Top 5 Reasons ERP Projects Succeed

Implementing an ERP System is no small task. About 30-40 percent of ERP Systems are deemed successful by the company implementing the system. In theory, ERP software will automate and utilize internal and external data between different departments of your company to make it perform better. If properly implemented, your company will have a time and cost savings system. Because ERP implementation can be costly and time consuming, it is important to know what factors to look for when determining success.

1.       Create a Partnership with Your Software Vendor

Problems will arise during implementation. Having a good relationship with your vendor and third party project implementation team can help make the situation better. Selecting the best vendor is no small task, but it can often be useful to partner with a local software implementation company for ease of communication. Look for a company that will take time to make you happy throughout the process.

2.       Communicate and Manage Expectations

This is important in the planning stages and also in the “go live” final stages of the project. ERP implementation is a unique process and each system can be tailored to your company’s specific needs. You may need comprehensive warehouse management or perhaps in-depth customer relations management.  Let your project team know the specifics of your needs. And if you are not sure, turn to a company that can guide you through the process.

3.       Ensure You have the Proper Budget

Careful planning during the budgeting stage is crucial to the success of any ERP project. Make sure you understand what your needs are in order to get the best picture of the total costs. If budgets are not sufficient, project deadlines are missed, morale drops as the project drags on and the project could disintegrate. A good partner implementation provider will be honest and upfront about the projected costs and will communicate any changes ahead of time.

4.       Encourage Functional Ownership of the Project

A project of this nature and scope is a natural fit for the IT department to spearhead. Unfortunately, this is rarely a good idea. In the long run, the functional divisions like finance, marketing, and human resources will be using the ERP system. They must determine their own functionality needs and must be able to have ownership from the beginning of the project.

5.       Implement Aggressive Project Management Processes

Project organization and management will make or break the final outcome of an ERP system. Structured project management provided internally and by the partner implementer will ensure dates are met, budgets are kept and everyone is happy with the end results.

This process doesn’t have to be herculean in practice and success will be determined by the management and dedication of all parties involved. For more information about processes visit our page.