Why most manufacturing software implementations fail, and how to prevent it.

Technology isn't usually the problem

Over the past several years, I've helped manufacturing companies implement software ranging from ERP and MES systems to production tracking, quality management, inventory control, and labor management platforms.

I've seen companies completely transform their operations in a matter of weeks. I've also seen companies spend thousands of dollars on software only to abandon it months later.

The interesting part is that the software usually wasn't the problem. Most manufacturing software implementations fail because companies underestimate the operational changes required to make the software successful.

Software simply exposes the strengths and weaknesses that already exist inside an organization.

If your processes are disciplined, software accelerates your success. If your processes lack accountability, software simply makes those problems more visible.

After working with manufacturers across the modular, panelized, and prefab industries, I've found five common reasons implementations struggle.