FREE online courses on Business Needs and ERP - ERP System - Existing ERP
systems
ERP systems that are currently available belong to the client
server era. These systems are built with a clear separation of functional
components. The user interface implemented using graphical user interface
techniques is deployed on client machines. Powerful server machines host the
databases and business logic written as server procedures. The databases are
built using relational database technology. Business logic is split depending on
the product architecture to be executed on the client, server or both.
With suitable communication infrastructure, these systems
could be deployed in a distributed environment and business processes may span
across multiple geographical locations. As an example, a purchase request could
be raised at a plant location to be processed by purchase department located
miles away from the plant.
The technologies deployed have allowed the ERP vendors to
meet the requisite objectives. Relational database systems have enabled the
vendors to put in the necessary flexibility in terms of business logic and data
structures to support parallel business practice implementations. Graphical user
interfaces support the usability aspect of business systems by providing
intuitive and consistent user interface. Object oriented development practice
employed in building graphical user interfaces has enabled the vendors to
provide for easy customization and extension of interface components to
accommodate additional data entry. These technologies in general have allowed
the users to architect the system in such a way that installation, customization
and extensions are possible in shorter time frames.
The technology areas that apply to ERP systems are:
-
Database systems
-
Communication protocols
- User
interface framework.
