The role of a Transition Manager to integrate an ERP solution
Integrating an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) solution into your company often leads to improved performance and reduced costs. However, the implementation of an ERP software package requires cross-functional skills. In this context, calling on a transition manager for the implementation, employee training and reporting following the implementation of this innovative solution is often a winning strategy.
What is ERP software?
ERP ( Enterprise Resource Planning ) is a generic term for integrated management software. By using ERP software , a business can use one software for all aspects of its business.
This is called a multidimensional system , that is, a computer system capable of simultaneously processing several data at different levels and integrating them in real time.
Embedded software is designed, most often with a common base, to provide management functions for various processes at once. By synthesizing these different software programs and incorporating them into a single base, ERP allows employees to significantly accelerate their processes and save time and energy.
ERP most often includes the following software, among others:
- Management software: this software deals only with the management functions of a company.
- Information systems: they make it possible to process data relating to the company’s operational activity.
- Operating systems: these operating systems manage all of the company’s hardware resources.
- Databases containing information relating to all Customers of the company.
One of the main strengths of ERP software is that it allows you to manage all the processes at the same time and avoids having to work on multiple software at the same time, which can be complex and time-consuming.
Why implement an ERP in business?
ERP software offers complete coverage of business processes and is able to meet the vast majority of business needs
Many studies show that the implementation of ERP software can save time and resources , new perspectives and improve the quality of products or services.
On a human level, it improves internal communication and the efficiency of customer service.
By providing all company departments with centralized information and relevant data, an ERP makes it possible to effectively use strategic data to make the right decisions.
Companies can use ERP for different purposes. For example, an ERP makes it possible to:
- Simplify the management of their business processes,
- Master all the information necessary to improve the quality of their products and services,
- Deploy innovation strategies with clear visibility of all available resources,
- A properly used ERP is also a factor in reducing operational and administrative costs. By allowing everyone to speed up processes, ERP is indeed an unequaled vector of performance: it allows a company to significantly accelerate its growth and development.
What role does the Transition Manager play in the implementation of an ERP?
To set up an ERP in good conditions, calling on an Interim Manager is a winning strategy.
The responsibilities of the Transition Manager are as follows:
- Define the ERP implementation schedule (implementation of functional modules, software purchase, user training, etc.),
- Ensure the coordination of stakeholders in collaboration with the ERP project manager,
- Establish regular reports on the implementation of the project (monitoring of deadlines, costs, deadlines, margins of progress),
- Set up an internal communication plan (preparation of users, meetings, newsletters),
- Ensure the follow-up of the teams and the implementation of the ERP on time.
To implement an ERP effectively, an Interim Manager must have the following skills:
- Demonstrated experience in IT project management. This experience will allow him to define and prioritize the objectives and needs of the company and to determine the functionalities of the ERP according to the objectives set,
- Ability to quickly assess the human, material, financial and organizational resources necessary for the implementation of the ERP,
- Ability to be surrounded and to identify the people who will participate in the implementation,
- Excellent interpersonal skills and real capacity for conviction: an ERP often represents fundamental changes for employees in their way of working. It is therefore necessary to mobilize the employees, to train them by demonstrating a real educational sense and to show them the advantages generated by the tool.
The transition management firm then plays a central role : by delegating the Transition Manager adapted to the needs of the company, who can quickly be operational and implement an ERP project smoothly and efficiently, a structure specialized in transition management finds its place and brings real added value to the client company.
To delegate the transition manager best suited to your project, Reactive Executive strives to:
- Understand in depth the needs of the company,
- Precisely define the ERP project,
- Delegate an Interim Manager whose professional and personal skills will be in line with the expectations of the company,
- Review with the company on a regular basis on the integration of the Interim Manager, customer satisfaction and the results of his mission.
In summary, to effectively implement an ERP within a company, the Interim Manager brings real added value thanks to his professionalism and experience.
