Selecting an IFS Consultant is a decision that can shape the success of your ERP investment. In the crowded UK market, it’s important to balance technical prowess with business understanding, and independence with vendor alignment. Based on industry best practices and years of experience, here are eight criteria to help you make the right choice.

1. Demonstrated IFS project experience

Credentials are important, but real‑world experience matters more. Look for consultants who have led full implementations, rescue projects and upgrades across multiple versions of IFS. Their CVs should reference successful cutovers, data migrations and post‑go‑live stabilisations.

2. Industry knowledge

IFS has a strong presence in manufacturing, construction, energy, aerospace and services. A consultant who understands your industry’s processes, compliance requirements and terminology will design solutions that fit. This reduces customisation and accelerates adoption.

3. Understanding of UK regulations

ERP projects touch tax, payroll, data protection and industry compliance. Consultants must be fluent in UK‑specific rules such as VAT, MTD and GDPR. Without this knowledge, seemingly minor configuration choices can create compliance risks later.

4. Communication and training skills

ERP success depends on people. Consultants should translate technical concepts into language business users understand. They need to design role‑based training and provide supporting materials. The Gtech consultancy article notes that independent consultants can train your team and ensure users are prepared for go‑live.

5. Risk management capability

ERP projects carry scope, budget and adoption risks. Ask how consultants identify risks early and what mitigation strategies they use. Look for a clear governance framework, checkpoints and escalation processes. Independent consultants often bring cross‑industry best practices and a focus on preventing surprises.

6. Balance of technical and business expertise

The best consultants speak two languages: the language of databases, APIs and integrations, and the language of finance, operations and strategy. They can configure IFS modules and also explain how those choices affect cash flow, production scheduling or customer service. This balance ensures technology serves the business, not vice versa.

7. Flexible engagement models

Your needs will change over the life of an ERP system. Choose a consultant who can work on‑site, remotely or in a hybrid arrangement. Independent firms often offer greater flexibility in resource allocation and contract structure than large systems integrators.

8. Evidence of success

Ask for case studies or references from UK clients. Look beyond general testimonials; request details on scope, timeline, challenges and outcomes. An independent consultant should be able to articulate how they delivered measurable benefits and what lessons were learned.

Working with Sorcha Systems

At Sorcha Systems, we pride ourselves on meeting these criteria. We combine decades of hands‑on IFS experience with industry knowledge and UK compliance expertise. Our independent status means we’re focused on your business outcomes, not software sales. We offer flexible engagement models and can provide client references on request.

If you’re evaluating IFS functional consultant, start with a conversation. Contact Sorcha Systems at sorchasystems.com to learn how our team can help you make the right choice for your ERP project.