Accelerators – Do they create Value?

All vendors offer methods and tools to streamline the implementation process. The common term for these tools and methods is accelerators. These may include predefined project plans, test plans, or standard charts of accounts. We also see tools that support faster implementation, allowing users to draw on a set of standard processes and based on these, obtain assistance with system setup and documentation. These accelerators are developed both by the vendor itself and by its partners

Another tool to accelerate the implementation process is templates. Many vendors today choose to offer special solutions, for example industry solutions, which are based on templates. Templates are typically industry focused. For industry solutions, the accelerators that come with the system are usually adapted to the specific conditions of that industry and can therefore kick-start a project, enabling time savings in the implementation process.

Templates are often owned and developed by the ERP vendors’ partners. This means that there can be significant differences in the quality and scope of the content in these solutions. Common to all vendors is that they all offer implementation methods, but it is worth noting that some vendors offer accelerators supported by concrete tools, while others’ methodologies are pure “slideware.”

Some vendors offer accelerators supported by concrete tools, while others’ methodologies are pure slideware!

The development of templates is primarily driven by the major system vendors to capture market share in the mid-market and lower segments. However, our assessment is that most vendors have struggled to gain traction in sales.

Using a template can be a faster route to the goal, but it is important to emphasize that this approach to implementing an ERP system can only be used directly in smaller or very simple companies that, for example, can accept a standard order flow. Larger or more complex companies can use templates as a starting point for the implementation but will not avoid needing to adapt the system in several areas to fit the company’s conditions. As a customer, one should also consider what will happen to the template solution when the system needs to be upgraded or expanded.

In summary… accelerators are a good “invention” – but we still have not seen their impact on project budgets and timelines. They have not become cheaper, nor do they make projects run faster.