236 | The Hidden Ways that the Cloud has Evolved a Consultant’s Job Forever
Art of Consulting Podcast
English - June 28, 2024 17:00 - 45 minutes - 41.4 MB - ★★★★★ - 3 ratingsCareers Business Technology cpa personaldevelopment becomingselfemployed coaching consulting lifestyledesign solopreneurs Homepage Download Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Topic Overview: Join Andy Fry and Cat Lam as they delve into the nuances of ERP systems, comparing on-premise and cloud implementations, discussing the transitions, challenges, and best practices from an expert's perspective in the ERP consulting field.
Types of Consultants:
External Consultants: Provide independent advice based on an external viewpoint.
Internal Consultants: Offer specialized advice within an organization, focusing on continuous internal improvements.
Key Points Discussed:
0:06 - Introduction
Welcome back to "The Art of Consulting Podcast" with hosts Andy Fry and Cat Lam. Today, we dive into ERP systems, focusing on the transition from on-premise to cloud implementations and the impact on businesses.
0:34 - Guest Introduction
Introduction of Andy Fry, a seasoned Oracle ERP consultant, who shares insights from his vast experience.
0:54 - Historical Context
Andy starts by discussing the traditional on-premise ERP systems, their setup, and operations within company facilities.
2:04 - Shift to Cloud
The conversation shifts to cloud implementations, detailing the migration process and the role of server farms managed by third-party vendors.
3:36 - Differences in Implementations
Andy outlines significant differences in implementation strategies between on-premise and cloud systems, emphasizing the need for client involvement in cloud environments.
5:01 - Challenges with Cloud ERP
Discussion on how cloud implementations, while beneficial, come with challenges such as reduced customization and the importance of understanding the system's capabilities fully.
7:23 - Project Timelines Comparison
Exploring how project timelines differ between on-premise and cloud implementations, noting that cloud projects tend to progress faster but require careful planning to accommodate unique business needs.
8:58 - Client Participation
The changing role of client participation in ERP setups, particularly how cloud systems have altered the dynamic of client involvement in the configuration process.
10:01 - Understanding and Communication
Andy stresses the importance of clear communication and thorough understanding between consultants and clients to ensure successful implementation and operation.
11:35 - Post-Implementation Support
How organizations handle the transition post-implementation, focusing on the support structures needed when the consultant team steps back.
13:18 - Knowledge Transfer
Strategies for ensuring clients are well-equipped to manage their ERP systems after consultants leave, emphasizing ongoing education and support.
16:18 - Consultant's Role in Cloud Implementations
Andy explains his role in current projects, particularly how he ensures his clients are adequately prepared to use and maintain their new systems.
17:26 - Education and Framework Introduction
Andy describes how he introduces clients to the ERP framework, ensuring they understand the system's purpose and functionality from a high-level perspective.
19:53 - Achieving Depth in Consultation
The necessity of diving deep into the system's specifics with clients, ensuring they grasp not just the how, but the why behind system configurations.
20:26 - Change Management in Modern ERP
Discussion on how change management has evolved with cloud ERP, focusing now more on power users and IT staff rather than end-users alone.
23:54 - Evolution of Documentation Practices
How documentation needs and practices have changed with the shift to cloud ERP systems, highlighting what's been retained and what's phased out.
25:31 - Impact of Cloud on Business Processes
How cloud ERP systems have transformed traditional business processes, enabling more agile and scalable operations.
27:23 - Client Stories and Examples
Andy shares anecdotal evidence and stories from his career, illustrating the challenges and successes of moving clients to cloud ERP systems.
29:15 - Advice for Businesses Considering ERP
Practical advice for businesses at different stages of considering or implementing ERP solutions, whether on-premise or cloud.
30:26 - Future of ERP Systems
Discussion on the trends and future directions of ERP systems, considering technological advancements and industry demands.
32:57 - Q&A with Listeners
The hosts take listener questions, providing expert answers and further insights into ERP systems.
35:28 - Wrap-Up and Key Takeaways
Summary of the discussion, highlighting key points and takeaways for the listeners to consider in their ERP journeys.
37:45 - Closing Remarks
Andy and Cat thank the listeners for tuning in and tease the next episode's topic, encouraging listeners to subscribe and stay informed.
Episode Highlights:
Introduction of Andy Fry: 0:06
Shift to Cloud ERP: 2:04
Challenges with Cloud ERP: 5:01
Client Involvement and Knowledge Transfer: 8:58, 13:18
Change Management in Modern ERP: 20:26
Resources Mentioned:
Oracle ERP Systems
Server Farm Management
Conclusion: The episode concludes with a recap of the importance of understanding both on-premise and cloud ERP implementations, with a push for proactive involvement and continuous learning in ERP transitions.
Where to find Our Guests online:
Andy Fry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fryandy/
Cat Lam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catlam/