jmacorp.com > erp > implementation

Our implementation methodology has proven itself over many years of working with many ERP software packages. We have established a consistently successful track record of installing, training and supporting our clients for over 15 years. Our methodology consists of the following three steps:

Infrastructure Review

Companies make a large investment in their ERP software program but the return on that investment will be constrained by the hardware and network configuration the software is deployed on. Our Infrastructure Review insures that the ERP system will operate efficiently and cost-effectively for your organization. We analyze the existing network configuration, make recommendations for improvement and assist in the setup and deployment of any necessary upgrades. Our goal is to provide you an information system that will meet your needs for the better part of a decade, thereby maximizing your Return on Investment.

Plan, Pilot and Prove

Implementation of any ERP system requires the coordination of many activities and many individuals. The first step in the process is to establish realistic goals, timelines and milestones. Communicating to the users what is expected and then staying on track with that plan is the key to a successful implementation.

Current procedures and business practices are reviewed and compared to the functionality available in the solution. Discrepancies are identified, discussed and resolved by combining our knowledge of the software, our practical experience and your expertise in your business. These Risk Items, as we call them, if not identified and resolved, will derail the implementation, delaying and/or minimizing your return on investment.

User training is a two-phase process. The software provider's training plan, is used to provide the baseline knowledge of the application as it was designed to work out the box. However, no software in the world fits every company's unique characteristics or business practices. Therefore, the second phase of training is more hands-on, often one-on-one, to tailor the user's knowledge for their specific job function within the solution.

The pilot approach is now the industry standard for implementing business systems. During the pilot, we use real-life business events to fully train the users and prove the business practices. Piloting the software in this manner also ensures that users are taking advantage of new technology and methods rather than merely duplicating old procedures on the new system.

The entire business cycle from quote to cash receipt and preparation of financial statements is visited and proved. Risk Items are resolved and users are completely trained on new business practices, procedures and software functionality.

Implementation

The final step is to pull the plug on the old system and permanently start using the new. Data conversion, database preparation and Risk Item resolution are all reviewed. During the hand-off meeting documentation and procedure manuals are delivered and procedures for on-going technical support are distributed.

Post implementation, we as a company will always be available to answer questions, respond to hardware emergencies and provide other technical assistance as needed. We act as the ‘first line of defense' for our clients, thereby maximizing the return on their information system investment.