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Q – Please read the discussion Attached and prepare a Reply to this discussion post with comments that further and advance the discussion topic.
The reply needs to be substantial and constructive in nature. it should add to the content of the post and evaluate/analyze that post Discussion
Please provide the references you used.
Word limit: 200 words.
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is a centralized system that connects all parts of an organization,
integrating core business functions and enabling seamless information sharing across departments and
its supply chain. With my background as a System Engineer at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) from
2013 until the end of 2015, where I worked extensively with Oracle HRMS and implemented ERP
solutions for clients like Saudi Telecom Company (STC), I have firsthand experience in how ERP systems
can transform organizational efficiency. For Telecomm Systems, a small business offering satellite
internet and mobile services, implementing an ERP system will be pivotal in achieving its goal of
international expansion, primarily as it currently relies on paper-based reporting.
As an expert on the benefits of ERP Implementation, I can sort out some but not all of the benefits.
Taking into consideration that the ERP system is divided into modules that a company may or may not
use (e.g., Supply chain module)
1. Streamlined Decision-Making
ERP centralizes data, providing managers with real-time, accurate information across all
departments. Having worked with Oracle HRMS, I’ve seen how unified access to data shortens
decision-making time, eliminating delays from fragmented reporting. For Telecomm Systems,
ERP will empower leadership to make swift, well-informed decisions, which are critical for
competing in international markets (Stevenson, 2021, p. 555).
2. Enhanced Operational Efficiency
ERP systems automate routine tasks, reducing redundancies and allowing employees to focus on
higher-value activities. With my certification as an Oracle E-Business Suite R12 Human Capital
Management Implementation Specialist, I’ve observed how automation across departments—
such as HR, finance, and procurement—enhances productivity and resource management. For
telecom systems, ERP will allow the company to scale operations efficiently, maintaining high
productivity as demand grows (Stevenson, 2021, p. 556).
3. Improved Customer Service
ERP integrates customer relationship management (CRM) with other business functions,
ensuring accurate and timely responses to customer inquiries. This integration fosters customer
satisfaction and loyalty, essential for building lasting international client relationships. For
Telecomm Systems, ERP will support prompt and consistent service for clients across regions, a
crucial factor for success in the global market (Stevenson, 2021, p. 557).
4. Improved Financial Reporting and Payroll Management
An ERP system integrates financial reporting and payroll into a single platform, providing
streamlined, accurate financial data that supports timely decision-making. ERP systems ensure
that payroll data is automatically updated with every transaction or change in employment status,
reducing the likelihood of errors and improving compliance with local regulations. With ERP,
Telecomm Systems will be able to manage payroll efficiently across different countries,
enhancing both transparency and control over financial processes. This will be especially
valuable as the company expands internationally, where financial accuracy and consistency are
essential for regulatory compliance and trustworthiness in new markets (Stevenson, 2021, p.
557).
On the other hand, the disadvantages or challenges of ERP Implementation also can vary, but mainly the
below list summarizes the most critical challenges for management to consider:
1. High Implementation Costs
ERP implementation requires a significant upfront software, training, and hardware investment.
Based on my experience with clients like STC, I understand that these costs can strain resources
for a smaller organization like Telecomm Systems, potentially impacting other strategic projects.
Effective financial planning is essential to balance ERP expenses without jeopardizing cash flow
(Stevenson, 2021, p. 559).
2. Complexity and Implementation Time
Implementing an ERP system is a complex, time-intensive process that can disrupt daily
operations. Employees must adjust to new workflows, which may temporarily reduce productivity.
From my experience in ERP rollouts, I know that providing thorough training and ongoing support
is critical to ease this transition, especially for teams accustomed to manual reporting (Stevenson,
2021, p. 560).
3. Resistance to Change
Moving from paper-based workflows to a comprehensive ERP system can face employee
resistance. ERP changes how daily tasks are managed, and if not handled properly, this
resistance may limit the system’s effectiveness. Implementing change management strategies is
essential to ensure team buy-in and smooth adoption of the new system (Stevenson, 2021, p.
561).
ERP will significantly enhance Telecomm Systems’ planning and scheduling capabilities by providing
accurate, real-time data across all business functions. The organization can forecast demand using ERP
based on trends and historical data, optimizing resource allocation and improving scheduling. From my
experience with Oracle HRMS and clients like STC, I know how ERP systems streamline complex
scheduling needs, ensuring each department has the necessary information to coordinate production,
inventory management, and service delivery seamlessly. In an international context, this feature will be
invaluable for Telecomm Systems as it seeks to operate efficiently and consistently in new markets.
Implementing an ERP system at Telecomm Systems will centralize data, streamline workflows, and
enhance customer service, equipping the organization for successful international expansion. My
experience in ERP implementations, particularly with clients like STC, underscores both the
transformative potential and the challenges associated with ERP. While the initial costs and adjustments
present hurdles, the long-term benefits—improved decision-making, operational efficiency, and customer
satisfaction—outweigh these challenges. With ERP, Telecomm Systems will be well-prepared to compete
and succeed in the dynamic satellite internet and mobile services industry on a global scale.
References
Stevenson, W. J. (2021). Operations Management (14th ed., pp. 555–561). McGraw-Hill Education
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