If the check oil light comes on and your engine is running louder than normal, it’s probably time to stop and check your oil. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to costly repairs for a seized engine. The same is true during ERP system implementation. The popular tier two implementation method uses the homework model, an assignment-driven implementation task list to complete go-live preparation. This model proves challenging for companies and often leads to costly overruns as overworked employees do not complete assignments given by the system integrator.
ERP implementation teams often fail to identify the warning signs of a failed homework model:
An unclear vision for moving from current to future state creates confusion. Employees are primarily concerned with their areas of responsibility and ignore assignments that require coordination across multiple functions. From operations to the back office, this isolations leads to incomplete and inaccurate data. The calendar of homework assignments is not to be confused with a project plan. A detailed vision and work plan provides clarity and ensures a comprehensive approach.
Internal resources are often dedicated to implementation efforts on a part-time basis. Resources are forced to split priorities between fulfilling the expectations of primary job responsibilities and completing project homework assignments. Strained employees miss meetings and critical assignments that may delay go-live. Employees feel frustrated and overworked as they essentially have two roles and two bosses during implementation. Dedicating full-time internal resources with a comprehensive project understanding can bridge potential knowledge gaps and reduce the need to scramble as go-live approaches.
Without clearly assigned project roles and responsibilities, accountability is low and critical tasks fall between the cracks. An inability to answer basic project questions is a telling sign that employee ownership is low. This gap may arise due to overconfidence with the system integrators’ ability. There is no alternative for an internal project governance model that provides vision and delegation of responsibilities.
Trenegy helps companies successfully implement ERP systems using the homework model.
