More and more software tools are reaching into the small and medium-sized
(SME) manufacturing markets to help companies synchronize enterprise
systems with lean-manufacturing processes. The goal - to achieve real-time
communication and integration of material and information flows. Even
though the initial price points of these software tools are becoming
attractive, a system implementation requires much more than just buying
"Lean- Enabled" software.
Implementing any new business information system or updating a current
system is a drain on a company's most valuable resources…time and
people, to name a few. If you are in the planning stages, or even in
the middle, of enhancing your Lean Manufacturing environment by addressing
your information systems needs, take a look at the following action
bullets. This list will lead you towards a more efficient and successful
business system implementation project.
Identify unique business requirements, before they become "fatal
flaws"
Validate the selection of the candidate software solution against
key business objectives
Balance the implementation of a totally new "integrated"
system versus utilizing new technology to integrate legacy systems
Tie specific implementation project goals to operational business
objectives
Chose a software solutions supplier you can "live" with
Balance re-engineering business processes with system functionality
versus customized solutions
Reduce, or at least understand, risks
Work within company culture and set operating ground rules for the
project team
Gain commitment from the boardroom to the lunchroom
Encourage functional ownership
Keep credit and blame in-house
Use consultants to "think outside the box" or expand resources
for one-time needs
Report progress to the boardroom and the lunchroom
Follow a well thought out project plan, but always have a contingency
plan
Utilize milestones and mini-projects to conquer and divide a massive
undertaking
Understand the power of a conference room pilot, trade-offs on parallel
processing, and the positive investment in testing and reporting environments
Understand the total cost of ownership and the learning curves of
maintaining operational software
Keep to the training plan, but plan more training
The MEP has helped numerous SMEs navigate from initial requirements
analysis, to software and vendor selection, through systems implementation.
Whether you are just beginning or have become bogged down in all the
details, contact the MassMEP at (508) 965-3402 to discuss assistance
options.
