Implementing any new business software is a daunting task. And implementing new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software can be particularly intimidating, since implementation will touch on almost every aspect of a business.

1. Eight Best ERP
Implementation Practices
Implementing any new business software is a daunting task. And implementing new
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software can be particularly intimidating, since
implementation will touch on almost every aspect of a business.
The good news is that implementing a new ERP can provide a relatively impactful Return on
Investment (ROI). Recent surveys indicate the average ROI for ERP implementation is 52
percent, including a 30 percent cost savings in purchasing and inventory control areas.
The key to a successful ERP implementation is thorough planning. Its importance cannot be
emphasized enough. In this article, we outline the typical ERP implementation process and
discuss best practices for a successful ERP implementation and ongoing use.
Contents
What is ERP implementation?
ERP system implementation process
Why some ERP implementations fail
Eight ERP implementation best practices
Choose the right ERP solution
QT9 ERP software
What is ERP implementation?
An ERP system centralizes and integrates data and processes across an organization, from
shop floor operations to accounting and inventory management. Using a centralized
database and streamlined processes, an ERP system creates efficiencies through integrations
that dynamically populate data and connect business processes.
An ERP implementation involves the planning, data migration, testing and deployment of
new ERP software in an organization. Depending on the size of the company, it can be a
relatively simple or complex endeavor that requires a well-though-out and communicated
plan.
ERP system implementation process

2. The implementation process begins after a business has chosen the ERP system that best fits
its needs and budget. The final choice should factor in input from all business units and
stakeholders that will use the system. As you move from the ERP selection phase toward
implementation, harness the expertise of your selection team as a starting point for your
ERP implementation planning.
Keep in mind that many steps in your implementation process will overlap. For instance, you
may train one department while another is focused on migrating its data. Your processes
and pace will depend on your business’ unique needs and the implementation strategy you
choose.
Step 1: Assemble a project team
Your new ERP system will touch on almost every aspect of your organization, so it makes
sense to include representatives from all key areas to facilitate buy-in and proper planning.
Your team should include representatives from senior management, accounting, operations,
sales, inventory management, shop floor and any other key business area.
Step 2: Create a master project plan
Once strategy has been determined, it’s time to map out the steps for implementation in
each key business area. Team members should prepare detailed implementation strategies
for their business units. Their plans will eventually be rolled into the master project plan.
Plans should include:
 Resources needed
 Estimated budget/costs
 Roll-out schedule
 Data migration plan
 User training plan
 Testing plan
 Go-live plan
 Post-live evaluation plan
Step 3: Install system
System installation needs will depend on the type of ERP platform your business has chosen.
The easiest and fastest delivery will be through a cloud-based system, like QT9 ERP. Cloud
ERPs deliver initial software and updates via a secure internet connection. This means
customers do not need to purchase new hardware or software, and they mostly adopt the
processes built in to the system.

3. Alternatively, on-premise ERP systems require infrastructure configuration and physical
installation of the system. That means that implementation of an on-premise solution may
take a few weeks.
Step 4: Migrate data
Since your data lays the groundwork for the successful use of all other ERP functions, it pays
to devote extra resources to get data migration right. Work with your ERP supplier to
determine the best plan for data migration, letting their experience guide your plan.
Before data migration begins, cleanse data of unnecessary and outdated information so that
only pertinent data is transferred. This helps improve efficiency and ensure data integrity in
the new system.
Step 5: Train users
User adoption is a major factor in the success of new software. Offer employees training
opportunities prior to system launch and check in with them on a regular basis after
implementation to ensure they are comfortable working in the software.
Take advantage of training opportunities offered by your ERP software vendor. Most ERP
vendors offer pre-implementation training as well as online resources available for
employees to use at their convenience.
Step 6: Testing
The testing phase involves utilizing your new ERP software in a simulated environment to
ensure that it functions and uses data accurately. Be sure to check security, workflows,
integrations and user acceptance.
Step 7: Go live
This is the time all of your planning comes to fruition, when you begin using your ERP in a
live environment. If all goes well, systems will function as planned. However, be sure your
experts are on hand to troubleshoot any issues, and have contingency plans in place in the
event there is a serious malfunction.
Step 8: Feedback and improvements
As users become more familiar with the ERP system, their feedback will be key to making
improvements to processes and work flows. Be sure to keep the lines of communication
open and look for ways to keep creating efficiencies for your organization and staff.
Why do some ERP implementations fail?
A 2024 review of ERP user experiences indicated that the top two ERP implementation
challenges were inadequate testing and deficient process re-engineering. Other common

