How can you identify the key stakeholders in an ERP implementation?

1 Define the project scope and objectives

The first step to identify the key stakeholders in an ERP implementation is to define the project scope and objectives. The project scope is the set of features, functions, and deliverables that the ERP system will provide. The project objectives are the expected benefits, outcomes, and impacts that the ERP system will achieve. By defining the project scope and objectives, you can clarify the purpose, scope, and direction of the ERP implementation and align it with the strategic goals of the organization.

2 Map the stakeholder groups and roles

The next step to identify the key stakeholders in an ERP implementation is to map the stakeholder groups and roles. Stakeholder groups are categories of stakeholders who share common characteristics, interests, or expectations, such as departments, functions, levels, locations, or external parties. Stakeholder roles are specific responsibilities or tasks that stakeholders perform or contribute to the ERP implementation, such as sponsors, champions, users, influencers, or critics. By mapping the stakeholder groups and roles, you can identify the diversity, complexity, and interdependence of the stakeholders involved in the ERP implementation.

4 Analyze the stakeholder needs and expectations

The fourth step to identify the key stakeholders in an ERP implementation is to analyze the stakeholder needs and expectations. Stakeholder needs are the requirements or demands that stakeholders have for the ERP implementation, such as functionality, quality, or performance. Stakeholder expectations are the perceptions or assumptions that stakeholders have about the ERP implementation, such as outcomes, benefits, or satisfaction. By analyzing the stakeholder needs and expectations, you can understand the stakeholder perspectives, preferences, and motivations for the ERP implementation.

5 Develop the stakeholder engagement plan

The fifth step to identify the key stakeholders in an ERP implementation is to develop the stakeholder engagement plan. The stakeholder engagement plan is a document that describes how you will communicate with, involve, and manage the stakeholders throughout the ERP implementation. The stakeholder engagement plan should include the following elements: stakeholder identification, stakeholder analysis, stakeholder communication, stakeholder participation, and stakeholder feedback. By developing the stakeholder engagement plan, you can establish the stakeholder relationships, roles, and responsibilities for the ERP implementation.

6 Monitor and evaluate the stakeholder engagement

The sixth and final step to identify the key stakeholders in an ERP implementation is to monitor and evaluate the stakeholder engagement. Monitoring and evaluating the stakeholder engagement is the process of measuring and reviewing the effectiveness and efficiency of the stakeholder engagement plan and activities. Monitoring and evaluating the stakeholder engagement should involve the following actions: collecting and analyzing the stakeholder data, feedback, and satisfaction; identifying and addressing the stakeholder issues, concerns, and changes; and reporting and improving the stakeholder performance, results, and outcomes. By monitoring and evaluating the stakeholder engagement, you can ensure the stakeholder alignment, satisfaction, and support for the ERP implementation.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?