You’re getting a new global system. You’ve verified all the user requirements, harmonized business systems*, and (after a thorough proposal process) selected a vendor and product that meets your needs. Now, with implementation about to begin, it’s time to seriously consider your system rollout process.

Releasing a global system is complex and can be very stressful, but here are three key strategies for a smoother rollout.

1. Embrace Organizational Change Management (OCM)

A good OCM strategy applies a people-focused structure to the business transition, speeding up adoption of the new system. Plan activities and communications to keep your stakeholders informed and engaged.

2. Build training around business processes

If you want users to embrace the new system quickly, you need to teach it in a familiar context. A successful training program introduces the users to the system by business process as opposed to simply presenting new system functionality.

3. Define your support governance and structure

Now is the time to think about what happens once the rollout is complete. Identify and put in place structures and processes capable of supporting the application globally starting with go-live and going into the future.

Nothing can completely eliminate the complicated demands of a global rollout, but these three strategies can put you on a smoother path to adoption and success.

*Note: While not discussed here, harmonizing processes across regions at the outset improves solution selection, lowers OCM effort, and simplifies training and support programs. For more information about harmonizing your systems, contact us..