Implementation
Instead of external consultants configuring software behind closed doors, internal teams build, test, and own your ERP platform, guided by inline wizards and weekly expert coaching.
How DIY-ERP Works
DIY-ERP replaces traditional consulting-heavy implementations with a guided delivery framework embedded directly inside Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.
DIY-ERP operationalises the entire implementation lifecycle directly within Business Central and Microsoft Teams, eliminating static paper manuals, external binders, and disconnected consulting playbooks.
Inside-the-System Execution
Every task, sequence, prerequisite, and video tutorial lives natively within the Business Central application interface via an embedded session wizard.
Pre-Configured Foundation
Rather than starting with a blank database, you receive a fully configured, best-practice environment on Day 1. We focus on refining defaults and deselecting unnecessary features rather than building from scratch.
Coaching & Oversigh
External coaches do not build the system for you. Instead, we provide strategic decision frameworks, business transformation guidance, scope discipline, change management accountability, and commercial guardrails.
Knowledge Preserved Internally
Because internal staff configure the environment hands-on during weekly sessions, technical knowledge is retained within the organisation rather than walking out the door with external contractors.
Implementation Methodology
The DIY-ERP methodology distils over 25 years of ERP delivery and project recovery experience into a structured, four-phase framework.
Phase 1
Pre-Configuration
Set up the environment and load base best-practice templates.
Phase 2
Guided Execution
Weekly mentor-led configuration sessions and task assignments.
Phase 3
Iterative Migration
Unlimited test loads via Excel pre-validated templates.
Phase 4
Click Cutover
Zero downtime, automated production launch.
Core Methodological Pillars
Self-Prescribed Scope
You define your functional scope upfront, allowing for a fixed-price commitment without open-ended discovery cycles.
Standardised Task Sequences
Implementation tasks follow strict dependency chains managed by the in-app wizard to prevent configuration errors.
Continuous Validation
Automated validation tools check configuration logic, security permissions, and data integrity at every step.
Native-First Design
Leverages standard Business Central functionality, Microsoft 365 tools (Excel, Outlook, Teams), and Copilot AI before evaluating custom code or third-party add-ons.
Implementation Timeline
DIY-ERP implementations typically range between 8 and 18 weeks for standard deployments, compared to traditional projects that often drag on for 12 to 18+ months. For highly complex multi-site manufacturing or custom project installations, schedules extend predictably up to 28–32 weeks.
Finance Core/NFP
General Ledger, AP, AR, Fixed Assets, Banking, Cash Flow, GST
8–14 weeks
+1 week max delay
Wholesale Distribution
Finance + Sales Orders, Purchase Orders, Inventory, Warehousing
14–18 weeks
+2 weeks max delay
Project Services
Finance + Resources, Project Management, Job Costing, WIP
14–18 weeks
Manufacturing
Finance, Trade, Warehousing + BOMs, Routings, Production Orders
16–24 weeks
+3 weeks max delay
Field Service & Repairs
Finance, Trade + Service Management, Warranties, Warehousing
16–24 weeks
+3 weeks max delay
Complex Manufacturing & On-Site Projects
Full Suite: Manufacturing, Warehousing, Projects, Service, Warranties
28–32 weeks
+4 weeks max delay
Implementation Cost
DIY-ERP operates under a Fixed-Price, All-In Commercial Model. All licenses and implementation packages are paid in advance for lifetime use on a Fixed Term License basis, eliminating hidden fees, scope creep, and billable hour overruns.
Simple NFP (Finance Core)
$59,000
$34,000 + $25,000
Standard Finance Functionality
$65,000
$40,000 + $25,000
Complex NFP (Finance + Inventory or Projects)
$82,500
$42,500 + $40,000
Wholesale Distribution / Trade
$90,000
$50,000 + $40,000
Project Services
$90,000
$50,000 + $40,000
Complex Project Delivery & Warehousing
$105,000
$50,000 + $55,000
Field Services (Repairs & Maintenance)
$115,000
$65,000 + $50,000
Manufacturing Essentials
$130,000
$65,000 + $65,000
Complex Manufacturing + Warranty Management
$155,000
$65,000 + $90,000
Complex Manufacturing + On-Site Projects + Field Service
$170,000
$65,000 + $105,000
Data Migration Framework
Traditional data migrations fail due to consultant bottlenecks, single "big-bang" cutover events, and late issue discovery. DIY-ERP reverses this dynamic by giving you direct, continuous control over your data loading.
