When a new client signs up for Fundipedia’s product master, they start a process of transformation. At the heart of this journey is the Implementation Team, led by Ed Dunkley. The team plays a pivotal role in ensuring that clients experience a seamless transition to the platform, setting the tone and foundations for a long a fruitful partnership.

To highlight their work, we sat down with Ed joined by Ted Andronov, a product manager within the team, to discuss their approach, challenges and the long-lasting impact they create for Fundipedia’s customers.

 

Q: What does the implementation team do?

Ed: After the client signs the contract, they come to us. Our role is to translate their success criteria into a fully functional setup within the product master. This starts with gathering requirements and understanding what they want to achieve, such as specific data configurations or automations. From there, we configure the platform to meet their needs.

The first stage is critical. If the configuration doesn’t perfectly align with their data structure, we can create long term issues. To mitigate this, we work directly with the client to get it right first time. We pull from previous engagements to guide our client on best practice. This experience is another benefit of working with the Fundipedia team. Yes, sometimes we have to say ‘no’ to their requests, but we offer up alternatives that we can evidence will work for them more holistically and longer term.

The implementation journey

The implementation process typically takes 12 to 16 weeks, depending on the complexity of the client’s requirements. The team works closely with clients to ensure that the platform is configured effectively and efficiently.

The phases involved are:

  1. Requirements Gathering: Understanding client goals and identifying the best practices to achieve them.
  2. Configuration: Setting up the platform to process data seamlessly and automating workflows.
  3. Training: Empowering clients to manage configurations independently post implementation.
  4. Handover: Transitioning the relationship to the Customer Success Team, while staying available for post-implementation support.

 

Building client relationships

Given that the Implementation team is the first point of contact for new clients after the sales process, their role is vital in setting the tone for the entire client experience.

Ed: We’re not just configuring software, we’re building trust. Meeting clients, even when it’s not strictly necessary, helps us develop a closer relationship. It’s a two-way street. The more engaged the client is, the faster and better the implementation process.

Ted: That engagement makes a huge difference. Clients who dedicate resources during the implementation phase tend to get more out of the system in the long run. It’s not just about the immediate setup, it’s about empowering them to use the product master with confidence for the future.

 

Q: How do you handle challenges during implementation?

Ted: Problems sometimes arise when dealing with messy data. Clients often come to us because they want simplicity but simplifying a tangled web of data can be tricky. We mitigate this by being thorough during the requirements gathering phase. However, if something unexpected crops up, we use many tools within Fundipedia to create solutions.  It’s rare that we must develop anything bespoke for a new client.

Ed: And it’s not just about solving problems; it’s about being proactive. For instance, if a client’s data model has a knot, we look for ways to reconfigure it within the system’s existing capabilities. Then, any enhancements we make also helps the product evolve and improve to the benefit all our clients, not just the one we’re working with.  This compounds over time, creating an ecosystem that benefits everybody long term.

 

Q: How does the Implementation Team collaborate with other departments?

Ed: We work closely with sales, where we are increasingly getting more involved, to understand what’s been agreed with the client and ensure alignment. We bring in the Customer Success Team early on too, as this helps prepare for a smooth handover once our part is done.

Ted: Engineering is another key partner. If a client needs customisations such as new connectors to software we don’t already integrate with, we liaise with engineering to scope timelines and deliver solutions. We also stay connected with the Product Development team, sharing insights from implementations to inform future updates.

Ed: One of the great things about working at Fundipedia is how interconnected we are. When we develop an enhancement for one client, it becomes a feature available to all, which elevates the product across the board. Clients get solutions tailored to their needs and the product becomes more robust and configurable for everyone.

 

Q: What impact does the Implementation team have on the wider business?

Ed: The work we do directly affects Fundipedia’s reputation because a smooth implementation sets the foundation for a strong, lasting relationship with the client. It’s not just about getting them up and running, it’s about showing them they’ve partnered with a company that delivers on its promises. And that’s what we always do.

Ted: We also drive innovation. The client feedback we obtain during implementations end up shaping the future of Fundipedia. It’s like a ripple effect. An opportunity for one client can result in us offering a similar adjustment for existing clients. Even if a client has already implemented the Fundipedia product master into their business, it will continue to get better and better; their data could become more streamlined, accurate and efficient without any extra investment.

Ed: Efficiency is another area where we contribute. By continuously improving our processes and reducing implementation timelines, we make onboarding quicker and more seamless, which is a big win for both the clients and the business.

 

Looking ahead

With the continued growth expected at Fundipedia during 2025, the Implementation Team is equally poised for growth. As they onboard new associates, Ed and Ted are focused on maintaining the team’s high standards while scaling their operations.

Ed: It’s an exciting time and we’re constantly looking at ways to improve. Reducing implementation timelines is a big focus. Right now, we’re aiming to move from a 12 to 16-week range to something closer to 10 to 14 weeks, without compromising quality. As the team grows, having more resources will allow us to handle more complex projects efficiently and ensure the process is even smoother for clients. The more efficient we become, the more value we can deliver.

Ted: The product itself is evolving too. The product master is becoming more configurable, which means we can offer clients even greater flexibility and speed in the set-up process. This opens possibilities to further streamline implementations and deliver even faster results.

Ed: Looking to the future, we can’t lose sight of the bigger picture. We see ourselves as a bridge between client needs and the product master’s capabilities. Every implementation directly impacts Fundipedia’s success because the improvements we make in our processes or the product benefits the entire business. A better implementation experience strengthens client trust, improves retention and enhances Fundipedia’s reputation in the industry.