Technology implementation paper - Essay Example

The traditional business generally relies on a series of technologies, including separate payroll systems, distinct inventory and warehousing applications, and various accounting software in order to meet the needs of the business environment. When such a disconnected series of systems exists, the business tends to require multiple support staff, from the information technology team to the end-user, in order to make the business function efficiently. However, in the fast-paced, contemporary business environment, with rising labor costs and the economics of cost reduction initiatives, the need for a more enhanced, streamlined method of doing business is required so as to stay competitive within any particular industry.

For firms in search of enhanced business applications, SAP can mean the difference between business success or failure. purchasing, human resources, and logistics, into a singular program (Blackstone & Bujold, 2005). The process of implementing SAP is not a simplistic operation, as with most companies the set-up process involves group representatives from each division of the business, who must offer advice and suggestion to the SAP programmers in order to incorporate actual business practice into the design of the new technology, thus making SAP a unique application, custom-tailored for the needs of each individual firm.

Having offered a brief understanding of SAP and its purpose, this report will highlight the long-term plan required for incorporating this application across the domestic divisions of ABC Industries. There are four phases required to SAP implementation: The planning stage, blueprint and training development, tangible program development, and the testing phase, in which a significant portion of the business staff are involved in running divisional scenarios to test the integrity of the system and the viability of its programmed features (Vogle, 2004).

This process, based on the needs of ABC Industries, will