Implementing ERP software

Implementation is a vital part of successfully introducing ERP software to your business.

It doesn’t matter how much time you invest in choosing a new ERP (Enterprise Resources Planning) software package; if you don’t implement it properly, you could create more problems than you solve.

Planning implementation

Putting a new ERP software system into your business is a huge project, and one that needs to be properly managed from the outset. It needs a dedicated project manager rather than being allocated to someone who already has a full-time job to handle and, depending on the size of your company, you may need a team of people to ensure that implementation is successful. Here are some key points to consider:

• Testing – it’s essential that you test the system before you begin a live implementation. Testing allows you to uncover any problems and look at how you might overcome them – either by modifying the ERP software or by changing your working practices. It’s far better to uncover these issues in a test situation than to risk disruption to your business.

• Procedures – be prepared to be flexible with your working procedures. It’s likely that you are introducing ERP software because either you are currently handling a task manually or you’re looking for a single system to replace several separate software packages. Your current working procedures will have been designed to work with your existing system, so you must be prepared to change the way you work when the new system is implemented. Trying to get your new ERP software to fit your present processes may be counter-productive, so you must approach the implementation with an open mind.

• Training – by its nature, ERP software will be used by a large number of employees within your business, and they will all need training. These are the people that are going to be using the system day in, day out, and they are essential to its success. Make sure that everyone in the business is aware of the changes and has sufficient training and support to approach the ERP software with confidence.

• Trouble-shooting – no new software implementation goes without a hitch, so be prepared for timetables to slip, unforeseen issues to arise and problems to appear. Auditing, testing, consultation and training before implementation will help to reduce the number of problems you come across, but you need to have a contingency plan so that the business can continue to operate whilst you find the right solutions.

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