07 Jul Questions to Ask When Selecting ERP Implementation Project Managers

Selecting the right ERP implementation project manager is crucial to the success of your ERP deployment. This individual will lead the project, coordinate resources, and ensure that the implementation meets your business objectives. To make the best choice, it’s essential to ask the right questions during the selection process. At Scaled Solutions Group, we’ve compiled a list of key questions that can help you evaluate potential ERP implementation project managers effectively.

Key Questions to Ask

1. What is your experience with ERP implementations, specifically with [Epicor Prophet 21 (P21)]?
   • Purpose: Understanding their hands-on experience with your specific ERP system is critical. It ensures they are familiar with the system’s intricacies and common challenges.
   • Follow-Up: Ask about the size and complexity of the projects they have managed and the outcomes of those projects.
2. Can you describe a challenging ERP implementation project you managed and how you overcame obstacles?
   • Purpose: This question assesses their problem-solving skills, resilience, and ability to manage unexpected issues.
   • Follow-Up: Look for specifics about the challenges faced, the steps taken to address them, and the results achieved.
3. How do you ensure that an ERP implementation project stays on schedule and within budget?
   • Purpose: Time and budget management are critical to the success of any project. This question reveals their approach to project planning and resource management.
   • Follow-Up: Ask about the tools and methodologies they use to track progress and manage budgets.
4. What strategies do you use to manage stakeholder expectations and communication?
   • Purpose: Effective communication is key to managing stakeholder expectations and ensuring project alignment.
   • Follow-Up: Inquire about their approach to regular updates, stakeholder meetings, and managing conflicting interests.
5. How do you handle resistance to change within an organization during an ERP implementation?
   • Purpose: Resistance to change is a common challenge in ERP projects. This question assesses their change management skills and ability to foster a culture of adoption.
   • Follow-Up: Look for examples of how they have successfully managed user resistance and promoted system acceptance.
6. Can you provide an example of how you tailored an ERP system to meet specific business needs?
   • Purpose: Customization is often necessary to ensure the ERP system aligns with unique business processes. This question evaluates their ability to understand business needs and configure the system accordingly.
   • Follow-Up: Ask about the specific customizations made and how they impacted the business.
7. What is your approach to risk management in ERP projects?
   • Purpose: Identifying and mitigating risks is essential to prevent project delays and failures.
   • Follow-Up: Inquire about the tools and techniques they use for risk identification, assessment, and mitigation.
8. How do you ensure data accuracy and integrity during data migration?
   • Purpose: Data migration is a critical aspect of ERP implementation. This question assesses their attention to detail and understanding of data management best practices.
   • Follow-Up: Ask for specific examples of data migration challenges they have faced and how they resolved them.
9. What methodologies do you follow for ERP implementation, and why?
   • Purpose: Understanding their preferred methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall) provides insight into their project management style and adaptability.
   • Follow-Up: Discuss the pros and cons of their chosen methodology and how it fits with your organizational culture.
10. Can you provide references or case studies from previous ERP implementation projects?
    • Purpose: References and case studies offer tangible proof of their experience and success.
    • Follow-Up: Contact the provided references to get a firsthand account of their performance, strengths, and areas for improvement.
11. How do you ensure continuous improvement and post-implementation support?
    • Purpose: Post-implementation support is crucial for resolving issues and optimizing the system.
    • Follow-Up: Inquire about their approach to training, support, and system updates after the go-live.

Conclusion

Selecting the right ERP implementation project manager is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success of your ERP deployment. By asking these key questions, you can gain valuable insights into a candidate’s experience, skills, and approach to managing ERP projects. At Scaled Solutions Group, we understand the complexities of ERP implementations and are committed to helping organizations find the right leadership for their projects.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your ERP implementation journey.

Visit us at Scaled Solutions Group for more information.