Making system changes work for SMEs

Event information

System changes can be challenging, even for large businesses with dedicated IT teams, deep pockets, and internal expertise. For SMEs, limited budgets, fragmented legacy systems (often paper-based), and lack of integration can make the process even harder and more daunting. Join this practical webinar for a product-neutral overview of the essential steps SME leaders should take to successfully manage system changes - from discovery to implementation and change management. While the session focuses on manufacturing companies, all are welcome.

Our speakers for this session are Ryan Pearcy, digital transformation specialist, ICAEW member and podcaster on all things cloud accounting, and Bethanie Hawkins, a digital transformation consultant who has systems change experience in both corporate and accountancy firms. Completing the panel is Paul Cook, a fractional CFO and ICAEW member who will share his experience gained in two successful ERP implementations, an ERP “rescue” and a recent ERP selection process.

Expect to hear more about:

• AppStack versus Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP).
• How to pick the best tool for your business.
• Costs and why it’s important not to cut corners.
• Realistic timelines from discovery to implementation.
• The typical resource that would need to be allocated - management team and staff time.
• The required ongoing support needed by the business.
• The critical success factors and where it can go wrong.
• Return on Investment and the ways of measuring success.

Key benefits

• Understand the right approach for your business and the differences between AppStack and ERP solutions.
• Plan with confidence - get clarity on realistic timelines, cost considerations, and the resources required for successful implementation.
• Avoid common pitfalls and prevent costly mistakes.

About the speakers

	Ryan Pearcy, CEO, Founder, Digital Transformers Ryan is a Chartered Accountant with a strong interest in technology. While he appreciates the value of spreadsheets, he also recognises the potential for more efficient solutions. By leveraging automation, he is helping businesses transition from labour-intensive, repetitive processes to streamlined, data-driven operations. Ryan has also established educational channels and professional communities to enhance knowledge and awareness in this field.
	Bethanie Hawkins, Digital Transformation Consultant, Digital Transformers Bethanie is a systems advisory specialist with experience across multiple technology companies and accountancy firms, giving her a comprehensive perspective on how to develop and implement effective systems. An expert in inventory management and highly skilled in process mapping, she excels at examining operational details and identifying the distinctive qualities of a business in order to enhance them with a tailored application stack.
	Paul Cook, The Kaizen CFO Paul is a fractional CFO with experience in manufacturing and distribution businesses across various sectors, including food, FMCG, electronics, automotive, HVAC, clothing, bathroom products, electrical components and motorcycle clothing, parts and accessories. He has been involved in two successful ERP implementations, an ERP “rescue” and a recent ERP selection process. Paul is a member of ICAEW’s Manufacturing Advisory Group.

CPD hours

ICAEW's revised Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Regulations bring in new CPD requirements. This includes a minimum number of hours and an ethics requirement. Attending this webinar could contribute up to 1hr of verifiable CPD, providing you can demonstrate that the content is relevant to your role.

A copy of the webinar booking confirmation email is accepted as evidence of verifiable CPD. Click here to use ICAEW’s self-assessment tool to help you work out how much CPD you will need to fulfil each year.

Costs

ICAEW members and non-members are welcome to join. This event is jointly organised by the Small & Micro Business and Manufacturing Communities.