Is it Time to Upgrade Your ERP Software?

Is your enterprise resource planning (ERP) software due for an upgrade? If so, you’re probably already trying to figure your way out of it. While putting it off for a few more years may seem like the better solution, upgrading your ERP software will actually extend its functionality and allow your business to produce optimal results. Find out how – with the right amount of preparation – you can maintain your ERP software’s functionality and efficiency even as you implement the necessary software improvements:

• Before you begin the project, inform all software users of the purpose of the upgraded system.
  Keeping your employees in the dark about the upgrade will only work against you. Communication with your software users is important to the success of the project; after all, they will be the ones using the software. State your business case for upgrading the ERP system, inform users of the benefits of the new system, and explain any changes pertaining to the user.
• Perform a “mock” Go Live.
  Before you go live with the system upgrade, you need to make sure that everything will go as planned. Make sure to practice under the same conditions you will have when you go live (such as weekend access, backup windows, and office conditions). This will ensure that you are prepared for all scenarios so your go live is seamless and pain-free.
• Train your employees thoroughly on the new system.
  Knowledge is power, particularly in the case of ERP software. Training your employees is crucial, even if the software is “basically” the same. There are always new features that could use some hands-on training before it’s time to go live with the system. Make sure that you clear up any questions your employees many have and sufficiently train them on the newly upgraded system.
• Address security and backup concerns before you upgrade.
  Archiving your current files will save you a sufficient amount of time and money when it comes time to upgrade your system. Also, address any security concerns you may have before you move forward with each system upgrade.  The larger your system gets, the more vulnerable it becomes to attack. Make sure you protect your information by maintaining the proper security protocols.
• Have an experienced consultant perform the upgrade – not the new guy on your IT staff.
  ERP upgrades don’t happen every few months or even every few years. They are few and far between and – for that reason – it’s important that you utilize your best resources possible. Hire an experienced ERP software consultant to perform the upgrade. They will not only be knowledgeable of the system, but they will also know the problems to expect during the process and can keep the system performing during the upgrade.

If you are due for an ERP system upgrade, give us a call today at (866) 990-3994. Our team of experienced ERP software consultants can guide you through the upgrade process and ensure that everything is up and running smoothly afterward.