Why a Specialist Project Manager Matters for your Complex ERP Project: A Sports Analogy

Imagine your organization embarking on a complex ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) project. Much like a sports team, successful ERP implementation requires strategic leadership, adaptability, and experience. Let’s draw a parallel using a sports analogy:

The Cricket Coach vs. The Rugby Team

• You may have an excellent internal project manager designated to lead your ERP journey. However, consider this: Would you appoint a brilliant Black Caps cricket coach to lead the All Blacks Rugby team? While the cricket coach possesses essential leadership qualities, they lack experience in coaching rugby.

• Similarly, relying solely on internal resources for ERP project management can be risky. When challenges arise, they may struggle to adapt without the necessary expertise.

Playing and Coaching Simultaneously

• Due to the cricket coach’s inexperience, the rugby players may find themselves improvising the game plan as they play. However, when the game encounters difficulties, their attention becomes divided, and there is no well-defined strategy to handle unexpected challenges.

• In ERP projects, distractions can result in crucial oversights. An experienced project manager, akin to a specialist rugby coach, ensures that the team remains singularly focused on executing the game plan.

Handling Unexpected Situations

• If a player gets injured during a rugby match, the coach must quickly reshuffle the team to fill the void. Similarly, ERP projects encounter unforeseen issues - having an expert ensures agile responses.

• Penalty time in rugby corresponds to critical project phases. A seasoned project manager knows how to adapt and make informed decisions under pressure.

Understanding the Game and Risks

• Can the cricket coach assess the risks posed by the opposing rugby team? Would they be ready with offensive and defensive strategies? Experience matters.

• An ERP project manager understands the intricacies, risks, and nuances specific to ERP systems. They read the game based on their expertise.

Team Support and Trust

• Just as rugby players rely on their coach, ERP teams need guidance. The right structure, methodology and processes ensure optimal performance.

• Trust from stakeholders - like rugby fans and promoters - is crucial. An experienced ERP project manager inspires confidence.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• ERP projects often fail due to inadequate project management. Placing an inexperienced ERP project manager (akin to a cricket coach) in charge leads to repeated mistakes.

• An ERP project needs someone who has learned from past experiences and can navigate challenges effectively.

In Summary

Choose an ERP project manager who understands the game, anticipates moves, and leads your team to victory. Don’t risk playing without a seasoned coach—book your specialist project manager now! 🏉