I have regularly saved clients substantial unnecessary expenditure and improved profitability while in many cases improving competitive advantage.
Problem: Manufacturing client (£500 million) faced with major upgrade to their ERP that would break a major bespoke software investment around the new ERP coupled with high levels of dissatisfaction with the ERP — £1.1 million threat.
Action: In ten days, evaluated the situation, specified how to remediate the system to eliminate the frustration and provided legal advice to secure the current version of the software for five years.
Resolution: International vendor agreed to support the current version of the software for further five years, issues with the software resolved, client used the ERP for another eight years before moving to SAP R/3 — saving £1.1 million.
I publish regular emails in which I discuss various matters relating to the strategic management of organizations including developing strategic plans and how to get maximum strategic value from corporate ERP, AI, CRM and other systems in order to enable clients to thrive and increase profitability I also assist with procurement of such systems as well as optimizing those systems.
If you would like to be added to the mailing list, please let me have the email address you want me to use in the form below:
Problem: Client (£200 million) import and distribution lost biggest customer and threatened with loss of two other major customers because of problems with big brand ERP and WMS implemented by big 4 consultancy — facing commercial collapse.
Action: In three days, evaluated the situation, advised client of the source of the problem and that problem could not be fixed quickly enough to save the company. Arranged to move back to previous system.
Resolution: Customer reinstated previous system in six weeks, saved all remaining customers and returned to profitable operation — comment from Director “Best decision we ever took” — saved possible liquidation — £ millions.
“We engaged Dr James Robertson to facilitate a critical strategic planning session for Cape Reed International, and we couldn’t be more satisfied with his guidance and expertise. Dr Robertson brought an exceptional level of insight and professionalism, creating an environment that encouraged open discussion while keeping us focused on our objectives.
“His ability to connect with our team and quickly understand the unique aspects of our business and industry helped ensure that every voice was heard and every idea considered. Dr Robertson introduced new perspectives that challenged us to think beyond the status quo, which was instrumental in refining our strategic vision and setting clear, actionable goals.
“We are now positioned to move forward with a renewed sense of direction and confidence, thanks in large part to Dr Robertson’s efforts. I wholeheartedly recommend his services to any organization looking to deepen its strategic focus and achieve meaningful, lasting progress.”
Testimonial — Dr Johan Pretorius CEO of Universal Healthcare regarding Business System Procurement
“The quality of the work that James produced was of a standard that I have never again seen in the context of a business information systems project and I still cite that work and refer to James in my business activities today.
“I strongly recommend James Robertson to any organization that is looking for an exceptional thought leader who produces work of exceptional standard.”
“Dr James Robertson is a highly talented thought-leader, incisive strategist and experienced professional who has the ability to leap-frog multi-nationals and organizations through technological and strategic disruptions and innovations to the next strategic competitive level in their industry. “
“The implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning software (ERP software) is inherently difficult and studies have shown that most ERP implementation projects do not deliver outcomes the CEO and senior management expect of their investment. Very often the implementation satisfies the needs of the operators and junior users of the system but is not able to deliver strategic information to the EXCO team, in order for them to apply this information to their strategic decision making. This often results in the ERP system or software vendor being blamed for the sub optimum nature of the implementation. The software vendor is equally frustrated because they perceive that the customer is not using the functionality of the software properly and this is the reason the software is perceived, not to be working. In addition to this, if the software does not provide strategic value to the business to begin with, the value and usability of the software diminishes over time, a term used by the industry to explain this is application erosion.
“Dr Robertson applied a radical and left field approach, for the IT industry in particular, to this problem. Once the methodology and thinking of Dr Robertson was understood by myself, it became clear that although outcome of his methodology appeared simple, the methodology was far more complex. His approach to structuring the fact tables, although being done by the ERP implementation teams, but using no structured methodology, was very different to the approach our organisation as ERP software implementation partners took when implementing for our clients.
“The approach was a top down approach, ensuring that the data structured in the ERP database met the strategic questions which we anticipated would be asked by the CEO before we had started implementing the software. By understanding the questions which could conceivability be asked, the implementation team ensured that the fact tables in the database applied the detailed level of granularity needed.
