For a little over a year now, many organizations have been in a hurry to implement a new business management system. With remote work being so widespread, management issues have become more apparent. As a result, many firms want to acquire new management tools as quickly as possible, without taking the time to plan their implementation properly. In my opinion, that’s a good way to make sure the project fails!
If you follow me on LinkedIn, you may have noticed that I often talk about squirrels. They’re very cute, but I’d prefer if they didn’t constantly dig up bulbs in my garden in the fall! However, they do something I admire: they’re always in planning mode. They get ready for winter well in advance … something firms would do well to learn from as they often underestimate the work required.
In fact, it should be the same thing for any system implementation, but firms that contact us often expect the installation will be instantaneous. They underestimate the scale of such a project and often haven’t even started thinking about their objectives and priorities. Whether it’s for an ERP, CRM, or any other kind of project, you must know what your pain points and priorities are.
This means having a vision in place. This vision can evolve over time, but it’s important to have one in the first place. Imagine asking for recommendations in a music store without knowing what you’re looking for! You must also be ready to free up your resources for the system implementation and expect the process to take several months.
This is why it’s better to take the time to do things properly rather than hurry. Imagine a squirrel desperately looking for food after the first snow: it wouldn’t last long! It’s easier to understand where their behaviour comes from. It’s the same thing for firms skipping steps during the implementation of a new system. Just like squirrels, you should plan your project well in advance.
If this sounds like your organization, read our blog post Implementing a New ERP System: When Is the Best Time to Go live? You may also want to read our eBook Ensuring the Success of an Implementation Project For Your New Business Management Solution. You will have a better idea of the various elements to consider before starting an implementation project.
Psst! Did you know financial aid is available for the implementation of an ERP or CRM system? Read our article to find out about the financial aid available to Quebec SMBs.
About the author
Jonathan Chatel is Director of Business Development at JOVACO Solutions since 2017. Thanks to his various professional activities, he has since deepened his knowledge of Microsoft technologies and business solutions, a world that evolves so quickly it can be hard to keep track. He is now sharing his knowledge of Microsoft products in everyday language to keep you informed about this fascinating universe.
