5 data migration challenges you should not underestimate
Data migration sounds technical. But in reality, it often decides the success or failure of an ERP project. Your ERP can be so cleverly designed – if the data is wrong, nothing works as it should. In a recent international transformation in the automotive sector, we saw this up close: seven countries, multiple brands and dozens of legacy systems that all followed their own logic.
1. Data that is incomplete or outdated
Many organisations only discover when migrating how many gaps there are in their data. Think missing customer numbers, duplicate suppliers or vehicle data that is no longer up to date. Those gaps cause errors in the new system and delay the rollout.
Tip: start early with a data quality scan and perform cleans even before you run your first migration tests.
2. Different definitions for the same entities
What is a customer? For one entity it is the end user, for another it is a dealer. Conflicting definitions also often exist for materials and suppliers. Once you put this data together, noise and frustration ensue.
Tip: establish a global data model with clear definitions and ownership. Leave room for local nuances, but ensure one basis that everyone can agree on.
3. Lack of documentation of legacy systems
In many companies, systems have grown historically. Documentation is missing or outdated. Knowledge is in the heads of a few key users. As soon as you want to migrate data, it becomes guesswork.
Tip: plan enough time for a thorough analysis of the source systems. Involve local key users in workshops to uncover missing knowledge.
4. Local exceptions that do not fit into a global model
Each country or brand has built up its own processes and exceptions over the years. Taxation, local legislation or just “this is how we have always done it”. Those exceptions often clash with the global model.
Tip: make agreements at the start about what really has to be global and where flexibility is allowed. Good governance and decision-making are crucial here.
5. Underestimation of time and resources
Data migration is often seen as a technical task that you “do with it”. In reality, it requires intensive coordination, tight planning and specialised profiles. If it is underestimated, delays or even project failure are almost inevitable.
Tip: Provide a dedicated team for migration, with clear roles and responsibilities. Treat migration as a work flow in its own right, not as an afterthought.
The key to success
With a tight migration strategy and governance, you avoid your beautiful ERP vision being stranded by bad data. At our client in the automotive sector, this ensured a stable transition: data was cleaned up, processes harmonised and users could rely on reliable information from day one.
Conclusion
Data migration is not a technical footnote, but the silent success factor of any ERP project. By focusing early on data quality, clear models and change management, you lay the foundation for a transformation that delivers real value.
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