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If you’ve made the decision to utilize an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system in your workplace, than you already know that it will fundamentally change the way your business works. You know that by having an ERP system, you will be able to streamline processes and gain valuable insights into how your business works and how it can work even better.
However, before you can start reaping the many benefits of your ERP system, and associated ERP solutions, you first need to pass a major hurdle — implementation.
Implementing new systems and processes in any workplace is no easy task and requires careful planning for both the short and long term. When organisations fail to plan implementations properly, it can delay or even completely derail the project, resulting in wasted time, money and resources.
If you want to ensure that your ERP implementation stays on track, keep the following tips in mind.
Set a realistic timeline
Too often, businesses will start off the project with an unrealistic timeline for rollout. Business software isn’t something you can just pick up and run with. It requires extensive training and buy in from everyone who will be using it.
Be as realistic as possible with your project scope and set aside ample time for training, taking into consideration that people learn in different ways and that separate trainings may be required for various business units.
Make sure your vendor ticks all the boxes
Choosing the right vendor is the first step to ensuring your implementation goes smoothly. A vendor that is knowledgeable about their product and understanding your requirements will be able to guide you and make helpful recommendations.
A vendor that has been in business awhile can also be an asset for you leading up to implementation. They know what it takes to make an ERP implementation successful and they can help you to set realistic goals.
Show support from the top
As with any change management project, you will want to make a show of support from top management. Management should be trained on how to use the ERP system, as well as have an understanding of how those working under them will be using the system.
Assign someone to manage the project
While you will most likely have a project manager from your vendor helping to guide you through the whole ERP project, you should also have a dedicated person from your business that manages things from your end.
This person will be the go to for communication with the vendor, organising requirements and training. They should also be supported by additional staff members as needed.
Set aside time for training
One of the most important parts of implementation is training.
In order to successfully use the system, staff must be comfortable with it. Employees at every level, from the executive offices to the warehouse floor, need to understand why the ERP system is important and how to use it in order to do their job.
Outline what will change
As an ERP system will streamline business processes and change the way that your employees do their job, it is important that as part of training you also outline how everyday tasks will change.
While the ERP system will make your employees more productive and efficient, there will be a learning curve as they adjust to going about their day differently.
As long as you carefully plan your implementation process, your ERP rollout is sure to be a resounding success.
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