Implementing an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system is a significant project that requires careful planning, clear communication, and dedicated teamwork. When done right, it can transform your organization by creating efficiency, improving decision-making, and streamlining operations. However, a mismanaged ERP implementation can lead to costly delays, frustration, and even failure. Here are some essential dos and don’ts to help your ERP project succeed.

Dos for a Successful ERP Implementation

1. Clearly Define Requirements – and Make Sure Everyone Understands Them – Starting with clear, well-defined requirements is critical. Ensure that all stakeholders know what the project aims to achieve, what success looks like, and the essential features needed. This shared understanding sets a solid foundation for every decision moving forward.

2. Empower Your Team to Make Decisions – Treat your project team as co-pilots, not passengers. By empowering team members to make decisions within their areas of expertise, you foster ownership and accountability, which helps drive the project forward. After all, they’re the ones who understand the nitty-gritty of their departments.

3. Staff the Project Appropriately – A successful ERP implementation requires the right people with the right skills. Don’t expect team members to stretch themselves thin or take on unfamiliar roles. Make sure your project is appropriately staffed with a mix of technical experts, project leaders, and functional team members.

4. Escalate Issues Quickly – Inevitably, issues will arise during an ERP implementation. Escalate project issues promptly and work with governance bodies like Steering or Executive Committees to find resolutions. Don’t let problems linger or you may risk project delays and increased costs.

5. Overcommunicate – Communication is the lifeblood of any ERP implementation. Use multiple channels to keep stakeholders informed and engaged. Frequent updates, emails, training sessions, and even “lunch and learn” events can help confirm that users understand the project’s progress and benefits.

Don’ts That Could Derail Your ERP Project

1. Assume Everything is Fine if You Haven’t Heard Otherwise – No news isn’t necessarily good news. Make a habit of verifying project status and progress rather than assuming it’s going well. Trusting your team is important, but you should also regularly check in to catch potential issues early.

2. Take on Too Much – Be honest about the level of change your organization can handle. Trying to implement too many features or significantly altering workflows all at once can overwhelm your team and endanger the project. Prioritize and phase in changes based on organizational readiness.

3. Ignore Subject Matter Experts or Departmental Liaisons – Subject matter experts, departmental liaisons, and sometimes even those “squeaky wheels” are vital to your project’s success. These individuals are often the most knowledgeable about current processes and can be turned into advocates for the new system. Engage them early and often.

4. Overlook the Human Side of Change – Transitioning to a new system can be uncomfortable for users who are used to the current way of doing things. Make sure to offer ample support, training, and reassurance. Recognizing and addressing the people impact of ERP changes is essential for user buy-in and success.

5. Leave Reporting Until the Last Minute – Reporting is often an afterthought, but it’s a critical part of any ERP implementation. Define your reporting requirements early, allowing plenty of time for development, testing, and deployment. Clear, accurate reports are essential for user acceptance and informed leadership decision-making.

Conclusion

ERP implementation is a team effort that requires the right mix of technical expertise, project management, and communication. By following these dos and don’ts, you can set your project up for success, avoiding common pitfalls and keeping your team motivated and informed along the way. A well-executed ERP project will empower your organization, improving processes, and positioning you for future growth.