Successful Manufacturing and Distribution Software Implementation follows a Methodical Software Selection Process
TOLEDO, OH, (NAMC) - The following outline is an excerpt from the Technology Group International (TGI) Software Selection Process Steps and Timeline white paper. This document represents a general process flow which may be tailored to fit any organization’s specific needs.
According to Rebecca Gill, vice-president of TGI, “Software selection consists of five individual elements or phases within a much larger, overall process. The entire process itself can span months or even up to a year, depending on the number of internal resources available for the project. Starting the software selection process with the right project plan is key to choosing and implementing the best software for your organization’s individual needs.”
The white paper details Software Selection Research and Planning, Software Requirements Identification and Request for Proposal Preparation, Software Supplier Evaluation, Software Supplier Selection, and Software Implementation.
Gill details the software implementation process:
Form Joint Project Team with Supplier
Define Project Charter
Order System Hardware
Install Hardware
Install Database and Software
Perform Initial User and Technical Training of Project Team
Validate Software
Review Current Processes and Create Work Flow Diagrams
Perform Value Stream Analysis for Required Process Improvements
Define System Data
Populate Base Tables
Cleanse Existing Data for Conversion
Migrate Cleansed Data to New System
Define System Reports
Review Reports in Existing System
Review Standard Reports in New System
Prepare Customized Report Listing
Create Customized Reports
Define Modifications
Review Value Stream Analysis and Work Flows for Required Modifications
Request and Review Supplier Quotes for Modifications
Authorize Necessary Modifications
Test Completed Modifications
Develop Integrated Test Plan
Document New Policies and Procedures for Users
Test System with Dual Path Approach if Necessary
Finalize System Security
Train Remaining Users and Technical Personnel
Pilot System (Execution of Integrated Test Plan)
Benchmark System Performance at Pilot
System Sign Off
Implement Remaining Locations
Perform Post Implementation Review
Perform Additional Training if Necessary
Perform Additional Modifications if Necessary
Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, Technology Group International (www.tgiltd.com) is a proven technology leader delivering Tier 1 application software functionality at a price performance level that can be readily accepted by wholesale distribution organizations of all sizes. A best-of-breed ERP software solution provides the basic footprint for managing the four trends outlined and Enterprise 21 offers functionality well beyond that of the standard distribution package. Enterprise 21 provides full ERP functionality with a fully integrated e-commerce module. It is one of the few ERP systems to meet the needs of today’s wholesale distribution without the need for expensive and time consuming modifications.
Contact: Technology Group International www.tgiltd.com Rebecca Gill
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