A successful enterprise resource planning (ERP) rollout is more than just technical preparation – it’s a collective leap forward in how we operate, ensuring everyone using the system is ready and able to embrace our new technology to its full potential. While we are on a path of being “technically” ready for the DASH transition on July 1, we have thoughtfully determined that an extension is necessary to ensure we are “organizationally” ready to adopt the change. We will be beginning the DASH transition in January 2025.
There are two times a year that naturally fit beginning an ERP transition: fiscal year-end or calendar year-end. The former provides a clean cutover for beginning a new fiscal year but causes challenges for closing out the prior fiscal year and payroll processing. Beginning the DASH transition in January 2025 allows us to finish payroll processing, including creation of W2 forms, in IRIS. It also will allow us to close the prior fiscal year, prepare financial statements and complete the state audit in IRIS.
Extending the timeline for an ERP system is prudent and strategic when an organization recognizes gaps in change readiness and training. This extension will allow time for:
- Comprehensive user education and hands-on training sessions,
- Building a solid foundation of support within the organization, and
- Developing tailored communication strategies to manage significant change effectively.
The DASH executive team has purposely decided the extra time will yield dividends with the long-term success of our transition.
We cannot adequately express our gratitude to the hundreds of people across the system who are giving time, energy and expertise above expectations to make DASH successful. In honoring their contributions, we are committed to ensuring that everyone is prepared, confident and ready for this change.