Eric Kimberling

Eric Kimberling

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CEO, Third Stage Consulting; ERP transformation and OCM

Leaders Chase Growth, Dodge Tech, Crave Nonexistent Easy Button
SocialMay 10, 2026

Leaders Chase Growth, Dodge Tech, Crave Nonexistent Easy Button

Leaders intuitively dive deep into acquisitions and new markets, but shy away from tech projects. They relegate responsibility instead of taking a hands-on approach, hoping for an 'easy button' that doesn't exist. #Leadership #TechProjects https://t.co/tCUGH7PMoB

By Eric Kimberling
Japan's Digital Transformation Failure Offers Global Lessons
SocialMay 10, 2026

Japan's Digital Transformation Failure Offers Global Lessons

A digital transformation failure in Japan offers universal lessons for teams worldwide. It highlights challenges common to many digital transformations, especially within Japan's unique market context. #DigitalTransformation #CaseStudy https://t.co/drEIvhacNT

By Eric Kimberling
SAP's $100‑200M Waste Management Promise Falls Short
SocialMay 10, 2026

SAP's $100‑200M Waste Management Promise Falls Short

SAP's promised annual benefits of $100-200M for Waste Management never materialized. Public records suggest demos showcased unreleased software, leading to failure. #SAP #BusinessFailures #TechIssues https://t.co/lYFSvb4VYe

By Eric Kimberling
AI Change Fails 70‑80% When One Gear Breaks
SocialMay 10, 2026

AI Change Fails 70‑80% When One Gear Breaks

Organizational change, especially with AI, has a staggering 70-80% failure rate. This often stems from systemic breakdowns within the 'machine' – all three core gears must function for success. #ChangeManagement #AI #BusinessSuccess https://t.co/oDzHVurz8p

By Eric Kimberling
Composable ERP Requires Integrated Architecture, Not One System
SocialMay 10, 2026

Composable ERP Requires Integrated Architecture, Not One System

The myth of a single ERP system handling everything is rare. With composable ERP, best-of-breed, and AI solutions, organizations inevitably use multiple systems. Defining your architecture and integrations is critical for success. #ERP #TechArchitecture https://t.co/sEDfeLQXf4

By Eric Kimberling
Odoo's Risks Remain, Yet It Ranks Top Ten
SocialMay 9, 2026

Odoo's Risks Remain, Yet It Ranks Top Ten

Odoo's main risks? It might not be robust enough for large organizations, and the company may be overreaching. Despite these downsides, its strengths still land it in the top 10. #Odoo #ERP #BusinessSoftware https://t.co/VtFjPDpVv2

By Eric Kimberling
Leaders Must Stop Ceding Power to Vendors
SocialMay 9, 2026

Leaders Must Stop Ceding Power to Vendors

Leaders are agreeing to clauses that give vendors ultimate decision-making authority, a false sense of security akin to a child's security blanket. It's time for leaders to develop a stronger backbone. #Leadership #BusinessStrategy https://t.co/jFijnrKUD5

By Eric Kimberling
ERP Success Requires Independent Program Management, Not Vendor‑Led PMO
SocialMay 9, 2026

ERP Success Requires Independent Program Management, Not Vendor‑Led PMO

Successful ERP implementations hinge on strong program management. Don't rely on vendors for this crucial PMO role; ensure it's filled internally or by an independent consultant to manage all the moving parts. #ERP #ProjectManagement https://t.co/0YCZ14yXug

By Eric Kimberling
Govt Pushes IT Governance Amid Enterprise Tech Hodgepodge
SocialMay 9, 2026

Govt Pushes IT Governance Amid Enterprise Tech Hodgepodge

Organizations struggle with a tech hodgepodge due to evolved, customized systems lacking clear end-to-end understanding. Government now eyes IT governance and architecture needs. #ITGovernance #TechStrategy https://t.co/rdL9uuKsJl

By Eric Kimberling
Infor CloudSuite Jumps to #3, Driven by Client Demand
SocialMay 9, 2026

