Tips for Avoiding ERP Implementation Mistakes

The implementation of the ERP system is a major undertaking that could bring about an important change in your business. ERP is an ERP system that will help you improve and manage every aspect that you run your company, ranging from the requirements for materials to manufacturing, financing warehouses, and delivery to the customer.

Although ERP offers many benefits it is only possible only if the implementation is executed properly. As per research studies and data, approximately 50 per cent of ERP implementations fail on the first attempt.

Here are some famous ERP implementation failures that provide us with the potential problems that could arise if an ERP implementation fails.

Here’s an overview of the 10 most frequently made ERP implementation errors and methods to avoid them.

1. Poor planning of ERP implementation

One of the biggest mistakes that organizations make when they implement an ERP is to create high-level plans based on incorrect assumptions or incorrect estimation of resource requirements. Unwanted expenditures are caused by insufficient scope and poor planning. A survey conducted by Brisk Logic found fact that 63% of the implementations were over budget, and on average, the process was completed in four months more than planned. 

Solution:

The first step to ERP success in implementation is to develop a clear implementation plan by carrying out thorough planning. Determine why, how you will implement it, when, and where you’d like to introduce ERP and streamline your processes according to your particular needs. In interviews with your stakeholders to learn about the needs, decide what functions are essential and what you would like to have, hold the kick-off meeting, and complete the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and other such things. can help. Additionally, the team should also develop risk management strategies or formulate an emergency plan for any potential threats or crises. Simple things such as holidays and vacations are a risk if they are not taken care of. the project plan due to conflicts in resource availability.

2. Inability to comprehend or utilize the key features

Based on a research study, only 46% of the respondents claimed to have good knowledge about the ERP functions they use. Businesses that aren’t aware of the features of their ERP system do not realize the potential benefits of automation of business processes and achieving business needs and meeting goals.

Solution:

Create an overall list of every ERP feature, evaluate their use, and revisit the list regularly to discover which features are the most effective. The knowledge library can be used for training new employees, developing tests, audits that support them, and reporting any new requirements. A planned training program will make sure that every user is aware of how they’ll be doing when using the latest ERP system.

3. Excessive-Customization

Based on the findings of an ERP survey 93% of businesses have customized their ERP software according to the purpose they were designed for. However, the notion that “The greater the amount of features is greater it will be for ERP efficiency” is not true. Many companies are enticed by the opportunity to adopt a wide range of features without looking at their need for them. This can result in over-customization and increase the level of complexity in an ERP system, resulting in implementation issues.

Solution:

As a lot of the time the need is met through purchasing an ERP software and no changes are needed companies must be aware of the distinction between ERP package setting up and personalization. It’s not to say that it isn’t necessary to avoid customization entirely, but we suggest limiting it to a minimum. Examining ERP solutions for industry verticals that offer out-of-the-box functions specifically designed to meet the needs of specific industries and the best practices can reduce the need for customization.

4. Failures of Change Management

The employees of any company are used to working in the manner they’ve been trained to and might not be aware of the need to make a change. Changes may not be easy acceptance, especially in the case of an ERP project. ERP projects typically bring major modifications. However, many businesses fail to consider the effects they have on employees who are about their jobs or the roles they play. Many companies who ignore management changes are not utilizing all the potential that ERP systems can offer. Due to the numerous advantages, the ERP implementation provides the business will only reap the benefits when employees get the most from it. This is the point at which Change Management becomes critical.

In addition, due to the change in business demands, ERP system implementations often undergo modifications after implementation. But inadequately managed or controlled modifications can lead to chaos in systems and poor-quality data which is hard to manage and maintain.

Solution:

Implementing a clearly defined change management plan that incorporates efficient stakeholder management, effective communication management, training for end-users, and more, as well as working together as a team will assist in ensuring buy-in from users, improving user acceptance, and speeding up the return on investment. The alignment of your corporate strategy and the project’s strategy in the initial phase, adhering to the right change management process and keeping everyone focused on the goal ensure the ERP implementation will be efficient. Conducting a change impact analysis whenever there is a change can help you anticipate the consequences as well as the risk and help manage the changes more effectively.

