ERP Life Cycle: Planning
55 Questions
1 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is a key reason why an organization might need to change its information systems?

  • Need for a more complex technology stack
  • Satisfaction with current functionalities
  • Equipment obsolescence (correct)
  • Increased vendor support costs

Which rationale focuses on the need to keep up with the competition?

  • Technological rationale
  • Competitive rationale (correct)
  • Business process rationale
  • Strategic rationale

Who should ideally take ownership of the ERP implementation project?

  • Chief Executive Officer (CEO) (correct)
  • Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)
  • Chief Information Officer (CIO)
  • Project Manager

What should the project scope include in the ERP life cycle planning?

<p>Divisions involved and business processes included (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is not considered a rationale for adopting an ERP system?

<p>Desire for user-friendly interfaces (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of executive leadership in the ERP life cycle?

<p>Rally support and delegate management (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes technology rationale for ERP implementation?

<p>Failing existing systems and expensive maintenance (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What problem does the 'never ending project' syndrome refer to in ERP implementations?

<p>Undefined project scope leading to expansion (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a Request for Information (RFI)?

<p>To receive written information on vendor capabilities and skills. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a Site Survey in the vendor selection process?

<p>To invite prospective vendors to understand specific buyer needs. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What goal does the Requirements Analysis serve in the ERP selection process?

<p>To determine the functionalities that need to be fulfilled. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is essential during the Demo Days for a vendor?

<p>Demonstrating relevance using the prospective customer's data. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Fit-Gap Analysis primarily focus on?

<p>Comparing company requirements with the functionalities of potential ERP systems. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the Proposal after vendor evaluation?

<p>A recommendation of the ERP modules along with project timelines. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the Decision and Negotiations phase, what is a crucial step for the project team?

<p>Discussing and rating vendors based on gathered demo and visit information. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main objective of the Implementation Methodology Discussion?

<p>To agree on project scope and team roles and responsibilities. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of scope management in a project?

<p>Define and control what is included in the project (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is NOT typically included in the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for an ERP system?

<p>Marketing costs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a site license for ERP software cover?

<p>A blanket contract for usage at a specific location (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following does NOT apply to ongoing maintenance costs of ERP software?

<p>Typically 10-15% of software license costs (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which is NOT a component generally required for hardware implementation in ERP?

<p>User training materials (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the fit-gap analysis aim to accomplish during the ERP package selection process?

<p>Identify alignment between business requirements and system capabilities (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about hidden costs in ERP implementation is true?

<p>They include costs that cannot be easily predicted or calculated (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of project teams for ERP implementation, which of the following roles is typically NOT included?

<p>External consultants (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does ERP integrate financial information?

<p>By ensuring all stakeholders use the same system for data (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is least considered when evaluating the 'best' ERP application for a company?

<p>Vendor size (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant reason for adopting a technology rationale in ERP implementation?

<p>To improve visibility of data and enhance system capabilities (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of rationale supports the organization’s strategic direction regarding ERP?

<p>Strategic rationale (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of scope determination, which element is crucial for addressing the 'never ending project' syndrome?

<p>Establishing clearly defined project scope and procedures (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which individual roles should NOT typically be considered as the top sponsor for an ERP implementation project?

<p>Chief Information Officer (CIO) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an important component of the rationale for changing existing information systems?

<p>Obsolescence of the current information systems (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which main responsibility falls on executive leadership during the ERP life cycle?

<p>Rallying support and facilitating resource distribution for the project (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the business process rationale relate to ERP implementation?

<p>It quantifies improvements in key performance indicators (KPIs) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect is generally NOT part of the project scope in ERP planning?

<p>Customer satisfaction levels pre-implementation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which challenge is highlighted as a reason to adopt a new ERP system?

<p>Changing business models and operational needs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is primarily influenced by transaction volume in the context of ERP systems?

<p>Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of a heavy user in the context of ERP licensing?

<p>They use a significant portion of the system's functionalities. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key step in the ERP package selection process?

<p>Validation Survey (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of ongoing maintenance does NOT accurately reflect the typical annual costs associated with ERP systems?

