.png)
When planning an ERP implementation, it is important to hit the ground running with a solid data migration strategy. Simply put, data migration is the process of moving data from one application to another. Typically, for our clients, it's from QuickBooks to NetSuite. Data migration planning is important because it sets the tone for the entire implementation ensuring accurate and clean data.
In the beginning stages of any implementation, it's a good idea to approach data cleanup as you would spring cleaning your house (Sort, Clean, and Organize):
Sort - Before migrating data, you must know and understand what you are migrating and how it fits within your new target system. Legacy data does not always align with the new system. Determine the best method for extracting data from your current system. Be sure to review and audit the data in your current system and carefully access what data is necessary and what is not. Determine how you will backup your historical data to protect against data loss if there is a migration failure. You should also determine how many years of historical data you want to move to your new system.
Clean - Data can be messy. The data migration process give you a great opportunity to clean, transform, and de-duplicate data, resulting in higher quality data. Consider how your new target system is designed and how your historical data should fit into the new scheme (Mandatory fields, field names, data types, etc.). During this stage, you will format and map your data to better fit into the new environment.
Organize - Now that your data has been sorted and cleaned, it is time to put everything away neatly (Import Time). If you performed the previous stages successfully, your data will load into the new target system smoothly. And, because you planned your migration properly, you will be able to easily validate all data migrated successfully. Your reporting will be accurate and your financials will look clean.
A well thought out and executed data migration plan ensures the success of your entire implementation project. The risk of duplicate efforts, errors, and time delays will be eliminated. Given the volume and complexity of data, having the right consulting team to manage your data migration as well as the entire implementation ensures zero downtime and less stress on your team so that you can focus on the day to day operations of your business. We're here to help and be your trusted advisor, contact us today to get started.