ERP Introduction: Change Management as a Success Factor

Digitization presents midsize companies with the challenge of steadily improving their business processes to remain competitive.

A central role is the introduction of a modern enterprise resource planning system (ERP). But the best technology does little use if the employees do not accept it.

This is clearly where change management begins.

A successful ERP introduction in the middle class depends significantly on how well the change in the company is accompanied and designed.

Why is change management so crucial when introducing ERP in the middle class?

Digitization presents midsize companies with the challenge of steadily improving their business processes to remain competitive.

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The introduction of a new ERP system is far more than just an IT project. It deeply engages in the usual workflows and structures of a company.

Employees from all departments – from purchasing to production to sales and accounting – are affected.

New processes need to be learned, new responsibilities are taken over and old habits are stored.

These changes can lead to uncertainty, fears and resistances that endanger the success of the entire project.

In the middle class, where corporate culture is often characterized by personal relationships and long-term traditions, a sensitive approach is essential.

A structured change management ensures that employees are involved in the process from the outset, their worries are taken seriously and they are enthusiastic about the change.

It creates the needed acceptance and motivation without which a ERP introduction in the middle class can hardly be successful.

The Phases of Change Management in ERP Introduction

A successful change process can be divided into four logical phases that build on one another and systematically shape the transition.

Phase 1: Preparation and Analysis

At the beginning of each successful change process is a thorough review of the initial situation. Where is the company currently?

What processes should be improved by the new ERP system? What goals and fears do the employees have?

In this phase, it is crucial to establish an open communication culture and to inform the workforce at an early stage about the need and goals of ERP introduction.

The formation of a core team of executives and key opinion leaders that actively promote change is also an important first step.

Phase 2: Planning and Conception

Short: Based on the review, a detailed plan for change management is built.

Based on the review, a detailed plan for change management is built. This includes not only the technical rollout of the ERP system.

However, also all accompanying communication and training measures. Who needs to be informed when and how? What training are needed for which group of employees?

How to deal with resistances? In this phase, the so-called "Pro

References and further reading

The following separate references complement the topics in this article:

• Bitkom – German digital industry association.
• German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI).
• European Commission – Digital strategy.
• MDN Web Docs (Mozilla)
• W3C – World Wide Web Consortium.

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