As Enterprise Applications Consulting analyst Joshua Greenbaum points out change management is often more important than the software itself when it comes to large projects.

"Without a well-mannered change management process, everything else will roll up on you," he said.

Throwing go-live parties is fast becoming a common practice in the enterprise, because it breaks down the barriers with end users, raises the profile of IT and there is a likely chance beer will be served.

Change management consultant and managing director of RNC Global Projects, Diane Dromgold, said go-live celebrations have become common in Australia, but companies can throw them a little too soon.

"It is better to throw them further down the track when everybody has adjusted to the application," she said.