With increasing digitization in all areas of life, more and more companies are concerned with the digital mapping of their business processes. This is exactly what is possible with ERP systems, which can be adapted to the individual processes of all operational areas in order to manage and evaluate them from a central program.
What distinguishes Odoo from other ERP systems?
The Odoo, is characterized by a modular structure that covers all processes from purchasing and warehouse management to customer management and a web store. With a modern user interface based on smartphones, these and many other areas can always be kept in view. Since the system is open source, all modules can be adapted to your individual requirements. We are not surprised that Odoo has become one of the most popular ERP solutions for small and medium-sized businesses.
The reasons for using Odoo are many and varied due to the central overview and a common data base. These include easier problem identification and process optimization, but also cross-departmental collaboration among employees and the cost advantage compared to several platforms used in parallel.
How is the introduction and use of the system proceeding?
The system implementation and use of Odoo usually takes place in four successive phases. Once the system has been selected on the basis of the initial business vision and the benefits of Odoo, the next step is to introduce it into the company.
In order for Odoo to offer you the best possible added value, the system must be technically adapted to the specifics of the company areas to be mapped during the so-called implementation phase. This includes, among other things, the setup of required routes in the warehouse, the product import or the configuration of interfaces for third-party systems. A frequently used interface in sales, for example, is that or connectors for parcel delivery service providers. At least as relevant as the technical system adaptation is the training of the employees already during the implementation phase. Only with sufficient user experience already before the final system introduction in the company (go-live) can the smoothest and most efficient transition to daily work with Odoo be ensured.
Against the background of the versatile use cases and the high usage requirements, the implementation of the Odoo system usually takes place within an extensive project. It is common, especially in small and medium-sized companies, to cooperate with a specialized external IT service provider as a project partner for the configuration of the system and the training of the employees, since the resources required for this are often not available in-house. Even after a successful implementation, further measures are usually necessary, since over time, for example, changing business processes must be mapped in the Odoo system. An expansion of functions, system updates or other improvements are also reasons for further cooperation.
What is change management and why is it so important in system implementation?
The term change management is becoming increasingly important due to the ever faster changing corporate environment. Accordingly, this term is used to design and implement changes on a strategic and operational level, intervening in all aspects of the change involved in order to implement the desired change sustainably and effectively at the same time. An Odoo implementation project is also usually a company-wide change, as the majority of employees usually use the ERP system on a daily basis at work. Likewise, individual business processes can already be improved by the sole implementation of Odoo, which can also lead to changes in the subsequent workflow., which can also lead to changes in the subsequent workflow.
Against this backdrop, the successful implementation of a new system in a company requires not only technical implementation, but above all a targeted introduction of all stakeholders to the change and structured training of the employees affected. The human factor and the correct approach to change therefore represent a central success factor in this type of project.
During project planning, the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders involved should be clearly defined even before the actual start of the project. Detailed project and time planning is an important factor in the success of the project, and it is advisable to continuously review the plan and adjust it as necessary. Throughout the project, effective communication is critical to make the project transparent. All parties involved should openly and directly communicate the background, risks and benefits of the planned change. To guarantee this, it is advisable to review all communication channels used, such as face-to-face meetings, meetings or telephone calls, for their efficiency during the course of the project and to introduce new channels if necessary. It is also important to develop a change management strategy to ensure that all affected employees accept the change and can work successfully with the new system. Previous change projects can be used as indicators of acceptance.
The implementation methodology plays a crucial role in the successful integration of an ERP system to familiarize employees with the new system. It is recommended to keep the number of participants in the workshops low and to pass on the acquired knowledge to relevant key users who can then spread it throughout the company.
Fundamental changes, such as a system implementation within a company, are often associated with uncertainty. Many employees are more likely to accept change if they understand the problems of the current situation and can see the benefits of the future state. For this reason, it is essential that the IT service provider is present throughout the process and can also deal with skeptical employees.
How are Odoo implementation projects carried out at manaTec?
At manaTec, we focus on the relevance of change management in all project phases - regardless of whether consulting or technical system customization has the upper hand. Even in combination of both focal points, we always strive for complete transparency and an active involvement of our customers in order to implement their individual requirements in the best possible way. This is the only way to jointly achieve the goal of successfully going live with the system on schedule. As technical experts, we do not just act as a service provider, but actively navigate you through the project. Typically, we conduct our implementation projects in three phases consisting of a familiarization phase and two successive implementation phases. The following infographic clearly summarizes the details of the phases.
In our user workshops for all the modules you require, the employees concerned can get to know the system actively and playfully before the final implementation. For a lasting learning effect, we always record all workshops and make them freely available to you afterwards.
After the successful completion of the project, you are by no means alone with your new Odoo system. Of course, we also offer you our comprehensive support beyond the implementation project in order to clarify any questions that may arise and to provide you with the best possible support in all matters. Your success is our success, and we are always there to help you with any challenge.
Are you looking for an ERP system with which you can map your complete corporate communication in addition to your business processes, or are you already as convinced of Odoo as we are? Contact us now and we will assist you as an experienced Odoo partner with all questions regarding the implementation!
Sources: www.odoo.de, www.ifm-business.de, www.business-wissen.de