Softweb Solutions Inc. 2531 Technology Drive, Suite 312, Elgin, Illinois 60124 Toll-Free Number: 1-866-345-7638 Fax: 866-345-7638 Article Title: 6 Common ERP Implementation Mistakes to Avoid Keywords: Enterprise Resource Planning Systems, ERP Software Application Solutions, ERP Solutions, ERP Implementation Content: The Enterprise Resource Planning Systems aim to incorporate all data and processes of an organization into a combined system. To ensure the success of ERP implementation, first it is very crucial to understand the common ERP mistakes carried out by most of the organizations and what are the necessary measures to avoid those mistakes. Implementing an ERP solution is a big step for any organization as it is expensive, complex, and a time consuming process. The ERP failure can be due to main three reasons – some problem in installation, some business related issues, or due to unwillingness of end users. The most common ERP mistakes and their solutions to overcome are being listed below – 1] Poor Planning Planning is extremely important in carrying out any task or project successfully. Most of the organizations don’t make proper plans or don’t give much importance to the planning phase before they start working with an ERP software evaluation. It is important to define the scope, size, and complexities before successful ERP implementation; and avoiding this may lead to unnecessary use of time and resources later. 2] Considering ERP as Just another IT Project Most of the organizations commit this mistake by considering ERP like a simple IT project and underestimates the time and resources required. Very often it is seen that the top management considers ERP implementation as an IT project and not as a Business project. Multitasking should be avoided while implementing the ERP system to minimize delays and accelerate the total time of project completion. Also
business executives should lead the charge to make the ERP implementation project a broad one and a major initiative in every department. 3] Lack of Right People in a Team Many a times, organizations do not bring right people from the start of an ERP implementation. The ERP implementation project is one of the biggest projects for any organization and so mistakes are tend to happen if right people are not involved in the project team. It is believed that – as compared to large organizations, small businesses are better place to implement ERP system because in these firms the top management is closely involved in all of the processes of ERP implementation. 4] Inadequate or Over Customization on ERP System Often, an ERP solution is broadly designed and so it is necessary that an organization selects the one which suites their major needs. Assuming that the existing processes in the ERP solution will be replaced according to the organizational requirements is a big mistake as it will lead to some gaps in the business processes and controls. Such gaps must be well predicted by the implementation team for proper planning. Also, not doing customization at all can cause problems and an ERP solution may end up as an incomplete solution. It should well customize at a proper level – which is not extensive as well as not inadequate. This can be achieved by selecting appropriate solution at the start. 5] Lack of Testing Environment It is impossible to see the true results of the changes made in the ERP solution without testing it properly at each level. Not having an active load test environment will not let you see the real world effects and changes made. 6] Absence of Maintenance Strategy Not carrying out good maintenance means not taking full advantage of the investment made for the ERP solution. Without proper maintenance, the ERP system will quickly become outdated. Other than these, it is necessary to always educate the team fully to build a positive approach towards the completion of the project. Softweb Solutions is an ERP Solutions provider helping companies to operate their business in a perfect way. If you are looking for ERP Software Application Solutions, contact us at info@softwebsolutions.com. Summary: The most common mistakes made by the organizations at the time of ERP Implementation are being discussed in this article.