Implementing an ERP is a mammoth task. A lot of planning is required to implement an ERP soultion successfully. One of the most important factors affecting ERP implemetations is senior management support.
Lack of senior management support has been identified as an important CSF in erp implementations. Recently, in a discussion with one SAP implemention consultant I had the oppurtunity to discuss the key milestones in a ERP implementation project. The key ERP implemetation milestones are:

1. Business need document also called as requirement document laying down the roadmap and the benefits of the implemetation.
2. Buy or Make is also a decision which senior management needs to make early on.
3. Evaluating alternate solutions takes a lot of time since today, many ERP packages are available in the marlet. The one which suits the enterprise's requirement has to be chosen.
4. A detailed implementation plan needs to be made alongwith the time schedule.
5. Resource allocation comes next, wherein management commits resources to the ERP implementation project.
6. Lastly, risk analysis needs to be undertaken on an ongoing basis to ensure that ERP implementation risks are under control.

Related Posts

Evaluating an ERP - Standards & Documentation
How to Select the Right ERP Package
ERP Evaluation - Installation and Operation Issues
7 Things you should know as an IT Consultant