Implementation of the SRM solution using the example of APS SMART

Part 1. Pilot-industrial operation of the procurement automation system

In our case, pilot industrial operation should be understood as the operation of the system by the Customer, when already trained users work in the system, conduct real trade procedures with the choice of supplier. And the results are already used for making business decisions. At the same time, the automated information (SRM) system APS SMART has not yet been accepted into full operation by the Customer and is under the responsibility of the solution provider, who promptly makes changes, makes improvements, optimizes the configuration of modules or settings.

In other words, pilot production is the dress rehearsal before the final launch. Its main goals are to identify technical errors, test the system under load, adjust settings, evaluate the system for stability and the possibility of further development.

How does this happen with us? Classic:
1. Deploy the test version of the system;
2. Fill in with the Customer a file with information on service settings (directories, access rights, process models, routes, etc.);
3. Configure and test the operation of the system, according to the information provided by the Customer earlier (processes, models, routes, etc.);
4. We transfer all work to the productive version. From this point on, a conditional “transition” to pilot operation occurs;
5. In parallel, we train Customer’s users to work in the system.

In terms of pilot production can vary from one customer to another, depending on the complexity of the customization work to the customer’s specialization.
In any case, regardless of whether it passed in 1 day or 1 month, the successful result of passing through this stage is important.

On such aspects of SRM implementation that are very clearly manifest themselves at the stage of pilot production, such as: the balance of staff involvement in the process, analysis of the done and rapid reconfiguration in the system, customization of the system for the Customer’s business processes, monitoring changes in the Customer’s regulations, staff training , as well as the preparation of plan “B” in case of force majeure, we will tell in our next article.