Infor CloudSuite Jumps to #3, Driven by Client Demand

Infor CloudSuite climbs to #3, up from #6. This rise is driven by increased client selection and growing traction and stability within the CloudSuite solution itself. #CloudSuite #Infor #Tech https://t.co/FFsJTQrGFf

By Eric Kimberling
Legacy Data Complexity Drives Project Failures
SocialMay 9, 2026

Legacy Data Complexity Drives Project Failures

Project failure often stems from data complexity and the struggle to clean and map legacy data. Bad data cripples even the best systems, preventing effective business operations. #DataQuality #ProjectManagement https://t.co/nr84MpdrL0

By Eric Kimberling
Hire a Business Architect, Not Just ERP Vendors
SocialMay 9, 2026

Hire a Business Architect, Not Just ERP Vendors

Building a house requires a general contractor, not just subcontractors like plumbers. The same applies to ERP implementation: you need a business architect to tie everything together, ensuring your ERP vendor (the 'plumber') fits into the overall plan. #ERP #BusinessStrategy...

By Eric Kimberling
SAP S/4HANA Rollout Can Halt Operations for Months
SocialMay 8, 2026

SAP S/4HANA Rollout Can Halt Operations for Months

Implementing SAP S/4HANA can be catastrophic. One company's rollout shut down operations for 6 months, leaving products off shelves nationwide. Major projects demand flawless execution. #SAP #ERP https://t.co/AypmgCE56m

By Eric Kimberling
Data Migration Overlooked: A Hidden Implementation Pitfall
SocialMay 8, 2026

Data Migration Overlooked: A Hidden Implementation Pitfall

Vendor scope often omits crucial data migration. Most software plans assume data loading is simple, ignoring the massive effort needed before integration. Don't let this overlooked step derail your system. #DataMigration #SoftwareImplementation https://t.co/W1mOB9wleM

By Eric Kimberling
Vendor Timelines Usually Miss Critical Testing Delays
SocialMay 8, 2026

Vendor Timelines Usually Miss Critical Testing Delays

Vendor timelines are rarely realistic. Assumptions often fall through, and critical steps like business testing, UAT, and end-user training can add months to a project. Don't trust the boilerplate. #ProjectManagement #VendorTips https://t.co/gsLRSJqtur

By Eric Kimberling
ERP Success Requires Customer and Employee Experience Focus
SocialMay 8, 2026

ERP Success Requires Customer and Employee Experience Focus

Executives may see ERP implementation as a necessity, but justification needs more. Focus on improving customer and employee experience with detailed future-state operating and organizational models. #ERP #BusinessTransformation https://t.co/fjPFiG70fH

By Eric Kimberling
Japan's IT Talent Gap Stalls Digital Modernization Plans
SocialMay 8, 2026

Japan's IT Talent Gap Stalls Digital Modernization Plans

Japan faces an IT talent crisis: only 66% of demand is met locally, creating a skills gap for modernization. Alarmingly, just 12% of large companies have modernization plans, indicating a lack of urgency among leaders. #ITJobs #DigitalTransformation #Japan https://t.co/pPL0pqan5n

By Eric Kimberling
Neglected Data Prep Delays AI and Analytics Projects
SocialMay 8, 2026

Neglected Data Prep Delays AI and Analytics Projects

Data cleansing, mapping, and validation are critical but often overlooked. These steps are essential for AI and analytics, yet they commonly cause massive project delays. #DataManagement #ProjectDelays https://t.co/TNh6xP37JD

By Eric Kimberling
Safety Comes From Aligned Incentives, Not Big Logos
SocialMay 7, 2026

Safety Comes From Aligned Incentives, Not Big Logos

Real safety isn't about big logos. It's about independent oversight, honest timelines, and partners with aligned incentives. Always check how your partner gets paid – their motivation is key. #BusinessTips #Partnerships https://t.co/OOhuuopy7K

By Eric Kimberling
Use Traceability to Align Requirements and Manage Risks
SocialMay 7, 2026

