FinFactor Business Finance

Unlocking ERP Potential with Gene Hammons

Blaine Bertsch Season 1 Episode 5

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch and Gene Hammons discuss selecting and implementing the right ERP system. They cover the crucial roles of training, change management, and internal team engagement for successful implementation. They also touch on managing costs, avoiding implementation fatigue, and the limitations of traditional RFPs. Gene offers insights on cost evaluation, the benefits of automation, and the significance of data quality and project management. Join Blaine and Gene as they take a deep dive into the world of ERPs.

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Watch on youtube: https://youtu.be/A7qOrpUU_Us

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Learn more about Gene and their services at profitfromerp.com

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Show Notes:

In this conversation, Blaine Bertsch and Gene Hammons discuss the importance of selecting the right ERP system for a business and the challenges that can arise during implementation. They emphasize the role of the internal team in ensuring a successful ERP implementation and highlight the need for proper training and change management. The conversation also explores the impact of ERP on staffing and cost savings, as well as the importance of industry-specific expertise. Gene shares insights on avoiding implementation fatigue and maintaining focus throughout the process. 

The conversation concludes with a discussion on the limitations of traditional RFPs in ERP selection. In this conversation, Gene Hammons discusses various aspects of implementing an ERP system. He emphasizes the importance of managing cost overruns and scope creep, as well as dealing with RFPs and bid criteria. Gene also highlights the need to evaluate the cost of software and implementation, and the importance of comparing the total cost of ownership. He explains the value of automation and redeploying resources, and the benefits of forecasting and modeling. Gene also discusses the power of automating processes, considering staff engagement and understanding, and the importance of data quality. 

He concludes by emphasizing the role of planning and project management, and the value of engaging an ERP consultant.

Takeaways:

Selecting the right ERP system is crucial for a successful implementation and requires considering the specific needs and requirements of the business.

The internal team plays a critical role in ERP implementation, and proper training and change management are essential for success.

ERP can lead to cost savings and increased efficiency by streamlining processes and eliminating human errors.

Building a network of industry peers and learning from success stories can provide valuable insights and guidance during ERP implementation.

Avoiding unrealistic expectations and understanding the limitations of ERP systems are important for a smooth implementation process.

Traditional RFPs may not be sufficient for selecting the right ERP system, and a more comprehensive approach that includes scripted demos and industry-specific expertise is recommended. Managing cost overruns and scope creep is critical in ERP implementation.

Evaluating the cost of software and implementation, and comparing the total cost of ownership, are important factors in decision-making.

Automation and redeploying resources can lead to increased efficiency and value.

Forecasting and modeling can provide valuable insights for decision-making.

Engaging an ERP consultant can help ensure a successful implementation.