5 signs you need contract support for your ERP project—before it’s too late 

When it comes to ERP implementations, timing is everything. A project that begins on track can quickly veer off course if key warning signs go unnoticed. Recognizing when to bring in extra help can be the difference between a smooth transition and a costly failure.  

Here are five clear indicators that it’s time to consider contract support for your ERP project. 

1. Deadlines keep slipping 

ERP rollouts typically follow a tightly managed schedule with interdependent milestones. If deadlines start to slip, it’s a red flag. Whether it’s due to delays in system configuration, slow data migration, or bottlenecks in testing, the underlying issue often comes down to bandwidth. Internal teams are overextended. 

By augmenting your team with contract talent—especially in critical functional areas like finance and reporting—you can ensure momentum doesn’t stall. These professionals hit the ground running so your team can focus entirely on ERP tasks without the distraction of daily responsibilities. 

2. Operational backlogs are growing 

Another common sign is the growing mountain of unfinished work. If month-end close is taking longer, invoice processing is falling behind, or reconciliations are delayed, it means your team is maxed out. This operational lag can snowball into bigger issues, like audit complications or cash flow problems. 

Contract staff can step in to manage these essential functions while your core team dedicates time to ERP-related work. It’s a short-term solution with long-term payoff. 

3. Your team is burning out 

ERP projects often span 12 to 24 months, and internal teams are usually asked to run the marathon while sprinting. Unsurprisingly, burnout is common. In fact, a 2023 survey by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) found that 39% of finance professionals experienced significant stress due to workload increases and organizational change. 

Burnout leads to disengagement, errors, and ultimately attrition—all costly outcomes during a critical transformation. Contract workers provide the pressure relief valve your team needs. 

4. You have skill gaps 

ERP projects demand specific skills that your team may not possess. Whether it’s advanced data mapping, change management expertise, or knowledge of specific platforms like NetSuite, SAP, or Microsoft Dynamics—these gaps can’t be bridged by good intentions alone. 

Contract professionals with niche expertise can jump in quickly to fill those gaps. They’ve likely worked on similar ERP implementations and can bring proven methods and tools. 

5. You’re Already Over Budget 

It sounds counterintuitive, but hiring contract help can actually save you money in the long run. Delays, rework, and employee turnover are all far more expensive than strategic staffing. According to a study by CBH, 75% of ERP implementations either fail or fall short of their goals, often due to insufficient planning or resources. 

Investing in additional support when you first spot trouble can prevent more costly corrections later. 

Get the right help when you need it 

ERP implementations don’t fail overnight—they fail gradually when early signals are ignored. Watch for these five signs and don’t hesitate to bring in contract professionals to stabilize the situation. It’s not just a staffing decision; it’s a strategic investment in the success of your ERP initiative. 

Bringing in the right support at the right time can keep your ERP project—and your team—on track. 

Whether you’re in the early stages of planning your implementation/migration or are already in progress, let’s talk about how Addison Group can support your talent gaps.