LogicData ERP Implementation Options for Greater Success

Deanne Macdonald | August 2nd, 2022

The concept that “one size fits all” leads to poorly fitting clothing and poorly implemented ERP systems.  The team at LogicData does not believe in one-size-fits all for anything.  Every manufacturer has unique requirements and situations that demand custom fitting of the ERP system and the ERP implementation. 

The first choice of “fit” comes with selecting an ERP system that is designed for your type and size of company.  A finance system alone is not a good choice for a manufacturing company.   And a manufacturing system is not a good choice for a finance company.  A large ERP system (such as SAP or Oracle) would overwhelm a mid-sized manufacturer, but select too small a system and you won’t have the workflows and functionality you need to run your business.  Goldilocks was right – keep looking until you find the one that is comfortable for you. 

In the same vein, how you deploy the system physically is important to your success.  Should you go with a cloud based system, on-premises, or a perpetual license hosted?  While some ERP providers only have a cloud version, SyteLine has three different deployment options – Cloud, Hosted and On Premise. Some manufacturers need the features that come with cloud, and some would be better served with one of the other two options. We feel you should have the choice. For more information on these three options see our blog Cloud ERP vs On Premise Comparison.

Our philosophy that one size doesn’t fit all especially holds true when it comes to implementing the ERP system you have chosen. We feel you should have choices. Therefore, LogicData has developed three different implementation options.

1. LogicData Managed Deployment
2. Train the Trainer Style (typical approach)
3. Self-Directed Implementation

Let’s explore each option.

LogicData Managed Implementation (Express Deployment)

Using this method, LogicData consultants do a full analysis of your operations and objectives while factoring in the scope of your software use. They then construct the system and train your personnel on the specific features that apply to their position and role in the company. Your users are trained in the specific functions they need to do their job, not on the entirety of the software.

Express Deployment consists of six (6) major phases:

• Discovery and Planning
• Construction
• Demonstration and Tuning
• Preparation and Training
• Deployment
• Post Go-Live Review

Train the Trainer Style (Standard Approach)

This is the typical approach to an ERP Implementation. We feel this approach enables you to take full ownership of the software, which minimizes further involvement from outside consultants in the future. It’s not that we won’t love working with you, but we feel you should be able to be able to handle most of what comes up in the future if you have a full understanding of the scope, capabilities, and functions of your software.

Here are the six key components of the Train the Trainer Style.

• LogicData trains client in overall SyteLine proficiency, one functional module at a time
• LogicData and client pilot each functional area of the software together
• Pilot procedures are documented for future reference and training
• Data conversion is planned and tested
• Client core team trains your end users in the procedures
• Client core team becomes the SyteLine Subject Matter Experts

This approach is done in phases to ensure a smooth transition of each area before going on to the next.

This is our standard approach and is the one we most often recommend.

Self-Directed Implementation

Using this method, the client takes on the responsibility for most training and implementation functions, utilizing Infor’s Campus Education Services online, as well as Infor’s Implementation Accelerators. LogicData assists with project planning and provides a pool of hours for general consulting and system support.

Through the implementation planning meeting, LogicData provides a timeline your internal team will execute. This approach works best when you have employees that have ERP implementation experience and are confident they can direct the project internally.

Here are the key components of this style.

• Your internal team is responsible for the bulk of project management, training, and implementation success
• LogicData consultants are scheduled to assist as needed during the project 
• Internal Team Leaders have prior experience with ERP Implementations

We rarely recommend this approach as few organizations have the skills on staff to pursue this method.  In addition, other keys to success for this approach include:

• Ensuring the project has strong internal leader
• Prioritizing the project so it doesn’t get thrown aside for other initiatives
• Having team members attend training together to foster discussion and problem solving
• Properly piloting each area of the system
• Properly documenting the procedures developed during the pilots 

If you have a strong project team with ERP implementation experience, this method may work for you.

Which Method is the Best for our Enterprise?

Here are some of the questions that determine which method is right for your enterprise.

• How quickly do I want my system to be up and running?
• How much time do my personnel have to dedicate to the implementation?
• How competent is my IT team and have they done ERP implementation successfully in the past?

Here are two comparison charts for your use.

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If you have questions or want more information on how we can help you successfully implement ERP in your enterprise, contact us today.

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