In this article, we will look at the main strategies, technology for implementing ERP systems, and the benefits that businesses get from it.
It is customary to distinguish three key strategies for implementing ERP systems:
- Step-by-step integration – according to this scenario, ERP automation occurs through a phased implementation on the main modules, and then gradually expands to all business departments. However, it should be borne in mind that this method takes time, so the visible effect of the system implementation may not appear immediately.
- Comprehensive ERP implementation – in this case, the system is implemented immediately and in full, in all areas of the business. We recommend using this option for companies with a simple organizational structure and production.
In one of our materials, we described which companies an ERP system would be suitable for, so we recommend that you read it. with this articleThis strategic approach requires thorough testing of all business processes before implementing ERP, as it is necessary to analyze and determine which of them must be automated and which are desirable.
After completing the previous step and modeling processes based on the system's functionality, it may turn out that some business processes should be modified, and some should be abandoned altogether.
3. Combined method – The ERP system is implemented in all areas at once, but it happens in stages. This approach allows you to speed up the process of putting the system into operation as much as possible, ensuring minimal losses in the quality of work.
ERP implementation stages
The duration and complexity of ERP system implementation is due to the need for a comprehensive preliminary analysis of the company's activities. This process includes the following stages:
- Company description – determining key characteristics, such as the number of employees, production volume, etc. This allows you to gain a better understanding of the company's work and update your perspective on daily operations.
- Automation analysis – determining the level of automation of existing processes and identifying those that require additional automation.
- Isolating unique business processes – identification and analysis of unique business processes that distinguish the company from competitors.
- Business process modeling – creation of business process models using selected software products or ERP systems.
- Identifying functional gaps – identification of discrepancies between the standard functionality of the system and the described business processes of the company.
- Taking into account limitations and risks – identifying possible limitations, risks, problems and establishing a framework for system implementation.
That is why some companies, including ToDo, offer a pre-project survey service. This service not only helps determine whether ERP-based automation is appropriate for a particular organization, but also allows you to adjust certain business processes based on the analysis and report received from this survey.
After conducting an express examination, the client receives a detailed report containing:

- Purpose of the examination.
- The goal of the automation project.
- Basic business requirements of enterprise employees.
- The most significant problems identified during the survey that may hinder the achievement of project objectives.
- The most significant business risks identified during the survey.
If you skip the preparation stage, you risk wasting a significant amount of time and resources in the event of a lengthy or unsuccessful system implementation.
If the company already has processes in place and is ready to implement the system, we move on to drawing up a project plan. At this stage, we recommend creating a detailed list of requirements for the ERP system, clearly defining areas of automation, establishing project boundaries, and identifying departments for automation.
ERP system implementation is an individual and responsible process. Therefore, the implementation technology may include many stages, but the most common ones are:
- Preparation for implementation – assessing all aspects and determining the need for automation using ERP. Setting project goals, expectations, budget and timeline.
- Analysis and planning – at this stage, the company is analyzed, the work of departments and business processes are studied. This is a pre-project survey. Then, tasks are determined, goals are set, after which a technical project plan is formed with further modeling and optimization.
- Design, modeling and development – development of an adapted solution according to the requirements. Design of key system modules and refinement of the enterprise's functionality.
- Installation and testing – data reconciliation and system testing together with the customer's experts. Finalization of solutions in case of identified shortcomings.
- Initial setup of regulatory reference information (RRI) – creation of a single information space for effective enterprise management.
- Employee training – conducting introductory courses and creating instructions for the correct use of the ERP system.
- Commissioning – setting accounting parameters and configurations for optimal system operation. Identifying and eliminating problems that arise when working with ERP.
- Accompaniment – identification of individuals or companies that will support the system after implementation. Organization of a support system and resolution of possible problems.
What does a business gain from implementing ERP?
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System serves as a means of integrating and automating all business processes to simplify and facilitate their management. This leads to numerous advantages, among which it is worth noting:
- Versatility – ERP can cover a wide range of enterprises of different types and sizes, including industry, banking, trade, and services.
- Flexibility – ERP is configurable for different business processes, has different configurations and integrations. Odoo is a modular system, so you can connect exactly the modules that your business needs. It has 48 modules (for a detailed list, see here) and about 39,000 improvements.
- Single platform – ERP implementation creates a single information environment in the company, optimizing cooperation between departments, management, and staff. Odoo will help digitize all business processes of the enterprise using a single system and avoid a “program zoo”.
- Distribution of access rights – ERP allows you to distribute access rights between employees from different departments to protect corporate data from unauthorized access.
- High-quality planning and accounting – ERP systems are designed to store and process large amounts of data, which allows for a balanced distribution of production resources and making management decisions.
The disadvantages of ERP stem from its advantages, as the complexity and breadth of the system can be viewed from both sides. Setting up processes, transferring information, and ensuring smooth operation require time and resources.
Therefore, it is important to choose software that is not too overloaded and to involve experienced specialists in the implementation. A rather convenient solution is Odoo, because you can expand the functionality of the system gradually. Our employees will do everything necessary to make this process easy and comfortable for you.
You can get a consultation by calling: +38 073 871 53 13. We will be happy to tell you about all the advantages of automation using a modern software solution.