This guide outlines the PanatrackerGP implementation process from planning through go-live.
Planning
Successful implementation starts with thorough planning:
- Project Setup — Panatrack creates a project and assigns a project lead, importing standard project lists and adding organization-specific steps
- Kick-Off Meeting — Connects you with the Panatrack implementation team and establishes the timeline based on your go-live date
Setting Your Go-Live Date
Although the system can be installed in a few hours, consider these factors when defining your go-live date:
- Configuration — PanatrackerGP has hundreds of setting options adjusted during training based on your workflows
- Training — Panatrack uses a train-the-trainer approach to develop internal champions who support additional training and answer user questions
- Testing — Use a test company database or test environment for several weeks before go-live to confirm configuration, make adjustments, and verify GP database setup
- Workflow and GP Setup Changes — Adding PanatrackerGP often prompts process evaluation and enables unused GP features (e.g., enabling multiple-bin functionality requires additional planning time)
System Prerequisites
Confirm these prerequisites before installation:
- Microsoft Dynamics GP — Installed and configured
- Microsoft eConnect — Installed and configured on the same server where PanatrackerGP will be installed
- Functional Currency — Enabled in Dynamics GP setup
- SMTP — Configured for email alerts
- Microsoft IIS — Installed and configured
- .NET Framework — Version 4.5.2 or later (4.7.2 or later if using NiceLabel)
- Wireless Network — 802.11a/b/g network implemented
- Mobile Devices — Connected to the wireless network
Hardware Selection and Shipping
Panatrack assists with hardware selection. Early selection allows hardware reservation during shortages. When purchasing through Panatrack, hardware ships 3-5 days before installation to comply with distributor return policies.
Installation
The installation typically takes a few hours and requires coordination with your technical resources:
- Server Installation — Complete the server-side installation first
- Device Setup — Panatrack guides your technical resources through device installation steps (your team connects devices to the network and completes installation on remaining devices)
- Portal Review — Quick portal review with initial configuration adjustments and test transaction to confirm communication and GP compatibility
- Email Notification Setup — Configure email alerts
- Integration Setup — Run scripts to support extended features
- Label Printing Setup — Configure label printing if purchased (often completed separately)
Training
Panatrack uses a train-the-trainer approach with remote or on-site options:
- Remote Training — Multiple shorter sessions scheduled after installation
- On-Site Training — Requires 1-2 days and advance scheduling for travel (includes process and workflow review)
Training Topics
- Portal administrative tools and concepts
- Profile and user setup
- Configuration options review
- Transaction walkthroughs with workflow-based configuration adjustments
Testing and Go-Live
Panatrack recommends at least two weeks of testing to finalize workflow changes and ensure a smooth transition. The training lead(s) typically complete testing before training other users.
Go-Live Coordination
Inform Panatrack of your go-live date to ensure support and implementation team availability. For transitions outside standard business hours or on-site go-live support, contact Panatrack to coordinate.
Post-Go-Live Support
- Report questions and issues through Panatrack support infrastructure
- Approximately 30 days after training or go-live, the project coordinator confirms success, answers questions, and closes the project
- Transition from implementation phase to standard support
Panatrack can be contracted to complete all end-user training if needed.