Once you make the decision to go with a CPQ software platform, you need to get your employees on board. Show staff how this new system will streamline the existing process, helping them and the company. Emphasize the benefits for them so they can see how it will improve their day-to-day work lives and how they can become active participants in the rollout.
Next, craft an implementation plan for your business. This needs to be a joint operation between you and the software provider. You’re the expert when it comes to your business, but the software company is the expert when it comes to CPQ. Create a transition team made up of your employees and theirs.
The best way to solve problems is to prevent them from happening. Brainstorm issues that can
occur during implementation. Solicit insight from different departments and levels of authority to create an all-encompassing list of potential challenges. The software development team knows the technical challenges they may run into, but not the issues affecting your organization.
It’s not enough for just the sales staff to understand how this software will work. Train all engineers and the production staff on the floor so everyone knows how this new program will
impact the work they do. You want everybody ready to go for the launch of the program so the
entire company works together to ensure its success. This will improve buy-in from customers
as well.
If we haven’t said this enough already, it bears repeating: you should rely on your software
company and their support team at all stages of implementation. These are experts who have
already implemented this application with other companies. They will be well-prepared to handle any problems that occur in the implementation process.
After you’ve finished the roll-out, take some time to reassess what happened. What went well?
What could have gone better? The implementation team should meet again to address any concerns that were documented during the launch. In order to move forward, you need to assess where you are for later growth.
Finally, reward everyone who has been a part of this launch. A new software application is a major undertaking for a company. Take time to celebrate with all of your staff so they know their
hard work is appreciated.
