Top 6 ERP Implementation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

There are a number of benefits that have been associated with implementing ERP. The software slashes errors and flaws related to production, operating costs and boost profitability and productivity to a great extent. But many business users and decision makers have their own set of fears while implementing it. What are these possible fears of stakeholders and senior management? What possible things can be done to avoid any chances of implementation mishap? Let’s discuss here.

• Assuming ERP to be a magic wand
  ERP is by no means a magic wand. It is the software that empowers business users to have a deep insight into business operations and gives unprecedented visibility into the supply chain, logistics, warehousing, procurement, sales, finance or any other business functions. But, ERP is by no means a software that can bring magic in your workplace. So, assuming ERP to work on its own becomes a major cause of ERP failure.

• Not consulting key stakeholders from all departments
  In a normal scenario, the focus areas is usually on gaining approval from the decision making authority. However, it is equally important to consult key stakeholders from all the departments so that their thoughts and suggestions can be incorporated while implementing an ERP. Further, if you engage users from finance, sales, customer care, manufacturing, procurement, or any other team, then every single user will be aligned with the implementation of new software. Plus, the team will be really excited about that particular software.

• Not considering deployment options
  Before considering on-premise or a cloud-based ERP option, there are several factors which can be thought upon. For instance, cloud based ERP solution is a subscription-type method which comes with its own set of benefits. With the cloud solution, there are no additional maintenance and infrastructure costs. Whereas, on-premise deployment option may demand a dedicated IT staff, up-to-date servers and require additional maintenance and infrastructure costs.While cloud may seem a preferred solution for some organizations, due to its multifold benefits. In certain cases, ERP on-premise may make a viable call for your business.

• Not considering change management
  Organizational change management is absolutely critical to the overall success of your project. So, due care must be given to see how people are responding with cultural change and embracing the new software. This is critical for a successful adoption and success rate of SAP implementation.

• Opting for the traditional practices of implementation
  The traditional mode of implementation does not work in this digital era. Instead, a more dependable and agile approach must be used for the successful ERP implementation. For a successful SAP implementation process, an ASAP methodology can be used. The success rate is generally high if ASAP methodology is used.

• Overlooking the need for training
  It’s important to get proper training of the software so that your users face no hurdle in using SAP Business One. Generally, videos, PPTs, whitepapers, online demos, and other supporting material is readily available with SAP. However, to gain maximum benefits of the ERP solution, it becomes necessary to ask your partner the adequate SAP training which will help your users to use the system with great zeal and enthusiasm.

To encapsulate, these were the few common ERP mistakes that can be easily avoided. SAP Business One is affordable and trusted by over 70,000 customers across the globe. So, you can keep this blog handy to maximize the benefits of smart ERP and be assured of its successful implementation.