When implementing large software projects, companies often face the issue of whether to use an independent systems integrator or the software vendor's staff consultants. The choice is not easy, as the two are not mutually exclusive. The decision depends on the nature of the project. Systems integrators are an excellent choice for large projects, such as those involving multiple applications or multiple departments, projects involving integration to third party or ERP applications, and projects requiring business process analysis and improvement.
Systems integrators work with a client to solve business problems and meet corporate goals.
From this perspective, implementing a software application is only part of the challenge. A systems integrator will work with a company to identify processes that need to be implemented or updated, and is more likely than a vendor consultant group to challenge corporate leaders when change is necessary to succeed. This approach makes certain that the implementation project is part of a larger corporate strategy, the initiative is fully aligned with corporate goals and it has the support and involvement of the executive team. A vendor's own implementation consulting group may be better for smaller projects, such as a single application or departmental initiatives. In addition, a vendor consulting group generally is more appropriate when the product or platform being implemented is a new offering by the vendor, as vendor consultants have direct access to the software development organization, should any problems arise.