Free IT Help
Here you'll find information and resources to help you through the process of changing business system and making the most of your investment in IT.
In addition, Technology Management run regular educational seminars and events.
We also publish Software Answers, a quarterly magazine that aims to help you navigate the opportunities technology offers to your business. Download a copy of Software Answers. or sign up to receive your free copy by completing the form at the bottom of this page.
As the saying goes, 'If you fail to plan, plan to fail'.
By investing time and resource early in a project, businesses can clearly evaluate whether a new system is desirable and, if it is, ensure that it achieves its objectives.
Having a good understanding of where you are now and a clear vision of where you want to get to (within the context of the overall business strategy) are the two pillars in successful business system planning. Setting SMARTobjectives (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-based) then set the milestones for realising your vision.
Of course, along this path there are challenges. Some will be unique to your business and some will be common issues we've seen time and time before. Take a look now inside the 'Change Toolbox' (right hand column) at the resources we've put together to help you plan and evaluate system change effectively.
CRM_-_9_Essential_Tips_for_Success
Defining_the_need_for_an_integrated_business_system
Introducing a new business systems invariably entails lots of change. More so, the fact that the business is investing in a new system means that it is looking to change so that it can reach a strategic destination.
Change management is a basic skill in which most leaders and managers need to be competent. There are very few working working environments where change management is not important.
When leaders or managers are planning to manage change, there are five key principles that need to be kept in mind:
-
Different people react differently to change
-
Everyone has fundamental needs that have to be met
-
Change often involves a loss, and people go through the "loss curve"
-
Expectations need to be managed realistically
-
Fears have to be dealt with
Where you are embarking on a large change programme, you should treat it as a project. That means you apply all the rigours of project management to the change process - producing plans, allocating resources, appointing a steering board and/or project sponsor etc.. The five principles above should form part of the project objectives.
For small and midsize companies seeking a new business system (also known as an ERP or enterprise resource planning solution), it is typical to deal with a third party 'system integrator' (SI) that implements and supports a software company's product.
For this reason it is important to assess both the software's capability at addressing your current and future business needs and the SI's skills, experience and longevity.
The SI will usually have skills in making changes to the software in order for it to fit with the customer's specific requirements. For example, Technology Management implements Microsoft's business software products to create a complete system solution. This includes implementing the necessary hardware, as well as making enhancements; for example, mobile devices for remote data capture or business intelligence to aid proactive management decisions.
The SI will provide both the application software and the skill in how to use the application. As well as providing the expertise in implementing the application, they should ensure the conditions are conducive to a successful implementation. The successful transfer of skill and expertise will reflect the quality of the relationship with the SI.
Selecting the right SI is critical, because they will be supporting your system for its duration. However, software companies that have invested in strong third party relationships will be in a better position to win your trust, because you will have more choice in taking your business elsewhere to another SI partner should they not meet your needs – and thus reduce the risk of over reliance on one SI.
How_to_choose_your_business_system_supplier
You can make your investment in an integrated business system go much further with some financial planning.
Rather than tie up your valuable working capital to grow your business, attractive loans are now available from the likes of Microsoft's own financing team that enable you to spread payments over several years – helping you take advantage of low interest rates and quickly realise the rewards of your investment.
In addition, numerous EU grants are available that can help part fund your technology project. Each year, many grants remain untouched because businesses are unaware of the grant opportunities available. To help you take advantage of this hidden funding we've drawn together information on available grants the application procedure.
Finding_EU_Grants_to_Fund_Change
10_Golden_Rules_for_Grant_Success
Business Link
www.businesslinkwm.co.uk
Lots of practical advice for businesses, including specific information on getting the most from your IT systems. As a Business Link approved supplier, Technology Management can arrange for your business to have one of their independent Business Reviews to help you prioritise actions to grow your business.
M Institute
www.m-institute.org
An organisation that represents the specific issues medium-sized businesses face. Their site contains useful articles around exploiting technology.
BPIC
www.bpic.co.uk
The BusinessImprovement Performance Consultancy have some useful information on implementing more effective business systems.
Gartner
www.gartner.com
Independent research and guidance on making the right decisions about your technology investment.
Microsoft Dynamics NAV (Navision) blog: www.tecmannav.blogspot.com
Microsoft Dynamics CRM free for 90 days: www.tecman.co.uk/trial
Evaluating Financial Management Software: www.tecman.co.uk/evaluate
Optimising Stock Control: www.tecman.co.uk/distribution
Improving Supply Chain Visibility: www.tecman.co.uk/manufacturing
 |
Software Answers Case studies, reviews, hints and tips are all included to give you helpful ways to get more from your investment in technology. Download a copy of Software Answers. |
Sign up now for your free subscription:
