Recovering a High-Risk HCM Implementation Before Go-Live

An HCM implementation had fallen behind schedule due to missed milestones, unresolved configuration issues, inadequate testing, and strained relationships between the client and the implementation partner.

Executive leadership faced a narrow choice: delaying go-live would increase program cost, while proceeding without corrective action would jeopardize payroll accuracy and day-to-day business operations.

ICG conducted a rapid implementation health assessment and identified six critical gaps:

1. Incomplete system configuration
2. Limited payroll testing
3. Unclear project ownership
4. Weak governance
5. Missing business process documentation
6. Insufficient end-user training

ICG immediately stepped into a project leadership role by:

• Rebuilding the project plan around a critical path to payroll parallel
• Establishing weekly executive governance with a single decision log
• Prioritizing critical payroll and HR configuration
• Coordinating vendor accountability against dated deliverables
• Leading end-to-end and parallel payroll testing
• Supporting change management, documentation, and user readiness
• Preparing detailed go-live, cutover, and contingency plans

Even the best software implementations can struggle without strong governance and experienced leadership.

ICG helps organizations regain control, reduce implementation risk, and deliver successful outcomes without losing momentum.