The Value of Getting Data Right
Introduction
One of the biggest challenges companies face when implementing new IT systems – including CRM (Customer Relationship Management), ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), and EAM (Enterprise Asset Management) systems – is getting data right, relevant, and usable.
When data issues are not resolved during implementation, organisations can experience expensive re-work, poor-quality outcomes, or systems that are difficult to use effectively. When data is managed correctly, however, new systems can ramp up quickly and deliver as designed.
The Impact of Poor Data Quality in IT System Implementations
As consultants, EnterpriseIS regularly sees clients encounter problems due to unresolved data issues. These issues often result in:
- Re-work that increases project costs
- Low-quality maintenance and planning outcomes
- Reduced system usability and effectiveness
Ensuring data quality during implementation plays a critical role in achieving successful outcomes from enterprise systems.
Case Example: Establishing Asset BOM Data During ERP Implementation
In one example, a major water utility engaged EnterpriseIS to establish Bills of Materials (BOMs) for their significant assets as part of implementing a new ERP system.
Accurate BOM data was required to improve the efficiency of routine maintenance planning. However, this data existed in various formats within the client’s legacy system and could not be transferred directly into the new ERP environment.
EnterpriseIS Delivery Approach
Following a review of the available data and discussions with key maintenance personnel, EnterpriseIS identified a practical approach for extracting and developing usable BOM data.
EnterpriseIS worked alongside the client’s teams at individual sites and the central office to complete the following activities:
- Review and update the asset register
- Identify assets scheduled for the next shutdown to trial the initial BOM development
- Identify a data extraction method from the legacy system and work with the system administrator to copy the data
- Review copied BOM data to use as a baseline for building new BOMs
- Develop asset-level BOMs for a single-site shutdown
- Coordinate the upload of new BOMs with the client’s ERP administrators
- Conduct introductory training with the maintenance planning team on using the new BOMs
Outcomes and Benefits
As a result of this work, the client achieved the following outcomes:
- Elimination of 90% of existing delays when sourcing spare parts
- An estimated saving of $493,479 due to efficiency gains in data management
- Identification and correction of 500 catalogue data items
The project was delivered using a combination of onsite work with the client and remote support from the EnterpriseIS Wollongong office and was completed on time and under budget.