Implementing a new system like Xactly can bring about significant organizational changes, resulting in increased efficiency, accuracy, and transparency in managing sales compensation. However, the success of the implementation largely depends on the actions taken in the months after its launch. 

We have created a post-implementation roadmap outlining essential tasks we recommend to every client based on countless Xactly implementations. This article provides an overview of the key tasks that organizations should perform in the 12 months following the Xactly implementation to optimize the system's benefits.

This article will:

• Inform timing and resource allocations in advance of your Xactly implementation
• Allow your team to hit the ground running on the day of launch
• Maximize your organization’s investment in Xactly

The First 3 Months: Learning the Basics

During the initial months, the primary focus is on familiarizing yourself with the Xactly and its fundamental functions. Tasks such as setting up the system, processing the first payroll, and teaching sales users how to utilize the system lay the groundwork for a successful implementation.

Adding Users

When adding users to the system, it is necessary to configure user accounts, permissions, and basic settings to ensure the system is ready for use by anyone who needs it.

Processing the First Payroll

Processing the first payroll involves entering employee data, calculating compensation based on the configured plans, and generating payment reports.

Learning How to Calculate Batches and Troubleshoot Issues

Understanding how to calculate batches involves determining the correct compensation for each employee based on the rules defined in the system. Troubleshooting may include resolving calculation errors due to incorrect roles, quotas, and hierarchies.

Pulling Payment Reports for Payroll

Pulling payment reports allows users to review and verify payroll information before processing payments, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies.

Teaching Sales Users How to Use the System

Training sales users involves guiding how to navigate the system, enter data, and access information relevant to their roles.

Understanding Where to Find Information in the System

Knowing where to find information is crucial for efficient system use, enabling users to access the data they need quickly.

Fielding Questions and Inquiries from the Team

Being able to address questions and inquiries from the team helps ensure a smooth transition to the new system and fosters confidence in its use.

Months 4-6: Enhancing Skills and Creating Reports

Building on the basics, the next phase involves enhancing skills and creating reports. This includes tasks such as taking additional training, creating analytics reports, and recognizing patterns in data to improve decision-making processes.

Taking Additional Training from Xactly U

Additional training, such as analytics or configuration training, helps users deepen their understanding of the system and its capabilities.

Creating Analytics Reports

Creating analytics reports allows users to analyze data and gain insights into sales performance, compensation trends, and other key metrics.

Recognizing Patterns in Data

Recognizing patterns in data helps users identify trends and make informed decisions about compensation plans and strategies.

Beginning to Think About Plan Changes and System Enhancements

Considering plan changes and system enhancements allows organizations to adapt to changing business needs and improve the effectiveness of their compensation plans.

Months 7-9: Preparing for Plan Changes

Organizations should start preparing for plan changes and system enhancements later in the year. This phase includes reviewing system complexities, considering changes such as data integrations, and continuing training on plan configuration.

Reviewing Any Complexities or Common Trends

Reviewing complexities and common trends helps identify areas for improvement and informs the decision-making process for plan changes and system enhancements.

Considering Changes to the System

Considering changes to the system, such as data integrations with Salesforce, can improve efficiency and streamline processes.

Continuing Training on Plan Configuration and Document Approvals

Continuing training on plan configuration and document approvals ensures that users are up-to-date with the latest features and best practices.

Months 10-12: Finalizing Year-End and Planning Ahead

The year's final months are dedicated to finalizing plan changes, closing out the year, and starting to plan for the next year's system enhancements and changes. This structured approach ensures a smooth transition and helps organizations maximize the benefits of their Xactly implementation.

Closing Out the Year

Closing out the year involves preparing reports for audits and ensuring that all necessary documentation is in order.

Starting to Plan for the Next Year's System Enhancements and Changes

Planning for the next year's system enhancements and changes ensures that organizations are prepared to continue improving their compensation plans and processes.

Finalizing Any Plan Changes in a Sandbox Environment

Finalizing plan changes in a sandbox environment allows organizations to test and refine their changes before implementing them in a live environment.

Driving Success with Xactly: A Strategic Post-Implementation Approach

By following this post-implementation roadmap, you can ensure that you make the most of your organization’s investment in Xactly. This can lead to increased efficiency, productivity, and profitability. It can also help organizations stay ahead of competitors by leveraging the latest Xactly features and capabilities.

This post-implementation roadmap can help you identify and address any issues or challenges that arise after implementation. This can prevent small problems from becoming major roadblocks and ensure the system delivers the desired results.

The point? Following a post-implementation roadmap is critical for organizations that want to get the most out of the Xactly system. It can help businesses optimize their system use, stay ahead of competitors, and achieve better outcomes.