5 Common ERP Implementation Pitfalls

Big4Guy writes a blog on big software deployments. His posting on Five Common ERP Implementation Pitfalls has the ring of truth for me, so here they are:

1. Pin-pointed clarity as to why we are going in for an ERP. What are the synergies that we expect, how will the new system SAP / Oracle / JD Edwards change our present way of working. Clarity in this regard is the one most important factor.
2. What is the implementation strategy. Are we implementing in a phased manner or a big bang implementation. Big bang implementation where all modules of an ERP AP / AR/ GL/ etc are implemented all at once is bound to fail if not properly planned.
3. How much time have you allocated for testing your system. Testing will include testing the design as well as the performance of the system.
4. What investment have you made in your hardware infrastructure. When investing in hardware it is generally safe to go in for a higher configuration so as to take care of processing loads later on.
5. Have you involved all critical users in the process flow and business process design phase. If the users are not involved right from the start, it is a sureshot sign of a ERP failure. Understanding the users point of view POV is very important for successful ERP implementation.

I suspect this guy has been through some battles and speaks from knowledge and experience.