MRP software is a very
complicated software system that
virtually effects all operations of a business. When a company decides
to
launch this software, management must make the commitment that it will
provide
the necessary resources to the launching of the software.
The necessary resources for a successful launch are:
Successful MRP launches
are not luck; they are the end
result of doing what is necessary, and nothing less. A failed launch
will
disrupt operations and cost much more than if it was done properly.
A good launch starts with the appropriate software for your business.
There a
few different MRP/ERP systems available. Choose the one that does most
of what
you need and want, at a price that you can afford. Pay special
attention to
upgrade requirements in the future.
Research the availability of experts to come into your company and lead
the
launch activities. Find out who other companies used, and the cost and
length
of time to launch. With the high cost of MRP software, you need to talk
to
other companies and learn what they did right and what they did wrong.
If the
software company does not have a list of companies that are
using its
software, look for another software.
After the software is chosen, it's time to choose champions from the
necessary
disciplines, these include: materials dept, finance dept, engineering,
floor
support, etc. Some champions will require more time to invest
than
others. For example, data input champions will only need to be involved
to
learn the new input screens and to express their needs of the software.
The
champion(s) from the materials dept will need much more time to be able
to
learn and set up bills of materials, the shipping application, etc.
The new system needs to be set up and ready to go, with everyone
involved
trained and knowledgeable before the new software goes live. Dry runs
of
materials moves, truck shipments, financial results, etc need to be
done and
proved out. Whatever you do, do not launch the new software before this
happens.
Be sure champions can take the time they need to make the new software
launch
happen. If the necessary people are too busy to work on the new
project, the
new project will be in trouble.