What is an Infor Functional Consultant Job?
An Infor Functional Consultant is a professional who specializes in implementing and customizing Infor software solutions for businesses. Infor is a global leader in business cloud software, providing industry-specific applications designed to help companies streamline their operations and improve efficiency. As an Infor Functional Consultant, you will work closely with clients to understand their unique business requirements and translate them into effective software solutions. Your role will involve analyzing business processes, configuring software modules, conducting user training, and providing ongoing support to ensure the successful implementation and utilization of Infor systems.
What Does a Typical Infor Functional Consultant Do?
As an Infor Functional Consultant, your main responsibilities revolve around implementing and customizing Infor software solutions for clients. This involves collaborating with stakeholders to gather requirements, analyzing business processes, and designing tailored solutions to meet specific needs. You will work closely with the technical team to configure and customize the software, ensuring that it aligns with the client's business processes and objectives. Additionally, you will provide training to end-users, troubleshoot issues, and offer ongoing support to ensure the smooth operation of the Infor systems.
Top 5 Skills for an Infor Functional Consultant Position:
- 1. In-depth knowledge of Infor software: As an Infor Functional Consultant, you should have a strong understanding of the various Infor software modules and their functionalities. This includes knowledge of Infor ERP systems, such as Infor LN, Infor M3, or Infor CloudSuite, depending on the specific client requirements.
- 2. Business process analysis: To excel in this role, you need to be skilled in analyzing business processes and identifying opportunities for improvement. This involves assessing current workflows, understanding pain points, and designing efficient solutions that leverage the capabilities of Infor software.
- 3. Communication and interpersonal skills: As an Infor Functional Consultant, you will interact with clients, end-users, and technical teams on a regular basis. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for effectively gathering requirements, explaining technical concepts, and collaborating with various stakeholders throughout the implementation process.
- 4. Problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities: In this role, you will encounter various challenges and issues that require quick and effective problem-solving. Being able to think critically, analyze situations, and provide innovative solutions is crucial for success as an Infor Functional Consultant.
- 5. Project management skills: As you will be involved in end-to-end implementation projects, having solid project management skills is important. This includes the ability to create project plans, manage timelines, allocate resources, and ensure the successful delivery of the Infor software solutions within specified deadlines.
How to Become an Infor Functional Consultant:
To become an Infor Functional Consultant, a combination of education, experience, and skills is typically required. Here are the general steps you can take to pursue this career path:
1. Obtain a relevant degree: Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's or master's degree in fields like computer science, information systems, business administration, or a related discipline. This provides a solid foundation of knowledge and skills that are applicable to the role of an Infor Functional Consultant.
2. Gain experience in ERP implementation: Prior experience in implementing and customizing ERP systems, preferably Infor software, can greatly enhance your chances of becoming an Infor Functional Consultant. Look for opportunities to work on ERP projects, either as part of your academic studies or through internships and entry-level positions.
3. Acquire Infor certifications: Infor offers various certifications that validate your proficiency in their software solutions. Obtaining these certifications demonstrates your expertise and commitment to the field, making you a more competitive candidate for Infor Functional Consultant roles.
4. Develop technical and functional skills: Alongside your education and experience, it is essential to continuously develop your technical and functional skills related to Infor software. Stay updated with the latest releases and enhancements, participate in training programs, and actively seek opportunities to expand your knowledge in areas like business process analysis, configuration, and customization.
5. Build a professional network: Networking plays a crucial role in the IT industry, and it can open doors to new opportunities. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with professionals in the field to expand your network and stay informed about job openings.
6. Apply for Infor Functional Consultant positions: Once you have obtained the necessary qualifications and experience, start applying for Infor Functional Consultant positions. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences, showcasing your ability to implement and customize Infor software solutions effectively.
Average Salary for an Infor Functional Consultant:
The average salary for an Infor Functional Consultant can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific industry. According to salary data from various sources, the average annual salary for an Infor Functional Consultant in the United States ranges from $70,000 to $120,000. However, it is important to note that individual salaries may be higher or lower based on various circumstances.
Roles and Types of Infor Functional Consultant Jobs:
Infor Functional Consultants can work in various industries and hold different roles within organizations. Some common types of Infor Functional Consultant jobs include:
1. Implementation Consultant: This role focuses on managing the end-to-end implementation of Infor software solutions. Implementation Consultants collaborate with clients to gather requirements, configure the software, conduct user training, and ensure successful adoption.
2. Business Analyst: In this role, Infor Functional Consultants work closely with business stakeholders to analyze existing processes, identify areas for improvement, and design solutions using Infor software. They act as a bridge between business users and technical teams, ensuring that the software meets the specific needs of the organization.
3. Solution Architect: Solution Architects are responsible for designing and implementing complex Infor software solutions. They have a deep understanding of the various Infor modules and leverage their expertise to create customized solutions that align with the client's business goals.
4. Functional Lead: Functional Leads oversee the functional aspects of Infor software implementations. They provide guidance to the implementation team, ensure timely delivery of project milestones, and act as the primary point of contact for clients regarding functional requirements and deliverables.
5. Support Consultant: Support Consultants provide ongoing support and maintenance for Infor software systems. They troubleshoot issues, address user queries, and collaborate with technical teams to resolve any system-related problems.
Locations with the Most Popular Infor Functional Consultant Jobs in the USA:
While Infor Functional Consultant jobs can be found in various locations across the United States, some regions are known for having a higher demand for these professionals. The following cities are often cited as having a significant number of job opportunities for Infor Functional Consultants:
1. New York City, NY
2. Chicago, IL
3. Atlanta, GA
4. Dallas, TX
5. Houston, TX
6. San Francisco, CA
7. Los Angeles, CA
8. Boston, MA
9. Seattle, WA
10. Minneapolis, MN
These cities are home to numerous industries that heavily rely on Infor software solutions, such as manufacturing, distribution, healthcare, and finance. However, it is important to note that job opportunities can be found in other locations as well, depending on the industry and specific business needs.
What are the Typical Tools Used by Infor Functional Consultants?
Infor Functional Consultants utilize various tools to effectively implement and customize Infor software solutions. Some typical tools used in their day-to-day work include:
1. Infor Software Suite: Infor Functional Consultants extensively use the suite of Infor software applications to configure, customize, and optimize solutions for clients. This includes Infor ERP systems, such as Infor LN, Infor M3, or Infor CloudSuite, as well as other specialized applications based on industry requirements.
2. Business Process Mapping Tools: To analyze and design efficient business processes, Infor Functional Consultants may use business process mapping tools. These tools help visualize workflows, identify bottlenecks, and streamline processes to align with the capabilities of Infor software.
3. Data Migration and Integration Tools: Infor Functional Consultants often work with data migration and integration tools to ensure smooth data transfer between systems. These tools facilitate the seamless transition of data from legacy systems to Infor software, enabling clients to leverage the full potential of their new solution.
4. Reporting and Analytics Tools: Infor software provides robust reporting and analytics capabilities, and Infor Functional Consultants utilize these tools to generate insightful reports, dashboards, and visualizations. This enables clients to gain valuable business insights and make data-driven decisions.
5. Testing and Quality Assurance Tools: Infor Functional Consultants employ testing and quality assurance tools to verify the functionality and performance of Infor software solutions. These tools help identify and rectify any issues or bugs before the system goes live, ensuring a smooth user experience.
In conclusion, an Infor Functional Consultant plays a vital role in implementing and customizing Infor software solutions for businesses. With the right skills, experience, and qualifications, you can embark on a rewarding career in this field, helping organizations optimize their operations and achieve their business goals.