ERP implementation changes workflows, data, and collaboration. Most problems do not originate in the software, they originate in preparation. These mistakes can be avoided:

1. Unclear goals. What should the system achieve in twelve months? Measurable goals create priorities: lower stock levels, shorter lead times, transparency in production.

2. Scope too large. Digitizing everything at once overwhelms budget and team. Start process-oriented and put intermediate results into production use.

3. Departments involved too late. Users know the edge cases. Without them, gaps and resistance appear. Workshops and testing before go-live are mandatory.

4. Migrating data without review. ERP amplifies existing data quality, good or bad. Plan migration with cleanup and spot checks.

5. Integrations as an afterthought. DATEV, e-invoicing, warehouse, machines: clarify integration early, not after go-live.

6. No plan after go-live. Processes change. Reserve budget and ownership for ongoing evolution. Consider vendor lock-in early: documented customizations, exportable data, a replaceable provider.

A structured specification or a prototype before the main project creates a solid basis for decisions. Fundamentals: What is ERP?.