Characteristics of a Well-Deployed ERP System: Consistency and Cadence

Implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system can be transformative for businesses seeking better operational control.  But initial deployment is just the first step. True success is fine-tuned with time, and reflected by how well the system is utilized day-to-day. In on our experience implementing ERP systems, we’ve identified five key characteristics of a “well-deployed” ERP system.  In this blog series, we’ll explore characteristics in detail, beginning with Consistency and Cadence.

Consistency and Cadence

A hallmark of a well-deployed ERP system is the rhythm and regularity with which users perform their jobs. Consistency in usage means that tasks such as entering transactions or generating reports are done in the same manner by all users. This uniformity reduces errors, ensures data integrity, and helps teams work more efficiently. A consistent ERP deployment also promotes accountability because everyone follows the same process, making it easier to identify and correct deviations.

In addition to consistency, a well-deployed ERP system follows a cadence that aligns with vital business functions. Whether it’s daily invoicing, weekly payables, or monthly material requirements planning (MRP), having scheduled times for these activities ensures that business processes run smoothly. This predictable cadence not only benefits internal teams but also improves customer service by creating reliable timelines for product deliveries, payments, and other business-critical events.

The consistent and rhythmic use of your ERP system creates a flow that employees and even external partners can depend on. It eliminates bottlenecks and ensures that critical business processes—such as invoicing and reporting—are performed in a timely, structured manner.

Why It Matters

• Efficiency: Employees can plan around the cadence of business functions, reducing chaos and miscommunication. Knowing that for example, invoicing happens on a specific schedule ensures that there’s no backlog, and problems are resolved promptly.
• Customer/ Supplier Satisfaction: Predictability benefits external partners as well. For instance, when invoicing and payments are scheduled and consistent, it builds trust, credibility and sets expectations.  This is especially true in SME space where “cash is king”.  Timely invoicing, collections and payments are vital.  
• Adaptability: While consistency is key, your ERP system can also be flexible when business conditions change. For example, during peak periods, you might increase the cadence of order processing or reporting, scaling up operations smoothly.

How to Achieve Consistency and Cadence

1. Establish Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Clear guidelines should be set up for every key task within the ERP. Training all users to follow processes ensures uniformity in data entry and reporting.
2. Schedule Regular System Check-Ins: Regularly scheduled tasks like MRP, payables, and invoicing should be set at specific times, allowing employees to plan around these scheduled tasks.
3. Monitor and Adjust: Over time, business needs may change, requiring adjustments to your ERP system's cadence. Regularly monitor the effectiveness of the schedule and consistency, making tweaks as necessary.

By fostering a routine for how your team interacts with the ERP system, you create an environment where both internal teams and external customers benefit from smoother operations.  A well deployed ERP is characterized by both consistency and caedence.

Next in the Series: User Adoption and Training – Stay tuned for our next blog where we dive into how proper training and user adoption can elevate your ERP system’s effectiveness.