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4 Roadblocks When Implementing an ERP Solution and How to Avoid Them

Writer's picture: Debbie BreulsDebbie Breuls


Starting on your ERP implementation journey can be scary. There are a lot of twists and turns, learning curves, worrying scenarios and more. However, if done correctly, it can be a strategic path that can greatly enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness. But if you don’t understand the common pitfalls and embrace best practices, companies can fail at navigating this complex journey.

 

Below are 4 common roadblocks that often face business owners today.

 

Roadblock #1: The Decision Makers

One major roadblock is the lack of involvement or knowledge level of key business decision makers. If they don’t understand the organization’s operations, sales processes, and financial ins and outs, the ERP system decided on may not meet the actual needs of the business. They will often only look at the bottom line and how much it is costing them rather than the bigger picture.

 

Roadblock #2: No Idea Of What This Journey Takes

Many businesses often underestimate the workload and planning required for a successful ERP implementation. Everyone from management to IT to employees need to be actively engaged as it will often affect all areas of your business. And do you know if there will be downtime while implementing or updating an ERP system? How long does an implementation take? If you don’t know the answers to these questions, you could be headed into uncertain waters.

 

Roadblock #3: Getting Everyone to Agree

Put management, an IT department, and business owners in the same room to make a big decision when it comes to software.... you’re going to be there a while. Each department or group has their own opinion about what is best for them. They often have no clue about the cost, time, and implementation to put into place a highly functioning system. This can result in departments feeling that they are not being heard or not delivering to each of them what they need.

 

Roadblock #4: The Age-Old Question... Adapt or Customize

The last roadblock is answering the big question...”do I customize what I already have, or adapt existing business processes”?  Either way, this could require hours of research to see what choice is right for you and your company. Do you have the time for comparison shopping, reading reviews, and more?

 

So how do you knock down all these roadblocks and set yourself up for success?

 

Look for an ERP Implementation Specialist.

 

These specialists should be:

 

Knowledgeable of Current Trends

Knowledge of current trends, updates on hardware and software, and understanding where technology’s future is headed is imperative. An ERP specialist will keep up to date so that they can offer the best and most current solutions.

 

Aware of all Facets of a Business

An ERP specialist must understand all kinds of industries including manufacturing, retail, finance, not for profit and more. From their accounting departments to their sales and marketing to supply chains... they should understand the complexities of each department and what is needed for them all to work together.

 

The Best Project Manager Ever

Onboarding an ERP management system involves many moving parts. They must all be done correctly and in the right order. Also, an implementation can involve on-site teams, remote teams working via the Cloud, or a mix of both. Not to mention weaving in third party vendors. It is imperative that an ERP specialist keeps the project on track and on schedule.

 

A Top-Notch Technical Person

They must absolutely have the knowledge and experience required for implementing hardware and software. Because ERP systems vary by vendor, ERP consultants should know the ins and outs of all the systems they work with including getting certified by various ERP vendors. This helps both solidify and prove knowledge of specific systems which gives their clients peace of mind.

 

Talented at Soft Skills

Soft skills refer to the people side of implementation. These skills include collaboration, teamwork, and conflict resolution. In other words, making sure every department of your company is happy. After all, you might be asking people to learn new software, workflow processes, and more. People set in their ways will often balk at this. Having someone as a buffer is never a bad idea!

 

Conclusion

Professional ERP specialists are invaluable to so many organizations, especially when it comes to the complexity of implementing and maintaining an ERP system. Don’t be afraid to question potential ERP consulting companies to make sure they have people in place with each of these skillsets. Finding the right specialists will make a world of difference in your ERP implementation journey.


 

 

Debbie Breuls & Associates has implemented Microsoft solutions for businesses of all sizes and in many industries. So, if you’re looking for a partner to assess your company and help you discover which  software will help you overcome growing pains and other business challenges, we’re here to help

 

With over 41 years of experience, Debbie Breuls & Associates works with you to define critical requirements and develop the right Microsoft solutions. Imagine the possibilities that Microsoft offers with their product stack that gives you a strong, and seamlessly integrated solution. These powerful products resolve redundancy issues, poor reporting, and silos of information. Reach out to Debbie at Debbie Breuls & Associates to collaborate with our highly qualified and experienced consultants.

 

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