7 mistakes that sink ERP implementations — and how to avoid them

The seven mistakes

• No internal decision owner with time and authority.
• Open scope: “let’s add this too” every week.
• Migrating old data without cleaning it.
• One training session for everyone instead of per-role training.
• Customising the system to match every old habit, even bad ones.
• Launching all modules and branches on one day.
• No plan for post-launch support.

The golden rule

Change the process where the process is wrong, and customise the system where the process is your advantage. Telling these apart is what separates a successful project from an expensive system that repeats old problems.

How should the implementation be phased?

A successful implementation goes through clear phases, each with a written output: analysing and documenting current processes, then setting up the basics (chart of accounts, items, branches, permissions), then migrating and testing data, then training each role on its tasks, then a pilot run, then go-live and follow-up. Jumping from analysis to go-live is the shortest road to a system nobody uses.

Start with the module that fixes today’s biggest loss, usually inventory or accounting, then add the next modules once usage settles. Phasing reduces risk and shows results early.

• Process analysis and documentation
• Basics and permissions set up
• Data migration and reconciliation
• Role-based training
• A parallel pilot run
• Go-live with weekly follow-up

Should the old and new systems run side by side?

A short parallel run, usually one monthly cycle, is the clearest test: transactions are recorded in both systems and balances and reports are compared at month end. If they match, the old system is switched off on a fixed, announced date. An open-ended parallel run doubles the work and pulls staff back to what they’re used to.

Before go-live, reconcile opening balances: customers, suppliers, stock and cash boxes in dinar and dollar. Any error here follows the new system for years. Moving data out of spreadsheets is covered in from Excel to an ERP system.