Page 84 -

60 Chapter 3 • Enterprise Systems Architecture

ERP modules

Supply Chain ERP architecture Management
Management
Sales

Network

Other Modules
Database Hardware

Software

Accounts
Payable/Receivable
Human Resources

FIGURE 3-1 Enterprise Systems Architecture (ESA) Model

Understanding the enterprise system architecture is important for several reasons. First, it
helps management and the implementation teams understand in detail the features and compo-
nents of the enterprise system. Second, it provides a visual representation of the complex system
interfaces among the ERP application and databases, operating systems, legacy applications, and
networking. Finally, understanding the enterprise systems architecture, by clarifying the system
infrastructure requirements, training requirements, change management requirements, and
business process reengineering requirements, among others, can help management in developing
a better IT plan.
The enterprise systems architecture (Figure 3-1) can be viewed from two different angles:
(1) the functional angle that defines the ERP modules that support the various business
functions of the organization and (2) the system angle that defines the ERP architecture through
the physical components of hardware, software, and networking. In this chapter, you will learn
more about the typical ERP modules, the system architecture and components, types of ERP
architecture, and, finally, the role of architecture and its impact on the implementation stage
of the project.

ERP MODULES
The key role of an ERP system is to provide support for such business functions as accounting,
sales, inventory control, and production for the various stakeholders of the organization.
Organizations often selectively implement the ERP modules that are both economically and
technically feasible. ERP provides the same functionality to the users (e.g., the silo systems
of the past), but the data are integrated or shareable across all the ERP modules. This means