A blog to offer ideas, suggestions and techniques to turn around or fix troubled or failed IT projects

Some Guiding Principles for the ERP Project Manager

by Mark Davison February 2. 2011 19:52

Accept that some of ERP implementation is art, and some is science, and manage both
Email is a great tool for communication but not a substitute for face-to-face and phone conversations that are often more effective
Make sure the project team, end uses, stakeholders, and others are engaged to ensure buy-in and forward movement
Do what it takes to keep enthusiasm and interest - it can be a long road - we've seen everything from picnics and parties, to redecorating the office, providing music and snacks, to contests and marching bands!
Ask for status and updates from everybody, frequently and in a curious way, to find out what's happening
You're the PM - be the leader, spread the vision, embrace and promote the plan, come with an agenda, think ahead, encourage, support, guide, direct, set the example, make sure people get it, and lead the way forward
Think about the relationships you'll need to succeed, build them early so that when you need to ask for help the foundation is there
When it comes to a choice between technology and process don't forget that processes leads, technology is supposed to provide the tools
The corollary is that sometimes it's great to apply technology and sophisticated solutions, but functional, technical, time and money requirements might be better satisfied by low-tech, quick-and-dirty solutions that can be just as good
Recognize accomplishments - both big and small
Thank others for their work and commitment

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ATLANTA - CHICAGO - DETROIT

Acquisition Due Diligence and Integration	IT Strategy
Acquisition Integration and Carve Out Leadership	Complex Business Change and Program Management
Business Operations Improvement	Sourcing Strategy and Vendor Management
Cost Optimization	IT Effectiveness
Interim CXO

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