In part 1 of this blog series, we detailed 6 steps essential to a successful ERP implementation. This blog continues where we left off, with more guidance on your ERP implementation. ERP systems are critical to modern manufacturers, particularly due to the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although an ERP system can streamline and optimize operations across an enterprise, there are many challenges along the way as implementation can be complex. Research by Gartner indicates that over 75% of ERP implementations fail. This amounts to a massive loss of time and money. So it’s important to follow best practices for your ERP implementation.

Here are the next 6 steps for a hassle-free and successful ERP implementation.

1. Emphasize Mid-Way Approvals

Remember to schedule recurrent midway approval meetings to make sure partial phase deployment requirements are all in place. Test cases can be prepared for each of the above that can involve your key personnel for testing.

2. Plan Testing

You must plan for testing as there are a numerous tests to be conducted such as technical tests, functional tests and user-acceptance tests to name a few. It is also important to confirm auto-backups and prepare demo videos for any and all testing conducted. This way you can get a head start on dealing with any problems that come up during the testing phase.

3. Migrate Business Data

Converting from your previous ERP means shifting a lot of data. This gives you a good opportunity to re-evaluate what data you would like to hold on to and what data can be discarded. By migrating essential data, you can approve future processes for 100% accuracy and thereby eliminate any data bottlenecks.

4. Change-Management

Change management is an important element when making a new ERP implementation. Expecting the change is the first step to better management and motivating your staff to also get on board with any potential managerial changes that might be involved. A dull fledged user guide can help teams to resolve a number of queries themselves and thereby allow for faster in-house problem solving. Arranging functional training for staff can also help establish a sense of urgency amongst team members and create an optimized channel for change management.

5. Plan to Go-Live

Planning the shift to go live on your new ERP implementation is a crucial step of the process. You can begin by testing access right limitations, confirming accurate data migration, testing with real case studies and testing business reports. 

6. Support Maintenance

Once you have achieved a successful implementation it is recommended that you continue with your partner through a support plan. This  will provide expert support and maintenance for your ERP system including handling upgrades and so on.

Are you interested in implementing a new ERP system for your enterprise? Would you like to develop a contingency plan for a successful implementation? Our team at SolutionsX would be happy to help. We provide expert solutions for your organization’s ERP needs. With more than a decade of manufacturing industry experience our SolutionsX consultants are not only a point of contact but an ongoing personal guide in building and integrating a system that fits with your operations, goals and culture. Reach out to us at SolutionsX to find out more.