How a timely data strategy lays the groundwork for transformation 

ERP programs are among the most ambitious and visible investments an organization can make. They promise to unify systems, streamline operations, and improve decision-making at scale. But too often, the success of an ERP transformation hinges on a factor that receives too little attention, too late: the readiness of the data. 

It’s a common scenario: the technology is selected, the implementation plan is set, and stakeholders are aligned—yet data issues emerge just as momentum is building. Inconsistent definitions, fragmented records, and unclear ownership can slow progress, frustrate users, and jeopardize outcomes. 

But there’s an alternative path—one that recognizes data not as a parallel workstream, but as a foundation for long-term ERP value. 

A Familiar Challenge, A More Grounded Solution 

Organizations across industries face the same challenge: how to ensure that the data powering their ERP system is complete, consistent, and trusted. 

At Kenway, we’ve seen that a strong data strategy early in the process leads to more efficient implementations and better long-term value. In our experience, successful ERP transformations are grounded in four data priorities: 

1. Building Trust in Data Before Migration 

ERP systems can only perform as well as the data they’re given. When records for customers, products, or locations are scattered across platforms or plagued by inconsistencies, migration becomes risky and labor-intensive. 

Taking the time to invest in a foundational data platform, using cloud-based tools like Azure Synapse or Databricks, helps an organization: 

• Centralize source data 

• Identify and resolve quality issues early 

• Establish a single source of truth prior to ERP go-live 

This foundation fosters trust, reduces surprises, and accelerates configuration timelines. 

Common issues without this preparation: 

• Duplicated or incomplete master data 

• Misaligned hierarchies or definitions 

• Delays due to manual data cleansing  

• Lack of data literacy and trust 

2. Retiring Legacy Systems Without Losing Historical Insight 

Not all data belongs in the new ERP—but that doesn’t mean it should disappear. 

Using the same foundational data platform alloows us to guide clients in creating a flexible, searchable cloud archive that preserve historical data while reducing system clutter. This approach offers a cleaner ERP environment and reduces legacy maintenance costs.  

Benefits of well consideredarchival strategy: 

• Maintains access to past transactions for audits and reporting 

• Ensures compliance without overloading the ERP 

• Simplifies system retirement/decommissioning while retaining institutional knowledge 

3. Delivering Insights Without Waiting for Go-Live 

ERP programs take time—but business doesn’t pause. 

By decoupling analytics from ERP timelines, organizations can deliver value earlier in the journey. With a foundational data platform in place, it’s possible to build dashboards and track KPIs before the new system is live. While also reinforcing data literacy and trust across the business, and most importantly using the same literacy to improve the ERP design and architecture. 

Early insight development enables: 

• Faster decision-making using legacy data 

• Improved stakeholder engagement 

• More informed ERP design based on real-world needs 

4. Modeling Core Entities Before Cutover 

ERP systems don’t solve complex data relationships automatically—they require clean, structured inputs. 

From customer hierarchies to pricing rules, a well designed foundational data platform will allow one to define and validate business models before migration. In one example, we unified over 400,000 customer records across three platforms, using an Azure Synapse data platform—enabling a seamless transition to Dynamics 365. 

Pre-migration modeling esnures: 

• Accurate representation of business structures 

• Fewer surprises at go-live 

• Reduced dependency on manual data fixes 

A Different Kind of Partnership 

Our approach at Kenway is rooted in the belief that effective delivery starts with thoughtful design. We combine deep technical experience with a people-first mindset—because we know ERP transformations impact more than systems. They impact people, processes, and the pace of business. 

Thus, we treat the accompanying data strategy not as a technical task, but as a strategic enabler.  When addressed early and intentionally, it not only de-risks ERP delivery, but also lays the groundwork for broader data driven transformation. 

Looking Ahead 

Organizations that center data strategy in their ERP planning benefit from cleaner cutovers, faster time to value, and greater long-term confidence in their systems. More importantly, they position themselves to scale, adapt, and lead in increasingly data-driven markets. 

Is your ERP ready for your data—and is your data ready for your ERP? 

If you're preparing for a transformation, this is the question worth asking now—not later.  Connect with us to evaluate your current data landscape and identify where early action can reduce risk and unlock long-term value