3 steps to a successful Cloud ERP implementation.
Whenever an organization plans to implement the latest technologies into its system, whether it's starting from scratch with a brand-new ERP system or adding features to an existing cloud environment, it is imperative that every step be carefully considered.
Whatever type of ERP system is selected, successful deployment is critical to user adoption, data quality, and enterprise alignment. The following are five key implementation steps that every organization needs to follow before moving to the cloud.
Step 1: Planning
At first, it may seem simple to migrate to the cloud. However, as the project plans and resources are mapped together, it becomes clear that ERP system implementation requires much more.
Implementing ERP Cloud systems involves five phases: project definition, project teams, design, rollout, and communication. Before launching a project, data must be collected for each category.
Project Definition
Defining the project lays the foundation for the entire implementation process. It may create problems in the later stages if it is not defined accurately. A thorough plan from the start lowers the chance of mistakes and aids the implementation team in preparing for any potential roadblocks.
Project team
In order to complete a cloud project, a team needs to be assembled. The focus of a cloud project team is more on configuring and managing user roles than on hardware architects and software installers. It is imperative to define each person's role and responsibilities in order to make the transition as smooth as possible.
Design
Consider the design stage to be a blueprint for a successful ERP system implementation. The project design's primary deliverables include deploying any third-party apps and any linked systems that need integration. Additionally, the design must incorporate all impacted business processes, user needs, and comprehensive data definitions. Having a design in place from the outset is also crucial. Configuration can begin as soon as the design is complete.
Project launch
The order in which the different business units and geographical areas will be covered should be determined. It is possible that some features will be saved for later release after the initial launch.
Communication
Communication between internal and external stakeholders is crucial after the project has been launched. Consider branding the project with a name and logo to improve internal communication throughout your organization.
Step 2: Implement a cloud solution
After preliminary work is completed, the project design can be put into action. This stage represents the majority of the workload in terms of budget, time, and other tasks. As opposed to a traditional on-site solution, cloud implementation requires a few more fundamental steps known collectively as CIDER.
Configuration
As opposed to custom-designed applications, cloud applications require configuration. Therefore, organization structures, user roles, and data structures and hierarchies must be established early. Most cloud migrations allow for establishing key business operations quickly and integrating with standard business processes and associated workflow afterward.
Integrate
At this stage, you will need to do some integration work. Collaboration with your IT team members would be helpful since they might already have integration frameworks. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Cloud makes the process of integrating ERP systems and CRM systems significantly simpler and faster for a variety of businesses.
Data
Data migration to the cloud requires moving from on-premises systems. Instead of spending time and money planning every detail in advance for complicated data scenarios, use Microsoft Dynamics 365 Cloud. This will ensure consistency across enterprise data, regardless of platform.
Extensions
An advantage of cloud applications is their ability to be configured rather than customized. In addition, Microsoft Dynamics 365 can be used to extend applications or add supplementary features.
Reports
Dynamics 365 provides numerous reporting options and pre-built reports, which can be very useful for reporting.
Step 3: Deployment
After all the previous steps have been completed, the last step is deployment. With the exception of a few issues that can be handled by the user-assistance team, the system should be ready to use.
Project teams and IT infrastructure and network staff need to monitor system performance closely. To improve the overall deployment process, ask users about their duties and general experience.
Once the ERP system is deployed, make sure you monitor and measure its performance.
NUAGE Concepts provides dedicated support services at a single blended rate and a discount of up to 30% below market. Aside from ERP implementation, we also assist our clients in improving their customer relationships and revenue through Customer Relationship Management (CRM) adoption.
