At some point in our lives, we have all heard the acronym KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) used in one context or another. You might not know that this saying originated from the U.S. Navy in the 1960s as a simple yet effective catch phrase to remind sailors that simplicity in maritime processes ensured effective execution and avoided errors. The US Navy was acutely aware that the more complex or convoluted a process or system became, the greater the risk of something going wrong. This principle continues to be applied in contemporary military operations. In our previous lives, we served as special forces commanders. The missions given to us were complex, with the variables of threat, weather, distance, time, platforms and equipment combining to present at times, wicked problems to solve. By keeping the planning and execution as simple as practicable, we were able to focus on what mattered most – the mission – while ignoring the distractions. As Odoo partners, we bring this principle to Odoo implementation.
KISS Principles
The same can be said for an Odoo ERP implementation. Simplicity is an essential ingredient for a successful ERP deployment into a client business and its adoption by the workforce. Yes…Odoo, like all ERP systems can be complex. It simply could not integrate all your business processes and functions into a centralized database, integrate across applications to streamline your operations, or perform extensive data management functions without being so. But just because Odoo can demonstrate complexity, does not mean that its implementation must be. To the contrary, KISS should be a key project design determinant in every Odoo ERP implementation for the following reasons:
1. Deliver what matters. Too often the scope of an ERP implementation balloons out to incorporate all user wish lists, rather than focusing on what really matters – time, cost, and the achievement of the business objectives. Everything else, while well intentioned, is white noise. Adopting a KISS approach encourages the elimination of unnecessary features and focuses on delivering core functionalities that align with the client’s business objectives, in a time frame that is relevant and at a cost that validates the strategic decision. Ultimately, a quicker and leaner deployment leads to faster realization of ROI (Return on Investment).
2. Minimise errors. Any ERP implementation, is going to have unexpected errors come to fruition. Complexity leads to errors, which if not remediated can have significant repercussions on business operations at the ‘Go Live’ phase. By keeping the Odoo implementation process transparent and simple to follow, organisations can minimise the risk of mistakes in data entry, processing, and decision-making.
3. Enhance Adoption. The perceived complexity of an ERP system can overwhelm users, leading to resistance and low adoption rates. By simply mapping, documenting, and communicating the new processes and interfaces, organizations can make it easier for employees to embrace the new system. A simplified training pathway is an essential part of this process. Tailored training that focuses on what is relevant to the client, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, allows users to quickly grasp essential functionalities, which in turn leads to higher levels of productivity.
Conclusion
KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) needs to be an underpinning principle for your next Odoo ERP implementation. By emphasising simplicity, efficiency, and effectiveness you will ensure a lean and straight forward approach to the design and deployment of Odoo into your business. By doing so you will reduce costs, minimise errors, and enhance adoption rates, leading to greater productivity and ultimately greater business success.
Let the experts at VitrTech guide your next Odoo implementation. We promise to keep it simple!
