4 Missteps to Avoid during ERP Implementation
An ERP Implementation phase is typically the time period in which mistakes happen and panic and fear begin to creep up amongst business executives and employees. Often times, we hear nightmarish stories about IT implementations; either because the implementation went over-budget, above and beyond the expected timeframe or it was too complex and quickly resisted by the company employees.
In today’s article, we will share 4 mistakes that should be avoided in order to have a successful ERP implementation. Taking shortcuts during this phase of the project is not in the best interest of your company and your employees, so it’s best to do things right from the get-go.
1. Rushing the vendor selection process
Many times companies don’t do the required research before choosing their ERP vendor. They simply go with the most well known or most talked about vendor or software on the market. Often times, these software solutions aren’t a good fit for these small to mid-size businesses and company executives are quickly disappointed with the system as well as the IT support offered to them.
2. Being unrealistic with implementation timeline expectations
Another big mistake we keep seeing are unrealistic timeframes attached to ERP implementation projects. Implementation is such an important step in this software upgrade project that rushing this part is a huge mistake. Talk with your ERP vendor and get their input on this time frame, as they should be able to assess the work involved in your specific case.
3. Leaving the responsibility of ERP Implementation solely to the IT Provider
It’s important to realize that for any IT implementation to be successful and embraced with open arms by the users (employees), everyone affected by this change must be involved during this phase. It will be beneficial to have all the software users in the organization testing out the new system, sharing their input as well as simply getting used to the new way of doing things in order to have an efficient implementation and smooth transition from old to new.
4. Overlooking User Training during and after implementation
User training should definitely not be overlooked, as it is extremely crucial for an effective ERP implementation. If the users do not know how to properly use the ERP solution, benefits will not be seen and employee productivity will suffer. Simply take the time to ensure everyone in the organization is getting the proper education and training.
The above ways can avoid disasters during software selection and installation phases, leaving you with a smooth ERP implementation. Hurdles may still be encountered here and there but if you have realistic goals and a good implementation plan, your organization will be able to cross them and reap the benefits of a good ERP solution right away.
