The selection process is over, and you’ve selected a vendor—it’s time to deploy your cloud ERP. Many companies wonder how to make this process easier. Is there some trick, some magic, some process they can use to make sure everything runs smoothly?
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.
Select a Team Representing all Departments
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.
Conduct a Needs Assessment
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.
Vendor Builds Out System
Your ERP vendor next builds out the system to your company’s specifications and stabilizes the components. All areas of the system should be tested to ensure it works as planned.
Launch the System
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 each department is completely migrated and thoroughly trained in the new ERP system before adding other groups.
Train your Team
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 on-site 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.
Choose the Right Cloud ERP Provider
A project plan is fine, but it is only as good as the ERP vendor you choose to walk 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.
ASI has been working with business clients and helping them to solve their toughest issues for over 30 years. We can provide you with a custom solution that will meet your needs and fit your budget. Contact us now for your free accounting and Acumatica Cloud ERP software consultation.