Successful ERP implementation depends upon many factors, viz. vendor knowledge of software, experience in implementation, reliable support, proper user training, top management involvement in the project, customization scope, etc. The key considerations of implementation are:
Knowledge of Software Application: ERP are designed on state of the art architecture using best practices business processes; hence knowledge of the software is vital for the vendors. If they are new to the software, chances of ERP failure increases especially during customization phase.
Experience: ERP implementation involves implementation of standard approaches and best practices, ability to resolve situations and issues and transfer of knowledge. This relate to the experience of the vendor is a key consideration factor. If they have implemented same enterprise software in similar type of industries, their experience and understanding of business processes would be helpful in implementation.
Reliable Support: The ability to provide post implementation support is critical as a lot of issues arise once an organization starts using the enterprise resource planning software. The vendor necessarily needs to provide the support services after the implementation. This support may on chargeable basis or free for first year, then AMC charges as applicable or mutually agreed.
User Training: Ultimately users are going to use this software. Detailed training is very necessary for users. This should be conducted along with implementation and data entry, so user can adopt these changes. Role and rule based training is better for all users.
Top Management Support: Most of the ERP implementation fails due to lack of top management supports. In few cases, top management thinks that they have granted the money for project and it will be completed like other project. But, it is not true, this require lot of top management support during implementation and customization phases. There may required some business process change during implementation, this type of decision can only be handle by top management.
Customization Scope: Customization should be limited. It should be defined in pre-implementation stage. More customization in any software is not good for the project. ERP software are designed on state of the art architecture using best practices and highly integrated with other processes. Changing in forms may create some problem in other processes. It should be done by experienced person only.
