- Published: November 17, 2021
- Updated: November 17, 2021
- University / College: University of Westminster
- Level: Intermediate School
- Language: English
- Downloads: 48
Considering that the supply chain elements of an organization may exist prior to the establishment or implementation of a new SCM framework, the SCM team must focus on building a reliable and integrated way of tracking the flow of quantities of materials from location to location. This involves, in modern business, information technology, networked computers, database software that is able to be customized for the unique workflow patterns of the business, and other implementations of information management. When a company commits to a particular platform in information technology, it can involve a choice of operating systems, such as Windows, Linux, or Apple, and also a choice of software applications, such as Oracle databases, SAP systems, CRM platforms, etc. Modern businesses will base their day to day operations and efficiency around the use of these IT management applications. If the company makes the implementation of a software platform, vendor for programming, hardware system, etc. management should be very certain to research all aspects of the choice in advance. This type of “ homework” means comparing the product to leading alternatives in the same specialization, researching other company’s experience through reviews, discussing the implementation in advance with the vendor, and preparing a budgetary or financial analysis of the cost savings of each approach. The costs of a system that functions improperly after implementation can over-run initial estimates, and the further costs to change after investment and implementation due to the failure to meet expectations is an outcome that advanced research is designed to counter. In a decision support system or executive support system, the first aspect to be aware of is the extent of the business operations and the divisions of the company as they relate to operation. Secondly, the planner of a DSS/ESS system must know the current data management system that is operating in the company, as well as the reports, analysis, and exchange of information that are in operation internally.