What is an ERP system?

ERP which is commonly known as Enterprise Resource Planning is a type of software/system that organizations use to manage day-to-day business activities such as accounting, procurement, project management, risk management, compliance, and supply chain operations.

A complete ERP suite also includes enterprise resource planning management software which helps in managing budgets, forecasting, and reporting on an organization’s financial results.

Why is there a need for an ERP system?

Modern businesses are confronted with new data-driven difficulties that have the potential to be incredibly complex. Dealing with this data through outdated, disparate systems is becoming increasingly difficult.

To assist with data organization in an era of rapid technological change, businesses may turn to Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, which organize and consolidate business data, documentation, and communications into a single, easy-to-navigate resource.

With this new system, an organization may use its collected data to make informed and profitable business decisions, potentially increasing both its Rate of Return (ROR) and operational efficiency.

Key factors to consider for ERP implementation in 2023.

1. Project Strategy and Startup

The first and most crucial step in ERP implementation is to develop an ERP implementation strategy. A successful ERP implementation is said to have occurred when users receive what they want (end goal), within their budgeted cost and time, and with a satisfactory ROR (return on investment).

To ensure that the organization is prepared for changes in processes and new systems that can have the greatest impact, relevant change management strategies, discussions, meetings, and training should be implemented.

2. Management Commitment

ERP implementation not only changes system transactions but also updates business processes. Implemented ERP alone should not be made responsible for project delivery they are also responsible for most of the heavy lifting.

In order to better support business objectives the Senior and mid-level managers should be given inputs from all parts of the organization and be involved in any project from inception to completion.

A key tip is to keep management involved in project sponsorship, steering committees, issue escalation, and resolution. All these activities are involved in keeping the management informed and maintaining their support.

3. Project Scope

The common ERP system may only be able to fulfill some of the requirements of your organization and that is the reason why customization of ERP is required.

Develop an implementation strategy such that ERP is tailored to suit the firm’s initial priorities keeping the end goals in mind, tools, and systems the organization uses.

Try to understand core business requirements, plan how to satisfy them, and determine how to achieve them.

Take into consideration the business requirements such as management of data, BI, Social media management, etc. these can be met in the process of implementation later on or in further enhancement.

4. ERP Implementation Project Team:

Choosing the best ERP implementation team is a must for the success of an ERP implementation project. There should be strong project managers and other talented team members representing business and IT.

Identify subject matter experts across the organization. Good working association with consultants. Choose a highly experienced and cooperative team of consultants for ERP implementation projects.

5. Change management, Training sessions, and Communication.

After ERP implementation there would be a lot of changes that will be taking place and that is one of the reasons why businesses usually hire a dedicated team for managing the changes taking place.

The most commonly used concept by ERP vendors today is - “Train the trainers” This is where software vendors or consulting integrators train only carefully selected employees/ internal staff members who are expected to in turn share their knowledge with others.

This approach is most effective for vendors but it takes a lot of time and hard work to reach the entire organization. Be prepared to develop consistent good communication between the project team and the whole organization.

6.Customizations/ Modifications:

Most ERPs are built keeping the best practices in mind it is done to ensure optimized performance, collection of useful data, and streamlining process.

Try not to think in a restrained way in which things were done before. Keep business objectives and overall strategies in mind while getting the ERP customizations/ modifications.

A pro tip is to research various ERP implementations in the industry and decide upon what customizations are required. Keep the modifications ready as software vendors tend to update the ERP system with new releases.

7. Budget:

While deciding upon the budget it is essential to consider all the costs involved in the implementation process such as software, hardware, and resources hired as most companies expect a positive ROR from their ERP implementation.

An important thing to bear in mind is that try not to cut costs in change management, training sessions, and project management.

8. Project closure:

There should be clear communication in terms of when the system would be ready, getting live, and when the legacy system is being shut down/ discarded. The same precautions are to be taken for introducing new business processes.

Make sure to document well throughout the engagement and store the document for future reference in a way that all the staff members can easily access it.

To make sure things are going as per the plan it is necessary to conduct audit processes and system transactions.

For post-live support/ needs, it is necessary to create a competency center

Summary

Organizations that are looking for ERP implementation should take into account the above-mentioned factors for successful Odoo implementation. It is necessary for companies to develop a strategy, commit to management, define project scope, choose the project team wisely, plan for change management, customize according to the business needs, budget for all the costs involved, and make a team for post-implementation support.

Book Free Consultation session with TechUltra Solutions to start your ERP implementation journey as soon as possible to ensure ERP implementation with the best practices for every industry.

About TechUltra Solutions.

TechUltra Solutions is a leading Odoo And ERP Development company working since 2016. We have more than 6 Years of experience in various services such as Hiring Odoo Developers, Odoo Implementation, Odoo Development, Odoo Customization, Odoo Integration, Odoo Training, Odoo Consulting, Odoo Migration, and Odoo Support. 

TechUltra Solutions has client in various locations such as USA, UK, Peru, India, Dubai, South Africa, Indonesia, Egypt, Spain, UAE, Canada, France, Italy and World-Wide.