I’m a car fan, and now, after some hard work, I own my own car. But buying a car was not easy for me – the test drives; inspections; roadworthy checks; and making sure that the car had all the features I wanted, were essential chores before I could make a decision to buy. Even though I was desperate to have my own car I remained patient throughout the process. I didn’t want to end up on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck. My patience paid off and I have been rewarded with some enjoyable scenic drives.
Preparing to introduce a new ERP system has a lot in common with choosing a new car, so how do we ensure that the business processes are running smoothly and that the system is performing as required before our client takes over the controls? The answer is, testing.
How do we ensure that the business processes are running smoothly and that the system is performing as required before our client takes over the controls?
There are several levels of testing, the initial levels are done by the consultants before handing over the system to the client for the pilots and acceptance testing. Testing allows issues and missing requirements to be recognised early when there is still time to affect modifications and corrections, thereby avoiding problems during or after go-live.
Working through the testing process methodically and in a timely manner strengthens the relationship between the client and the consultants and fosters the trust. But in the end the business processes and the system belong to the client, so at Fenwick we put a lot of effort into encouraging and assisting our clients to test the new system, or new features, as thoroughly as possible.
“Let’s just go live!” is a dangerous demand that can have the same result as not diligently checking the car that you are about to buy – but instead of a tow truck, the consequences can be much more serious and have a negative impact on the business.
