The prevalence of SAP in the enterprise resource planning marketplace means there are many ERP Jobs that will require specific SAP knowledge. The advice below relates specifically to implementing SAP projects, but is also valuable project management advice for all projects. Give it a read if you’re considering buying a SAP program or work in SAP recruitment and want some context.
Installing a new ERP system, whether for a large corporate or an SME, is potentially one of the biggest projects your company will undertake. It affects all employees, it will require considerable money and time, and it’ll also impact future decision on investment in technology. Due to its scale, timescales and budgets may alter significantly from the original plan. It’s good practice when starting to plan the project to think in terms of timescales not deadlines.
A budget is clearly needed, but in a project like this it is almost inevitable to face unforeseen costs. Therefore, for both budget and the financial side set reviews at regular intervals so neither run away with themselves nor get out of control.
Define goals at the start of the process, and agree these with the main stakeholders. In the thick of a project when facing a particular problem the fundamental aims are easily forgotten, so make a conscious effort to remember them. Or, if your business changes, redefine the goals and make sure there is buy-in on this from all the original stakeholders.
When implementing an ERP system, it is not just executive level that will be involved. Creating understanding of the value of the change and the need for it with all the people it’ll affect is vital. This is both a communications issue, so educating the workforce. If this is the ‘soft’ introduction to the change, the ‘hard’ skills needed to use it will be learnt in training and this must be planned.
Finally, think about how the SAP software will work with other programs. This is not just for what you use now, but thinking ahead into future investment. This encapsulates how your company may change and grow as time goes by.
There are sure to be many other hints and tips on running a SAP project, and these are just a few of the key ones. The main one to take away if any is the need for constant reviewing and reassessing of goals, budgets and timescales.