By 
Implementing a business system can be a huge gain for your business – or it can be a financial drain and morale-destroying process. By utilizing industry best practices, however, your company will be following a time-tested road map to success. Best practices, done correctly, promote employee buy-in and ensure that the implementation project achieves the anticipated benefits, among other things.
The most commonly used best practices for business system implementations may seem like common sense, but businesses often overlook them to accelerate timelines or reduce expenses. Overlooking these best practices, however, WILL have a significant negative impact on project success.
Here are some of the business system best practices you should consider for implementations:
Management Buy-in
Management needs to approve the project budget and use of internal resources, such as an employee implementation committee, and external resources, such as a consultant. They also need to recognize the importance of the business system and fully support the implementation process.
Identify Requirements and Success Criteria
What deliverables do you expect from the business system implementation?
Determine Roles and Responsibilities for the Project Team
Each member of the team should clearly understand th
e expectations and timelines for tasks assigned to them.
Testing
Before “going live” – that is, officially beginning to use the new software – don’t forget to run tests. It is important to run tests with real company data, as it’s the best way to see how a true business scenario would play out with your new software.
Training
Training is an absolute must; we cannot overemphasize its importance. Employees who are trained not only feel more comfortable doing their jobs – and, therefore, are less opposed to the change – they are also more productive and efficient.
Communication
Communicating with and offering frequent progress updates to management is necessary to keep the process flowing smoothly. Metrics established at the beginning of the project should be measured, with the results passed up the chain of command, so everyone involved is up to date.
Using best practices when implementing a business system all but guarantees a successful project completion. Anticipated deliverables will be met, system users will be well trained and comfortable with their new roles, and on-going problems are promptly identifiable and resolvable.
Southeast Computer Solutions has expert knowledge of best practices in software implementations. From project justification and initial software selection through project management, training, and final implementation, Southeast Computer Solutions has the resources to help you. Contact us to learn how we can benefit your company with product selection, implementation, training, system management, and support of your critical business systems.
About Southeast Computer Solutions
Southeast Computer Solutions is based in Miami, Florida, and has additional operations in Mexico. For over 30 years, we have positively impacted the success of small and mid-sized businesses with effective business management implementations that improve our clients’ operations. We listen, we are accessible, and we care. Learn more by visiting our website or calling 305-556-4697.
