Introduction - ERP 

If you're in the process of selecting a partner to assist with the implementation of your Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system for your expanding business, you likely have numerous inquiries on your mind. These may encompass concerns about expenses, team roles and responsibilities, operational procedures, and beyond. Rest assured, as we are here to address all the pressing inquiries you may have regarding your implementation team.

The responsibilities and functions of an ERP implementation team revolve around ensuring the success of the project and effectively addressing any challenges that may arise during its execution. Starting from the initial stages, where business objectives are discussed, and continuing even after the ERP system is fully operational, the presence of an implementation team is pivotal in achieving operational outcomes.

It is, therefore, of paramount importance to assemble the right team right from the project's inception. This ensures that all stakeholders have the opportunity to provide significant input and feedback throughout each project phase.

It's worth noting that the market is replete with competitors, and not all of them will align with your vision for the future of your company's infrastructure. The selection of an inappropriate implementation partner is a leading cause of project failures. Hence, having an ERP team leader who possesses a deep understanding of your company's requirements and the optimal approach for integrating the new ERP system to fulfill those needs becomes crucial.

Who Should Comprise an ERP Implementation Team?

When it comes to forming an ERP implementation team, specific individuals are indispensable. Typically, this team structure includes an Executive, Project Manager, End-Users, Core Members, and potentially an Implementation Partner, if your company chooses that route. 

Let's delve into the roles of these team members in an ERP implementation:

1. Executives:

• Successful ERP projects require the active participation and commitment of an executive team capable of making significant decisions and addressing crucial questions. 

• As leaders within the organization, executives must be willing to embrace the new ERP platform and remain engaged throughout the implementation process. 

• Depending on your business's functionality, these executives will serve as the primary decision-makers and offer guidance on the ERP requirements list.

2. Project Managers:

• Project Managers, as implied by their title, are responsible for project management. 

• Their capacity to communicate effectively and oversee all business objectives and processes plays a vital role in the various phases of ERP implementation, especially post-implementation. 

• One of their principal responsibilities is to steer the project within budget constraints, manage resources, define scope, and more. 

• Their guidance and influence during the implementation process will be crucial in addressing any mishaps or issues that may arise.

3. End-Users:

• End-Users represent their respective departments and advocate for the adoption of the ERP platform within the organization. 

• Their strong leadership and communication skills are invaluable for conveying concerns and facilitating the understanding of the new system among their colleagues. 

• Despite their non-technical backgrounds, they play a critical role in discerning which ERP implementation questions to ask. 

• For instance, a representative from the Human Resources department would be a pivotal contributor to the ERP project team, possessing insights into the obstacles employees may encounter when navigating company-wide changes.

4. Core Members:

• Core Members are typically technical experts, primarily drawn from IT and finance departments. 

• In this role, they are required to possess knowledge or acquire expertise related to the ERP system. 

• They provide support for business processes and are tasked with addressing the technical needs of the business and its users. 

• Your IT team, for instance, must gain an understanding of the ERP software to manage ongoing maintenance processes. 

• Additional training opportunities can help your IT team become proficient in handling ERP-related tasks. 

• Additionally, involving the finance department is essential since they will be utilizing the ERP system for functions such as planning, budgeting, and payroll, making it advantageous to have those who will be using the software actively involved in its installation process.

5. Implementation Partner:

• The Implementation Partner is a chosen representative responsible for articulating your company's requirements and preferences during the ERP software implementation process. 

• Serving as an ERP implementation executive on your team, this partner provides tailored instruction, coaching, and guidance. 

• Most importantly, they bring decades of experience in ERP implementation to the table and possess the expertise to address complex issues. 

• They ensure the success of your project and assist your employees in navigating the intricacies of the software. 

• If you opt to collaborate with a seasoned ERP implementation partner, they will collaborate with your specialists and other necessary users to assess the need for ERP training and ensure the strategic utilization of the platform.

How to Form the Ideal Implementation Team?

Every implementation project requires a team akin to the Justice League, and now that you have identified the essential superheroes you need, you can begin assembling your team.

Creating the perfect team entails:

1. Executive Backing:

• Executives hold the highest decision-making authority in a business, and their influence is paramount when it comes to implementing an ERP system. 

• Consequently, securing their support is imperative for advancing the project.

2. Effective Communication:

• Effective communication is crucial throughout the entire project, from inception to completion. 

• By assembling the right team, you ensure that all departments' voices are heard throughout the implementation process, catering to everyone's needs.

3. Prioritization:

• Project Managers and Executives need to set the tone and ensure that the roles and responsibilities within the ERP project team are allocated appropriately. 

• In the realm of ERP tasks, prioritization is of the essence. 

• Equip your team with the necessary resources, whether internal or external, to provide the expertise and knowledge required for ERP preparation. 

• Additionally, delegate specific responsibilities to each team member and maintain ongoing communication throughout the process. 

• Given the potentially overwhelming nature of ERP implementation, it's important to offer support and adjust tasks if anyone feels overwhelmed.

4. Defined Roles & Responsibilities:

• After structuring your ERP team, it's essential to outline each team member's tasks based on their expertise, experience, and availability. 

• Key roles and responsibilities can encompass various aspects, ranging from process definition to end-user training. 

• Establishing clear expectations from the outset helps prevent confusion as the project progresses.

As previously mentioned, selecting the right implementation partner is critical. Your implementation partner will provide essential resources for business analysis, implementation, data migration, customization, training, and ongoing support.