Use Traceability to Align Requirements and Manage Risks

Throughout design, testing, and go-live prep, keep business requirements in mind. Traceability helps you understand which requirements are met, allowing for informed decisions on risks and trade-offs. #ProjectManagement #Requirements https://t.co/KhXVySyInK

By Eric Kimberling
Most Firms, Especially Japan's Biggest, Stuck in Legacy Systems
SocialMay 7, 2026

Most Firms, Especially Japan's Biggest, Stuck in Legacy Systems

A staggering 61% of organizations, and 74% of Japan's largest, rely on outdated legacy systems. Many lack a digital strategy or replacement plan, with over half of modernizers re-customizing instead of adopting scalable solutions. #LegacySystems #DigitalTransformation https://t.co/Z7dKtrG0QJ

By Eric Kimberling
Start Data Cleaning Early to Prevent Vendor Delays
SocialMay 7, 2026

Start Data Cleaning Early to Prevent Vendor Delays

Vendor Statements of Work often clarify their tasks but omit yours. A single line item like 'Client shall clean data' can mean months of work, often discovered during UAT or training. Start data cleaning early to avoid costly delays. #ProjectManagement...

By Eric Kimberling
Independent Consultants Speak Truth Vendors Won’t
SocialMay 7, 2026

Independent Consultants Speak Truth Vendors Won’t

Many sales reps lose deals by telling customers what they need to hear instead of what they want to hear. Independent consultants can reveal harsh truths that vendors won't, because their financial interests aren't tied to specific software. #SalesTips #BusinessStrategy...

By Eric Kimberling
Small Issues Stack Up Into Major Crises
SocialMay 7, 2026

Small Issues Stack Up Into Major Crises

A former HP CIO revealed how small, individual problems can combine into a 'perfect storm,' leading to significant failures. Often, it's not one big issue, but a series of manageable ones that create the crisis. #BusinessLessons #Leadership https://t.co/exbcQ8QaB2

By Eric Kimberling
Vendor Dependence and Talent Shortage Threaten Tech Modernization
SocialMay 7, 2026

Vendor Dependence and Talent Shortage Threaten Tech Modernization

Concerns rise over outdated, customized, and homegrown systems. A shrinking talent pool and over-reliance on vendors create significant risks for technology modernization. This dependency, as highlighted by METI, leaves the industry vulnerable. #TechRisks #DigitalTransformation https://t.co/x5sKgw4MA3

By Eric Kimberling
NetSuite's Rigid SaaS Model Limits Growth for Larger Firms
SocialMay 7, 2026

NetSuite's Rigid SaaS Model Limits Growth for Larger Firms

NetSuite struggles to support mid-size to large organizations due to its limited flexibility and complexity. Its multi-tenant SaaS model restricts customization compared to other cloud solutions, making it less appealing for growing businesses. #ERP #BusinessSoftware https://t.co/jG1PRzc0H9

By Eric Kimberling
Best Practices Aren’t Universal; More Tech Isn’t Always Better
SocialMay 6, 2026

Best Practices Aren’t Universal; More Tech Isn’t Always Better

Podcast Ep271: 'Best Practice' Is Not Best for You, Global SAP Lessons, More Technology Isn't Better https://t.co/AEclfT02aR

By Eric Kimberling
ERP Consolidation Is Harder Than Expected, Even with Top Consultants
SocialMay 6, 2026

ERP Consolidation Is Harder Than Expected, Even with Top Consultants

Growing organizations often consolidate to act as one company, a common goal in ERP implementations like SAP. With a major consultancy, you'd expect it to be straightforward, but challenges arise. #SAP #ERP #Business https://t.co/1sVnqv3Amy

By Eric Kimberling
Over‑reliance on Agile Delays, Costs, and Complicates Projects
SocialMay 6, 2026

Over‑reliance on Agile Delays, Costs, and Complicates Projects

Leaning too heavily on Agile can ironically make projects longer, more expensive, and messier. True Agile requires addressing complexity early, not rushing to build. #Agile #ProjectManagement https://t.co/BWo18mKBPY

By Eric Kimberling
Bad Data Drove $84M SAP Failure and Six‑Month Shutdown
SocialMay 6, 2026

