Plus tips on how to avoid them for a smooth ERP software experience
Deploying a new ERP is a pivotal time for any manufacturing business. In the future, you’ll be talking about your business in two eras: before ERP, and after ERP.
There’s no denying that deploying such a vital tool requires some effort, not to mention patience and communication. But with our help, you can spot and squash the 6 mistakes that prevent manufacturers from getting the most out of their new ERP.
1. Not aligning with your business goals
The jumping-off point for many manufacturers looking to upgrade or overhaul their ERP software is an underperforming legacy system. That’s a good start. But before you migrate to a new solution, consider the long-term benefits beyond short-term pain relief.
If you haven’t already, clearly define your financial and operational targets. Then map those targets against the features and benefits as you weigh up different ERP partners.
Manufacturing ERP software plays a vital role in improving productivity and powering sustainable growth, which means setting clear targets and understanding how your chosen system can help you reach them.
2. Assuming all ERP software is the same
Especially if you’re new to ERP software, it’s easy to assume all platforms are fundamentally the same; they all integrate your main business processes within a software platform. But it’s the features and added extras that make all the difference. That’s where the value truly lies for your business.
Jobman, for example, is a modular ERP software made for the Aussie manufacturing industry. We designed everything from the ground up to make managing complex operations easier
With a custom feature set that includes cabinet making software integrations, job scheduling and inventory management, Jobman is the best choice ERP for manufacturers.
3. Not seeing the full scope
Scope creep is a costly mistake. Before you set out to implement a new ERP, map the project scope in detail and specifically address areas where the scope might blow out.
- Establish a project team
- Assign a project owner
- Identify key stakeholders
- Map the supply chain to understand how an ERP can provide specific benefits
- Involve your ERP partner from the beginning
- Maintain good communication to catch issues early
Our team can help you identify and avoid scope creep, so you don’t end up with a time or budget crisis.
4. Missing out on key features
Up to 46% of ERP users don’t even know what’s happening in their own system, which means they’re missing out on potential profits and productivity. It’s essential to understand the features you need and those you don’t.
Make a detailed list by consulting stakeholders at every stage in the supply chain, so you can be sure you’re covering all bases. Then, track how your team uses the different features and periodically adjust the list (or upskill staff) to ensure your business is getting the most value possible from your ERP.
5. Starting without setting priorities
In the planning phase, identify priority departments based on your business needs and the team’s readiness to implement the software. Setting priorities, understanding dependencies, and attacking the project systematically will ensure a smooth, stress-free ERP implementation.
6. Running before you can walk
This is a hard pill to swallow: you can’t do everything at once. Implementing ERP software is a major undertaking spanning your entire supply chain. You want to roll out features gradually to avoid bottlenecks and ERP fatigue (it’s a real thing).
Rolling out a new ERP system is a project that starts long before you make a supplier shortlist, and never really ends. By that, we mean the project really starts at point #1, identifying business goals. And after deployment, the work continues in training, feature tweaking, tracking, continuous improvement and consultation with your ERP supplier.
It’s a big project – with enormous rewards. If you’re ready to get started on the journey, contact the Jobman team with your questions.
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