WHAT YOU SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE AN ERP IMPLEMENTATION
Wednesday, June 24, 2015Global Administrator
We love helping our customers with their integration needs. We work hard to provide the best, and most cost effective solution for them . It’s important however, that before we’re able to integrate a customer’s ERP with an eCommerce webstore(s), EDI Trading Partner(s) or CRM application, they have to have an ERP system implemented.
There are a variety of quality choices when trying to decide which ERP or Accounting Software to implement, many of which we
integrate with. We’ve worked with many customers in different stages of the ERP Integration process, so we’ve learned a thing or two about what to consider prior to the implementation.
Time and Money
This is often the first thing decision makers consider before implementing. This goes beyond the initial cost of the actual software, however. It’s important to consider the cost of training, lost productivity and time during that training, and the money you save with a more effective ERP. It’s important to consider all financial effects on the company, good and bad.
On the other hand, you have time. As a company, it’s crucial to ensure that time is considered and there has been room left for surprises. Implementing a company-wide change can be a hefty task – it’s important that all possible situations are considered and accounted for in the timeline and schedule.
It is important to continuously refer back to your timeline and budget throughout the process to ensure that you are on track with the original plan laid out before starting.
Training
Implementing an ERP system or accounting software throughout your company will have implications for almost everyone and sometimes people don’t deal well with change. Training your employees will help ensure a more straight-forward and comfortable transition. Remember that the company who has implemented your ERP system or accounting package can be used as a knowledge tool. They come with years of experience working with implementations so be sure to ask them for advice when needed.
Who will be your A-Team
This is an important thing to consider with your implementation. If you have an in-house IT department then you’re already a step ahead. You can train them specifically to be your go-to people and manage the implementation, any changes, and any questions employees may have moving forward.
If you are not set up with an IT department, it is important to determine which employees on your team will head the implementation and major changes. In addition, these individuals will also be the in-house go-to’s for any hiccups along the way.
Don’t underestimate the project!
Implementing an ERP is a huge undertaking. The problem we see most often is that companies don’t allocate enough time and resources for their implementation. The scope of this project is huge, affecting your whole company, so overestimating is always better than underestimating.
Selecting the right ERP software is only the first step to a successful ERP implementation. It’s all about what works for your business, not just about the technology itself. Prepare for every possible situation that may arise. The implementation you’re planning affects the whole company and the departments within, make sure you’re ready!