“What became evident was that the BI team was able to far more quickly and easier deliver the BI data being requested of them. When our BI implementation team complimented the ERP implementation team for making their work a lot easier I realised the value of the extraordinary knowledge which Dr Robertson brought to the project. Not only this, his wealth of experience in the field was noticeable and resulted in our organisation being able to deliver very successful projects.
“It should be noted that I have applied Dr Robertson’s teachings in my present organisation and without question have been able to derive valuable data from my companies ERP system as well as save many man hours of unnecessary and wasted time collating the information I need to make the strategic decisions I do, as CEO.”
If you would like a no charge, no obligation Zoom call to discuss y our concerns and requirements please provide your details below:
Problem: Client (£50 million) long distance logistics. Bespoke development project running for 18 months with nothing to show for it.
Action: In two days, evaluated the situation, advised client that the contractor was incompetent and did not understand the requirement and there was nothing of value from the investment. Advised formal procurement process.
Resolution: Took the customer through formal tender based procurement to select most appropriate software and implementer.
“I requested the contracted company to head-hunt the best resource in South Africa to do Business Architecture, Systems Architecture and Technology Architecture design and integration.
“The contracted company head-hunted Dr James Robertson and I was satisfied with what he did. – In such a way that I kept contact with him over many years.
“I appreciated his insight and implementation of conceptual design and integration of architecture, systems, processes, functions and activities.”
“I observed Dr Robertson merge the efforts of public servants from 4 departments that had never previously worked together, into a cohesive series of team activities. These teams, under his leadership and direction achieved the required outcomes of this programme. His success came from the application of the following skills:
“- Ability to lead people from different cultures, backgrounds and current employment environments through his patience, careful listening and empathetic responses.
“- Ability to take diverse inputs and integrate them into a cohesive systems specification.
“- Knowledge to be able to connect specifications to appropriate technology based solutions.
“- Ability to create and manage the various projects required to complete the programme”
“In my experience as editor of “Civil Engineering”, Dr Robertson’s articles were of an intellectually high-level nature (clear, analytical, logical) and could be appreciated by all levels of engineering practitioners, i.e. engineering students, young engineers and experienced engineers. His articles certainly contributed a unique, economies-of-scale approach to solving problems on a wide front, from problems encountered by engineers to a far broader spectrum of related fields, , I am also of the opinion that the motivational undertone of his articles added to their long-term value.
“I was also fortunate to be in the audience once where Dr Robertson was the guest speaker at an annual engineering function, What impressed me was his rapport with the audience, to the extent that one could hear a pin drop, so well did he connect with his audience.”
“I have worked with James on a number of complex projects and have found that his intellect and ability to manage and deal with complex issues is remarkable and above average. James demonstrated exceptional insight with regard to the requirements of Medicross and crafted a solution that was world class.
“James has pioneered approaches in his field and we have collaborated in related areas at times when our approaches were utilised in conjunction with each other.”
Your process has been quite amazing. And as everybody has said, your approach and your tools have actually assisted us to arrive at this point in time so quickly.”
I think your process made that easy, it made it comfortable for us as well [as] to express our individual perspectives.”
Problem: Client (£20 million) Financial Services. Bespoke system was falling over and damaging the business to point of risk of losing customers.
Action: IIn two days, evaluated the situation, advised client of the source of the problem and measures to resolve the problem at management level — a governance issue.
Resolution: Problem resolved in one week with new hardware and governance — client returned to secure operation — saving prevented possible financial collapse — or development of new systems (£250,000).
Problem: Client (£20 million) Consulting Engineering Company. Bespoke ERP, losing data and hindering effective management.
Action: In two days, evaluated the situation, advised client of the source of the problem and resolved it — communication and governance.
Resolution: Problem solved same day — saving £500,000 for replacement system.
I publish regular emails in which I discuss various matters relating to the strategic management of organizations including developing strategic plans and how to get maximum strategic value from corporate ERP, AI, CRM and other systems in order to enable clients to thrive and increase profitability I also assist with procurement of such systems as well as optimizing those systems.
