Is the traditional model of ERP implementation truly broken?

Host Phillip Blackmore sits down with Steve Snowden, Founder and CEO of Snowden Consulting, for a fascinating look at the evolution of the tech space. Steve recounts his journey from an early role at a pharmaceutical plant during an SAP implementation to becoming a highly sought-after Microsoft Dynamics manufacturing solution architect and, ultimately, a successful business owner.

The discussion highlights the seismic shift from on-site camaraderie to remote delivery following COVID-19, and the modern challenge of navigating Microsoft's rapid, AI-driven updates. Steve shares critical insights on project success, emphasising why a "process-first" approach is vital, especially given that more than 70% of recently implemented ERP initiatives fail to meet their original business use case goals.

He reveals the two golden rules for a successful global rollout—getting the first template right and meticulously managing data—and how building a relationship-based culture guarantees client loyalty and success. This is a must-listen for consultants, end-users, and business leaders focused on ERP transformation.

• (00:00) - Welcome to The Catch Up Podcast
• (01:46) - Steve Snowdon's Jounrey into ERP
• (05:31) - Contracting and Consulting Adventures
• (07:49) - Impact of COVID on Consulting
• (16:45) - Founding Snowden Consulting
• (25:32) - Initial Project Challenges
• (28:37) - Cost Implications of Cutting Corners
• (30:59) - Successful Project Implementation
• (32:55) - Growth and Challenges of a Consultancy
• (44:48) - Future Plans and Advice

Steve Snowden: Founder and CEO of Snowden Consulting Limited (SNCL), a Certified Microsoft Business Applications Partner. With a career that spans from Continuous Improvement Manager to a highly-regarded Microsoft Dynamics manufacturing solution architect, Steve is a renowned visionary innovator in integrating AI, ERP, and change management. Under his leadership, SNCL has been recognised as a Partner of the Year multiple times and is focused on delivering exceptional Dynamics 365 solutions with a 100% implementation success rate.

Episode Insights:

• The personal and professional journey of scaling from an independent ERP contractor to the CEO of a successful consultancy.
• How the role of an ERP consultant has changed since the pre-1995 era and the impact of remote working post-COVID-19.
• The two fundamental "golden rules" for success in a complex global ERP rollout, relating to the template and data.
• The primary red flags and biggest challenge Steve faces when scoping a new Statement of Work (SOW) with a client.
• Why thorough User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is critical and how cutting corners on testing leads to costly issues down the line.

Action Points:

1. Prioritise the Global ERP Template: When planning a global rollout, base your first project on your most complex manufacturing or distribution site, not the simplest one like a sales office. This forces you to build a comprehensive template that can be scaled down, ensuring you don't face huge complications when moving to more intricate locations later. Getting this template right makes subsequent rollouts significantly easier for all countries.
2. Focus on Data Quality from Day One: Treat data migration as a critical project component from the very beginning, not an afterthought. You must be absolutely at the top of your game with data governance as you integrate more applications. Get your data right early to avoid a difficult, upward battle with system performance and integrity for years to come.
3. Invest in Thorough UAT: Do not allow the project to skip the essential phase of User Acceptance Testing (UAT). Steve’s golden rule is to aim for the high nineties for UAT completion. The money and time spent on this phase is paid back in spades by ensuring a smooth, successful go-live, preventing costly fixes and dissatisfied users post-launch.
4. Maintain a Human-Centric Culture: For consulting leaders, focus on building a culture of camaraderie and human relationship building, which can be lost in a remote-first world. This not only improves team retention but also increases project success by fostering strong client relationships. This is what drives long-term client loyalty and repeat business.
5. Evolve Your Skill Set with AI: Stay ahead of Microsoft’s rapid, twice-yearly updates and the deep integration of AI (like Copilot) within Dynamics 365. Encourage a learning culture where team members follow their interests to keep their skills up-to-date. As process becomes even more key with the advent of AI, continuous upskilling is essential for job security and competitive advantage.

The Catch Up Podcast brings you candid conversations with industry leaders, consultants, and change-makers from the Microsoft Dynamics and tech ecosystem. Hosted by Phillip Blackmore, Sales Director at Catch Resource Management, each episode dives into the real stories behind business transformation, career pivots, and scaling success. Expect thoughtful interviews, practical insights, and honest reflections.

Brought to you by Catch Resource Management, a leading UK recruitment specialist for Microsoft Dynamics and ERP talent, this podcast is your inside track to the people shaping the future of enterprise technology. Tune in for new episodes and stay ahead of the curve.

The Catch Up Podcast is produced by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford, UK.