Once you’ve evaluated your options and selected an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to transform your business, the hard work is almost over. Now, your organization needs to go through the process of implementing your ERP system, before you can reap the rewards.
ERP implementations are not always easy, but the benefits to come are well worth any upfront challenges. The most common implementation challenges are typically employee and stakeholder buy-in and technical or modernization issues. But with advance preparation, there is no challenge that is too difficult to overcome—especially with ERP experts on your side.
As a technology consulting firm specializing in ERP systems, DRI is committed to helping our clients at every stage, from initial consultation and consideration through the implementation, and beyond. We help businesses learn the ins-and-outs of their ERPs, and over the years have learned what to watch out for in implementing ERP systems for our clients.
Employee and Stakeholder Buy-In
Implementing any kind of new technology in a business setting is going to require buy-in from your employees. ERP systems are certainly not exempt from this. Most people tend to prefer what they are familiar with and sometimes resist new technology because it requires a learning curve or a shift in processes and responsibilities.
Getting employee buy-in for your ERP project needs to happen early on in the process. You can start by informing them in the evaluation phase, consider sharing why you want to implement the ERP and demonstrating the tangible benefits it will have on their specific job or department functions and responsibilities. From there, you should keep employees in the loop throughout the subsequent stages of the ERP selection and implementation. Leverage those with internal influence to exemplify a positive attitude and excitement about the coming change.
Establish an open-door policy and encourage your employees and stakeholders to come to you with any issues, before, during, and after ERP implementation. Offering continuous training and support is key, as is celebrating and recognizing employees and/or departments who are doing well with the ERP.
Technical Difficulties
Consider the various components that need to work in tandem for your ERP technology to work for your needs; consider software programs, hardware components, servers, and of course, the users.
Before you begin your ERP implementation, you’ll want to be prepared and have your system ready to go, without inviting technical difficulties resulting from underpowered or older infrastructure. And if you are facing what appears to be insurmountable modernization challenges, there is always the option of a Cloud-based ERP system, which reduces the technical burden on company infrastructure. You can also test launch the ERP, by implementing a few functions at a time, in order to make sure everything is in place before transitioning to the full experience.
DRI is your ERP expert, aiding in all aspects of evaluation, implementation, and beyond. Give us a call at 412-562-9660 or email info@decision.com to get started. We’ll work with you to help you get fitted with the right ERP solutions for your business.
