Consistencies from systems are received when they have the right configuration and data. Both of them have a lifecycle to be managed and need to be continuously optimized at every phase of the initiative. These elements persist beyond just the attainment of project goals, as they are used until the systems are in use.

ERPs need a strong framework and policy for managing the configuration and data, as these inputs play a significant role in getting the output from solutions used in an organization's business transformation initiative. Both configuration and data are better managed when there are tools that make management easier. Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations gives customers and partners the much-needed tooling to effectively manage them.

There is a direct link between execution and success: planning. A well-planned project sets it up for assured success. Planning makes the rest of the project activities and deliverables easier and allows stakeholders to know what, when, and from whom to expect. In planning, ownership is an important attribute as it helps in making implementation more accountable and predictable.

Both configuration and data migration need thorough planning. In the absence of a good plan for any of the two, chaos would prevail and may bring the project to a halt.

Let's now learn about configuration and data migration planning and management in the next section.