So you’ve decided to implement a new ERPEnterprise Resource Planning software is used by businesses to manage day-to-day activities./Finance solution. Although it is highly likely that you will require the engagement of an expert implementation partner to support you on your transformation journey, there are many key planning and mobilisation considerations to finalise before the project should start.
Establishing a strong project team
Often one of the most difficult decisions companies are faced with due to the reluctant to release their strongest team members. However, it is critical that you enable your key users to engage, inform and define the ‘to-be’ ways of working and setup on any new finance system. Whether this requires temporary back-fill positions or a part time allocation, recruitment should have a focus on the BAUBusiness-as-usual is when an organisation is operating normally, i.e. not undergoing a change project. activities to ensure to have your strongest team working on the project. In addition to key business representatives you should be establishing a project team that includes an executive sponsor, a project manager, and representatives of all key business groups involved in the project. The team should be able to define the project goals, requirements, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Define clear and realistic requirements
Any new finance solution must meet the key requirements of your organisation. However, it can be easy for there to become a disconnect between the project objectives and the project requirements when end user ‘wants’ become ‘needs’. Requirements should be aligned with the business goals and processes. They should reflect the current and future needs your organization, and how the ERPEnterprise Resource Planning software is used by businesses to manage day-to-day activities. system can support and improve them. Requirements should also consider non-functional aspects such as data quality, security, and compliance. Its important to note that business requirements should be technology agnostic. Defining and agreeing your requirements early on will not only support in any onward ERPEnterprise Resource Planning software is used by businesses to manage day-to-day activities. and implementation vendor selection process, but will also protect against scope creep later down the line.
Solution Selection
It is important to choose an ERPEnterprise Resource Planning software is used by businesses to manage day-to-day activities. system that fits the needs, and budget, of your organization. There are many ERPEnterprise Resource Planning software is used by businesses to manage day-to-day activities. systems available in the market, each with different features, functionalities and costs. Consider not only the capital investment costs of the implementation, but the onward operation costs of licensing and support. You’re chosen system should also be scalable and flexible to reflect your business strategy and be compatible with the existing IT infrastructure and landscape.
Adopt, don’t adapt
As covered in a recent blog post by Mike (Embracing the “Adopt not Adapt” approach in ERP implementation) this is an opportunity to optimize the business processes and workflows with the new system. ERPEnterprise Resource Planning software is used by businesses to manage day-to-day activities. solutions are often used globally and have been developed over many years based on user feedback and business needs. An ERPEnterprise Resource Planning software is used by businesses to manage day-to-day activities. implementation is an opportunity to introduce better and more efficient processes to your business, not just to automate the existing ones.
Change Management
An ERPEnterprise Resource Planning software is used by businesses to manage day-to-day activities. implementation can create significant change in the way in which your organisation will operate. This may naturally create resistance and challenges amongst employees and stakeholders. Therefore, it is essential to communicate the benefits and expectations of the ERPEnterprise Resource Planning software is used by businesses to manage day-to-day activities. system throughout the project and provide adequate training and support to the users. It is also recommended to engage with your users to encourage feedback and input so that you can address any concerns and issues promptly.
Implementing a new ERPEnterprise Resource Planning software is used by businesses to manage day-to-day activities. system can be a challenge, but as the saying goes ‘start as you mean to go on’, establishing a strong foundation to your project and maintaining broad business engagement and alignment will not only increase your chances of success, but will also allow you to realise the return of your investment and better support your overall business strategy.