Eloqua Blog · Implementation
Part 1. Eloqua Implementation Post SmartStart
SmartStart gets you moving, but it is not the end of your Eloqua implementation. This is how I structure the work that comes next.
📅 First published: May 24, 2022
⏱ Reading time: 5 minutes • 👤 Author: Greg Staunton • 🎯 Focus: Eloqua implementation, SmartStart, core setup, background programs
I am going to take you through how I approach a full-on Eloqua implementation. I am not, however, going to teach you exactly how to do it. Big four and other consultancies take note: do not ask me for how-to guides or my documentation. This is how I make a living. If you want my services, hire me.
Greg Staunton
Oracle Have Completed Your SmartStart. What Next?
It does not matter if you are migrating from another platform or starting a re-implementation after several years of ownership. Both implementation and re-implementation need the same core steps.
This Eloqua implementation section guides you through the steps and background programs you need for a solid implementation foundation, so your marketing automation strategy has a much better chance of succeeding.
Each line item needs careful consideration. I have developed off-the-shelf toolkits and guides that speed up the process, and those toolkits continue to evolve with every Eloqua implementation.
Essential Eloqua Pre-Implementation Considerations
Before you get too far into the platform setup, create the documentation and governance structures that will support everything else.
Eloqua Architecture Documentation
Create the central document that captures backend programs, configuration decisions, ownership and release history.
Read Part 2Eloqua Marketing Systems Overview
Map the platforms and databases connected to Eloqua so integrations and data flows are understood before release.
Read Part 3Eloqua User Access Levels
Define who gets access to which parts of Eloqua, and document the permission model clearly.
Read Part 4Eloqua Core Implementation Setup
The core implementation setup gives your Eloqua instance the operating structure it needs before campaign work starts to scale.
- Blocked domains
- Eloqua user list
- Eloqua asynchronous web tracking
- Eloqua email groups
- Third-party web tracking integration
- Eloqua naming convention
- Eloqua marketing asset foldering structure
- Eloqua central API user maintenance
- Eloqua contact database architecture
- Website form integration
- Eloqua seed lists
- Eloqua email templates for marketing
- Automated top-level Eloqua reporting
- Subscription status custom object
Eloqua Implementation Essential Background Programs
For your convenience, I have also put together a number of background programs that you should implement to get the most out of future marketing automation initiatives.
- Hardbounce and unsubscribe program
- Internal marketing email validation program
- Subscription status program
- Contact activity status program
- Purchased list expiry program
- Email frequency program
- Contact washing machine program
- Automated persona assignment program
- Data governance program
Next Eloqua article
Part 2. Eloqua Architecture Document
Once SmartStart is complete, the architecture document becomes the place where your setup decisions are recorded.
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