Rolling out an ERP system in an advertising agency isn’t just a smart move — it’s a necessary step to stay relevant in a fast-paced, oversaturated market. But before diving in, there’s always one question agency leaders ask:
“How long is this going to take?”
The short answer: it varies.
The useful answer: here’s what the timeline actually looks like — based on our work with mid-sized and large agencies across Latin America and Miami.
It All Starts With a Business Need (1 to 2 months)
ERP initiatives don’t start with tech teams — they start with real, day-to-day pain points.
Maybe account managers are drowning in spreadsheets, or finance is constantly chasing errors.
These operational headaches get escalated to the leadership team, and once the C-suite is onboard, the project kicks off.
Budget Planning and Financial Approval (1 month)
Before looking for vendors, agencies need to lock in how much they can actually invest.
This usually involves the CFO or Finance Director adding the ERP as a line item in the agency’s annual budget.
Once there’s an approved budget, the search begins.
Assigning the Core Project Team (2 to 4 weeks)
Next, the agency puts together a cross-functional task force — typically involving Operations, Finance, Client Services, and IT.
This internal team will lead the research, manage vendor conversations, and make the final recommendation.
Researching Vendors, Booking Demos, and Shortlisting Options (1 to 2 months)
Now the real hunt begins.
You’ll evaluate different ERP providers, schedule live demos, and dig deep into how each platform fits your real-world agency workflow — not just the flashy UI.
Cost-Benefit Analysis and Final Decision (1 month)
After the demos, the project team builds a full comparison report covering:
– Pricing
– Features
– Scalability
– Integration
– Support
– Industry expertise
This is then presented to management for final approval.
ERP implementation timeline — What happens after you choose?
Once your agency selects a vendor, the implementation phase begins.
This is where many projects slow down or fall apart… unless there’s a solid roadmap:
1. Process Mapping / Workflow Discovery (1 month)
Your provider needs to understand exactly how your agency runs — from brief to billing.
A good ERP should adapt to you, not the other way around.
2. Database Setup + Custom Configurations (1 to 2 months)
You’ll load initial data: clients, vendors, campaigns, rates, budgets, services, etc.
Custom rules and structures are built to reflect your agency’s DNA.
3. Proof of Concept (2 months)
This is where we test real scenarios in the system. Think of it as a simulation of how your team will work post-go-live. It’s critical for identifying gaps before launch.
4. Post-Test Adjustments (1 month)
After the test run, it’s time to fine-tune: workflows, reports, integrations, approval flows — everything.
5. Staff Training (2 weeks)
All users go through hands-on training, based on their role — so they’re confident and ready to go from day one.
6. Go-Live
Your agency switches over to the new ERP. From client brief to final invoice — everything’s running through one single, connected platform.
Sounds Like a Long Road? Not with the Right Partner.
Yes, a full ERP implementation for a mid-to-large agency typically takes 6 to 10 months.
But that timeline doesn’t have to become a black hole.
At Solop Software, we don’t just provide a platform — we embed ourselves into the process as industry consultants, working side-by-side with your team.
Why can we do this?
Because we know how agencies operate, and our system is tailor-made for the fast, creative, and dynamic world of advertising.
Automation Isn’t a Buzzword. It’s Your Best Shot at Scaling Without Losing Control.
Solop ERP was built specifically for advertising agencies — helping you streamline operations, boost financial visibility, and give your teams more time to focus on strategy, not spreadsheets.
Ready to see how long your agency’s implementation would actually take?
Book a custom demo with one of our consultants