5. Unlimitless Expectations for ERP implementation

ERP is a system that can revolutionize your company However, having unreasonable expectations of an ERP can be a huge chance of failure. In addition, it’s normal for companies to be shocked by ERP’s dominant position in the market however, it is crucial to determine your business’s needs and whether the allocation is within your budget.

Solution:

As per a survey, reasonable ERP implementation expectations were seen as the most crucial factor for stopping the failure of 25% of those who participated. Don’t expect ERP to resolve all your issues within a single swoop after it’s been installed. Instead make plans in advance for future requirements and needs.

6. Not recognizing the advantages and drawbacks of On-premise and Cloud

The decision of on-premise vs. Cloud is among the most important choices in the process of implementing the ERP solution. The choice has to be based on various elements like security storage infrastructure, compliance as well as customizations. While Cloud ERPs have a long list of benefits but if complex modifications are required for your company, deciding to go with the Cloud deployment could be a major error. Furthermore, using cloud ERP software is dependent on having continuous connectivity to reliable internet.

Solution:

Each type of deployment has advantages and disadvantages which must be considered before deciding on the introduction of an ERP system. A lot depends on your business structure, the specific needs of your business as well as the type and design of your ERP system itself.

7. Not recognizing the importance of reliable Data

The accuracy of data is essential for successful ERP implementation and the growth of the business. If you do not pay attention, it can lead to errors. It is therefore essential to ensure that your ERP is set up with accurate information, which can reduce the possibility of errors and ensure that the necessary processes are implemented. The accuracy of your business’s data is determined by how you begin with your information.

Solution:

Before transferring information to the ERP system, ensure that you double-check your data. Check the data for errors, duplicates, or data that is missing. An understanding of the process of extracting, transforming, and delivering data will help save the cost of restarting your system and also the loss of crucial data.

8. Not Getting Load Testing

Because testing procedures don’t do much to help you prepare your ERP to be able to manage the complete scope of your business It’s not enough to run only functional tests!

A different study conducted by Brisk Logic found that 40 percent of ERP implementations have major operational disruptions following being implemented. So, just because your ERP has passed through the basic tests does not necessarily mean it will operate the same way in actual situations where extensive use is needed.

Solution:

Before going live, you should test the ERP using a replica of the maximum demand in the real world. Load tests can help discover possible performance issues and resolve these issues ahead of time.

9. There is no investment in the ERP Implementation team

An upcoming ERP implementation isn’t the same as other IT projects. While your IT team might have experience with the installation process previously but they might not be experts or have the skills to carry out an ERP project in tandem with other IT initiatives.

Solution:

You should consider hiring an experienced team for implementation. An experienced team who understands the needs of your business and controls the entire implementation process is the most likely to make the distinction between a successful roll-out or a disastrous one.

10. Inattention to Maintenance

The work doesn’t stop after the ERP is implemented! As technology advances and so does the need to upgrade it. To keep abreast of the most recent trends and to benefit from the ERP company, it is essential to be able to maintain a preventative maintenance plan in place.

Solution:

A thorough maintenance strategy is crucial to the ERP plan of implementation. It establishes maintenance schedules, controls minor glitches, and guarantees timely software updates.

Conclusion – ERP Implementation

ERP implementation is one of the most crucial tasks that you could undertake for your business. ERP best practices for implementation improve the customer experience, boost sales, simplify production operations and help save money as well as time, money, and expenditures.

A lot of organizations make mistakes before, during, and following ERP implementation, which results in lower efficiency and increased productivity. Making sure you avoid these common mistakes can aid you in achieving your business goals and eventually increase the size of your company.

Are you ready to get started on the ERP deployment without making errors? If you require any assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to Brisk Logic!