The selection process is over, and you’ve selected a vendor—it’s time for cloud ERP implementation. Many companies wonder how to make their cloud ERP implementation process easier. Is there some trick, some magic, some process they can use to make sure that it all goes according to plan?
There are many reasons why cloud ERP implementations hit snags, but among the top ones are failure to plan for training, inadequate budgeting, and underestimating the time and resources a successful implementation takes. The best strategy to overcome these roadblocks is to plan for them. If you know the potential bumps in the road, you can take a detour or change your driving strategy to counteract them. Similarly, if you know the potential ERP implementation pitfalls, you can make a project plan to counteract them.
A basic cloud ERP implementation project plan takes into account assumptions, costs, timeline, and more to build a successful roadmap for your new ERP system rollout.
Assemble the Team
The first step to any cloud ERP implementation plan is to gather the ERP team together. Creating a robust implementation plan isn’t something you should do alone. If you’ve assembled a team with representatives from all departments as the steering committee for the ERP selection process, this team should be the one to work on the ERP implementation plan.
Analysis and Design
During the analysis phase, the team works with each department to conduct a needs assessment. Working with the consultant or vendor for your new ERP system, you can then structure the final ERP system based on the team’s needs.
Build and Stabilize
Your ERP vendor next builds out the system to your company’s specification and stabilizes the components. All areas of the system should be tested to ensure it works as planned.
Implementation
The project plan should include the implementation portion of the program. This may be done in a phased approach or as one discrete launch date. A phased approach might transition one department at a time to the new system, making sure that each department is completely migrated and thoroughly trained in the new ERP system before adding other groups.
Training
According to one source, 95% of failed ERP implementations did not budget adequately (in time or money) for training during the implementation phase. Do not underestimate the importance of ERP training.
As part of the project plan, consider who needs in-depth training in each department. Consider a train-the-trainer model with “super users” or personnel who receive additional training. They, in turn, can act as onsite experts and answer their colleagues’ questions about the new ERP system or train new employees in the future on the basics of using the system.
Partnering With the Right ERP Vendor
A project plan is fine, but it is only as good as the ERP vendor you select to walk alongside you through the process. Choosing an ERP system is more than picking out a new software package. You’ll work closely with the ERP vendor for many months and want a reliable company.
The best ERP vendors offer a partnership-based approach that walks with you through the project planning phase and offers post-implementation training and support. Emerald TC offers Acumatica and other software packages for every type and size manufacturing company and can help you choose the right ERP system for your needs. Contact us or call 678-456-6919 for more information.