Why a Phased Approach is Critical for ERP Implementations
Implementing a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system can feel like an overwhelming task, much like the proverb that asks “how do you eat an elephant?”. The key in both scenarios is to approach the challenge one manageable piece at a time. A phased implementation approach is crucial for ERP projects, starting with a simple foundation and progressively adding complexity as the initial phase stabilizes.
Trying to integrate every desired feature, customization, and integration right from the start can lead to a tangled mess of complications, prolonging the implementation process and increasing the risk frustration for users and stakeholders. Instead, focus on achieving a clean, functional core system first.
Phase one should prioritize implementing the essential ERP modules that align with your company’s core operations. For a door installation and service business, this might involve prioritizing modules like:
- Financial Management: Basic financial processes, like general ledger, accounts payable, and accounts receivable, are fundamental to any business. Integrating these first ensures accurate financial reporting from the outset.
- Field Service Management: This module forms the backbone of your operations, enabling efficient scheduling, dispatching, and mobile workforce management. Features such as optimal route planning, real-time tracking of technicians, and inventory management on service vehicles are essential for daily operations.
- Customer Management: This module helps manage customer interactions, service history, and contract renewals. Implementing this early provides a centralized view of customer data and streamlines communication.
- Inventory Management: Having a real-time view of inventory across your warehouses and service vehicles is critical. Integrating this in Phase 1 ensures accurate tracking of tools, repair parts, and efficient replenishment processes.
Once these core modules are up and running smoothly, and your team is comfortable with the new system, you can move on to Phase two.
Phase two is the time to layer in complexity:
- Advanced Integrations: This might involve connecting your ERP with the over 200 third-party systems available for Insite4Doors, like your phone system, marketing automation tools, DoorForms™ field-forms integration, or industry-specific applications.
- Custom Programs and Reports: After using the system, you’ll likely identify areas where custom functionalities or specialized reports could further enhance efficiency. You will have also been trained on how to create your own reporting and dashboards. Many companies who demand this complexity as part of phase one, end up totally re-designing everything once they know how (resulting in wasted initial implementation investments).
- Business Intelligence and Analytics: Leverage the data accumulated during Phase one to implement advanced reporting and analytics, uncovering insights to optimize operations, customer relationships, and profitability.
This phased approach allows your team to adapt to the new system, reduces the risk of overwhelming your staff, and minimizes potential disruptions to your business. By “eating the elephant one bite at a time,” you’ll have a much higher likelihood of a successful and beneficial ERP implementation, and reduce the amount of investment required for implementation.