What does it take for a successful ERP project implementation?

An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software can completely transform the way you run your business. It will increase your efficiency considerably and destroy information silos. It will enable you to collect, analyze, and share business-critical information — finance, marketing, sales, human resource, warehouse and inventory management, vendor/supplier/distributor management, and customer relationship management. ERP implementation is a tedious task but can be very rewarding for your business in the long run. It will help you reduce cost, improve workforce efficiency, and give you a 360-degree perspective of the market.

There are several reasons why you should use ERP software, but you must have a blueprint to measure the success of your ERP project implementation. 

This article sheds light on the vital parameters you should keep in mind during ERP implementation. 

1. Identify what you want to achieve in the long run.

ERP implementation is a long and expensive process. It’s practically impossible to return to your old way of doing things once you have implemented ERP software in your business premises. Hence, it’s essential to have crystal clear objectives and goals so that you don’t repent later. 

Brainstorm with your workforce — C-suite managers, frontline executives, and vendors — to know their challenges. Prepare a list of KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) before moving forward. Also, see what your competitors are doing: Have they installed ERP software? If yes, was their transition smooth, or did they face some problems? Learn from the mistakes of others and see what is best for your business.

Also Read: ERP Implementation: 5 steps to avoid unsuccessful implementations

2. Find or hire a project manager

It’s necessary to have someone to supervise the entire ERP implementation process. This makes the transition convenient and flexible. You can either select someone from your company with excellent communication skills and who has a fair amount of experience with ERP implementation. Or you can hire someone from outside who can make the transition look like a piece of cake. The project manager is essential as they offer valuable advice to the workforce, calm down panic-stricken employees, and explain their roles and responsibilities. 

3. Do a need-analysis before selecting the right ERP software

Every business has different needs and a distinct customer base. It would be best if you made the final purchase decision only when you have enough knowledge about your business, target segment, the industry you operate in, your competitors, as well as your future expectations. 

Consider asking your industry peers questions of whether you should opt for an on-premise ERP system or a cloud-enabled ERP solution. Ask yourself whether you need help with every business function or are you a niche manufacturer that requires professional assistance in a few business areas. You can implement a generic ERP system if you belong to the former category, but you can opt for an industry-specific ERP software if you lie in the latter. 

Also Read: How to differentiate between generic and industry-specific ERP systems?

4. Data integration and data migration facility

Data integration and data migration are some of the most significant challenges businesses face while implementing ERP. It’s essential to have multiple back-ups of data so that companies don’t lose vital information about their customers, vendors, and the market. ERP project implementation is a long process, so it’s essential to keep the data secure and usable. 

You can make fair use of the ERP implementation process to filter unnecessary data from the system. Generally, we tend to keep redundant data inside our repositories, which eats up valuable data space and makes it challenging to reconcile the necessary data. 

5. Test the system before going live

Once the ERP implementation process is over, it’s essential to check whether the ERP system is working fine or not. The testing stage is critical for finetuning the software and removing worthless chaff from the system. This stage also allows your employees to learn to operate the ERP system and get ready to reconfigure how they work. 

Conclusion

Although ERP implementation has numerous benefits, you can land yourself in trouble if you don’t fully understand your needs, what your customer base wants, and what your vendors are looking for. ERP project implementation can be tiring and cumbersome, but it will bear fruits for your business in the long run. It will provide you a new way of conducting business. One that is lightning fast, convenient, and matches with the industry’s needs. 

At Sage Software Solutions (P) Ltd., we are home to world-class ERP software and CRM software that will solidify your business tech support fundamentals and enable you to build a customer-centric organization. To know more about it, SMS SAGE to 56767. You can also write to us at sales@sagesoftware.co.in

Disclaimer: All the information, views, and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the authors and their respective web sources and in no way reflect the principles, views, or objectives of Sage Software Solutions (P) Ltd.