Pre-Built Excel Templates
Ready-to-use templates for every master table (Chart of Accounts, Customers, Vendors, Items, Fixed Assets, Open AP/AR, Opening Balances).
Automated Data Validation
Built-in cleansing logic checks data structure and fields during import, flagging errors before data commits to the ledger.
Unlimited Iterative Test Imports
Execute unlimited trial migrations in test environments, refining and re-importing data without incurring extra consulting charges.
Phased Migration Sequencing
Avoids migrating all systems simultaneously. The core financial ledger is established first, followed by incremental replacements of peripheral systems (CRM, Payroll, Inventory).
Detailed Implementation Plan (Sample 16-Week Schedule)
Below is the standard 10-phase operational schedule used to guide projects from kickoff to live operations:
Phase 1: Project Initiation & Readiness (Week 0 / Weeks 1–2)
Kickoff meeting, Internal Super User appointment, tenant and security provisioning, Old Process Master List (OPML) review, and project calendar setup.
Phase 2: Core Finance Configuration (Weeks 1–2)
Set up Company Information, General Ledger, Chart of Accounts, Dimensions, GST posting groups, payment terms, and bank accounts.
Phase 3: Core Operations & Trade Setup (Weeks 3–5)
Customer (AR) and Vendor (AP) master setups, posting groups, HR setup, purchasing, and sales order workflows.
Phase 4: Inventory & Supply Chain (Weeks 6–8)
Item master files, inventory posting groups, unit of measure configuration, multi-location logistics, and warehousing rules.
Phase 5: Administration & System Settings (Weeks 9–10)
Customising Word report layouts (Invoices/POs), setting security roles, user permissions, and assisted setups.
Phase 6: Process Testing & OPML Validation (Weeks 11–12)
Reviewing the Old Process Master List against configured workflows, performing process walkthroughs, and documenting user guides.
Phase 7: Training & User Adoption (Weeks 13–14)
Task training delivered by the Internal Super User, practising with copied live transactions, and distributing cheat sheets.
Phase 8: Go-Live Preparation & Cutover Simulation (Week 15)
Building the production environment, running test cutover scripts, verifying opening balances, and conducting final readiness checks.
Phase 9: Cutover & Production Go-Live (Week 16)
Final data import, opening balance migration, and switching system authority to Business Central.
Phase 10: Optional Module Expansion (+2 to 8 Weeks)
Layering on advanced functions such as Manufacturing, Project Costing, Field Service, or CRM as operational needs evolve.
The Internal Super User (ISU) Model
The Internal Super User is the cornerstone of the DIY-ERP methodology. DIY-ERP insources project management rather than outsourcing it to third-party body shops.
ISU Profile & Responsibilities
- Who They Are: Typically an internal Finance Manager, Senior Accountant, or Operations Lead nominated by the business.
- Role & Function: Serves as the internal Product Owner and Capability Lead throughout the engagement.
- Key Tasks:
- Attends weekly guided sessions with a DIY-ERP Coach.
- Executes configuration tasks and manages data migration templates within Business Central.
- Conducts process testing and verifies business rules against the OPML.
- Trains end-users using built-in learning guides and cheat sheets.
- Long-Term Strategic Impact: At go-live, the business possesses an in-house expert capable of modifying reports, adjusting permissions, and onboarding new staff without paying external consulting fees.
Go-Live
Go-live with DIY-ERP eliminates the traditional "weekend marathon" where consultants work around the clock under high stress.
- 1-Click Cutover Automation: Specialised cutover tools migrate master data, open transactions, and initial balances from the test company to the production environment automatically.
- Zero Downtime: Designed to execute on the business's schedule during normal working hours without interrupting existing operations.
- Immediate Financial Balances: Opening GL balances, bank figures, and accounts payable/receivable sub-ledgers post cleanly on Day 1.
- Operational Independence: Because the internal team executed the implementation, they take full ownership of the platform from day one without needing mandatory ongoing support contracts.
