Advice for making the most of a new ERP system

Calling enterprise resource planning software a system is certainly accurate, but this simple definition belies the end-to-end importance of ERP. Although not technically correct, an effective analogy is comparing ERP to the internal computer network used by businesses. On the hardware side, the internal network allows different workstations to connect and share information, from the work floor employees and front-line supervisors to the highest levels of a business. ERP provides this same end-to-end visibility on the software side, utilizing a company-wide network to share many different kind of useful and necessary data.

Because an ERP system is so important, and because it often represents a major investment for a business, it’s crucial to take steps toward the most effective implementation, configuration and use possible. There are many facets of operation that companies need to consider, but some advice needs to be heard and understood early on in the process. Here’s a few tips to help businesses get used to a new ERP platform and extract the most value possible:

• Emphasize change management: CIO.com said a lack of change management as a business starts training employees and using a new ERP platform is a serious problem that can drag down the effectiveness of a system. Education is obviously an important part of a successful switch to a new platform, but learning sessions alone won’t ensure compliance or answer all questions that users may have. Change management efforts can be more personal, helping workers understand not just how to use a system, but why it makes sense for their individual position as well. A long-term management strategy also helps ensure ongoing compliance and helps employees better understand upgrades and updates to a system. Combining education and change management is a best practice for businesses in all industries.
• Keep communicating with the vendor: A good certified partner for ERP and related software will arrange for constant communication throughout a project and continue to provide customers support after the initial implementation. This approach is a combination of good business sense – it helps these providers maintain relationships with their clients and be available when upgrades are needed – and genuine care for customers. This is the sort of win-win situation that isn’t very common in the business world. The important thing for a business with a new ERP system to remember is that the vendor is a valuable resource of information, especially when it’s been operating for decades. High-quality vendors will offer the ongoing support that may not be found from newer or less-qualified providers. Having some experts ready to answer questions on a wide variety of topics is an incredibly valuable tool for a business starting off with new ERP.
• Think in the short and long terms: Panorama Consulting pointed out that when companies encounter difficulties with implementation or delays in the process, they can abandon the guidelines that have been used previously in an effort to finish the project. Cutting corners can mean getting to the finish line faster, but while making decisions to implement a system as quickly as possible may make sense – organizations will suffer further down the road when they use this approach. Achieving a balance between the short and long term isn’t easy, but it’s worth the effort. Businesses need to understand the importance of being inflexible when it means compromising the future effectiveness of a system or skimping out on training employees. Keeping the long view in mind will help a business avoid short-term gains that lead to much larger penalties months or years down the line.

If you are looking for the right partner to ensure effective implementation, configuration and use for a CRM or ERP implementation, call The TM Group today at 888.482.2864, or visit our website at www.tmgroupinc.com. We have been delivering cutting-edge technology solutions since 1984. With our proven and comprehensive methodology, we will assist you in selecting CRM and ERP systems.

About The TM Group

The TM Group is a Michigan based leading provider of Microsoft Dynamics for many organizations in a variety of industries including distribution, education, family wealth, financial services, healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, non-profit, and service organizations. Since being established in 1984, The TM Group’s team of more than 45 professionals have guided and supported hundreds of organizations in Michigan, the Great Lakes Region and beyond.  The TM Group is certified for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, Microsoft Dynamics GP, Microsoft Dynamics NAV, Microsoft Dynamics SL and Microsoft SharePoint. Serving clients in more than 27 states, the TM Group has corporate offices in Farmington Hills, Michigan, and an office in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For more information, visit http://www.tmgroupinc.com or call 888-482-2864.

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