Onboarding your new ERP system is no easy feat. It's a lengthy and complex implementation process that requires the support of an organization's management team, and when and where possible, should also include a dedicated in-house ERP project team.
But it's highly recommended that companies not make the ERP journey alone. Successful, (aka, headache and hassle-free) onboarding requires consultation with ERP implementation experts who can make your ERP deployment smooth and painless. Things that can go wrong, and often do during onboarding, are data migrations, employee training, system testing, and third-party software integrations, to name just a few.
While some organizations have their own in-house IT departments and system admins, many others choose to hire external ERP consultants. While both have their plusses and minuses, it may be a good idea to hire external consultants, even if you have an internal team.
Let's take a look at 5 reasons why your organization should consider an external consultant during ERP onboarding.
1. Decision-makers are often not in agreement with one other
While internal teams have hands-on experience about how an organization functions, and what's best for it, actual decision-makers may not agree with one other. Studies show that decision-makers are often in disagreement when it comes to ERP deployment. As a result, deployments get delayed and in some cases, may fail altogether. An external consultant ensures that these disagreements are addressed professionally and fairly, in accordance with the company's real business requirements, often based on performing a thorough needs analysis, and company policies and procedures.
2. External teams tend to be objective and unbiased
Although internal consultants can suggest what's best for an organization in terms of choosing the right ERP, their views are often colored by the company culture and work environment already in place, and many, for years, if not decades. As a result, their opinions may tend to be subjective and may not be reflective of the industry at large. On the other hand, external consultants can assess various strengths and weaknesses within your organizational structure and suggest ways to make ERP deployment successful. Their assessments tend to be objective and unbiased, as their views are not influenced by the decision makers in your organization.
3. External consultants have broader industry experience
ERP consultants work with a wide variety of clients, and have an enviable level of experience when it comes to choosing the right ERP onboarding strategy. They also understand various technological trends that may influence ERP deployment today, and well into the future. Many consultants also work closely with specialized consultancy firms and their experience outpaces your internal team's consulting skills. ERP consultants are not limited to specific industry verticals. Rather, their advisory role draws from their vast experience that's not limited to a single organization or market.
4. External consultants make better technological decisions
Professional ERP consultants are aware of the latest technological trends that can potentially affect the success of your ERP deployment. They are constantly exposed to the latest shifts in ERP and related technologies. As a result, they are better equipped to make recommendations to ensure that integrations, employee training, and data migrations are smooth. What's more, they have access to business insights that reveal which technology may soon become obsolete. Bottom line? This information will help you to avoid making costly investments and choose your ERP system wisely.
5. External consultants can liaise with your internal team and third-party vendors
If you already have an internal team of consultants in place, they can work closely with an external consultant or with an entire team of consultants. This helps to balance both internal and external views on what's best for your organization in terms of ERP deployment. External consultants can also liaise with third-party vendors who can enhance your ERP system with additional modules and functionality. Third-party integrations are often necessary during complex deployments in niche environments. In other words, external consultants act as a 'bridge' between your internal team and various third-party players to further ensure successful deployment.
Your ERP vendor may assign a team of consultants to work with you
In most cases, ERP vendors have a team of consultants readily available to assist their clients. If you've shortlisted prospective ERP vendors, it's a good idea to seek consultation regarding your ERP deployment strategy. A consultant will help you onboard your new ERP system, and ensure that your data migrations and third-party integrations go smoothly. Some of these services may incur additional costs, especially if complex processes are involved, but rest assured that an external consultant can work wonders, and make your ERP onboarding process a success.
To learn more about onboarding ERP in your organization, contact us for a no-obligation call with one of our ERP implementation experts.
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