Last updated on July 7th, 2024 at 10:50 am
Implementing new software across the enterprise can be a pain - better have your plan together.
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The steps involved in implementing a new enterprise software solutions system can prove to be time-consuming and challenging. To make the process run smoothly, it is important to take certain steps to prepare for the changes ahead of time. To guarantee success with your software implementation, below are some practical steps businesses may take to get prepared for the project.
Assign a Project Manager
Software implementation planning needs a Project Manager. Start by assigning this role to a team member. They will be in charge of overseeing the implementation project from beginning to end. They will be supervising the technical aspects and keeping all involved aware of the progress and any changes taking place. They will be able to take responsibility for the deliverables of the project such as enterprise imaging changes. However, this person should not be in charge of internal timelines and requirements.
Consider Procedures and Processes
If you did enough research during the software selection phase, the implementation should be much easier between your company’s processes and the new software solutions. However, it should be understood that it is normal to require some adjustments and processing changes to be made.
If you paid attention to your processes while comparing different software options, this should be a simple step to complete. This phase is perfect for reviewing your reporting requirements and the types of dashboards that are going to have to be set up.
Review IT Infrastructure
Many companies use cloud-based infrastructures. When implementing new software, be sure your internet is secure and reliable. Your internet connection is the lifeline of your operations. If your internet goes down and your software is cloud-based, you will have no access to your company’s systems until it is restored. Have a disaster recovery solution put into place to use in the event your internet connection is disrupted.
What Current Software Will Be Retained?
You may end up finding out that not all of your business processes or functions are going to be fully supported by your newly implemented software solutions. When this is the case, you need to have a plan in place that will allow the existing solutions to communicate with the new software systems. Be sure any retained software is fully compatible with the new software so that it may be integrated during the software implementation process and function properly.
Define Security and User Roles
Before finishing the implementation process, think about who is going to have access to the new enterprise software. All users should be assigned to specific applications and data they are able to view, access and modify. Ensure that the duties are separated properly.
Most businesses have data breaches and threats that originate internally in an organization. While not all breaches are intended, they can be mitigated by limiting the user’s access to data and permissions.
Clean Up Data To Prepare
Just the same as de-cluttering your home before moving to make the transition easier, take some time to clean up unnecessary or unneeded data and applications before you transition to the new software. Look for things such as outdated data, duplicate entries, data from outside of the system, and data containing personal information. For businesses that need to stay in compliance with regulations such as GPDR, safeguards to protect sensitive information needs to be in place before implementation.
Get Reporting In Order
As with your data, now is a good time to clean up your reporting as well. When cleaning up, ask yourself how your reporting aligns with the objectives and goals of your business. Take into consideration key performance indicators, tactical objectives, regulatory measures and compliance requirements that apply to your organization. Implementing a new software system for enterprise solutions will be a time-consuming and difficult process.
Software Implementation Planning: Final Thoughts
Taking the time to prepare ahead of time will streamline the process and take care of any issues beforehand. Having a software implementation plan in advance will give your organization a better chance of successful implementation and a shorter and less stressful process.
Kevin Gardner graduated with a BS in Computer Science and an MBA from UCLA. He works as a business consultant for InnovateBTS where he helps companies integrate technology to improve performance. He shares his knowledge and expertise not only with his clients but with his fellow bloggers and readers.
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