Application Implementation / Re-Implementation

Re-implementation of existing application software and the implementation of new application software follow the same basic steps. It is important to note that we frequently find that clients feel they need a new system when in fact they may not. In many cases it comes down to some combination of the following; better leveraging their system, implementing third party applications, process changes and thorough training.

The Critical Factors

Regardless of which option makes most sense, two factors are critical to successful implementation or re-implementation: the establishment of reasonable project team member expectations and close management of timely milestones and process details. All project activities, including the internal staff and external firms, need to be folded into one comprehensive project plan. Importantly, all employees need to know how the project affects their job. Once expectations and the project plan are established, the implementation effort can begin.

The project team structure with roles and responsibilities are defined, for both internal employees and external firms. It is best to have an experienced project manager who has implemented several projects and has enough time to allocate to manage the details.

Conference Room Pilot

A Conference Room Pilot (CRP) is performed to simulate in a test environment how the application will support the business once it “goes live”. The CRP is where the newly configured application is thoroughly tested by the business users following test scripts that mirror the key business processes. All data is converted, reports and interfaces developed, and the configuration is validated. New business processes are developed and documented, and users are trained on the features of the application and the new processes. All these activities are tracked and reported by the project manager, including escalating/resolving issues and updating senior management as to the project progress.

Once all the testing has yielded the required results to support the business requirements, the “go live” plan can be executed.

Clients have the choice of PIP providing oversight services and/or hands-on project management or self-implementation. All PIP activities employ a pragmatic “safely streamlined” approach without compromising quality.