How to Present Complex ERP Achievements in a Simple Way
How to Present Complex ERP Achievements in a Simple Way
If you work in ERP, you already know how complicated the work can be. Whether it is SAP, Oracle, NetSuite or another platform, most projects involve long timelines, cross functional teams and a huge amount of technical detail.
The challenge is this. When you apply for a new role, the people reading your CV or interviewing you are not always technical. They may be busy leaders, HR staff or hiring managers who only see the outcomes, not the depth of work behind them.
This is why simplifying your ERP achievements is one of the most powerful things you can do. It helps you stand out, tells your story clearly and makes your value instantly obvious.
Here are some practical ways to do it.
1. Start With the Business Problem, Not the System
Most people hiring in ERP care about the impact you made, not the configuration steps you performed.
A simple way to start is:
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What was the issue the business faced
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What part of the ERP system was involved
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Why it mattered
For example:
Instead of saying Enhanced AP workflows in Oracle, try Improved the way the business handled supplier invoices, which reduced errors and cut processing time.
You have already made it more relatable.
2. Explain Your Role in Plain English
Avoid long technical descriptions. Stick to:
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What you owned
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Who you worked with
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What you delivered
Imagine you are explaining it to someone outside your team. If they would understand it, you are pitching it at the right level.
3. Highlight the Outcome With Numbers Where You Can
ERP projects are big investments. Decision makers want to see results.
Think about improvements such as:
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Reduced manual work
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Increased accuracy
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Faster reporting
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Better visibility
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Smoother processes
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Lower support issues
Even small numbers help.
For example, Reduced reporting time from three days to one is far more compelling than Improved reporting within the finance module.
4. Keep Technical Detail Short and Structured
You do not need to hide the technical detail, just keep it tidy.
A simple line at the end works well:
Tools and modules used: SAP FI, CO, basic ABAP debugging.
Short, clear and easy to understand.
5. Show Collaboration, Not Just Configuration
ERP hiring managers love candidates who work well across the business.
So include statements like:
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Worked with Finance, Supply Chain or HR to refine processes
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Supported end users and trained teams
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Helped resolve confusion or conflicting requirements
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Improved communication between technical and non technical teams
This shows that you make an impact outside the system itself.
6. Use Before and After Style Descriptions
This is one of the simplest ways to make a complex achievement instantly clear.
Before: Users needed multiple spreadsheets to complete month end.
After: Automated process in the ERP system reduced manual steps and improved accuracy.
Short, human and easy to visualise.
ERP work will always have technical depth, but your CV and interview answers do not need to. The clearer your explanations, the faster people understand your value.
Hiring managers want to see what you achieved, who benefited and how the business improved because of your work. When you keep your language simple and focused on outcomes, your experience stands out for all the right reasons.
If you would like help presenting your ERP experience more effectively, I am always happy to offer guidance.
