How to Implement an Enterprise Resource Planning System Effectively
An Enterprise Resource Planning System seeks to integrate all of your business processes into a single system that helps you better manage, execute, and measure key projects. When successfully done, it will result in a more efficient and productive organization and better service to the individuals you serve.
Companies certainly see the value in it, with spending on implementation expected to crest $86 billion by 2027. In the following article, we will walk you through the key actions you will need to take to successfully implement yours. Let’s begin!
1. Hold a Meeting of the Minds
The first step in the successful implementation of any Enterprise Resource Planning is to cull your resources together to determine the need. The needs of your organization can be much different from another’s, even within your same industry.
Therefore, take some time to bring together the key stakeholders from within your group. Discuss the current limitations of your software, as well as the necessities from it that an ERP system would need to bring together.
2. Open Discussions With Outside Vendors
Once you have a wishlist, it’s time to see which ERP systems are out there, as well as the vendors that can help facilitate the process. Engage all employees as you hold these discussions with outside vendors.
You want the stakeholders from within your organization to be present. This will help eliminate any miscommunication or confusion as to what a system can, and can’t, do.
3. Choose Your Software and Vendor
Effective implementation of ERP isn’t possible until ERP software selection is complete along with choosing the right vendor for help with the installation. These will often be the same company, but they don’t have to be.
The important thing is that you make the decision with your eyes wide open. That means the vendor understands what you need from the software, and you have clear promises that full integration of those features is possible.
4. Train Your Employees
As implementation begins, you’ll need to start training all employees on what is ERP and be open to learning a few things yourself. What makes training so challenging and time-consuming is that you’re having to learn some things from scratch while keeping the old systems intact until a full switch can be made.
5. Set a Date to Go Live
Incorporating ERP in your business means having a hard date in place to keep everyone accountable. The “Go Live” date can be somewhat flexible, but you’ll want to settle on something that doesn’t interfere with your vendor agreement.
6. Make Sure You Are Hitting Milestones Along the Way
To keep yourself and employees accountable for learning the new software as integrations are made, you’ll want to set up some milestones on the way to that “Go Live” date. Some divisions within your company will be easier to integrate than others, so pay close attention to difficulty settings. Give your most challenging areas the largest amount of time.
Your Enterprise Resource Planning System Success Depends on Prep and Execution
Successful implementation of any Enterprise Resource Planning System boils down to how well you research, prepare, and execute the implementation strategy. This will vary specifically on the size and needs of your organization, so make sure you’re making realistic allowances and expectations. For more technology tips and information, check out some of our additional posts!