Humans Included: 

The Wild Side of ERP Implementations

If you discount the human factor in any change management and system implementation then you are setting up for failure. 

Let’s check the main obstacles leading to resistance to change management in any systematic changes.

"It's always been done this way!": 

Resistance to change is ingrained into human nature, nothing new here. 

Employees are comfortable with existing workflows and resist adopting new systems simply because they are accustomed to the old way of doing things. 

• Emphasise the benefits of change, provide success stories, and use early adopters as champions to promote the new system.

What's in it for me?: 

The central theme of your message should be the benefits offered. Don't confuse benefits with features 

 

Employees need to see personal benefits, not just company-wide efficiency. Sell the “why” before the “what.” 

Fear of the Unknown

 People worry about how the change will affect their daily tasks, performance expectations, or workload.

• Communication is King (and Queen) – Clear, continuous, and transparent communication prevents rumours and resistance. No surprises!

Lack of Leadership Support

Poor leadership can cause projects to become directionless and even negatively impact the team's collaborative qualities and productivity.

Leaders must actively participate, use the system themselves, and encourage their teams to follow suit.

Champions not Dictators ​

Dictatorship is as great (or as bad) as the dictator. When the project lead knows how to listen to his/her team and accepts suggestions, they can bring the best out of everyone, including themselves.

Identify internal champions who can advocate for change and help rally the troops.

Expect the Productivity Dip

There will be confusion and frustration before efficiency improves. Manage expectations and morale.

Celebrate Small Wins

Recognising early successes keeps momentum going and reinforces positive change.

Get everyone on board

• Create a structured plan that everyone can reference.
• Build a comprehensive training strategy.
• Expect and accept resistance — change is hard.