Check out the following ERP Software Implementation Tips to get the maximum benefits from this enterprise software.
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software integrates many functions across a business, such as financial management, human resources, sales, and manufacturing, to provide benefits such as increased productivity and efficiency.
Whether you’re implementing ERP for the first time or replacing a legacy system, chances are your company will experience some challenges. Because implementing an ERP system can be a long and complicated process, but you can avoid major headaches by following a few important steps.
Gathering as much information as possible and creating the right support during implementation will result in a great return on investment.
ERP systems are vast and built for a number of different industries. Therefore, companies should ensure that the system they are considering is specifically tailored to their industry and needs.
Several Things to Ensure Successful Implementation of ERP Software in the Company
Here are some things you can do to ensure a successful ERP software implementation for your company.
1. Make the right pre-implementation choices
The first tip for a successful ERP implementation is to avoid mistakes by making the right pre-implementation choices. Often, companies rush into a deal with an ERP software vendor and partner selection process, only to run into problems during the implementation phase of the project.
Therefore, take the time to clearly outline your needs, wants, goals, budget, and timeline, and then select the most suitable software and partner.
2. Create an implementation team
The new ERP system is a company-wide solution, so it is likely to be used by various departments or divisions. The creation of the implementation team needs to reflect this diversity by being cross-functional and cross-departmental.
Of course, every team needs a leader. This leader or person in charge will be the main contact for everyone involved in the project both internally and externally. He or she should be the bridge that coordinates the goals, and vision as well as keeping the ERP project on track, securing executive approval, evaluating progress, and measuring overall success.
3. Realistic planning
To keep the ERP software implementation on track and within scope and budget, the implementation team must create a project plan based on clear and measurable goals and objectives. These goals should be translated into project milestones that can be achieved within a realistic timeline.
Various trials and testing phases should be incorporated into the plan to anticipate any issues that may occur and preempt them by fine-tuning the designed configuration before the system goes live.
Your team should also think about post-implementation needs such as support and maintenance.
4. Received full support from upper management
For an ERP software implementation to be successful, the transition must have the full support and commitment of upper management. The new system will be the foundation for the company’s future growth and should be a top priority for the executives who will be the role models for the rest of the organisation, who will most likely adhere to the new policies and procedures.
5. Change management planning
The newly installed ERP system will change many processes and therefore will change the way employees work. Change management planning will be a major factor in successful implementation.
Consider the following steps when developing a change management strategy”
Communicate to employees about the upcoming changes, making sure to explain the benefits the new ERP software will bring to the company, and most importantly, their daily work.
Give clear instructions on each person’s role in the new direction the company is taking. Talk to team members about their concerns to help alleviate and prevent them from resisting future changes.
Be diligent in giving the team feedback to showcase progress and foster their enthusiasm at work while reinforcing the ERP software implementation in the company culture.
6.Training
You can help employees embrace new technologies and increase user adoption by providing ongoing training opportunities and accessible resources. You can use a variety of methods and forums including group sessions, instructional videos, and online training.
Also, reach out to more experienced users to share their tips and tricks on how to get the most out of this ERP system.
7. Testing
A series of tests will need to be repeated to get the system running perfectly. Be prepared for many adjustments to be made after the initial test, and then run the test again. The tests become more sophisticated with each round, and the in-house ERP implementation team needs to design scenarios and simulate running the business. Typically, the first testing period is for rule optimization, security, and policy calculations.
Implementing an ERP system will be a big project. It will always require a lot of manpower allocation and involvement from everyone. But by following the tips above, you can keep the ERP software implementation project on track and see your business thrive.
On the other hand, software vendors usually include support and helpdesk services as part of their ERP solution. So don’t hesitate to discuss with their representatives and ask for help when needed.
If you run into problems during the ERP software implementation stage, assistance from the vendor can help solve the problem more quickly and easily than if you try to find all the answers yourself.