Bad Data Drove $84M SAP Failure and Six‑Month Shutdown

Spending millions on SAP S/4HANA failed spectacularly, going $84M over budget and shutting down operations for 6 months. Bad data complexity was a major culprit, crippling the business. #SAP #ProjectFailure #Business https://t.co/5mfv4SmYYp

By Eric Kimberling
Pick the Right D365 Partner Amid Inconsistent VAR Quality
SocialMay 6, 2026

Pick the Right D365 Partner Amid Inconsistent VAR Quality

Microsoft D365's biggest drawback? The VAR ecosystem. Quality varies wildly, so choosing the right implementation partner is crucial. Be careful—there are too many out there. #D365 #TechTips https://t.co/5nn7yMNWlm

By Eric Kimberling
Cross‑functional Teams and On‑site ERP Support Restore Production
SocialMay 5, 2026

Cross‑functional Teams and On‑site ERP Support Restore Production

After a botched rollout, they deployed cross-functional teams and interim workarounds to stabilize systems and restore production throughput. Increased on-site ERP support and prioritized scheduling to overcome bottlenecks. #ERP #Recovery #Tech https://t.co/jlxUXLs005

By Eric Kimberling
Anthropic Overtakes OpenAI in Enterprise LLM Market
SocialMay 5, 2026

Anthropic Overtakes OpenAI in Enterprise LLM Market

Anthropic's enterprise LLM share has surged to 40%, while OpenAI's has fallen from 50% to 27%. This shift reflects a maturing, competitive AI market, not necessarily OpenAI's decline, but the rise of new players challenging market leaders. #AI #TechMarket https://t.co/ac4524tcJa

By Eric Kimberling
ERP Evolves Into AI-First Autonomous Work Driver
SocialMay 5, 2026

ERP Evolves Into AI-First Autonomous Work Driver

ERP is shifting from a passive system of record to an active, autonomous work driver. The future of ERP lies in becoming an AI-first system, driving innovation and workflows, rather than just a glorified database for AI agents. #ERP #AI...

By Eric Kimberling
Tailor ERP to Department Needs for Strategic Alignment
SocialMay 5, 2026

Tailor ERP to Department Needs for Strategic Alignment

Understanding business requirements is key to configuring ERP software. Each department has unique needs that shape the implementation to best align with the organization's goals. #ERP #BusinessNeeds https://t.co/NhJlcEQyXk

By Eric Kimberling
Phased Asia‑Pacific Rollout Ensures Smooth, Productive Launch
SocialMay 5, 2026

Phased Asia‑Pacific Rollout Ensures Smooth, Productive Launch

Tennant's rollout strategy began in Asia-Pacific, a less complex phase than US or European operations. This phased approach ensured a smoother implementation, aiming for an uneventful go-live that drives productivity improvements over time. #RolloutStrategy #BusinessTech https://t.co/jVI8ZHD8c3

By Eric Kimberling
Executive Leadership Drives Successful Transformation
SocialMay 4, 2026

Executive Leadership Drives Successful Transformation

Executive leadership is crucial for transformation. Ensure leaders are involved, making decisions, and staying informed about project progress and risks. Their buy-in makes all the difference. #Leadership #Transformation https://t.co/GZutlbLgXG

By Eric Kimberling
Ignoring Change Management Dooms ERP Implementations
SocialMay 4, 2026

Ignoring Change Management Dooms ERP Implementations

ERP implementation failure often stems from neglecting organizational change management. This oversight can trigger numerous other issues throughout the project. #ERP #ChangeManagement https://t.co/Z6XQ84MEme

By Eric Kimberling
ERP Success Depends on Real ROI, Not Just Cost
SocialMay 4, 2026

ERP Success Depends on Real ROI, Not Just Cost

ERP implementation success hinges on ROI. Negative returns like lost sales and customer value signal failure. It's not just about cost, but the tangible value gained. #ERP #ROI #Business https://t.co/R65ORlhNT4

By Eric Kimberling
Mid-Market SAP Implementations Fail Too—Learn From Real Case
SocialMay 4, 2026