If you would like to be added to the mailing list, please let me have the email address you want me to use in the form below:
Provides a catalogue of all the factors previously encountered and how to treat them.
Like a General Practitioner (Medical Doctor) — deep knowledge and experience — few questions, few observations, accurate diagnosis and treatment plan — Fast and accurate.
If you would like a no charge, no obligation Zoom call to discuss y our concerns and requirements please provide your details below:
We do this by enabling clients to do the right things well in accordance with the definition of Professor Malcolm McDonald of Cranfield School of Management who says that strategy is “doing the right things viewed from the perspective of the customer” and tactics are “doing things right viewed from the perspective of the customer” and that if one “does the right things well one’s organization will thrive!”
1. Fast and effective facilitation of collaborative, actionable strategic plans
2. Strategic ERP and business systems troubleshooting and turnaround
3. Strategic tough ERP and other system procurement service
4. Strategic ERP and other system configuration
5. Legally enforceable strategic alternative to a major disruptive and costly ERP system upgrade
Gartner reports that over 75% of ERP projects fail or materially under-perform.
ERP or “Enterprise Resource Planning” systems are the big business information systems that run businesses. The same principles apply to CRM (Customer Relationship Management Systems) and WMS (Warehouse Management Systems) and any other major business information system investment that is not performing to expectations.
The ERP Doctor has discovered the factors causing failure and the factors for success of large business information systems. These factors relate to governance, strategic alignment, configuration precision and other drivers that are independent of technology and industry – you might call them “ERP Psychology” – they are the same across all Business Systems and all Industries.
You did not purchase the wrong system, but the implementation team made some key errors in implementing your system because they did not understand the principles that Dr Robertson teaches.
Dr Robertson is an expert in this niche of the Psychology of ERP and other business information system implementation.
If you have a major business information system that is not meeting your expectations in any shape or form, the ERP Doctor can help you uncover the reasons and then facilitate the turnaround in anything from a few days to a few months.
In as little as two days the ERP Doctor can troubleshoot and diagnose the root causes of an under-performing business system and tell you what is required to remediate the situation to achieve turnaround. All in language that a Business Executive can understand. Special offer of £2,000 for two days with definitive diagnosis and prescription of treatment.
We then offer a full spectrum of services including strategic project leadership, tough tender based procurement and precision configuration to deliver the turnaround with a high value outcome that enhances competitiveness and profitability.
The ERP Doctor draws on many years’ experience to tell you quickly and concisely in language you understand exactly why your system is not meeting expectations. These factors are independent of the software and the industry, they relate to the Psychology of system implementation.
For case studies and more detailed information please visit the Troubleshooting and Turnaround page.
We offer a complimentary one-hour consultation via Zoom at your convenience with no obligation to discuss your ERP issues. We are confident that this one hour call will give you a really good idea of how we can assist you.
Please click on the button below to book your appointment:
We look forward to hearing from you.
If your ERP is not delivering what was promised and is damaging your business and you have tried all the acknowledged authorities on ERP you need to talk to us.
Based on many years’ experience trouble shooting failed and sub optimal ERP installations I will accurately diagnose what is wrong with your ERP in language you will understand and prescribe the necessary measures to fully remediate your ERP as a powerful strategic resource enabling effective profitable management.
We can then facilitate the implementation of my recommendations.
I publish regular emails in which I discuss various matters relating to the strategic management of organizations including developing strategic plans and how to get maximum strategic value from corporate ERP, AI, CRM and other systems in order to enable clients to thrive and increase profitability I also assist with procurement of such systems as well as optimizing those systems.
If you would like to be added to the mailing list, please let me have the email address you want me to use in the form below:
We are committed to providing timely and responsive service, Give us a try.
Professional Engineer with diverse ERP experience stretching over many years ensures a highly relevant high quality outcome for your project.
We will quickly and accurately analyse and understand your business and your ERP or other business system.
Holding up your situation against my very varied experience troubleshooting and resolving ERP problems.
With my diverse and deep ERP experience I will rapidly diagnose the fundamentals of why your ERP or other business system or IT Department is not delivering and prescribe a practical and achievable treatment..
