Enterprise Resource Planning Systems

The goal of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems is the successful integration of a company’s data and processes in to one single unified system with the help of several components of computer soft- and hardware. A unified database must be employed in order to store data for the various modules of the system. ("Supply Chain Management : Enterprise Resource Planning IT Training and Consulting – Exforsys," 2007)

ERP tools combine functional data management in one customer need specific single package that would normally involve two or more systems. An enterprise resource planning system may replace several functioning applications, eliminate the need for combining and exchanging data that come from result from different systems, and allows cost savings and data security by lower maintenance involved while offering standardized, convenient reporting with the same access to all involved stakeholders at the push of a button. A ideal enterprise resource planning system supports and executes a multitude of business activities; including sales, inventory management, human resource management, quality management, marketing, billing, delivery, and manufacturing. Rarely, does a company find an existing ERP software package that fits their needs and requirements and the software package will be individualized to meet the specific corporation’s needs. A external software specialist team, which can be incredibly expensive, will take on the task to rewrite, adapt or create a custom software solution for a corporation. (Umble, Haft, & Umble, 2003)

The idea behind a perfectly managed ERP, is to allow a corporation a complete view of the business with the help of a single accurate source by encompassing and collecting critical business data and giving users instant access to make educated business decisions. ERP is a proactive alert system, automatically alerting a corporation on its business activities in regard to supply chain issues. With the help of ERP,...