Choosing an ERP, as we’ve discussed before, is not an easy undertaking. Previously, a blog entitled “6 Mistakes to Avoid When Implementing an ERP” was published. In this blog we’ll be looking at how not to build your team if you want to make your ERP implementation successful.
To recap: Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is a type of business management software that supports the basic internal processes of a company. It allows companies to use an integrated system to manage all the pieces of their operation. Product planning, development, manufacturing processes, inventory control, customer and vendor data, materials management, sales, and marketing are all examples of what an ERP system can control and streamline.
Mistake #4: Not including the right people on the implementation team.
The most important thing to do before starting your ERP implementation is to ensure that your company has staff resources in place. If you begin implementation without an adequate number of employees, the employees that you do have will feel overworked, unhappy, and resentful. Any combination of those factors runs the risk of your ERP implementation failing.
Next, identify a project leader to handle the bulk of the interaction with the ERP consultant. Then form a team of varying individuals – the ERP consultant(s), members of your company’s management team, and IT employees being the obvious team members. Don’t forget, however, to include representatives from across the rest of your organization also: finance, operations, manufacturing, purchasing, the warehouse employees, etc. Because these people will use the system every day to do their jobs, they are known as “key users.” Their insights will be important when looking at the ERP system, and you should include them on the team from the beginning.
It is important that the ERP implementation team members can focus on the task at hand. It might be a good idea to consider reassigning or removing some of their normal job duties so that they have enough time to concentrate on so they have enough time to concentrate on the ERP implementation. Doing so will also prevent stressed/burnt out employees. Also, ensure that your team leader has strong project management skills, can facilitate team communication, address issues that may arise, and keep the implementation on schedule.
Keeping these tips in mind will help make your ERP implementation successful. You went through much time and research finding the best ERP system for your company and you should now use your time to build the right team to lead you forward. Having the right team, setting realistic expectations, and giving your staff the support they need will ensure implementation success.
