Enterprise Resource Planning

A well-implemented ERP package in a large corporation would help to know early enough if raw materials are running out of one production unit while they lie idle at another. Then, instead of blocking money by buying more, it could move the raw materials to the unit that needs it. Of course, this is the simplest of problems that an ERP system or package can handle. Such systems aid strategic thinking, if implemented successfully. But it does illustrate one way in which it can help companies save money, which is just one resource to watch while running an enterprise – materials, human resources and tangible assets being the others. Implementing an ERP system – comprising various components such as financials, customer relationship management, human resources, supply chain management, warehouse management and management dashboard – is no mean feat. The decision involves crores of rupees, and a significant effort from everyone in the company. Part of this effort is required to set work processes, or change them, to suit the software package chosen. This is commonly referred to as business process re-engineering and it is just that – re-engineering processes so that the process facilitates information flow as required by the ERP package. Awareness of power structures within a company is crucial during the re-engineering process because these structures are shaken up when the implementation process is rolled out, reducing or taking away the decision-making powers of the people in question as the functioning of the company gets streamlined. Technical skills are very important for this role. Although ERP-specific knowledge is usually imparted as part of the training program at your employer, previous knowledge of database concepts (all ERPs have a database backend), some programming skills, and basic familiarity with computers is a must. As one rises up in the hierarchy, soft skills (how to deal with people) become more important. People with better soft skills rise higher and faster. Skills required for the job: . Programming skills . Understanding business processes . Innovative thinking ability . Documentations skills . Negotiation and people skills . Tenacity For entry-level positions: Functional consultants should have worked in an industry in a management position for at least three years and used an ERP system for at least a year. Technical consultants can be programmers in any one of the major programming languages with at least one year’s experience. Institutes to look for: . Edith Cowan University, Australia - www.ecu.edu.au . IIM, Calcutta - www.iimcal.ac.in . NIIT - www.niit.com/sap . Siemens Information Systems - www.siemens.co.in . Oracle University - www.education.oracle.com . ERP World, Jabalpur - www.guruerp.com . Lithan Genovate - www.genovate.com Pankaj Mullick Source: click4college