My Tips for Choosing the Right Implementation Partner

After being involved in over 120 transformation projects (yes, I’ve seen it all, from smooth rollouts to absolute chaos), I can confidently say that picking the right implementation partner for your SAP S/4HANA or other ERP transformation is absolutely critical. So, to help you avoid any potential nightmares, here are a few key factors you should definitely consider:?

??? Choosing the right partner can make or break your project (and possibly your sanity). Here are some points to keep in mind:?

? Technical Know-How and Industry Understanding:?

Your partner shouldn’t just be a tech wizard—they need to understand the specific business processes and nuances of your industry. Otherwise, you’ll spend more time explaining your business than transforming it!?

? Company Culture and Organizational Fit:?

It’s not just about their technical chops. Your partner also needs to "get" your company culture. After all, the last thing you want is a partner who creates more friction than transformation by not meshing with your team.?

? Specialist or Generalist:?

The SAP and ERP partner ecosystem is extensive, ranging from all-in-one providers to highly specialized experts. It's crucial to know exactly what you need. Are you looking for a Swiss Army knife or a finely-tuned scalpel? You might also want to consider working with different partners for different areas. In my experience, a partner who excels in financial and controlling matters may not be as strong in supply chain and manufacturing topics.?

? Risks of Choosing the Wrong Partner:?

Pick the wrong partner, and you might find yourself knee-deep in delays, inefficiencies, and communication breakdowns that can throw your project off course—and blow your budget. So take the time to evaluate your options thoroughly.?

? Skilled Resources Shortage:?

The shortage of skilled talent doesn’t just affect you—it’s a reality for ERP implementation and SAP partners too. Make sure your partner has the resources and capacity to deliver on their promises. After all, they can’t send in the cavalry if they don’t have one even if they promised in the sales pitch ??.?

? Using Tools and Networks:?

In the SAP space you could leverage tools like the SAP Partner Finder and networks like DSAG for example to filter and evaluate potential partners based on key criteria. Think of it as online dating for your transformation project—swipe right wisely!?

? Pilot Projects and Proof of Concepts:?

Pilot projects and proofs of concept are like test-driving your partner before you commit. It’s better to find out how they work (or don’t) before you're too deep into the main project.?

?? Carefully consider the type of contract:

A "Work Contract" obligates the contractor to deliver a specific result, with the success or completion of the work being required. On the other hand, a "Service Contract" requires the service provider to perform certain services, but unlike a Work Contract, the outcome or success of the service is not guaranteed—only the performance of the service itself is mandatory. These two contract types differ fundamentally in terms of warranty and the ability to unilaterally terminate the collaboration. In an agile project approach, a Work Contract may not be the best choice, as the project methodology often requires flexibility in implementation. ?

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Need help choosing the right implementation partner? I'm here to get you the perfect match. Let's make it happen! ??