After a complex and intensive implementation process, the time has finally come: you go live with the new ERP system! An important milestone and, for some, the end of a complex and intensive process. But make no mistake; going live may be the end of the implementation, but it is also the beginning of a new phase. A phase in which various issues will demand your attention and you will have to make sure that all efforts during the implementation have not been in vain.
Optimization pathways
Not all topics can be covered during the ERP implementation. You focus on the most important issues and other topics you will pick up only after the live-go. These optimization processes are in themselves implementations that will have to be tackled in a similar way as the original implementation. Be critical on where improvement is possible and how the ERP system can facilitate this.
Upgrades
If the chosen ERP system is a standard industry-specific solution, new releases will be released regularly. These releases contain new features and improved functionality. Together with your software partner, you can assess the added value of the release and whether upgrading is a valuable move for your organization. In any case, it pays to upgrade regularly. That way you are not limited in your possibilities and you can always count on good support from your software partner's support department.
Monitor the method chosen
During implementation, the working methods and procedures were determined. Even if the end users are well trained, in the beginning it is difficult for them to properly assess reports and to fully adhere to the agreed rules. As a key user, you will therefore have to monitor closely in the first weeks after going live whether the agreed working methods are being followed meticulously. In practice it often turns out that after going live, the agreements made still need to be fine-tuned. A working method can turn out differently in practice and not lead to the desired (and expected) result.
Keep looking for improvements
After going live, you have to keep looking for improvements/optimizations. "This is how we do it" is a poor reason for not wanting to make changes. Stay critical.
Keep attention to the above points to get the most out of the new ERP package, now and in the future.
Peter Gerhardt is Senior Lead Consultant Logistics at Dysel and helps customers achieve maximum results with its business software.
