ERP software projects often stand or fall on the success of the initial rollout – these tips will help your business get it right first time

As author Chris Luyt discusses in his blog How to prevent ERP project failures, software isn’t always to blame when projects fail - the team implementing the software can fail to make the most of it. Here, we crunch the key steps you need to follow...   

Get senior management on board

The success of your ERP system implementation needs support from the very highest levels of management. According to an Aberdeen Group report, senior management need to “own” the success of the project leading at every stage:

• Selection of the ERP system
• Implementation of the ERP system
• Continuing development of the ERP system

(Changing Perceptions on ERP Strategy – Aberdeen Group)

Assemble a project team

Getting your implementation right requires a team drawn from all the departments in your company. Managers in the business and IT all need to be involved in the ERP software selection and implementation process. ERP is not just an IT issue.

“Three elements which can help reduce the resistance to change are tremendous top management support, placement of best people on implementation, and heavy involvement of people from the field.”

ERP Implementation Critical Success Factors – The Role and Impact of Business Process Management

Prepare your processes

The rollout of a new ERP solution is the perfect time to review both your internal and external business processes to identify potential efficiency savings and more:

• Identify wasteful working methods and replace them – replicating them in the software will not create any new savings
• Identify successful working methods and try to replicate them elsewhere in your business
• Identify ways to improve your relationships with customers and suppliers. 

“Almost all quality improvement comes via simplification of design, manufacturing... layout, processes, and procedures.”

Tom Peters, business management writer

Know what you want

How do you know if your ERP software project has been successful? By defining in advance the wider business benefits.

In doing so, you will:

• Assist with selecting the right MRP system capabilities for your business
• Fully understand the timescales involved with rollout
• Be able to accurately predict the value obtainable from your solution
• Be 250% more likely to record an ROI on your ERP system than competitors who do not define measurements in advance.

(ERP Selection – Aberdeen Group)

Key takeaways:

• Get senior management involved
• Assemble a project team
• Identify process improvement opportunities in advance
• Define your objectives in advance.

What do you think? What else can your business do to enable a flawless ERP software rollout?

Considering an ERP software implementation? Download our eGuide How to avoid ERP disappointment now...