The 5 Types of Client Personalities I’ve Met in ERP Projects
Working on ERP Software projects has taught me that success is not just about software—it’s about people. Every project involves different types of users from the client side, and each one reacts differently to change, training, and the system itself.
Based on my hands-on experience, here are five common personalities I’ve come across during ERP implementations. Understanding them helps manage expectations, reduce friction, and support better adoption.
1. The Fearful Veteran
These users are often older and in management roles. They are scared of making mistakes and really don’t want to feel embarrassed in front of others. They usually ask questions privately and prefer one-on-one support. You’ll notice frustration when they struggle, but they also understand that the system helps the company. With patience and encouragement, they can become reliable users.
✅ Tip: Give them a safe space to ask questions and avoid putting them on the spot.
2. The Young Challenger
Usually younger team members in junior roles, these users are curious and want to explore the system—and sometimes test you too! They believe they know a lot and like to challenge ideas. But when you push back or correct them, they may shut down or start complaining. They mean well but need the right direction.
✅ Tip: Let them test features during UAT and use their energy in a positive way.
3. The Champion
This is the ideal user. They follow instructions, ask good questions, and apply what they learn. They believe in the system and expect it to deliver results. These users are often in higher management and are very professional in their approach. They also help motivate others.
✅ Tip: Involve them in communication and training. They can be great internal promoters Make them your internal ERP ambassador—they help others stay on track.
4. The Resigned Participant
These users seem interested during training, but after go-live, they lose motivation. They see ERP as extra work and may even expect rewards or compensation to use it. They often delay tasks and may not take the system seriously.
✅ Tip: Show them how the system helps their day-to-day work and set clear expectations.
5. The Bottleneck Boss
This person doesn’t get involved much during the project, but later insists that every approval must go through them. They may gossip, block decisions, and believe they are the only one who truly understands the business. While their experience is valuable, they can slow things down.
✅ Tip: Set clear roles and approval processes early to avoid bottlenecks.
Final Thoughts
Every ERP project is a journey through change, and people respond to change in different ways. By recognizing these user types early, we can adjust our approach, build trust, and support smoother rollouts.
If you’re working on ERP projects, I’d love to hear—what types of personalities have you come across?
#ERP #DigitalTransformation #ChangeManagement #ProjectManagement #Consulting #PeopleFirst #UserAdoption