<p>Often ranges from 10-20% of software license costs (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What crucial factor should be considered when determining the optimal ERP application for a company?

<p>Customization potential of the application (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component is NOT included in the hardware requirements for ERP implementation?

<p>End-user training facilities (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the acronym 'TCO' stand for in the ERP context?

<p>Total cost of ownership (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of user licensing allows simultaneous access for multiple users at a specific time?

<p>Concurrent user license (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In scope management, what is the term used for uncontrolled changes to the project scope?

<p>Scope creep (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following responsibilities does NOT typically fall under the role of a project manager?

<p>Overseeing the project team’s technical training (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of conducting a Fit-Gap Analysis during the ERP selection process?

<p>To identify opportunities for organizational reengineering (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What component should be included in the Proposal after evaluating ERP vendors?

<p>Recommendations for hardware and network requirements (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the Decision and Negotiations phase, which step is crucial for the project team?

<p>Rating each vendor based on critical information obtained from demos and visits (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect that the Implementation Methodology Discussion should cover?

<p>Defining the project scope and success metrics (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What critical information should be discussed with 'like' customers during Reference Visits?

<p>Satisfaction with system look and feel (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which stage involves vendors demonstrating their solutions using the prospective customer's own data?

<p>Demo Days (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which document is developed by the buyer to specify their requirements for vendor offerings?

<p>Request for Proposal (RFP) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is typically assessed during a Site Survey with prospective ERP vendors?

<p>The buyer's specific functional requirements (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an expected outcome of conducting a Request for Information (RFI)?

<p>Collection of written information about vendors' solutions and capabilities (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Narrowing Down the Choices stage focus on in the vendor selection process?

<p>Evaluating vendors based on a predetermined set of criteria (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Business Case

A documented, high-level reason explaining why an ERP implementation is undertaken. It justifies the project and aligns it with the business goals.

Technology Rationale

This rationale emphasizes the need for modern technology to address outdated systems and improve data visibility.

Competitive Rationale

This rationale focuses on staying competitive by adopting a system used by rivals, ensuring the business remains current.

Strategic Rationale

This rationale aims to align ERP implementation with the company's strategic direction, enabling growth, diversification, and global expansion.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Business Process Rationale

This rationale emphasizes performance improvements in key processes by leveraging ERP functionalities.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Executive Leadership

The highest-level executive (CEO, CFO) responsible for the ERP project, providing resources, leadership, and support.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Project Scope

Defines the boundaries of the ERP implementation, including processes, functionalities, divisions, and technical infrastructure.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Never Ending Project Syndrome

The potential for ERP projects to expand endlessly, exceeding budget and timeline, due to unclear scope and lack of controls.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Scope creep

Changes to the scope of the project that were not originally planned.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Total cost of ownership (TCO)

The total costs that will likely be incurred throughout the system’s life cycle.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Named user license

Software license that allows a specific number of users to access the system.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Site license

Software license that allows unlimited users at a specific location to access the system.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Concurrent user license

License that allows a limited number of users to access the system simultaneously.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Request for Information (RFI)

A formal document requesting information about a vendor's products or services.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Request for Proposal (RFP)

A formal document requesting a vendor to propose a solution for a specific need.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Fit-Gap Analysis

A process of comparing a company's existing processes with the features and functionalities of an ERP system.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Proposal

A document that outlines the vendor's proposed solution and pricing for an ERP system.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Reference Visits

A process of visiting reference sites to see how other companies have implemented an ERP system.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Narrowing Down Vendor Choices

A process where the project team narrows down the list of potential ERP vendors based on criteria that are most important to the project.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Site Survey

A formal meeting where prospective vendors meet with the project team on-site to understand the buyer's specific business requirements and challenges.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Requirements Analysis

A detailed analysis to identify all the specific functionalities and capabilities that the company needs and wants from an ERP system.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Implementation Methodology Discussion

A discussion between the project team and implementation team to agree on the implementation scope, roles, responsibilities, methodology, and deliverables.

