Tahir Junaid

Critical success CSFs for ERP System Selection, Implementation and Post-Implementation Summary Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system has been the most fast growing part of the software market from recent couple of decades. This chapter comprehensively describes the CSFs involved in the successful implementation of the system and what is required to keep it stable. It points out which CSFs is the most important regarding to Success of ERP projects. Chapter includes case studies, literature reviews and many surveys to draw a conclusion of CSFs involved in ERP success. All the available data was analyzed and a table was drawn for the most influential aspects involved in success cases, especially in giant firms. There are around 30 CSFs which matter a lot to the implementation and post implementation success of the ERP system. After the further deep analysis through table presentation following three CSFs stood tall in successful execution of ERP; Top Management Support and Involvement It is the commitment and keenness of top management which can ensure the in time and effective implementation of the ERP project. Basically, ERP is there to bring change in methodology of work. Employees usually do resist changing if there is not interest and following up by top hierarchy. This has serious implications in terms of time, finance and work flow of that particular Enterprise. It is vital for Executives to be there in the situation of implementation. Project Management It is basically the formulation of plan to implement the ERP project. It is very decisive factor in the success of project. It allocates the responsibilities, milestones to achieve with given time frame work and planning according to available resources. This will keep updating systematically the relevant hierarchy of the enterprise about the implementation progress. And with no delays decisions can be made to enhance the pace and quality of execution. A comprehensive documentation and flow chart of schedule with breakdown of tasks can be very helpful. User Training It is often the lack of understanding of the process which makes the project to collapse. Training provides the better understanding of the processes involved in implementation and post execution. It is very helping in smooth run and ensuring the required ultimate purpose of the project. The determination of an appropriate employee structure suiting to the ERP Project can further enhance the post implementation outcomes. Proper planning, follow-ups, scheduling and troubleshooting can improve the quality and outcome of the system. Implementation part is mostly related to the managerial level mainly consists of planning and assigning right people on right job. A project manager who understands the virtual nature of the project can contribute a lot with his commitment and resolve. Cultural and Technological frame of the work place one of the basics to start with. The accuracy of data and quality of feeding stays among other CSFs required to keep it smooth. ERP projects are there for lifelong system post implementation is about the follow up of continuous training and troubleshooting with timely fixes. Post Implementation the most important stage to ensure the long life of the system. It requires some hefty amount of finance as well as effort to synchronize the firm with ERP system; therefore the most organizations take it seriously in longer run. Hence, quality technical assistance and emergency troubleshooting is the key on the part of provider. Training of end user staff and follow-ups by higher administration can make proper utilization of the software. It helps evaluating the success rate and efficiency of the project itself. It further boosts the culture of competitiveness and responsibility in the organization as it can specify the employee's measurement of competence. These are the critical CSFs of ERP's success and utility in the longer run of the organization.