Businesses worldwide have always relied on technology to help drive sales, improve communications, and innovate processes. Big or small companies would not be as successful today without the aid of technological advancements. With technology playing an integral role in a business’s success, companies are now utilizing upgraded tools and software to increase productivity and improve employee performance.

One such software is the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. By definition, ERP is software that manages and integrates main business processes, including sales, finance, marketing, and accounting. Vital data and procedures can be accessed by using one interface. This interface allows a company to extract, check, and share information conveniently. Operating such software, however, can have complexities. 

Many successful ERP implementation companies suggest the following tips:

1. Know Your Business

Before deciding on implementing new tools or software for your business, you have to identify the main issues you encounter in your business processes. A common mistake made by companies is not knowing the main reasons for implementing an ERP system. Pinpoint the specific workflows of each department and see what needs improvement or upgrading.

Does the business need it to increase sales, fast-track operations, or both? List down the results that your company wants to achieve in using an ERP system. This way, you can help guide your company to the next best step once the system has been integrated.

2. Do Research

An ERP software can be very beneficial once fully integrated into the system of a company. Such benefits include ease in communication, providing accurate reports, and streamlining procedures. ERP systems have different features depending on the needs of the company. One type of software could have a CRM system built-in; another could include manufacturing and distribution management features.

You might want to read reviews of a few software and check if it’s user-friendly and easy to understand. Decide on which features you want your ERP system to include and check how much it would cost. This way, you can identify which type of software is the best fit for your company without creating unnecessary expenses.

You may also work with an external partner that can guide and assist you. Getting a partner that knows your industry and who’s well-equipped with the intricacies of ERP software can increase the rate of a successful ERP implementation.

3. Create A Core Team

Trying to explain the ins and outs of advanced software to a large group of people can be difficult. Not everyone in your company may easily comprehend new procedures and how-tos in one sitting. You might consider creating a core team composed of different members from all departments of your company. This team can do the initial testing of the software, identify its strengths, weaknesses, and be the decision-makers should lapse in the process happen.

The core team will also serve as knowledgeable individuals that employees approach when they want clarifications regarding the use of the ERP system.

4. Conduct Training

Once you have created your core team, it’s equally important to train other company personnel. Trainings may start even before implementation begins.

Even if you’re using the top ERP system in the market, it’ll fail when employees don’t know how to use it. Without proper training on how to navigate the system, data or workflows might get swapped or deleted. You have to ensure that employees know how to use the system correctly. In addition, your core team can lead the training and do follow-ups.

You also have to keep in mind that training courses need not end once the system’s full implementation is done. It’s beneficial for your employees to conduct follow-up training courses to check if process flows are implemented properly. This is also one way of finding out if your ERP system needs new upgrades or has to be changed completely.

When full implementation is done, your company may also invest in additional training courses that could help boost employee morale and productivity.

5. Stick To Deadlines

One way of failing your ERP system implementation is by losing track of schedules. Create a realistic timeline for when research needs to be done, training conducted, and testing implemented. As much as possible, strictly comply with the given schedule to avoid delays.

6. Transfer Data As Soon As Possible

Data migration is one of the causes that could delay the proper rollout of an ERP system. The earlier you start transferring data into the system, the better.  As soon as data is migrated, do a test run. Testing is crucial to know if the data is complete and error-free.

Conclusion

Having an ERP system allows companies to use and collect data in a convenient manner. However, implementing one can be a tedious job. As long as you fully understand the systems’ purpose, incorporate proper training, and do test runs, implementation can be done hassle-free.