5 Steps to Global ERP Implementation Success

What makes global ERP implementations special? Well the obvious answer would be scale. The sheer size of the ERP implementation makes it a lot more difficult than a single-site project. So how do we solve the inevitable difficulties that one encounters on projects of this scale?

Remember Greater Rewards Are Associated with Greater Costs

First of all, it will cost more – a lot more. There is only so much we can do about the higher cost, but we can remember there are some high paybacks to offset those costs.

Unify Reporting within Your Global ERP

Global ERP will allow us to consolidate many disparate reporting processes into an integrated system. All reports come from a single system and a single database. Data collected in any location can be used in a report from any other location. A large part of reporting is compliance to various regulations around the world. For example, one person can monitor chemical emissions at any locations and report as needed anywhere needed.

Standardize Best Practices

Global ERP will also help unify the entire business by enabling and simplifying the use of best practices globally. There will be a single order entry process everywhere using the same input screens. Once the screens are configured to the best practices and workflows developed to make those practices available to people everywhere, costs will drop and errors will be reduced. In emergencies, a person in one country could log on in the middle of the night and manage work at another location.

Create Bespoke Training for Each Location

If the implementation is converting from multiple legacy systems, each one will need to have its own transitional process and the training of personnel will be different at each location. If this is your situation, you ought to consider separate training programs as each legacy-to-global ERP transition will be different.

Consider the Language Barrier

Translations should be a consideration too. Believe it or not, people in different locations speak different languages. The input screens in the ERP system and many reports will need to be translated to be used by all employees. Currency needs its own translation. You might purchase something in one currency, receive at another location in another and pay for it from another location in a third currency. Major global ERP systems come with more than a single common language and currency built in. This is a common situation so there will be add-on software to manage other translations. While there is an answer, this is only one of many issues that will need some kind of resolution.

At the end, you will have one common global organization all speaking the same ERP language and communicating everywhere. Financials will be quicker. Your business will be more prepared to conquer the globe.