Signup and view all the flashcards

ERP Proposal

A document that includes the recommended ERP modules, annual fees, a high-level project plan, and hardware/software requirements.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Scope Management

The process of defining and controlling what is included in a project, preventing unnecessary changes and additions.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Project Team

A team of individuals from different departments, including stakeholders and IT experts, responsible for implementing an ERP system.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Project Manager

A key figure in an ERP implementation who understands both business processes and technology, guiding the transition from the current state to the desired state.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Executive Sponsorship

The highest-level executive (like the CEO or CFO) who takes ownership of the ERP project, providing resources, leadership, and support. This is vital for project success.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

ERP Life Cycle: Planning

  • A rationale is needed for implementing ERP, grounded in a business case
  • Types of rationales include:
    • Technology rationale - outdated systems, needing new technology, better data visibility, costly to maintain old systems
    • Competitive rationale - keeping up with competitors
    • Strategic rationale - to support organizational direction, drive growth, support mergers, diversification, globalization
    • Business process rationale - benefits to key processes, measurable performance improvements
  • Executive leadership is crucial - CEO, CFO, or another high-level sponsor should take ownership and be actively involved; CIO is NOT the top sponsor in this case
  • Project Scope definition - procedures to avoid "never-ending project" syndrome
    • Business processes, ERP functionality, divisions, technical infrastructure to be replaced
    • Scope management - define what is included/excluded. Avoid scope creep
  • Project Team - involves key process owners, end users, managers, IT people, executives across business units, organizational levels
  • Project Manager - should understand technology and business processes, knowledge of ERP's impact, and create a smooth transition. They should have a clear vision
  • ERP Costs:
    • Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) - total costs throughout the system's life cycle, influenced by transaction volume, number of users, and functionality
    • Application License - govern software use,
      • Named users - total users accessing the system
      • Site license - blanket for a location
      • Concurrent users - maximum system users
      • Heavy users - more function use, potential higher license fees compared to casual users
      • Database License - based on the number of simultaneous users or type of database servers.
      • Hardware - varies depending on the scope and implementation platform. Database servers, application servers, storage systems, networking, and user workstations.
    • Implementation Services - often a multiplier of software license costs (ratio of services to software costs indicates a system's ease of implementation). Internal HR Costs vary

ERP Life Cycle: Package Selection

  • Package selection - assumes high-level organizational group has approved funding based on the business case. Company picks the "best" application (functionality, affordability, user-friendliness, customizability, and vendor support)
  • Key Steps in Selecting an ERP System:
    • Market Survey - identify potential vendors through websites, industry magazines, trade exhibits, and competitors
    • Request for Information (RFI) - vendors provide information about their capabilities
    • Narrowing Down Choices - based on criteria to pick candidates
    • Site Survey - vendor's sales team visits to understand customer needs and the specifics of their business
    • Requirements Analysis - detailed analysis to identify all necessary functionalities
    • Request for Proposal (RFP) - a formal document with detailed requirements
    • Demo Days - vendors showcase practical implementation using the customer's data
    • Reference Visits - visit similar customers site to observe ERP system and discuss issues like satisfaction, implementation time, and vendor support.
    • Fit-Gap Analysis - compare company requirements with available ERP functionalities; gaps are opportunities for process improvement.
    • Implementation Methodology Discussion - discussions on project scope, roles, and deliverables.
    • Proposal - recommended modules, support/assurance fees, high level project plan, hardware, network, and software requirements
    • Decision and Negotiations-all critical info is used to rate the vendor and sign a contract

ERP Benefits

  • Integrates financial information, creating consistent truth across the system
  • Integrates customer order information (start-to-finish process from sales to receipt)
  • Standardizes and speeds up manufacturing processes
  • Reduces inventory and improves order fulfillment visibility
  • Standardizes HR information, creating employee self-service solutions.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Related Documents

Description

This quiz covers the essential elements of planning in the ERP life cycle, focusing on the rationale for implementing ERP systems, including technology, competitive, strategic, and business process rationales. Understanding the role of executive leadership and project scope management is crucial for successful ERP implementation. Test your knowledge on defining project teams and avoiding common pitfalls.

More Like This

ERP Implementation Phase Assessment
12 questions
SI202E ERP Project Management Chapter 2
26 questions
ERP Implementation at ABC Mining Company
45 questions
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Browser