Migrating to Cloud ERP: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to Migrate from an in House System to a Cloud ERP Solution
Migrating to cloud ERP brings many internal decisions and challenges. Smaller companies, in particular, may feel stressed by the organizational changes required. However, the benefits of cloud ERP for most businesses are clear. Below are ten steps to successfully migrate to a cloud ERP system.
Collective Planning
After identifying the need for cloud ERP, bring all stakeholders together to discuss the next steps. This includes choosing the software, planning the implementation, transferring existing data, and addressing potential issues quickly and effectively.
System Analysis
Not all IT applications are suitable for the cloud, so identify these early. Assess the pros, cons, and potential risks of moving to cloud ERP. Process mapping helps you find the applications best suited for transfer, creating a more streamlined and compatible system.
Choosing the Right Supplier
With many cloud ERP solutions on the market, finding the right one is crucial. Ensure the supplier is a certified cloud solution provider. The software should match your organization’s scale, offer flexibility, be cost-effective, and meet your workload expectations.
Manage Internal Resources
Migrating to cloud ERP significantly changes your current IT setup. Decide what to do with existing hardware and software once the transfer occurs. Determine what can still be used with the cloud ERP and what will become obsolete. This control helps manage your budget and ensures a smooth transition.
Plan the Next Steps
Detailed planning of the steps and stages before the cloud ERP goes live will make success more achievable. Set clear deadlines and have backup plans in place since not everything will go as planned. Discuss any customizations with the supplier beforehand to avoid additional costs and complications later.
Create Backup Solutions
Before transferring to cloud ERP, back up your data to avoid costly mistakes. Once implemented, your data will be stored securely in the cloud, not on local servers. Ensure your ERP supplier can back up, batch data, and replicate it. This stage is crucial for a successful data migration.
Installation of the System
Prepare your IT infrastructure for the cloud ERP installation. Run as many tests as needed to ensure optimal functionality. Address any significant issues that could affect performance before going live.
System Monitoring
After the changeover, closely monitor the cloud ERP’s performance. An early-stage monitoring plan should cover technical hitches as they arise. Involve both management and regular users in generating reports to create a comprehensive view of overall performance.
The Full Handover
With everything in place, it’s time for the full transition to the cloud ERP system. Use the supplier’s guidance to move gradually rather than all at once. This approach helps staff adapt more easily. Training is essential to maximize the system’s benefits for the organization quickly.