Tips for a successful remote ERP implementation

We live in a time when your business may be forced to slow down or pause operations. But it may also be that the demand for your product or service is more significant than before. It is essential to keep a good view of current projects, planning, and activities.

The present time forces you to think. What is the status of my current automation? Are my business processes efficiently organized? Is my business model still up to date and prepared for the future? Is my organization competitive? These are questions that you are probably dealing with right now. This while we all have an extra eye for our family and friends and combine this with working remotely as much as possible. The digital transition is accelerating during this period, which provides new insights and new opportunities.

Perhaps you had planned to implement your ERP system, set it up more efficiently or replace it this year. You are wondering whether this project is now feasible. Is this the right time to undertake a complex internal change? Is it even possible to complete an ERP software implementation remotely? And if so, how?

What you may not know is that most of the implementation was usually remote as well. With our cloud-based solution, processes are easy to set up and adjust. As a result, we now support companies with a successful, fully remote-structured Microsoft Dynamics platform. These are essential tips if your company wants to implement an ERP system in the short term and prepare your organization for this digital transition.

1. Know your team’s strengths

Every business is different. Only you and your team can determine whether now is the right time to implement ERP software. An ERP implementation requires an investment of money, time, and resources. But when done right, it streamlines all of your operations, from quotation and order processing, with a faster product or service offer, to efficient stock management, shipping, installation and service, and preventive maintenance contracts. This is supplemented by well-designed financial administration and BI reports, which provide trends and essential management information so that you can make the right choices.

Before you decide to proceed with an ERP implementation, you need to make sure you understand your team’s strengths. What is your team’s capacity to take on additional tasks? Who is leading the project? Some companies find that many people have more time available for projects, as large parts of their teamwork from home. Doing an ERP implementation now will ensure that your business is well-positioned for growth when the world eventually returns to everyday work life.

2. Embrace today’s technology

While we always do much of the implementation remotely, until recently we still sent consultants to the client’s site for critical implementation events: the start of the project, the training, and the go-live. Due to the current crisis, we now perform the entire process remotely with Microsoft Teams. This brought some unexpected benefits.

The start of the project

Previously, we sent our consultants to your location for two to four working days. There were daily meetings with all your essential team members. The purpose of this is to identify bottlenecks. We reserve short sessions with each functional area’s key user, such as warehouse, purchasing, sales, finance, and service department. Because we use time more efficiently, it leads to more focused and productive conversations.

The training

Usually, your employees helped set up the new system and are trained specifically by our consultants at your location. Now we only plan a half-day for this, and we use Microsoft Teams to help your employees set up the new solution. There is still room for feedback and troubleshooting. We have found that this process is just as effective in this virtual environment as it is on location.

Going live

Previously, we sent our consultants to your location to support you with converting to the new software and using it live. Currently, our team members are always available via the support hotline. You can share and discuss all your questions or discussion points at any time. Besides, we schedule 15-minute meetings with each functional area’s key user to check everything and address issues. Both the hotline and the stand-up meetings are highly efficient, thanks to our many years of experience. The digital way of working helps us prioritize problems and stay focused on common go-live goals.

An ERP implementation is a big undertaking for your entire team, but it is a worthwhile investment when done correctly. With the proper use of current technology and your team’s persistence, you can effortlessly achieve a fast and successful remote ERP launch.