ERP project: Three steps for good internal communication

The project manager in the ERP project is the position that has to communicate with all sides. Internal communication can be particularly important for the success of the project.

Versino Financial Suite for SAP Business One Finance

For us as ERP partner the topic of ERP projects is constantly present. We have already accompanied several projects across the finish line and therefore know what is important. For example, it is important to have the right project manager in the company. This is not only relevant for internal project communication, but also for the provider (Here a few tips on how to choose the right project manager).

However, if you have already appointed your own in-house project manager or are to manage your first ERP project yourself, here are three useful tips for good internal communication:

1. teamwork with key users

Key user and project manager - this can be one and the same person. But it is not absolutely necessary. Nevertheless, the areas of responsibility overlap, such as communication between the departments and the management or the documentation of the project. However, if there is one key user per department in larger companies, the project manager works across the company. However, whether there is one or more key users, the communication between the parties must be right for the project to run smoothly. Strong communication skills and empathy are important prerequisites. Sit down with the key user(s) and discuss the basics of your collaboration. Who has which responsibilities and do you want to communicate with each other and with the employees?

2. get (management) help

A major difference from the Project management to the key user we have already mentioned: keeping the bigger picture in mind. You will temporarily take on a leadership role in the „ERP Project“ area. Therefore, it is important that, in addition to sufficient expertise, you also possess qualities such as assertiveness. However, this does not mean that you already need a lot of management experience. Nevertheless, seek help from employees in leading positions within the company. On the one hand, these employees will feel valued for their competence and can assert the interests of the project management within their sphere of influence.

3. understanding employees in the ERP project

Social empathy is quite important in your work. The best task management doesn't work if the employees who are supposed to carry out the „to-do's“ don't have the necessary capacity for it. Therefore, get an overview of individual employees and their areas of responsibility. Present yourself and explain your areas of responsibility. This greatly facilitates mutual understanding during the project.

If you manage to find a good level of communication for the ERP project with key users, employees in leading positions and all other employees, you have already achieved a great deal. This approach will make it easier for you to maintain an overview and coordinate tasks. It will also lay the foundation for the success of the ERP software. Read more here.

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