In this article, we discuss why industry needs a meticulous implementation strategy for Onsite Solutions to ensure a smooth, low-risk transition, with a strong focus on three non-negotiable pillars: people, data, and IT. We’re sharing what good looks like from day one, and why our Onsite Solutions are growing so rapidly.

Implementation Managers at the Centre

Switching MRO providers and implementing an Onsite Solution, where you have a dedicated person supporting a manufacturing facility, can feel like a complex project to set up correctly. But like all successful project execution, all it needs is clear, accountable leadership. 

That’s why we recommend using a highly experienced Implementation Manager. This manager is not just an administrator – they are the single point of contact and accountability, reporting directly to the senior Onsite leadership team. Think of it as a conduit – ensuring that every decision is aligned with strategic goals and that challenges are swiftly escalated and resolved. It’s like never having to say, ‘Where are we with this?’ A breath of fresh air. 

How long is the Implementation Roadmap?

Our typical setup period is three months. We recommend that timeframe because we’ve refined it through numerous transitions to ensure it’s both comprehensive and efficient. 

We can’t stress enough how important communication (people) is during implementation. That’s why it’s good practice to have regular updates and also face-to-face Teams calls. These meetings are used to track every element of the project against a detailed timeline, from complex IT integration and the precise establishment of opening stock levels to sensitive discussions about staff transfers under TUPE regulations. In a nutshell, taking a structured, transparent approach ensures that everyone is informed. There is a complete picture of the project’s health, fostering confidence well before day one arrives.

Prep. Prep. Prep.

The saying is ‘Rubbish in, rubbish out’. The time taken at the start of a project to prepare saves so much unnecessary time and friction. Our top tip is to de-risk the transition by having a laser-like focus on data early on. 

Implementation managers really come into their own in the preparation phase, collaborating to gather, validate, and cleanse all essential product, pricing, and historical usage data. Taking a deep dive into existing systems, cross-referencing supplier information, and verifying part numbers.

Accurate information underpins operational readiness. In our experience, by meticulously establishing a validated master data set, we know exactly which products to supply, at what levels, and where from day one. 

In short, a preemptive data strategy prevents stock shortages, eliminates order errors, and ensures a continuous, smooth MRO service from the very first hour of the new partnership.

The Human Element of Transition (TUPE)

Another consideration for success is understanding the sensitivity required when transferring team members (if that’s required). The Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations (TUPE) need to be followed when this happens. However, care and respect that go beyond mere compliance can underpin a successful transition. For the incoming employee, this is a moment of significant personal uncertainty, and a compassionate, empathetic approach is important.

Providing this team member with support from a local branch model makes them less likely to feel isolated. Instead, they are quickly introduced and integrated into a larger, supportive local team network. They are welcomed by managers and colleagues who have a deep understanding of MRO and Onsite Solution excellence. Let’s face it, feeling part of a team, with whom you can pick up the phone to ask questions or pop around the corner to share lunch with, is far more motivating and gives a sense of belonging.

A Seamless Start to a Value-Driven Partnership

A comprehensive, structured implementation plan that clearly maps out the journey is proven to deliver success – it’s smooth. When a process carefully considers people, data, and IT elements with communication at its heart, it’s statistically more likely to deliver promised operational and financial value from the moment the contract goes live. This meticulous, three-pronged approach transforms a potential risk into assured, seamless continuity and operational enhancement.

If you’re serious about trying to reduce costs and improve productivity, we’d be happy to discuss HAYLEY DEXIS Onsite Solutions with you.

Matthew Parkes is general onsite manager at HAYLEY DEXIS