4. reasons for ERP implementation failures included insufficient planning, poor data quality,
lack of user training and resistance to change.
Inadequate testing
Testing your new ERP’s configurations and processes in a trial-run environment enables you
to mitigate issues when you go live. Be sure to test your ERP applications thoroughly,
including integrations with other applications, as well as hardware and network
infrastructure. Pay close attention to the data that is being pulled and ensure that it is
populating as expected.
Process re-engineering
If you’re implementing an out-of-the-box ERP system, processes will be pre-engineered for
you, although typically at least some elements are configurable to your needs. This can save
time, money and headaches, since much of the work is already complete.
With a custom ERP solution, vendors work with your internal team to create new processes.
Be sure to test these new processes thoroughly to ensure they are engineered correctly
before go live. Keep in mind that custom ERP systems are generally more expensive and take
longer to implement.
Insufficient planning
Poor planning can be the death of an ERP implementation, causing delays and budget
overruns. Be sure that your implementation team understands goals and expectations.
Communicate with users to gain buy-in and insight into day-to-day operations and how the
new ERP system should support those operations.
Resistance to change
The most common reason employees resist adoption of new software is lack of
understanding. Be sure to communicate the total picture for your ERP implementation:
business and process goals, efficiencies, future integrations.
Offer several training opportunities and support them through implementation so they feel
comfortable using the software and sharing insight into additional ways the company can
scale its use.
Eight ERP implementation best practices
Planning a new ERP implementation involves a lot of moving parts. Outside of data
migration and process mapping, there are employees to train, equipment to monitor and,
perhaps most importantly, current operations to maintain. Below are some best practices to
consider for your ERP implementation.
1. Secure executive support

5. Be sure to secure buy-in from leadership to ensure the implementation has the necessary
resources, funding and strategic direction.
2. Assemble a skilled project team
Build a cross-functional team with representatives from IT, finance, operations and other key
business areas. Designate a dedicated project manager to oversee progress.
3. Create a detailed implementation plan
Your implementation plan should be a detailed roadmap that includes budgets, timeline,
milestones, responsibilities, training schedules and a communication plan.
4. Utilize support resources
Be sure to choose an ERP software provider that offers robust support for implementation
and training. Vendor expertise is invaluable. Besides providing general implementation
guidelines, they will often offer more detailed implementation planning consultation.
5. Consider hiring a consultant
Hiring an implementation consultant may make sense for certain businesses, such as
enterprises centralizing multiple systems from multiple locations. Make sure any consultant
is familiar with how to use your chosen ERP software.
6. Prioritize data cleanup and migration
Likely some of your legacy data has become irrelevant and inaccurate. Clean and validate
existing data before importing it into the new system. This will improve data accuracy in the
new system and improve system performance.
7. Create a change management plan
Lack of training and communication has been the downfall of many new software
implementations. Just like your project plan, take the time to plan how you will support
employees through the change process. Be sure to communicate with them on a regular
basis, providing demonstrations, software training and additional resources, if needed.
8. Avoid shortcuts
It may be tempting to skip steps in your implementation plan to meet project deadlines, but
doing so is likely to create problems down the road. Instead, be sure to create a realistic
implementation schedule. Small and midsize businesses typically implement an ERP system
within three to nine months, while larger companies implement within six to 18 months.
Choose the right ERP solution
Every organization must evaluate its current and projected operational requirements to
determine what ERP platform is best suited to their needs. Outside of basic ERP software

6. applications, such as accounting, manufacturing and sales, other significant features to look
for in ERP software include:
Real-time data and analytics
ERP systems provide a single source of truth for all operations, giving employees and
management real-time information about key business processes. This comprehensive view
enables management to make informed decisions faster. With advanced reporting and
analytics, businesses can easily identify trends, predict potential challenges and make
proactive adjustments to improve performance.
Easy to use
Software that is easy to use significantly improves user adoption, increasing productivity and
allowing a wider range of users to access its functionality without extensive training. A good
ERP system lets you accomplish tasks with fewer layers, providing clear guidance and
prompts with an intuitive interface.
Provider support
The support provided by an ERP software provider is integral to the continued success of its
use. Whether its in-person or internet-based consultations, a library of templates and
documentation or how-to videos, look for the kind of ERP software provider that offers
support that fits your needs. Any provider worthy of your business will offer support for its
product throughout its use, from implementation to everyday use.
Cloud-based platform
Today’s cloud-based ERP platforms make software implementation and updates easier than
ever. It also saves your company from having to employ personnel to maintain the system.
Out-of-the-box ERP systems that offer pre-built modules and features are ready to deploy as
soon as the user is ready. Look for out-of-the-box solutions that match your needs from the
start, as customization is usually limited.
Cost effective
There are many pricing models used by ERP software providers. Make sure your business’
needs are covered by the core applications provided, and be aware of which applications are
add-ons and at what cost. An out-of-the-box solution can provide robust applications while
saving money for your organization.
QT9 Enterprise Resource Planning Software: QT9 ERP
QT9 ERP is a comprehensive system that can work for any size company, in any industry. QT9
ERP improves efficiency and accuracy through integrated data and automated operations, all
without breaking the bank.

7. QT9 ERP provides more than 17 modules as part of its standard offering, as well as easy
access to data and analytics to help manufacturers make the best decisions for moving
forward. With QT9 ERP you get:
 17+ modules, including unlimited Bill of Materials
 Quick implementation
 Tailored customer support
 Customer, compliance, supplier and physical inventory web portals
 Lot and serial number inventory control
 Access to digital business intelligence and analytics
QT9 ERP also offers electronic batch record (eBR) and device history record
(DHR) applications to address the needs of life sciences companies. Our ERP system lets you
configure processes to best meet your needs and is highly scalable, so you can implement at
your own pace.
Reach out today for more information about QT9 ERP
https://qt9erp.com/blog/best-erp-implementation-practices