Implementing an ERP Solution - Transformation Best Practices 101
Ah, ERP transformation - those three little letters that can make or break an organisation’s sanity. If you’ve been through one (or several, like us), you’ll know it’s not just a software upgrade; it’s a full-blown business shake-up. Done right, an ERP implementation can streamline operations, boost efficiency, and even make finance teams smile (yes, it’s possible). Done wrong, and, well…let’s just say we’ve seen grown executives cry.
So, how do you ensure your ERP transformation is sustainable - not just a flashy go-live moment that unravels six months later? Here are our battle-tested best practices.
1. Change Management is Not an Afterthought - It’s Everything
We once walked into a project where change management was considered "just a few training sessions at the end." Spoiler alert: it failed spectacularly. Sustainable ERP success is 80% about people and 20% about technology. Engage stakeholders early and often. Hold change workshops, conduct readiness assessments, and most importantly - make sure the frontline teams want to adopt the system, not just tolerate it.
2. Forget ‘Big Bang’ – Phased is the Way to Go
We’ve seen companies launch ERP with a ‘big bang’ approach - one day, everything is on spreadsheets, and the next, it’s SAP or Oracle. Sounds exciting, right? Until the warehouse can’t ship orders, finance can’t close the books, and IT is in full meltdown mode. Sustainable transformation happens in phases. Start with a pilot, learn from it, and scale up. Oh, and build a budget at the outset that reflects this approach, so you are not doing the most critical phase (go-live) on a shoe string!!
3. Data: Rubbish In, Rubbish Out
One project we worked on had "Customer Name: TBD" in 20% of records. That’s how you end up invoicing “Mickey Mouse” (yes, that happened). Before ERP deployment, clean your data. Standardise formats, eliminate duplicates, and make sure your system isn’t clogged with outdated junk.
4. No-Surprise Culture – Communicate Like Your Project Depends on It (Because It Does)
A CFO once told us, “I don’t like surprises - unless they involve cream cakes.” Fair point. The same applies to ERP projects. Regular updates, clear risk logs, and brutally honest steering committees help avoid last-minute crises. Transparency keeps everyone aligned.
5. Training Isn’t One-and-Done - It’s Continuous
We once saw a business spend £1m on training only to have users revert to old habits within weeks. Why? No ongoing reinforcement. Build post-go-live support, refresher sessions, and superuser networks to embed new ways of working.
Sustainable ERP transformation is a marathon, not a sprint. Nail these things, and you’ll have an ERP system that stands the test of time - without causing too many grey hairs along the way!
Good luck on your transformation journey!!