EPM Buyer’s GuideIMPLEMENTATION

Implementation: What to Expect

Launch quickly with a phased plan: scope tightly, adopt standards, run parallel, and measure outcomes against business KPIs.

Key takeaways

Phased rollout reduces risk and accelerates value.
Adopt standard over custom to move faster and stay upgradeable.
Track close days saved, forecast cycle time, and adoption.

Phases & timing (indicative)

4–6 weeks: quick‑win pilot (planning or conso).
8–12 weeks: extend to recs/close.
UAT → parallel run → cutover → hypercare.

Team & governance

1–2 finance SMEs + partner lead.
IT for SSO, integrations, environments.
Design authority to prevent scope creep.

Data migration & environments

Dev/test/prod + sandboxes.
Automated loads; opening‑balance reconciliation.
History strategy: how much to bring and why.

Risks & mitigations

Data readiness (stage early).
Over‑customization (prefer config).
Change fatigue (small wins, champions).

Commercials & success

SOW with deliverables & exit criteria.
Realistic internal time commitments.
Dashboards for value tracking and adoption.

Checklist

RACI and governance finalized.
Environment plan agreed.
Data migration approach documented.
Training and change plan ready.
Cutover and rollback plan tested.

FAQ

Phased reduces risk—prove value fast and build confidence.

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