With a slew of government grants, SME centres, trade associations and chambers to help companies “go digital”, there is still the general sentiment that many find technology too difficult to implement, adopt and embed into their business. This blog explores the challenges companies are currently facing in what we believe is the fundamental first step for any company looking to transform their business with technology: IMPLEMENTING AN ENTERPRISE SYSTEM.

An Enterprise System is the technology backbone of your company without which your company can operate but very slowly, painfully and inefficiently. Unfortunately, most companies today still run on disparate and dis-integrated systems. Does the below diagram look familiar?

An Enterprise System is an integrated, secure and cloud based system that digitizes, automates and streamlines every business operations.

So why is it so difficult for companies to implement and adopt an enterprise system? Last year we commissioned the Singapore Management University (SMU) to understand what challenges SMEs faced when asked if they would implement an enterprise system into their business. Here is what we discovered.

1. Incumbent systems are that are out-dated and costly are entrenched in most companies.

2. Many companies lack the technical awareness and expertise. Those that do regard it as too costly and time consuming.

3. Few companies are willing or capable to change and adopt new technology.

Ever wondered why most MNCs engage consulting companies like Accenture, Deloitte, KPMG to implement their enterprise systems and not the software vendors like SAP, Microsoft, Oracle. It is because they face the same challenges mentioned above as SMEs. Working with a consulting firm who has the industry knowledge and implementation experience is crucial for any technology project. We have seen that technology adoption and business transformation is only successful when done together with consulting, particularly with a focus on change management and training.

Here's a breakdown of what a typical implementation plan looks like. Looks pretty straight forward right? Well it is if you have certified project managers and registered management consultants on your team. There is a detailed schedule behind each of these bars not to mention the continuous updates, follow-ups and meetings. Trust me, best to leave this to the consultants who love doing this stuff!

The benefits of having an enterprise system can be measured on two levels. At individual company levels it ranges from improved productivity to cost reduction.

More importantly are the benefits at a macro level.

In summary, Consulting + Cloud Technology = Business Transformation!