Mid-Market SAP Implementations Fail Too—Learn From Real Case

ERP and digital transformation failures aren't exclusive to giant corporations. Mid-market companies, even those you haven't heard of, face dramatic SAP implementation fails too. Learn from a publicly traded company's disclosed struggles. #ERP #DigitalTransformation #SAP https://t.co/Bo7aP7afGm

By Eric Kimberling
Mid‑Market Agent Teams Threaten Workflows, Prompt Employee Pushback
SocialMay 3, 2026

Mid‑Market Agent Teams Threaten Workflows, Prompt Employee Pushback

The rise of agent teams in mid-market organizations brings significant change. How will employees respond to workflows that might feel draconian and threatening? #FutureOfWork #AI https://t.co/RnZuqQ9J85

By Eric Kimberling
OneStream Simplifies Finance with Integrated CPM Solutions
SocialMay 3, 2026

OneStream Simplifies Finance with Integrated CPM Solutions

Corporate Performance Management (CPM), also known as Enterprise Performance Management (EPM), is a software category tailored for finance and accounting professionals. Solutions like OneStream help organizations streamline financial processes. #CPM #EPM https://t.co/m3bwEtxURc

By Eric Kimberling
ERP Evolves: AI and ML Automate Finance Operations
SocialMay 3, 2026

ERP Evolves: AI and ML Automate Finance Operations

ERP software evolved from simple inventory tracking to a single source of truth, now integrating AI and ML. These technologies automate processes like accounts payable, flag exceptions, and optimize invoice processing, taking ERP to the next level. #ERP #AI #ML...

By Eric Kimberling
Design First: Avoid Unscalable, Risky System Rollouts
SocialMay 3, 2026

Design First: Avoid Unscalable, Risky System Rollouts

Building systems without upfront organizational design leads to location-specific solutions that don't scale. Don't be overly optimistic; if reports seem too green, trust your gut and dig for risks before launch. #ProjectManagement #BusinessStrategy https://t.co/GL8dCZ9oFM

By Eric Kimberling
Internal Politics, Vendors, Consultants
SocialMay 3, 2026

Internal Politics, Vendors, Consultants

Digital transformation is a perfect storm of problems. My new book, "Welcome to the Machine," explores the systemic issues rooted in internal politics, software vendors, and consultants. Understanding these three dimensions is key. #DigitalTransformation #Tech https://t.co/et5YVRV1pc

By Eric Kimberling
User Acceptance Testing Prevents Costly Business Failures
SocialMay 3, 2026

User Acceptance Testing Prevents Costly Business Failures

Many business failures could be avoided with effective user acceptance testing. Identifying problems before launch prevents costly live issues and protects the business. #QualityAssurance #BusinessTips https://t.co/1siDo3Tyf3

By Eric Kimberling
Start Small, Pilot Wisely for Big Strategy Success
SocialMay 3, 2026

Start Small, Pilot Wisely for Big Strategy Success

Rolling out a new strategy? Nail the implementation. Choose a pilot location or low-risk area that truly represents your larger blueprint. Get the small scale right to ensure big success. #Strategy #Implementation https://t.co/QuTp0p4He7

By Eric Kimberling
OneStream Unifies Data Across ERP, Spreadsheets, Office
SocialMay 2, 2026

OneStream Unifies Data Across ERP, Spreadsheets, Office

OneStream's biggest advantage? A unified data set. It consolidates info from ERPs or spreadsheets and integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Office, letting you access data anywhere. #DataIntegration #BusinessIntelligence https://t.co/X2fHy4eOhg

By Eric Kimberling
Configuration Beats Customization: Faster, Safer, Cheaper
SocialMay 2, 2026

Configuration Beats Customization: Faster, Safer, Cheaper

Configuration personalizes software without altering code. Customization changes the code itself, a heavier lift with greater risk. While customization may be necessary for unique needs, it's more time-consuming and expensive than configuration. #SoftwareDevelopment #ERP https://t.co/EaPeG3W6b5

By Eric Kimberling