The Most Important Person on Your ERP Project is Not Who You Think

Admit it. Right now you are thinking that the most important people on an ERP project are in the IT department…or maybe the implementation team…or the company CEO. Sure, they are important, but not the most important

No, the most important person to the success of your project is the internal project leader, someone we like to call a “champion”

We aren’t saying your project is doomed to failure without one. But after reviewing multiple projects, one thing is clear- those that had a capable project leader were significantly more successful than those who did not.

Why Do You Need a Project Leader?

When it comes to implementing an ERP system, a lot is asked of the employees. Essentially, you are asking them to perform their regular duties, while at the same time learning about and making the switch to a completely new system.

If employees don’t feel the project is a priority, or that their efforts aren’t appreciated, proper motivation and overall morale will be at a low point.

This is one of the reasons why the IT department cannot take the lead. When they do, it can quickly turn from a game-changing business solution to a “computer-project” nuisance. Everyone involved in making the switch needs to feel the support and commitment of the executive team to keep them on board.

Where the Project Leader Comes In

A project leader keeps everyone motivated and on the same page throughout the ERP project. They can be anyone within the company. But when it comes to ERP implementation, their primary job is to keep information flowing.

The project leader’s role is, above all else, a communication job. It’s up to them to:

• Keep executives informed of the project’s accomplishments, challenges, and needs.
• Coordinate the goals, vision, and progress between the executive suite and the working levels of the organization.
• Ensure employee effort is recognized and appreciated.
• Convey executive support throughout the company

Implementing an ERP system is a big deal with a lot of moving parts. Do your company a favor and assign a champion to the team. They can ease tension, take the lead in communication, and be with you every step of the way as you head toward successful project completion.

To hear directly from project leaders and what they found to be the keys to ERP project success, download “Why Every ERP Project Needs a Champion”

Are you ready to evaluate Acumatica or Microsoft Dynamics GP? Contact CAL Business Solutions at sales@calszone.com or 860-485-0910×4.

By CAL Business Solutions, Acumatica and Microsoft Dynamics GP Partner, www.calszone.com