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ERP Migration – How to Successfully Switch Systems
Nuremberg, July 7, 2025 – Switching to a new ERP system is a challenging project. However, companies should not be discouraged by this, as technological stagnation can be very costly. IFS, a leading provider of cloud enterprise software and industrial AI applications, outlines how to ensure a successful ERP migration.
There are many good reasons to switch to a new ERP system. It can help companies optimize their processes, make data available in real time, and thereby significantly improve efficiency, transparency, and decision-making quality. Additionally, it can provide a modern technological foundation for growth, automation, and future digitalization initiatives.
A key success factor is the migration from the old to the new ERP system. This must be as seamless as possible so that the new software functions reliably from the start and supports the company’s operations without disruption. If it fails, business operations can be significantly affected. IFS explains the critical elements for a successful ERP migration:
Goal Definition
The new system can only be properly configured if there is a clear understanding of what it needs to achieve. Companies should therefore analyze their processes, identify weaknesses in the old system, and gather and document the requirements of all departments for the new ERP system. Ideally, this should happen before selecting the new system and should form the basis for a targeted selection process.
Data Management
There are often differences in data structures between the old and new systems. For example, they may store information in different formats or fields. Carrying over outdated data can lead to unnecessary complexity, poor decisions, or disrupted processes in the new system. Therefore, data must be cleaned, consolidated, and carefully transferred.
Testing
Before going live with the new ERP system, companies should conduct extensive testing. This includes data test migrations, so-called unit tests (which check individual functional units), interface checks with other systems, and user acceptance analysis. These steps help identify and fix issues early.
Change Management
To ensure employee acceptance of the new system, companies should clearly communicate the benefits of the software and the changes it will bring. All user groups must be trained. A proven approach is the key user concept, where selected employees from different departments are involved early in the ERP project and receive intensive training so they can later support and train their colleagues.
Go-Live Planning
Depending on system complexity and business risks, companies must decide whether to go live all at once ("big bang") or in phases. The go-live should be well-timed, for instance during a quieter business period. Emergency plans and a support structure can ensure that core processes continue running even if issues arise during the go-live.
“An ERP migration is not just a technological challenge but also an organizational one with significant impact,” explains Sebastian Spicker, Managing Director DACH at IFS. “But companies shouldn’t be intimidated—having a modern ERP system is essential for future-ready, efficient, and integrated business processes. There are proven methods they can rely on to make the migration a success.”
About IFS
IFS is the global leader in industrial AI and cloud business software for companies that manufacture and distribute goods, build and operate assets, and deliver services. On a single platform, IFS unifies its industry-specific industrial AI solutions, links them through a common data model, and integrates digital innovations. This enables companies to deliver their full potential precisely when it matters most: in the Moment of Service™. The industry expertise of its employees, the growing IFS ecosystem, and the clear goal of delivering real value to every customer make IFS the most recommended vendor in its field. Over 7,000 employees support more than 7,500 businesses daily—with agility, trust, and collaboration.
Press Contact – Agency
PR-COM GmbH
Franziska Fricke
Senior Account Manager
Phone: +49 89 59997 707
franziska.fricke@pr-com.de
There are many good reasons to switch to a new ERP system. It can help companies optimize their processes, make data available in real time, and thereby significantly improve efficiency, transparency, and decision-making quality. Additionally, it can provide a modern technological foundation for growth, automation, and future digitalization initiatives.
A key success factor is the migration from the old to the new ERP system. This must be as seamless as possible so that the new software functions reliably from the start and supports the company’s operations without disruption. If it fails, business operations can be significantly affected. IFS explains the critical elements for a successful ERP migration:
Goal Definition
The new system can only be properly configured if there is a clear understanding of what it needs to achieve. Companies should therefore analyze their processes, identify weaknesses in the old system, and gather and document the requirements of all departments for the new ERP system. Ideally, this should happen before selecting the new system and should form the basis for a targeted selection process.
Data Management
There are often differences in data structures between the old and new systems. For example, they may store information in different formats or fields. Carrying over outdated data can lead to unnecessary complexity, poor decisions, or disrupted processes in the new system. Therefore, data must be cleaned, consolidated, and carefully transferred.
Testing
Before going live with the new ERP system, companies should conduct extensive testing. This includes data test migrations, so-called unit tests (which check individual functional units), interface checks with other systems, and user acceptance analysis. These steps help identify and fix issues early.
Change Management
To ensure employee acceptance of the new system, companies should clearly communicate the benefits of the software and the changes it will bring. All user groups must be trained. A proven approach is the key user concept, where selected employees from different departments are involved early in the ERP project and receive intensive training so they can later support and train their colleagues.
Go-Live Planning
Depending on system complexity and business risks, companies must decide whether to go live all at once ("big bang") or in phases. The go-live should be well-timed, for instance during a quieter business period. Emergency plans and a support structure can ensure that core processes continue running even if issues arise during the go-live.
“An ERP migration is not just a technological challenge but also an organizational one with significant impact,” explains Sebastian Spicker, Managing Director DACH at IFS. “But companies shouldn’t be intimidated—having a modern ERP system is essential for future-ready, efficient, and integrated business processes. There are proven methods they can rely on to make the migration a success.”
About IFS
IFS is the global leader in industrial AI and cloud business software for companies that manufacture and distribute goods, build and operate assets, and deliver services. On a single platform, IFS unifies its industry-specific industrial AI solutions, links them through a common data model, and integrates digital innovations. This enables companies to deliver their full potential precisely when it matters most: in the Moment of Service™. The industry expertise of its employees, the growing IFS ecosystem, and the clear goal of delivering real value to every customer make IFS the most recommended vendor in its field. Over 7,000 employees support more than 7,500 businesses daily—with agility, trust, and collaboration.
Press Contact – Agency
PR-COM GmbH
Franziska Fricke
Senior Account Manager
Phone: +49 89 59997 707
franziska.fricke@pr-com.de
