ERP Multi-Phase Considerations

How to decide whether to have multi-phase ERP Deployment or choose to do a big bang approach for ERP implementation. This article explores the fundamental deciding considerations. 

One of the Prerequisites before Planning any ERP Implementation Project activities in line with the any ERP Application Implementation Methodology and tailored to the unique specifications of the Project you need to determine if the transition into production needs to occur for all organizations or departments at the same time. In case of phased implementation planning, decide what applications are to be implemented in each phase and how the standard design needs to be rolled out to other organizations.

Consider the following factors when deciding on a single-phase or multiple-phase deployment:

• Is the organization facing changes from other sectors? Allow time for an organization to absorb major changes before introducing new factors.
• Is the organizational culture amenable to integrating the new system into its operations? The risk is less if the organization is accustomed to using a common system with related policies and procedures. If business units have been operating independently, the organization must adapt to a cultural change, as well as to the new system.
• Can the project team adequately execute the project so that there is minimal risk in implementing all applications for all organizations at one time?
• Can two or more organizations all fit (from a sizing point of view) on the same servers?
• What is the company’s experience with previous system implementations?
• What is the project team’s experience with previous system implementations?
• Is the application a production that is controlled, or is it a beta release of the software?

To minimize risk, use the pilot implementation technique. Go live with a carefully selected subset of users who are well-trained and able to deal with initial problems. Initial success at a pilot site often sets an attitude of success that carries over to the remaining sites. Pilot can give you confidence as well as most of the problems can be identified if the pilot has been selected carefully that is representative of the entire organizations structure and business.