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166 Chapter 5 • Implementation Strategies

TABLE 5-4 Comparison of Customization and Configuration Approaches

Attribute Customize Configure
Functionality Custom coding or Choose from out-of-the-box
modification processes and functions
More control over Set parameters
functionality
Less control over functionality
Cost Higher Lower
Upgrades More difficult Easier
Longer cycle Shorter cycle
Support Reduced vendor support Full vendor support

INTERFACES AND INTEGRATION OF EXISTING OR THIRD-PARTY SYSTEMS
Additional issues that must be considered when planning ERP implementations are the
costs and time associated with developing interfaces and integration with existing
systems. Even though the ERP database becomes the central, authoritative data source,
most organizations are not able to eliminate all existing databases. As a result they must
build interfaces between the ERP system and existing systems that will not be retired
immediately. Not all systems will be retired by implementing an ERP.

CASE QUESTIONS
1. What were the key goals in the army using an ERP system?
2. What were the key implementation considerations that were addressed as part of the
planning process, especially related to using an integrated ERP and transforming the
culture?
3. How was the change management process incorporated into the implementation?
4. Discuss the pros and cons to customizing the system.