Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are typically very complex and all-encompassing software. Supply chain management (SCM) systems are no slouches when it comes to complexity and scope, either. So why would a company attempt to implement both systems at the same time? Some rationalize that their software is in such dire straits that they need to get in front of the system's development curve, not just keep pace. Others rely on the "rip off the …showed first 75 words of 1205 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1205 total…say accounts payable or general ledger, can quickly build confidence and demonstrate that the software functions according to expectations. Furthermore, it can develop a friendly rivalry between project teams. If we did it, so can you. Understand that there are tricky points that must be negotiated when you split up the implementations of integrated software. However, if planned properly, the benefits can significantly outweigh the risks and created a safe harbor for the remaining components.