It
is based on my implementation strategy at
Saraswati Sugar Mills, where I was the Chief Information Officer (CIO).
Some Implementation steps taken for Sugarcane
Accounting System at Yamuna Nagar
Yamuna
Nagar sugar cane accounting involves 40,000 farmers giving cane at 35
collection centres during the sugar season. Sugar cane accounting was
implemented in phases, first for 15,000 farmers who supply sugarcane at
the factory gate and then extended.
Making the
people ready by training and awareness
§
It
was made clear to the staff (for whom it was the first exposure to
computers) that the computer cannot perform miracles.
§
They
were made aware of increase in work load during parallel runs, and the
possibility of their wanting to discontinue computerisation during trial
run (they were asked to persevere)
§
Training
was given in filling up input documents, checking checklists and doing
date entry. Code lists were distributed well in advance.
§
Persons
chosen for checking checklists were those who had familiarity with
English.
Coordination
§
A
separate cell called “data input and output cell” was set up in the
user department with a chief coordinator.
§
Coordinators
of computer department and this cell met regularly and were responsible
for sorting many problems.
§
Most
problems (delays of data, errors in documents, data entry) were overcome
at this level.
§
For
some problems that persisted, higher management was approached. Higher
management called a meeting and set targets. “Not much time was spent on
ascertaining reasons for the delay or ascertaining which department was at
fault.” The targets were achieved.
§
Sufficient
freedom was given to managers directly involved – management gave full
support with little interference.
The Final Step
§ Emphasis was on discontinuing manual system at the earliest.