What Are ERP Implementation Best Practices?

 SEQ CHAPTER \h \r 1The best practices of ERP implementation are those strategies that enable users to create a system that can easily be used by their company. Many companies focus on creating the biggest and best system they can from the very beginning, ignoring their budget or needs. Obviously this is not an example of the best practices of ERP implementation. However there are some practices that are best for ERP implementation. These are the tricks and steps used by many companies to success over the years.

The first one of these tips for the best practices of ERP implementation is to involve all users in the planning stages of the process. During the planning stages, a time line and budget needs to be devised. This helps the company stay on track when things get rough or unsettling. It is also imperative that all employees know what is happening, and how things will change in the future. Some companies make the mistake of only telling a few employees of the process. Then when the new software is installed, there are dozens of employees if not more, who have no idea of the changes. This is one of the worst, not best practices of ERP implementation.

Another of the best practices of ERP implementation is to plan a budget, and stick with that budget. There have been hundreds of cases where companies focused on purchasing the best system, regardless of its cost. They then find themselves with an excellent system, but one that includes numerous functions unrelated to the needs of their company. On the other hand there are companies that have spent far less money than they budgeted for, simply because they wanted to come in under budget. They then have a system that cannot handle the needs of their company. Later, when they attempted to add onto the system, they have discovered that their software and hardware is not compatible with the original system. This can add as much as two, or three times to their original budget. The best practices of ERP implementation is to stick with a budget that will fulfil the needs of the company.

The best practices of ERP implementation also involve finding a consultant and installation firm that meshes will with the overall feel of the company. This is one of the best practices of ERP implementation because it ensures that there are no arguments or disagreements over larger issues and smaller issues as well. A larger company that utilizes a smaller firm for their ERP needs, may discover that each side is looking for different things. The same holds true for a larger firm that works with a small company. They may have differing opinions on everything from the needs of the company, to a budget on the project.

The best practices of ERP implementation are dependent upon the needs of the company, and the size of the company. Larger companies will have different needs, and a different budget than a smaller company. This helps ensure that all their needs are met.