Digitization is the way forward for just about every company. The benefits can be huge, but the journey to get from what you’re presently doing to a more tech-centric business model has challenges that range from integrating new systems with legacy ones through to getting buy-in from team members who feel daunted by new technology.“A part of the artistry of integrating computer systems or information systems is really not that different from getting people to work together, in which you have to consider all of the strengths and weaknesses of the collaboration," says Tom Pierce, president of Integrated Information Systems, a company that helps businesses successfully digitize their operations.Who Does What, and Why?In the intricate field of ERP implementation, cross-functional understanding plays a vital role. “People tend to specialize in certain areas, leading to the formation of functional silos. A truly effective software system aims to achieve harmony and symphony between humans, technology, and systems.” “Ideally, you want software that offers flexibility, allowing end users to adjust their user experience without relying on IT support.” - Tom Pierce, president of Integrated Information Systems That’s led many companies to invest millions of dollars in capital expenditure (capex), something that a lot smaller organizations can’t afford - and which Mr. Pierce says it is not really necessary."Software ought to be flexible. Software systems ought to take the approach of ‘how many different ways can I adjust the driver's seat in my car?’ I think I got eight different things I can adjust without having to call my IT department and say, can you come adjust my car chain? The goal is to put more and more of the fine tuning of the user experience in the hands of the actual user who's experiencing it. “It's more expensive upfront, but it's really worth it in the long term. We like to say that in general, software systems should be 80% standard and 20% custom. Get yourself a package that is an 80% fit and spend money on the other 20% to tailor it to your particular needs," said Mr. Pierce.The Relational Aspects of TechnologyIn the past, software was developed to perform a function. Now, state-of-the-art software also considers the user experience.This is critical because as many companies have learned, if the software is complicated, slow or has glitches, team members won’t use it. They’ll simply use their previous systems or find other ways to work around using the new installation. “Swapping out ‘the engine’ is a bigger process. However, you can take the components of your human digital system and migrate them one at a time to ease some of the crisis and ease some of the pain." That’s led to a growing importance of the relational aspects between humans, computers, and technology. “It becomes clear that good software developers don't simply create software; they focus on developing software that users want to use,” said Mr. Pierce.Spreadsheets Aren’t DeadMany people are so accustomed to using Excel that migrating to a digitized system is a ‘bridge too far’ for them. In the past, companies tried to get employees to abandon Excel and adopt the newer software systems. That no longer is entirely necessary.Excel can be used in conjunction with SQL Server databases for input, output, and analysis, according to Mr. Pierce. He explains that while Excel serves as a valuable prototyping and analytical tool, the data itself resides in a relational database with business logic. Excel is not suitable for storing vast amounts of data, it is a fantastic tool for analyzing and interpreting it.Those massive digital transformations that take years to achieve and have high failure rates are no longer necessary, according to Mr. Pierce. “Part of the artistry of integrating information systems is really not that different from getting people to work together, where you have to consider all of the strengths and weaknesses of the collaboration." Companies can digitize in a way that is less costly, less disruptive - and more user friendly.“A lot of folks will keep the old SAP engine, but they'll use Fiori or other OData routines to upgrade the front end. They'll use Tableau or even Excel or any kind of other reporting technologies on the back end. And what will be left of the legacy system is the business logic about how to run the business that really matters. Swapping out ‘the engine’ is a bigger process. However, you can take the components of your human digital system and migrate them one at a time to ease some of the crisis and ease some of the pain."Getting People Love the Technology They UseFor a software system to succeed, it is important to create technology that people truly want to use. The gaming industry is a good example of technology which excels at motivating and engaging users. “By following this approach, we can make people love the technology they utilize in their daily work, as opposed to resenting it. This shift in mindset fosters a more seamless adoption of technology and paves the way for a successful digital transformation,” said Mr. Pierce.The Power of Involving End UsersLeadership often overlooks the importance of involving end users from the beginning and understanding their current business processes. Typically decisions around software are left solely to the IT department who access each new product or service based on a list of specifications. A better way is to include the end users in discussions around software applications to ensure that you have the right systems for the right job.The debate between choosing an all-in-one solution versus allowing each functional area to choose their own software is ever-present. Customization and configuration of software are necessary to cater to specific user needs. “Ideally, you want software that offers flexibility, allowing end users to adjust their user experience without relying on IT support. Balancing standardization and customization is the key to delivering software that empowers end users.” said Mr. PierceA Practical Approach to DigitizationIn the realm of ERP implementation, the delicate balance between humans and technology fuels the artistry behind successful integration. We have seen how cross-functional understanding, preserving business logic, and involving end users are all vital pieces of this complex puzzle. As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of ERP implementation, let us remember that the true power lies in leveraging technology to empower people, enhance collaboration, and drive our organizations toward a more efficient and cohesive future."One of the best compliments our company has ever received was when a high level executive at one of our clients said, ‘Everybody else gives me data, you guys give me information," said Mr. Pierce.