Enterprise Resource Planning systems have basically changed the work of IT organizations. The complexity of implementations makes managing these projects complicated. There are actually two basic sides to ERP project management, people and technology. An ERP system touches the entire business and can affect almost every employee. And in some cases, project manager may not be able to recognize who will be affected, which can lead to some spiteful surprises.
It's not easy to get a clear vision of the technological part of the implementation because of the huge combination of hardware and software involved. The project manager must manage with thousands of parts. Whether you are implementing single module or multiple modules, you must make sure consistency and full integration across the various departments, which is an enormous effort, even for an experienced consultant.
Few most important project management issues are project size, risk management, budget, timeframe for implementation, GAP analysis, interfaces, resistance to change, etc. If project manager along with top management are able to mange these issues, result will be successful implementation.
The vital activities for streamline ERP project management are embrace overall goals and objectives, define requirements, proper review, use proto education, business system test, execute timely cut over, going live and sign off.
ERP implementation success depends on project manger understanding and his qualities. He should have flexible, disciplined, quick learner, good decision maker, ERP experienced, business experienced, political clout, good formal education, and well liked. He should also able to motivate staff. Project manager must lead the project with a firm, practiced hand that both encourages project team members to find new ways to innovate, and ensures that everyone and everything is moving in the right direction. Project manager must have a close understanding of the business process and how it will change with new software, and must also have a solid technical base.
