How do you plan for ERP integration?

Put down what is need to have and what is nice to have. Take the list of need to have and scrutinize it further. Get the most needed integration features and connectors set up and then observe and adjust as you move on. As your business changes so will your integrations. Don't try to do it all from day one

Understanding the existing technology stack and the future vision of your organisation can lead to more insightful decisions about integration. Involve stakeholders from different departments to ensure all perspectives are considered.

Before you start getting into the weeds of implementation, identify & reiterate integration goals & requirements. - Planning : plan the integration points, peek in business process (keep it flexible to accommodate future needs) - Data mapping : Understand the data flow to the downstream apps (Keep few data fields extra). This is the crucial step which connects your data to your business points. - Development : IF standard API requests = success, THEN use API else CUSTOM - Testing : Test for accuracy & functionality. The end results of all testing cases should tie-back the results to integration objectives. The flawless integration happens when the data points depict the business steps & are available in a simple documentation set.

Securing stakeholder support from the start of the ERP integration assessment is crucial. Everyone must agree on the key issues with the current ERP that need resolving, typically those causing the most cost or revenue loss. This clarity helps determine the desired ROI and informs the choice of integration method.

Integration possibilities are growing by the day. It used to be the case that finance (the functional area I know the best) was highly reliant on the IT function for integrations using quite technical ETL (Extract, Load and Transform) tools. Or they would take a more simplistic approach using FTP (file transfer protocol) to upload Excel or csv files. In more recent times we are seeing two developments. The growth of IaaP (integration-as -a-Platform) products with pre-built connectors between ERP and other applications such as SalesForce or the ERP vendors themselves developing more user-oriented connectors for popular integrations.

Consider the long-term strategy of your organisation, not just the immediate needs. A method that can scale and adapt as your organisation grows or technology evolves could provide more value in the long run.

iPaaS is usually faster to set up and easier to manage, making it ideal for small to medium integration projects. Middleware, on the other hand, is great for supporting legacy systems and enterprise applications, but it often comes with a higher price tag. It’s crucial to conduct a thorough needs assessment and ensure you have the backing of all stakeholders before deciding which method to go with.

Engaging with a third-party expert who specialises in ERP integration can be beneficial in understanding the pros and cons of different options. They can provide a neutral perspective tailored to your specific organisational context.

Choosing an integration method isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. It requires an astute understanding of your project’s current needs and a visionary approach for future challenges. The outlined considerations provide a comprehensive checklist, but it’s also worth noting that stakeholder feedback, pilot testing, and real-world case studies can further inform this crucial decision.

Building a data governance framework that includes standardisation, quality checks, and ongoing monitoring will not only prepare your data for integration but ensure that it remains robust and reliable for future use.

Introducing a continuous improvement methodology in your integration process ensures that you're constantly refining and enhancing your system, making it resilient to change and more aligned with your evolving business requirements.

Consider the human impact of the integration, such as the changes in workflows or roles within the organisation. Training and support will be critical to helping your team adapt and leverage the new capabilities, ensuring a smoother transition and maximising the value.

The right people at the right time to lead and deliver the ERP project might be a key enabler. The right “let’s do it” attitude, ERP knowledge and experience, project management skills, collaboration mindset and stamina are most wanted for ERP implementation. In any case you start with people to refine what you want. Right what you need! :-)

ERP integration uniquely bridges disparate systems, enabling real-time insights and fostering proactive decision-making; yet, its true potency unfolds when tailored to resonate with a company's distinct operational nuances and cultural dynamics.