219 | People Power: Navigating ERP Implementations with Expert Guidance

Welcome to another episode of "The Art of Consulting Podcast" with your hosts, Andy Fry and Cat Lam. As seasoned IT consultants, CPAs, and professional development connoisseurs, we aim to bring you inspiring messages to help you discover the X factor in your professional field, leading to the success you truly deserve in your career and life. In this episode, your host Cat engages in an insightful conversation with Stephanie Forbes, an expert in the SEM space, focusing on ERP implementation. Stephanie, a seasoned speaker and senior leader in large-scale organizations, shares valuable insights to guide you through the ERP roadmap. They recap the last episode, delving into compensation structures for systems integrators and stakeholders involved in ERP implementations. This episode takes a people-centric approach, acknowledging the critical role individuals play at various organizational levels during ERP implementations.   Episode Highlights: Three Levels of People: Stephanie breaks down the discussion into three levels - Board/Executive, Project Leadership/ERP Team, and Operational Users/Front Lines - ensuring relevance for a diverse audience. Starting with "Why": Drawing inspiration from Simon Sinek, the conversation kicks off by emphasizing the importance of understanding the "why" behind ERP implementation. Aligning goals and clarifying timelines for all stakeholders is crucial. Addressing Threats and Opportunities: Stephanie provides reassurance, encouraging individuals who might feel threatened by the technological changes to see it as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. AI and Job Security: The discussion touches on the prevalent fear of job loss due to AI advancements, highlighting the need for a positive perspective and the potential for skill expansion. Aligning Goals: Clear communication and alignment of goals are crucial. The board and executive level should ensure that everyone, from C-suite to operational teams, shares the same goal and metrics. Balancing Priorities: Stephanie discusses the delicate balance between profitability metrics and focusing on ERP implementation. She compares it to building a house, emphasizing the need for a strong foundation before concentrating on other aspects. Project Leadership: The ERP project team needs clear goals and activities, ensuring each member understands their role. Stephanie advises against scope creep, emphasizing the importance of defining what's in and out of the project scope.   Managing Relationships: Building strong relationships between the ERP implementation team, executive leadership, and operational leaders is essential for success. Communication, clarity, and collaboration are key. Navigating Challenges: Stephanie addresses the challenges of AI expectations and the importance of humans in critical thinking. She encourages a realistic view of AI's current capabilities and stresses the ongoing need for human intervention. Looking Ahead: The discussion touches on the evolving role of AI, emphasizing that while routine tasks may be automated, creative thinking and critical problem-solving will always require human involvement. Team Dynamics and Workshops: Consultants play a vital role in ERP teams. Importance of team building and workshops for consultants to work together effectively. The change management team facilitates discussions around tasks and activities. Center of Excellence and Continuous Improvement: Scope creep as a launch pad for creating a Center of Excellence. Continuous improvement necessary for ongoing ERP maintenance. When to start thinking about a Center of Excellence and who should be involved. Master Data Team: The role and function of a master data team and its vital role before starting an ERP implementation. How the master data team helps navigate and refine data structures. Mechanisms for Feedback: Three key concepts: Alignment, Execution, and Roadblocks. Encouraging individuals to assess their alignment, empowerment, and role in project execution. Addressing feelings-based roadblocks and promoting open communication. Involving External Consultants: Establishing a military-style hierarchy for effective project management. Decentralized leadership empowers leaders at different levels. Allowing for autonomy, accountability, and problem-solving among team members. Upcoming Webinar on Greenhouse Gas Scope 3 Protocol: Stephanie's webinar in March hosted by Eco Canada. The relevance and applicability of the Greenhouse Gas Scope 3 Protocol for global organizations. Conclusions: Successful ERP implementation has covered vital dimensions, including the role of conflict in fostering a robust ERP environment, the imperative of cohesive team dynamics, and the pivotal contribution of a master data team in shaping optimal data structures. The insights extended to engaging operational users, implementing effective feedback mechanisms, and managing external consultants through a structured hierarchical approach.