Companies in the planning stages of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementation are likely to be occupied with several things. In addition to selecting a software vendor who will provide excellent applications and help shepherd an installation to completion, most companies have to conduct business as usual while ERP applications are being chosen, customized and installed.
However, there are some operations and issues that need to be addressed while this is happening. It can be frustrating for enterprise leaders to find out how much will ultimately go into this kind of business change, but it's crucial to realize how essential these steps can be. Consider a few of the other activities that need to be conducted in tandem with ERP implementations.
IT capabilities
One of the most difficult challenges companies face, with or without some kind of commercial software on hand, is the gap between their technology aspirations and the reality of the situation. For instance, according to Panorama 360, a CompTIA survey of businesses discovered 93 percent of organizations claimed there was a significant difference between the IT skill level they strove to reach and that which they actually attained. Unfortunately, this is a problem that befalls companies unprepared for the new operations their ERP systems will allow. Make sure to have experienced IT professionals on hand and ensure they have access to adequate training materials and sessions when necessary.
Partnerships
The use of enterprise resource planning technology changes how a company will operate. One example is evident when assessing relationships with suppliers and business partners. A longstanding agreement with another organization might not be appealing when greater efficiency and expanded capabilities come about after commercial software has been put into place. Review what suppliers and similar groups can do for an enterprise and decide if new opportunities might be more appropriate going forward.
Clients
Losing a client is never good, unless the resources used to assist this consumer can be better used in other areas. To that end, customers bear scrutiny in the wake of enterprise resource planning implementations. Smaller firms may no longer be worth pursuing after capabilities expand, so carefully examine business relationships and determine which are worth retaining.
