Quote:
Originally Posted by oilyfan
Regarding the actual system I will let CC give you advice.
I will give you advice that before you decide on which software you buy you should do some work to map some of your key business processes, i.e financial, production processes, accounting processes. I have been part of many implementations where the business was made to fit the system, as opposed to the other way around, it was a nightmare. Now when you do map your processes you will probably find that you could do things differently, and probably better. That's where the system can help.
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This.
I have been part of many different large and small projects, and for an ERP this is paramount. Get some very good Business Analysts, nominate a business SME and demand they set aside a chunk of their week to work through these processes with the BA. Know who owns and who is the custodian of all processes and data.
The biggest mistake I haves seen is exactly what others mention here, "shove it in and we will adapt to the system". That is recipe for disaster, as you will flip the switch and few people will know who is responsible for doing what. Often things get missed, and people get very angry and stop using the system or even quit.
One last thing. Change Management is extremely important. I'm taking about people who only do this and are experts at communicating, and rolling,out training and change. Don't surprise anyone with this type of system, make sure they know it is coming, why it is a benefit to them, listen to their concerns, and provide a support model.
If you do this, realize it is a lot of work to do it right, but you will know how much you are going to save by doing a proper business case upfront. So you will know if it is short term pain, long term pain.
Heck, you may even say forget it and walk away. That is ok too, just make sure you do your homework and don't cut too many corners to save time or money.