How do you optimize your ERP project budget and timeline without compromising quality and scope?

Josh, after doing multiple ERP systems implementations, I have found it best to run both the old and new systems in parallel!! You need to ensure you captured all the correct settings in the new system to ensure that it functions AT LEAST as well as the old - preferably better - otherwise why switch? I have worked in places the went cold turkey to the new and had a myriad of problems and issues that were not accounted for and created near chaos.

Define goals and use proper requirements gathering , there are various ways to require proper user gathering and capture the use case , you capture the various requirements during different sessions.

You should have already accounted for the vendor's implementation abilities, with a Statement of Work and project plan. Sloppy implementations are usually the fault of the client. Common causes are lack of a strong internal project leader and lack of accountability across the organization for getting sub-projects completed. Implement in phases. Phase One is mission-critical stuff. Save the rest for Phase Two. Debugging is done in mock-order sessions. All functions in a conference room, taking turns doing their parts, from sales to invoicing. Several sessions are required, covering the spectrum of possible order and production types. There will be no need to run the old and new systems in parallel. Assess success via KPIs.

Reach out to at least a few potential providers to establish: - whether you’ll be able to communicate effectively (not just during implementation, but thereafter) - how well they understand your industry and current business setup - the quality of questions they ask to learn what your objectives are for the project - how close their “base” offering is to what you need. If it’s close there’s usually less cost in bespoking it for you

ERP solution fits and caters to different requirements , do the proper feasibility study to assess these systems.Evaluate them .

Evaluate your risks and resources , evaluate the budget , make sure you do proper planning , review the prepared plan wisely and effectively.

Communication is critical use different techniques , publish the notes , collaborate with different teams .Leverage workshops , session , feedback .

Do proper testing , there are different testing phases and cycles do it properly capture the results , use tools and track the defects to closure.