What to Consider with the Different Methods of Implementing ERP
If you’re looking at SAP analyst jobs, at some point, you’ll probably need to learn about implementing ERP; implementing ERP is really down on a case-by-case basis per company, but there are some important questions to ask before you begin.
What to ask: Before you choose just how you’re going to implement ERP, answer the following questions:
Is the company you are working with implementing ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) for the first time, simply making updates to the previous system?
Is there an already established structure or hierarchy within the company?
Is there an established process in place for the company to handle changes?
SAP analysts’ jobs are always going to be much more efficient and effective if they work in tandem with management, and management will need to work with SAP analysts to establish or update ERP.
Is the company you are working with implementing ERP for the first time, or simply making updates to the previous system?
If ERP has already been implemented (and the structure was well established and functioning well previously), it’s generally easier to make updates to the system than it is to “start over.” It’s a bit more complicated in regard to SAP analyst jobs if the system is either being implemented for the first time or if the previous system was incorrectly set up, and needs to be scrapped and done over.
Is there an already established structure or hierarchy within the company?
If you’re establishing ERP for the first time, make sure management knows the following things have to be in place:
There has to be a “hierarchical” organizational structure already in place whereby ERP can work with the database are centralized repository for data; that data is then distributed seamlessly to its various departments depending on where it’s needed. For example, it can be used in human resources, supply-chain management, warehouse management and logistics, customer relations (and management), finance, and much more.
Although many managers think that ERP will actually give their organization structure if it doesn’t already have one, the reverse is actually true. ERP can only work with an organization that already has a structure, so that information can then be transmitted seamlessly wherever it needs to go. SAP analyst jobs can function such that they work as a team with management to both set up a hierarchical system if one does not already exist, and then to build the database and ERP structure around that.
Is there an established process in place to handle changes?
Fortunately or unfortunately, people are resistant to change. When ERP structures come into play (or are revised), it’s likely that there will be some resistance to changes by employees as a result. If there’s already a process in place meant to handle grievances, concerns, and the inevitable wrinkles or even turmoil that, as a result of change, the process is going to be easier.
Having a seamless transition from non-ERP to ERP is an important part of system analysts’ jobs, but it’s important to a company’s overall function and therefore profitability, because ERP makes the necessary distribution and transmission of information so seamless.