10 Lessons Learned from SMART Modular's 9-Month Crash Course in SAP NetWeaver

Companies are often conflicted when confronted with the prospect of implementing a cutting-edge technology. They see potential business benefits — or else wouldn’t be contemplating it — but recognize the inherent risks of a “bleeding edge” implementation, which involves installing a software system that hasn’t necessarily had all of its kinks worked out yet.

It’s much easier to jump on board with a technology after a few ramp-up customers have tested the waters. And businesses are always grateful to those brave customers who dive in first, discover the benefits and the pitfalls, and then share their experiences with others.

SMART Modular Technologies, Inc. is a perfect example of this type of SAP customer — being one of the first companies to implement SAP NetWeaver solutions. When SMART, a manufacturer of memory cards, LCD displays, and other related products, implemented the software almost five years ago, the company learned lessons along the way that are applicable to any organization considering implementing a brand-new technology.