An ERP implementation is an important project whose outcome will have a great impact on the success of your organization. So you want to put a lot of time and energy into that! Still, it is important to limit the implementation lead time. Here's why:
An implementation is exhausting
One of the most important links in any implementation are the key users. They start the project thinking it will take several months. If the project drags out slightly, that is still manageable and they can stay focused. But after the umpteenth schedule adjustment and postponement of going live, project fatigue sets in. Attention wanes, motivation wanes. While broad support and the right spirit are crucial for a successful ERP implementation.
Change of scope
Another problem is the changes that are constantly taking place, either within the company itself or in the market in which the company operates. As a result, during long-term projects, assumptions often change as well. These changed assumptions take away the foundation on which previous decisions were based. In addition to the starting points, the scope often changes as a result, so that after a while no one can see the whole picture anymore. Therefore, keep projects limited in duration. This is manageable for everyone and keeps people focused. By limiting the lead time, you may have to limit the scope. After all, you have a clear live date in sight. But is that a bad thing? No, because it forces you to think about what is really essential for this live date.
"Anything you took outside the initial project scope, you're going to implement in the next phase."
A phased approach is better
And anything you left out of the initial project scope, you will implement in the next phase. Or it may actually be dropped because it turns out to be less essential than thought. For these follow-up phases, too, it is wise to again limit the lead time and scope. That way you will achieve the best end result.
Profit quickly
Another important reason for not making the implementation period too long is that you want to benefit from the new system as soon as possible. After all, you are implementing the new ERP system to become more efficient, effective and successful as an organization. Surely you don't want to keep waiting for those new successes! ERP software can give you a competitive advantage, the sooner you have that the better, because of course the competition isn't sitting still either.
