How to choose a 1C integrator for ERP implementation: 7 key criteria

Criterion 1: Official status and reputation

Don’t entrust your business to random contractors. The first thing to check is the company’s official status.

• “Official 1C Partner” status: This is a basic but important mark of quality. Such companies have direct access to the developers, undergo certification, and work to 1C standards. Give preference to higher-tier partners (for example, “Professional” or “Competence Center” status).
• Testimonials and case studies: Read reviews on independent platforms and on the integrator’s website. Look past generic statements to real 1C:ERP implementation case studies in your industry or a related one.
• Number of successful projects: Ask directly how many ERP implementations they have completed over the past 2–3 years.

Criterion 2: 1C certifications held by staff

Technologies and methodologies keep changing. Certificates confirm that the integrator’s specialists keep their qualifications at a high level.

• Verify expertise: Ask whether key staff (project managers, consultants) hold current “1C:Platform Specialist,” “1C:ERP Specialist,” and other relevant certificates.
• Quality assurance: Working with certified specialists is insurance against serious errors in the system’s architecture and configuration.

Criterion 3: Industry experience and understanding of your business

An integrator that was setting up accounting for sole proprietors yesterday is unlikely to handle the complex production cycles or logistics of your company.

• Ask: “Do you have experience implementing systems at companies like mine?” Ask for specific examples.
• Depth of engagement: Notice whether the sales manager or analyst asks clarifying questions about your processes. If there are no questions, that’s a red flag.

Criterion 4: Implementation methodology and process transparency

Chaotic implementation = endless customizations and missed deadlines. Make sure the integrator has a clear plan.

• Phased implementation: The project should be divided into stages: pre-project assessment, technical specification, the configuration itself, user training, pilot launch, and support.
• Transparency and reporting: Find out how often you will receive progress reports and who will be your dedicated project manager.
• Fixed price per stage: This protects you from situations where new customizations “suddenly” turn out to be necessary — at extra cost.

Criterion 5: The project team and the option to lock in key staff

You will be working closely with these people for several months. What matters is not only their expertise but also the stability of the team.

• Meet the team: Ask them to introduce the future project manager and key analysts.
• Named staff in the contract: This is critical! Insist that key specialists (the project manager and lead analyst) be assigned to your project in an appendix to the contract. This protects you from being handed over to less experienced staff mid-project.
• Assess communication: How quickly and clearly do they answer your questions? Do they speak your language and avoid excessive technical jargon?
• Trust: You should feel confident that these people can be trusted to automate your company’s key processes.

Criterion 6: Cost and ongoing support

The most expensive implementation is the one that delivers no results. Don’t choose an integrator on the “lowest price” principle alone.

The lowest price may mean less experienced specialists and a severely limited project scope. Read more about project scope here.

• “Turnkey”: What is included in the price? Licenses, configuration, training, support? Avoid hidden charges.
• 1C:ITS contract: Make sure the integrator offers ongoing support and updates under a 1C:ITS (information and technological support) contract.
• Growth prospects: Discuss how the system will scale as your business grows. Will the same partner be able to help you 2–5 years from now?

Nice to have (optional, but important)

These factors can tip the balance when you are choosing between two equally strong candidates.

• A well-established team: Find out how long the key specialists have worked together. A team that works well together makes fewer communication mistakes and is far more effective.
• Templates for final project documents: Professionals always have proven templates: technical specification, contract, acceptance certificate, and user guides. This shows the maturity of their processes and will save you time on formal approvals.