Most ERP projects don’t go over budget because of the software.
They go over because of poor planning, bloated timelines, and the wrong people making the wrong decisions at the wrong time — all of which drive up ERP costs unnecessarily.
The good news? It doesn’t have to be this way.
At Third Stage Consulting, we’ve seen organizations cut their ERP costs and implementation budgets in half — or more — not by skimping, but by getting smarter about how they approach transformation from day one.
Here’s how you can do the same.
1️⃣ Start with a Real Phase Zero
The best way to save millions is to spend a little more at the beginning.
Before you sign a software contract or bring in a single system integrator, you need a clear roadmap:
- What are your business goals and blueprint?
- How will change management be handled?
- What systems are staying, integrating, or being replaced?
- Who owns what — and how will decisions be made?
This foundational work is called Phase Zero, and skipping it is one of the most common causes of cost overruns. Yes, it feels like extra time — but it’s actually the cheapest time you’ll ever spend on the project.
💡 Want to see what a great Phase Zero looks like?
Download our free checklist or scan the QR code in the video.
2️⃣ Build Your Own EPMO (Not Just a PM)
Relying on your software vendor’s project manager to lead your entire initiative is like asking your plumber to build your house.
An Enterprise Program Management Office (EPMO) is your internal mission control. It governs:
- Decision-making speed and structure
- Time, cost, and scope management
- Coordination across technical, functional, and change teams
- Accountability across all workstreams
System integrators are often managing their own interests. A true EPMO protects yours.
“Too often the SI is the fox guarding the henhouse — and everything’s green until it isn’t.”
— Eric Kimberling, CEO of Third Stage Consulting
3️⃣ Use AI to Cut the Grunt Work
You don’t need to pay $300/hour for someone to format requirements or write test scripts.
Today’s AI can:
- Capture and transcribe requirements during workshops
- Translate them into prioritized lists, change impacts, and integration specs
- Automate testing and deliverable generation
- Flag risks before they become rework
Third Stage’s Mission Control AI was designed to do exactly this — giving clients back their time and budgets without compromising quality.
💬 Want to see it in action? Talk to us about Mission Control AI.
4️⃣ Lead with Change, Not Just Code
Change management isn’t fluff — it’s insurance against chaos.
By understanding how new systems affect your people, processes, and culture before go-live, you avoid:
🚩 Surprise resistance
🚩 Low adoption
🚩 Fire drills, delays, and wasted spend
Start early. Know where the landmines are. And give your team the support they need to actually make the leap.
Download our Organizational Change Guide to see how leading companies do it.
5️⃣ Know When to Pivot
The most cost-effective companies are the ones that adjust fast.
Maybe your original architecture isn’t working. Maybe a particular module is a money pit. Maybe you acquired a new company mid-project.
Don’t double down on a bad bet.
Phase it out, delay it, or try a different approach.
“Success isn’t about following the original plan. It’s about knowing when the plan needs to change — and acting on it.”
Third Stage helps clients course-correct all the time. Often, our most valuable work comes from identifying the one area that’s quietly burning budget — and showing you how to fix it.
Bonus: Don’t Let the Vendor Set the Pace
System integrators want to start as soon as possible. Why? Because every week they’re not billing you is revenue they’re not making.
But you don’t owe them your timeline.
Take the time to get your internal foundation in place — even if that means pushing off the project for a few months. You’ll save far more in the long run.
Ready to Cut ERP Costs and Build Smarter?
If you’re gearing up for a digital transformation, let’s talk.
Whether you need a full Phase Zero plan, a staffing partner for your EPMO, or want to explore AI-powered project tools, Third Stage is here to help you cut through the noise and lead with confidence.
Continue Learning
Stratosphere 2025
🗓 August 25–27, 2025 | Denver, CO (In-person & virtual)
A vendor-neutral, expert-led conference on digital transformation strategies.
Details & registration: thirdstage-consulting.com/stratosphere-2025
The Executive Mastermind
An exclusive peer network of transformation leaders collaborating on strategy and innovation.
Learn more: thirdstage-consulting.com/the-executive-mastermind