Project Management Plus — executive-level strategic project leadership working closely with your executive team to deliver an exceptional strategically aligned and supportive high-value solution enabling your organisation to fly.
Rigorous tender-based ERP procurement using proven methods, comprehensive standard request for proposal document (RFP) with certificate-based management. Quickly and reliably evaluate the best ERP and best implementer to deliver an exceptional high-value outcome.
Comprehensive advisory services with regard to any technology aspects impacting your ERP or other business information system.
We use our proprietary methods to guide your team to exceptional high quality, strategically aligned configuration that delivers exceptional operational and strategic efficiency to your system and your organisation. We make your organisation fly!
We offer exceptionally effective light touch high-impact strategic planning that gives rise to actionable plans that are easily and effectively executed with high levels of buy-in and adoption.
If your ERP is not delivering what was promised and is damaging your business and you have tried all the acknowledged authorities on ERP you need to talk to us.
Based on many years’ experience trouble shooting failed and sub optimal ERP installations I will accurately diagnose what is wrong with your ERP in language you will understand and prescribe the necessary measures to fully remediate your ERP as a powerful strategic resource enabling effective profitable management.
We can then facilitate the implementation of my recommendations.
If you would like a no charge, no obligation Zoom call to discuss y our concerns and requirements please provide your details below:
If your ERP is not delivering what was promised and is damaging your business and you have tried all the acknowledged authorities on ERP you need to talk to us.
Based on many years’ experience trouble shooting failed and sub optimal ERP installations I will accurately diagnose what is wrong with your ERP in language you will understand and prescribe the necessary measures to fully remediate your ERP as a powerful strategic resource enabling effective profitable management.
We can then facilitate the implementation of my recommendations.
I publish regular emails in which I discuss various matters relating to the strategic management of organizations including developing strategic plans and how to get maximum strategic value from corporate ERP, AI, CRM and other systems in order to enable clients to thrive and increase profitability I also assist with procurement of such systems as well as optimizing those systems.
If you would like to be added to the mailing list, please let me have the email address you want me to use in the form below:
According to Gartner, ERP implementation failure rates exceed 75%, McKinsey estimates that more than 70% of all digital transformations fail.
As a qualified Professional Engineer who has undertaken numerous diagnostic investigations into failed and sub-optimal ERP implementations I have shown conclusively that an engineering approach to ERP implementation is vital. I have developed seven critical factors that give rise to ERP implementation failure and seven critical factors for ERP implementation success — they are not what you might expect!
Through diverse career experience I bring a level of innovative structured thinking that has resulted in a deep understanding of what really matters concerning ERP implementation.
My goal is to raise the bar of ERP implementation to achieve exceptional client value and enable all practitioners to reach this level.
If your ERP is not delivering what was promised and is damaging your business and you have tried all the acknowledged authorities on ERP you need to talk to us.
Based on many years’ experience trouble shooting failed and sub optimal ERP installations I will accurately diagnose what is wrong with your ERP in language you will understand and prescribe the necessary measures to fully remediate your ERP as a powerful strategic resource enabling effective profitable management.
We can then facilitate the implementation of my recommendations.
If you would like a no charge, no obligation Zoom call to discuss y our concerns and requirements please provide your details below:
If your ERP is not delivering what was promised and is damaging your business and you have tried all the acknowledged authorities on ERP you need to talk to us.
Based on many years’ experience trouble shooting failed and sub optimal ERP installations I will accurately diagnose what is wrong with your ERP in language you will understand and prescribe the necessary measures to fully remediate your ERP as a powerful strategic resource enabling effective profitable management.
We can then facilitate the implementation of my recommendations.
I publish regular emails in which I discuss various matters relating to the strategic management of organizations including developing strategic plans and how to get maximum strategic value from corporate ERP, AI, CRM and other systems in order to enable clients to thrive and increase profitability I also assist with procurement of such systems as well as optimizing those systems.
If you would like to be added to the mailing list, please let me have the email address you want me to use in the form below:
Please fill out the form and press the submit button.
We will get back to you within 1-2 business days.
