Effectively Plan Oracle Cloud Applications Implementation

APRIL 01, 2018 07:26 AM

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Are you planning on implementing a new ERP or HCM system for your organization? Then, selecting Oracle Cloud Application (Oracle ERP Cloud & Oracle Cloud HCM) is the first step. We have spoken with many CEOs / CTOs / CHROs, and one common thread we could gather from these discussions was that there is a lot of ambiguity and a lack of clear information and expert advice about the end-to-end implementation process.

Since this is one of the most critical business decisions for any organization when it comes to Oracle Cloud Applications implementation, it's essential to identify the right partner who can help you in this process from cloud readiness to data privacy to security prioritization to end planning to cloud migration to business process mapping.

1. Assessing the Oracle Cloud Application

Understanding product capabilities is critical. A complete business process should be conducted to ensure the application is appropriate for the business requirements. This process involves mapping business requirements with product offerings and identifying gaps. The organization needs to plan for these gaps per the implementation partner's recommendations.

2. Consider Data

Before beginning implementation, planning thoroughly for the data migration is essential. Depending upon the critical nature of the data, the need for accessibility, and the frequency of accessibility, the organization must decide which data can be moved to the cloud and which can remain at on-premise data centers. Cloud infrastructure provides better data security measures than on-premise data centers. Organizations must also decide the cost of storing data on-premise v/s on the cloud infrastructure.

3. Communication

Communication is a significant aspect when planning the implementation of Oracle ERP Cloud or Oracle Cloud HCM implementation. The project management team must keep all stakeholders informed at all times. Timely communication with all those required is key to successfully implementing the Oracle Cloud Applications. Depending on their involvement in the project, all stakeholders should be involved in the decision-making process. They should be made part of design sessions.

4. Plan for Uncertainties

Project managers must prepare a contingency plan for any unexpected challenges in the project. They must also periodically check the project's health and identify risks in advance. Finally, the project manager must discuss challenges and risks with stakeholders and find suitable solutions.

FAQs

Why is proper planning crucial for implementing Oracle Cloud Applications like Oracle ERP Cloud or Oracle HCM Cloud?
Proper planning is essential because implementing these systems is a significant business decision that impacts the entire organization. Without a well-defined plan, there's a high risk of ambiguity, unclear processes, and a lack of expert guidance. This can lead to cost overruns, delays, and a system that doesn't meet the organization's needs. Effective planning ensures the right partner is chosen, data is migrated securely, and business processes are correctly mapped to the new system.
What key steps are involved in effectively planning for an Oracle Cloud Applications implementation?
Key steps include:

Assessing the application: Thoroughly understand the Oracle Cloud Application's capabilities and how they align with the business's requirements, identify gaps, and plan to address them.
Considering data: Planning data migration by analyzing data criticality accessibility needs and choosing the right storage option (cloud or on-premise) while considering costs and security.
Communication: Ensuring all stakeholders are informed, involved in the decision-making, and part of the design sessions.
Planning for uncertainties: Developing contingency plans and proactively addressing potential challenges and risks throughout the project lifecycle.

What does it mean to 'assess' the Oracle Cloud Application before implementation?
Assessing the application involves a detailed comparison between the available features of the Oracle Cloud Application and the organization's unique business requirements. This includes making sure the application is appropriate for the business needs, mapping the organization's business processes to product offerings, and identifying any gaps where the system falls short of specific requirements. An implementation partner's recommendations are critical in this phase.
How should data migration be approached when moving to Oracle Cloud Applications?
Data migration should be meticulously planned. Organizations must evaluate the critical nature of their data, how frequently it needs to be accessed, and its accessibility requirements. Based on these needs, decisions must then be made on what data should be moved to the cloud and what should remain on-premise, also considering security and cost factors. It is crucial to recognize that the cloud generally provides superior data security compared to on-premise infrastructure.
Why is communication a significant aspect of a successful Oracle Cloud implementation project?
Effective communication is vital because it keeps all stakeholders informed and involved throughout the implementation. Regular and timely communication with those involved in the project, including project management teams and stakeholders, is necessary for a smooth transition. Stakeholder involvement in the decision-making process and design sessions is also critical to ensure that everyone is on the same page and project requirements are addressed.
What should project managers do when preparing for uncertainties during an Oracle Cloud implementation project?
Project managers should develop a contingency plan to address unforeseen issues that may arise during the implementation. This includes proactively monitoring the project's health, identifying potential risks in advance, and discussing these risks and challenges with stakeholders. Finding appropriate solutions with stakeholders collaboratively is crucial for overcoming hurdles and ensuring project success.

About SMACT Works

SMACT Works is a technology-focused systems integrator and IT/ERP consulting firm. We deliver end-to-end consulting, managed, and implementation services for Oracle Cloud Applications, IaaS & PaaS, On-Premise PeopleSoft & EBS Applications. Headquartered in Dublin, OH, we have a global presence with North America and Asia offices. We are an Oracle Gold Partner Cloud Standard, ISO 9001, and 27001 certified delivery organization serving customers with Excellence and Integrity.