Implementing a new IT system often requires significant manpower, resources, and planning. But, by preparing efficiently the process can be smooth and successful.
We have worked with customers from an array of industries and varying in size, from scaling start-ups to multi-national enterprises. Through our expertise, understanding and unique project methodology, TaskLite©, we are confident in our ability to deliver NetSuite projects smoothly and successfully. However, there are steps that companies can do to prepare for the system change process. Ensuring these are planned and executed will make the transition easier for internal teams and quicker to return positive results.
Tip 1: Engage key personnel from the off
Investment in an ERP like NetSuite requires buy-in from key decision makers as well as the individuals who will be using it. Although it might sound obvious, it is important to engage and involve these people from the off. Too often key decision makers are left out of the loop until the last minute which can mean longer delays and having to repeat demonstrations or key information.
It is vital to involve key personnel from the moment a NetSuite partner has been engaged, it will ensure that they adopt the technology with an open mind. With key and senior decision makes on board it is easier to ‘lead by example’, seeing engagement domino throughout the company.
Tip 2: Conduct an IT solution audit
Before any final decisions are made surrounding your IT and ERP it is always wise to conduct an in-depth audit of your existing systems. This will highlight any issues, inefficiencies, or risks that you may not be aware of. The outcomes and findings of an audit can then be taken onboard when deciding on your new system.
Most importantly, an IT / ERP audit can demonstrate the possibilities and benefits of applying new technology and approaches of the modern digital world to your business – such as NetSuite!
Tip 3: Organise project kick-off
Good relationships and project management is key to ensuring implementation of a new ERP system runs smoothly. You want to feel involved, updated and ultimately, that you can put trust in your new partners to deliver the project successfully. By establishing your project team, understanding roles and responsibilities, and creating a clear implementation plan, you will set yourself up for the best chance at success.
Tip 4: Prepare for data migration
Maybe the most important activity in any implementation, preparing for data migration is key. It is necessary to plan carefully about how you are going to extract and migrate your data, and which data you do and do not want to take with you. It is crucial to pay close attention to the format, content, and volume, as all can cause issues if not migrated properly to the new system. You want your new ERP system to be off to a good start.
Cloud solutions like NetSuite make many challenging aspects of the migration process a thing of the past but it is always necessary to consider regulatory and compliance rules that may affect your data.
Tip 5: Test, test and test again
You will be given an opportunity to test your new solution in a UAT environment, giving you the reins to meticulously go through the system that has been built to check for any errors or areas that need further attention. One of our most important tips is to test, test and test again! This really is your opportunity to feedback and check how the build is progressing compared to agreed statement of works.
This is the best time to highlight any areas you are or are not satisfied with, before anything is pushed live, and problems can be harder to fix easily. Dedicate sufficient time to properly test the environment, you will thank yourself for this in the future!
Tip 6: Track success
As the implementation of your new system draws to an end it will be beneficial to create a set of key performance indicators (KPIs) against which you can measure the progress and outcomes. Some KPI examples include increasing productivity or increasing profits.
Whichever KPIs you settle on these will allow you to award success to the implementation project whilst giving you and your partner a sense of accountability.
6 tips for a system implementation success
With sufficient planning and preparation there is no reason an IT system change, like implementing a new ERP, should not be a smooth process. By following these 6 tips and working with the right implementation partner you should see project completed successfully, to time and budget.
