The Three Stages of Digital Transformation
If you have been following Third Stage for any length of time, you have probably heard reference to reaching the “Third Stage” of your digital transformation or seen the below graphic: This is a graphical references of the three stages of a rocket launch in comparison to a digital transformation, suggesting that the third booster […]
10 Steps to ERP Implementation Success
Despite decades of history and lessons learned, most organizations still haven’t figured out how to achieve ERP implementation success. In fact, our research over the years shows that most implementations still fail – despite lessons from history and advancements in technology. (For more on this, see our 2020 ERP and HCM Report). The more things […]
Five Movies to Watch Before Implementing New ERP Software
We often look for third party guidance when heading into an ERP software implementation or other forms of digital transformation. We read blogs (thank you), we search online for success stories as well as failures, and we ask our network for tips on what has worked in the past. We too strongly recommend researching and […]
Why Tier 2ERP Software Might be Right for You
In ERP world there’s no shortage of software solutions and a variety of pricing. Software is sometimes described as Tier 1 solutions (examples include SAP and Oracle) and Tier 2 solutions (software companies like IQMS or NetSuite) and the list goes on. The concept is the lower the number the more sophisticated the system. Tier […]
Digital Transformation Is Dead
Digital transformation is dead – or at least it should be. The brutal truth is that most ERP vendors, consultants, and analysts have been far too focused on the “digital” in digital transformation and not focused enough on “transformation.” It’s high time that we put the outdated modes of digital transformation to rest for good. […]
Communicating the Need for Headcount Reduction as Part of Your Digital Transformation
We recently discussed the concept of reducing headcount as part of your digital transformation. While not an enjoyable topic for most, it is still a reality in some situations. If you find yourself having to layoff workforce in order to either stay afloat or keep your competitive edge, the most difficult part will likely be […]
Why ERP Software Magic Quadrants Are Flawed
When evaluating potential ERP software or other enterprise technologies, project teams typically turn to the usual industry analysts and reports. Analyst firms such as Gartner, Forrester, and others will frequently publish reports and analysis of various software solutions in a variety of verticals. Gartner’s ERP software magic quadrant is an example of a common reference […]
Reducing Headcount with your Digital Transformation
While far less prevalent than two decades ago, we do still see it: companies leveraging efficiencies from their new technology to reduce headcount. It is not an easy discussion topic, especially in today’s world when layoffs and furloughs are at an all-time high, but it is reality. And reality needs to be dealt with. Lack […]
How Magic Quadrants Can Derail ERP and HCM Software Evaluation Processes
We often see organizations get caught in analysis paralysis during their ERP and HCM software evaluation process. With so many options in the market, coupled with a lack of independent data on the strengths and weaknesses of these options, it’s easy to see how a project team can get stuck in the mud. Unfortunately, common […]
Why Software Evaluation RFPs are a Bad Idea
A company often comes to the realization that their existing systems are constraining growth. They may also be unreliable, dependent on manual input, etc. There is little debate that modern ERP software will help … but what’s the best way to get there? Unfortunately, many companies believe that an ERP request for proposal (RFP) is […]
Managing Your ERP Buyer’s Remorse
We often give advice to companies embarking on an ERP implementation or other form of digital transformation. When doing so, we often suggest ERP best practices surrounding topics like navigation of software evaluation, managing software sales tactics and vendor negotiations. Even those who follow proclaimed “best-practices” to the tee will often find themselves facing some […]
Could Your ERP Software Licenses Cost More Than You Think?
ERP software from any of the top ERP vendors isn’t inexpensive. It’s helpful to be aware of some “watch outs” or topics like licensing costs since more attention goes to things like software fit or deployment methods. While few will select or deselect a software because of licensing pricing and structure, it’s a pertinent subject, […]