There is little doubt about how beneficial ERP implementation can be for an organization, however ERP implementation can be difficult. The success or failure of ERP implementation is based on a few key factors. When these key factors are accurately aligned, ERP implementation is successful.
Factors affecting ERP Implementation
There are a number of guarantees that come with the implementation of an ERP system such as fixing delivery issues to data collection and better aligned business processes. However, while ERP will automate your business processes, it will benefit only upon its successful implementation. Some of the key factors which affect its implementation are:
- Poor Fit with Company Requirements: Choosing the wrong ERP software is by far the most common mistake made when implementing an ERP system. Company requirements are the single most important components of a successful ERP implementation. It is therefore imperative to have a detailed inventory of system requirements so that you are able to identify the right ERP software. In the absence of such an inventory, the ERP system will not be able to fulfill the requirements and will be a misfit.
- Failure to embrace change: In a lot of companies, ERP implementation is not considered a critical asset but instead just an optional process. Due to this fact there is lack of user acceptance. A lot of times the staff is underprepared to embrace the change. In order to avoid such situations, it is important for organizations to ready themselves for the change. If the change is not embraced, it can result in failure of ERP implementation.
- Lack of Communication: During the course of ERP implementation clarity in communication and accountability are very important mainly because there will be many decisions to make. If there is no clarity on who is responsible for making those critical decisions, it leads to increased timelines and in many cases stalled implementation. End users will also need to be informed of the change and prepare them accordingly.
- Inadequate Training and Testing: Successful implementation is highly based on user adoption. When the change is being implemented it is not only important to communicate the change, but also train them for the same. It is vital that the end users know how to operate the platform or else there will be reluctance to use the platform let alone explore its full potential. Similarly, it is important to keep testing the platform in order to identify what is working or not working. Testing should be pre as well as post go-live so that any glitches can be ironed out before the training.
As discussed, all the above factors play a major role in the successful implementation of ERP systems. These factors can be managed when you enlist the help of experts who can not only identify the industry-specific, right ERP system for your organization but also help in the training and transition process. Rockford Computer is one such company who has the expertise to accurately identify your needs and suggest ERP systems that work seamlessly with your organization, providing you with the perfect solution for complete digital transformation.
