the benefits of choosing a niche ERP platform and partner?
3. From your experience, how would you describe the success rates of ERP implementations in the field?
4. If you were to lead a kickoff meeting for an organization just starting an ERP implementation, how would you define and describe ‘success’ in terms of an ERP organizational change?

[10:50]  Segment 2: Understanding the Product – Creative Data Research
5. What is CDR? And who are your customers?
6. Your website mentions “CDR is adept at anticipating industry trends and delivering advanced proven technologies “. How does this set your product apart from others in the market?
7. In a very competitive market, how are you different, technology-wise, from other ERP vendors such as Oracle, SAP, Infor, etc.?

[14:09]  Segment 3: The People Aspect
8. Let’s set technology aside for a moment. What is your approach to helping customers implement and realize improvements in their business?
9. As an ERP software company, you sell and implement software, but what would you say is the largest influence on ERP organizational change success? Is it the people, the process, or the tech?

[21:48]  Segment 4: The Technology
10. Looking at trends and emerging technology, what do you see as their relevance to ERP in general, and to your product specifically?

[23:57]  Segment 5: The Process
11. ERP can be quite challenging. In your experience, what is more likely: nearly perfect success with no major challenges, or success after enduring some challenges due to organizational culture?
12. Implementation process and methodology are crucial. How does your implementation process/methodology differentiate from other ERP players?
13. What are your thoughts on ERP software customization? Is there a danger of too much customization, and where do you draw the line?
14. Would you agree that ERP system selection is one of the most crucial decisions to be made during an ERP organizational change endeavor? Why? And what are some key factors to consider when deciding upon an ERP solution?

[29:50]  Golden Nugget
Given all that we’ve discussed today, could you sum up one key takeaway or ‘Golden Nugget’ that our listeners should remember? And could you advise our listeners how to take this knowledge and apply it, to truly make a difference in their ERP journey?

Leverage the power of ERP to drive your business forward!

At Nestell & Associates, we specialize in providing strategic consulting services tailored for private equity firms and their portfolio companies. Our experts can help you navigate the complex landscape of niche ERP implementation, ensuring you make the most out of your investments. Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help you achieve success in ERP organizational change. Let’s turn these insights into action together!

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About Nestell & Associates

Where People, Processes, and Technology Align

Nestell & Associates is a highly specialized IT and ERP change management consulting firm that serves as a business-savvy, tenured, and highly technical-proficient business partner to private equity firms. We provide expert vendor-neutral IT and ERP services necessary to support their business objectives. Our team of experts excels at organizational change, preparedness, and digital transformation success.

Our approach has been proven to be successful by focusing on key areas such as organizational culture, change, and readiness, we’ve helped our clients achieve their IT and ERP business objectives from improving IT security to managing complex transformational M&A initiatives.

We are passionate about helping our clients succeed and achieving positive outcomes. Our goal is to provide the most efficient, organized, experienced, and productive professionals in the industry to implement processes, resources, and technology that will give our private equity partners a competitive advantage and deliver real return on investment.