Implementation of the system and how it is hosted (in-the-cloud or on-prem) should be a key consideration when evaluating systems to be used by the company / group. Where the system selected closely aligns to the business and its requirements, then the implementation of the system will be easier and quicker, saving time and money.
Discovery and Planning
Discovery and Planning is where the process of implementing a new system starts. The sending out of RFP’s, comparing the functionality of the short-listed systems and discussions with reference clients are important elements of the implementation process.
Design
Design starts with mapping out your current processes and determining whether these can be improved or automated with the new system. Such improvements should be run past the users of the system and their feedback gained. These findings should be included in the system design and build.
Development of the System
System experts will be heavily involved in the Development of the system and its interaction with other systems. The configuration and customisation of Cloud ERP systems is easier and faster than with an on-prem system. During this phase of the implementation, user manuals on specific and generic functionality should be put together for future training sessions and ongoing reference.
Data Migration
Data Migration from the existing system or systems to the new system or systems involves identifying, cleansing, enhancing and mapping of the data to the new system. The reconciliation of data between the “new” system and the “old” system and the agreement of this data to past financial reports is invariably a complex and time-consuming, but important part of the implementation process.
Testing
Testing of the system being built and reviewing its output, whilst validating its configuration and functionality during implementation, can and will inform future development of the system.
Deployment
Deployment of the recently built and configured system into the live (production) environment will not be the end of the implementation process. This phase of implementation may well involve the further migration of data, the training of staff and the support of “new” users following go-live.
Support and Updates
Post Go-Live Support and updates of the “new” system are likely to be carried out by the implementation team and may continue for a few weeks, months or longer as determined by the business. Longer term support of the system is likely to come from an internal helpdesk / support team as the first line of support and where required by the ERP providers own service teams as required.
A successful system implementation starts in the planning phase and runs throughout the various phases of the project. Choosing the most appropriate methodology, and planning for change whilst being flexible in approach and delivery increases the chances of delivering the project on-time and within-budget.
