Chapter 1

1.How is the role of an ERP system different from traditional TPS, MIS, DSS
and others? Can an ERP system support all levels of management?

An ERP system is different in that it brings all departments within an organization together. It
seeks to unite all departments, open communication and consolidate all databases into one
accessible database. Previous information system models did not have this focus or ability.
ERP can support all levels of management, because it allows each level to utilize information in
a customized manner. Upper-level management can utilize reports suited to their positions as
overseers, while operational management can utilize detailed reports for their specific
functions.

Short answer :

ERP systems centralize an organization's data and processes, enabling departments to work
together seamlessly and managers to access customized information at all levels. This
integrated approach is a major leap forward from previous information systems

2.Discuss the evolution of information systems in an organization. How

can the use of ERP systems remove information or functional silos in
organizations?

Most organizations start out with basic information systems, and build from a standard
platform as they grow in size and needs. As their needs and market positions change, they
may find that they need an information system that can better aid their business practices. At
some point they may decide to implement an ERP system from a vendor such as SAP,
Peoplesoft or Oracle. When a company implements the ERP system, it eliminates the divisions
or silos that naturally occur in the organization.
Short answer:

Organizations often start with basic information systems and upgrade to an ERP system as
they grow and their needs change. Implementing an ERP system helps eliminate divisions
within the organization

3.Among all the ERP components listed in the chapter, which component
is most critical in the implementation process, and why?

People, including all levels of employees and management, are the ones that will use and be
affected by the ERP system. It is critical that all are on board with the decisions that are made,
and willing to give feedback during all stages. An ERP system cannot be successful unless the
people of an organization are willing to accept the possibility of change and business reform.

Short answer:

Successful ERP implementation requires user buy-in at all levels. People must embrace change
and provide ongoing feedback for the system to thrive.

Chapter 2:

1-What are functional silos, and how did they evolve in organizations?

Functional silos evolved when organizations became larger and complex structures. This
happens when companies have separations of responsibilities and duties into departments.
When departments form in a company they tend to need different things, and then develop
their own methods of obtaining their goals, or use methods laid out by higher-ups. Each
department operates separately with little or no interaction with each other; they are
autonomous and function without the rest of the company.
Another answer:

Functional silos categorize an organization's tasks and activities into groups, like accounting or
HR.

As organization grows, they are divided into horizontal functions (functional divisions) and
vertical layers (management hierarchy)

2. What is the relationship between organizational functional silos and IS

functional silos?

They both serve the needs of a dept. Traditional silos operate as independent units with their
required info. Changes within these silos are not propagated to other depts. With an IS silo
there is no online sharing of data and it creates a situation where data has integrity issues

3-Compare and contrast centralized, decentralized, and distributed IT

architectures. Which do you think is most appropriate for ERP and why?

Centralized - based on servers, mainframes, and supercomputers, where all the data,
software, and resources are stored on the server and are accessed via terminal computers.

Decentralized - Multiple small computers with the info and software they need, thus giving
them full control over what takes place.

Distributed architecture - combo of central and decentralized with their own apps and tools,
accessing data and resources from a shared and centralized network location.

The most appropriate system for ERP is the distributed architecture as it blends both central
and decentralized, and boasts better data consistency and integrity.
Chapter 3:

1. What is necessary for the ERP implementation to be

successful?
1. Taking the functions of an organization.
2. Defining the necessary ERP modules.
3. Defining the necessary Physical Components (such as hardware, software, and
networks)

2. What is ERP system architecture?

It’s a methodology of separating the components of an ERP system into tiers or layers that
make it easier to manage and provide scalability/flexibility.

3. Why is it important to have good enterprise system

architecture?
Because it explains the relationships between complex information systems components such
as hardware and software, with complex organizational components such as business
functions, processes, and people. Without both, there is not a complete understanding of the
system and therefore, it will fail.
Chapter 4:

1. What is the role of systems approach in the SDLC?

Systems approach is used for problem solving. This approach takes complex problems
and breaks them down into small manageable problems. It identifies problems from
the top-down and then solutions are derived from the bottom-up.

2. Briefly discuss the key phases of the SDLC methodology.?

• Identifying problems and Objectives.
• Determining human requirements.
• Analyzing system needs.
• Designing.
• Development (Code).
• Testing and Maintenance.
• Implementing an evaluating the system.

3. Discuss the alternatives approaches of SDLC and the benefits

of alternatives?
One alternative is the prototyping. This approach skips the analysis and design phase;
instead it implements a prototype of the actual system using fake data. This is to see if
it generates the wanted results as soon as possible. Another alternative is end-user
development, which lets end-users create their own applications. In this approach, the
end-users are trained to develop custom applications.