236 | The Hidden Ways that the Cloud has Evolved a Consultant’s Job Forever

Art of Consulting Podcast

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/