How do you manage change and stakeholder expectations when upgrading or migrating your ERP and SCM software?

1 Assess your current state and your desired outcomes

Before you start looking for new ERP and SCM software, you need to have a clear understanding of your current situation and your goals. What are the pain points, gaps, and inefficiencies in your existing system? What are the business requirements, objectives, and priorities for the new system? How will the new system align with your vision, mission, and values? Conduct a thorough analysis of your current state and your desired outcomes, and document them in a business case that will guide your decision making and communication.

2 Choose the right software and partner

Once you have defined your needs and expectations, you can start evaluating different ERP and SCM software options and vendors. Look for software that meets your functional, technical, and budgetary requirements, and that can scale and adapt to your changing needs. Look for a partner that has experience and expertise in your industry, that can provide reliable support and guidance, and that can collaborate with you throughout the project. Compare the features, benefits, and costs of different software and partner options, and use a structured selection process to choose the best fit for your organization.

3 Plan and execute the project

After you have selected your software and partner, you need to plan and execute the project. This involves defining the scope, timeline, budget, roles, and responsibilities of the project, and setting up a project management framework that will monitor and control the progress and quality of the project. You also need to design and implement the technical aspects of the project, such as data migration, integration, testing, training, and deployment. You need to follow best practices and standards for the project, and use tools and methodologies that will facilitate the project execution.

4 Communicate and engage stakeholders

One of the most critical aspects of managing change and stakeholder expectations is communication and engagement. You need to communicate clearly and frequently with all the stakeholders involved in the project, such as senior management, employees, customers, suppliers, and regulators. You need to inform them of the purpose, benefits, and risks of the project, and how it will affect them. You need to engage them in the project, and solicit their feedback, input, and support. You need to address their concerns, questions, and issues, and manage their expectations and resistance.

5 Manage change and transition

Another key aspect of managing change and stakeholder expectations is managing change and transition. You need to prepare your organization for the change, and help them adapt to the new system and processes. You need to provide adequate training, coaching, and support to your staff, and ensure they have the skills, knowledge, and confidence to use the new system. You need to monitor and measure the impact and outcomes of the change, and celebrate and reward the achievements and successes.