Smart Thinking Newsletter

5 ERP Blunders (and How to Avoid Them)

The sheer complexity of implementing an ERP system means that there are many opportunities for error; avoiding the common mistakes is key to ensuring a successful implementation. Here’s what to consider:

• ERP Apprehension – No matter how smooth your implementation, it all comes down to your users and how comfortable they are with the system. A thorough training program goes a long way.
• Manpower Needs – ERP systems require manpower for ongoing management, underestimating those needs can lead to frustration as well as affecting customers.
• Unrealistic Expectations – Setting a “go-live” date is all well and good, but things happen. Ensure your project is fully (and reasonably) thought out and planned before setting the date in stone.
• Going “Big” – Making a huge initial investment to complete an entire ERP transformation may seem like a great plan, but it’s also a huge drain on resources and comes with a significant learning curve. Small changes, over a few years, are more advisable.
• Generic Solutions – Although a more affordable option, generic solutions are not always a good fit; customization can help make your ERP system a better fit.

Smart Thinking Newsletter

Where Will ERP Go?

Part of planning a successful ERP strategy is knowing (or at least, predicting) trends and changes over the short and long term. Here are a few predictions for 2014:

• Improvements in Collaboration: In order to increase efficiency, ERP systems need to mimic social media networks by providing easy-to-use collaboration tools.
• More Integration: Going forward, ERP systems will focus more on integrating with other emerging technologies, such as 3D printing, production robots, and inventory management software.
• Increased Mobility: By putting ERP in the hands of workers, no matter where they are, companies can increase response times and efficiency.
• Moving to the Cloud: Some companies will start looking at cloud management for significant cost savings.

Smart Thinking Newsletter

UC Berkeley Employees Targeted by Phishing Attacks

The Daily Californian has reported that several employees at UC Berkeley fell victim to a recent phishing scam that resulted in the redirection of their pay cheques. The phishing emails were sent to a variety of staff members, including retired faculty, and asked them to log into a fake website with their CalNet credentials – at which point the credentials were stolen and used to change payroll instructions.