Successfully accomplishing a project depends on a variety of factors, including team members working together, straightforward communication, strategic goals, and a clear plan. When it comes to implementing a software program planning is a vital component that contributes to success.

Understanding the basics of an implementation plan, the importance, the risks of foregoing a plan, and ways to ensure your software provider has a valid methodology are critical to give your business the best chance of implementation success.

What is an Implementation Methodology?

An implementation methodology is a detailed outline that goes through the steps needed to install and utilize a software program. In this document, there will be dates listed, tasks assigned to individuals, and the steps required before your business can take full advantage of the benefits of the software program. The implementation methodology usually goes with the strategic plan for a project.

An implementation plan that delegates important tasks between members of your business and the software provider will reduce the risk of errors and miscommunication, promoting a smooth transition. In addition, the resources needed will be outlined in this document, which may include labor, materials, and professional fees.

Why is an Implementation Plan Important?

Implementation plans are important to ensure that actionable steps are being taken by the necessary team members. First, implementation plans can help engage your employees. When there is less confusion surrounding what needs to be done and why, you are creating an engaging environment and focusing your employees on the task at hand. In addition, these plans encourage collaboration between your team and the software provider. To be successful, there needs to be a collaboration between both teams to work out the fine details and implement the software with added ease.

Methodologies that focus on the implementation of software programs also contribute to transparency throughout the process. Management doesn’t want to be blindsided by unexpected costs for professional fees or materials. A strong implementation plan will outline all key costs with an expected timeframe. Furthermore, large companies have an obligation to run major decisions by shareholders and the board of directors. A defined plan with clear goals allows you to gain support from upper management.

What are the Risks of Foregoing an Implementation Plan?

The risks of foregoing an implementation plan can be severe. A detailed outline of the tasks associated with the software implementation reduces costs. The more time you spend in the implementation stage, the higher the costs associated with professional fees and the lower productivity you will have.

Moreover, the most common risk of skipping the implementation plan is failure. A project that doesn’t have a clear direction and milestones that individuals work towards is more likely to get stuck in the implementation phase, resulting in an underutilized system or bypassing the project altogether. This is also a costly detriment as there are upfront fees when implementing software programs.

What are the Elements of an Implementation Plan?

Successful implementation plans will include a few different components. Nonetheless, the implementation plan for your specific software should be tailored to your situation. Review your plan for the following components:

• Project Objectives – The goals should be defined and attainable.
• Project Schedule – A detailed outline of the milestones and when they are expected to be achieved should be in your implementation plan.
• Resources – Define the different resources your business will need to deploy, including cash, labor, and equipment.
• Tasks – A complete list of the tasks necessary for implementation is suggested. Additionally, you should assign tasks to key individuals involved in the process.
• Changes – Any changes that occur throughout the process should be documented.
• Progress – Progress towards each milestone should be found in your implementation plan.
• Success – After the project is complete, you should review the implementation plan with your software provider and make plans for any future work, such as software upgrades, bug fixes, etc.

What are Ways to Ensure Your Software Provider Has a Valid Implementation Methodology?

A valid implementation methodology should be provided by the software company supplying the software program. To ensure your software provider has the necessary methodology, simply ask them. Have them walk you through the expected process, timeframe, and costs. Most proposals will have all of this information listed. You want a signed agreement between you and your software provider that outlines the implementation plan to avoid confusion down the road. If your prospective provider is unwilling to provide this, you may want to look elsewhere.