Companies justify moving to a standard enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution based on a number of compelling reasons. By supporting a single system rather than several smaller and disparate systems, they can enjoy economies of scale. Additionally, having single application architecture with fewer user interfaces creates lower integration costs. And through common tasks automation (as well as easier access to more information), best practice systems and procedures allow for efficiencies not available when using multiple systems. While the case for standardizing on a single ERP system can be relatively straightforward to make, the costs and impacts are sometimes easy to overlook. Cre8tive Technology (www.ctnd.com) will be posting a six part series on how to ensure a successful implementation. Companies should take into consideration a number of factors:
- Build a cross-functional team
- Set proper expectations to manage change
- Create new business processes in sync with the new system
- Implement in a phased approach
- Make the necessary time and financial investment
- Putting It All Together for a Successful Go-Live
Addressing these areas early on in the process can be the deciding factor whether the ERP implementation is a success in the long run. This series will highlight the importance of each of these factors and provide recommendations on how to ensure a successful ERP implementation.
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Putting It All Together for a Successful Go-Live
By understanding and addressing the five factors discussed above, companies can have a timely, in-scope, and on-budget implementation. Creating cross-functional teams early on, with executive sponsorship and proper expectations set throughout the organization, are all keys to success. Taking into consideration how the business can run differently after implementing an ERP solution will allow for the greatest return on investment from the new functionality. Being prepared up front for these changes, both from an operations and corporate culture perspective, will make the transition less challenging. Keeping the implementation project scope in check is important; thus, many companies choose to implement in a phased approach when introducing new ERP features. Overall, implementing an ERP solution is both a financial and time investment. Having both of these investments understood up front reduces surprises and creates efficiencies during the implementation. Finally, having a go-to implementation partner that can help provide guidance on these areas throughout the process will provide added value and help ensure a successful implementation.
From an Epicor White Paper
About Epicor
Epicor Software Corporation is a global leader delivering business software solutions to the manufacturing, distribution, retail, and service industries. With more than 40 years of experience, Epicor has more than 20,000 customers in over 150 countries. Epicor solutions enable companies to drive increased efficiency and improve profitability. With a history of innovation, industry expertise, and passion for excellence, Epicor inspires customers to build lasting competitive advantage. Epicor provides the single point of accountability that local, regional, and global businesses demand. For more information, visit www.epicor.com.