AIS ch15

Architecture of Enterprise Systems

4 components that form an ERP's technical structure: 1. systems configuration (hosted solutions) 2. centralized database 3. application interfaces (best-of-breed, bolt-ons, EAI, legacy applications) 4. Internet Portals

middleware

Used to describe separate products that serve as the glue between two applications.

Midrange & Large Scale Accounting Software

Utilization. Transaction processing needs grow in Volume and complexity.Popular Software Packages: Microsoft Dynamics GP, SAP Business One, Epicor, Sage software's MAS 90, MAS 200, Everest, and Accpac. Cost range from $2000 to over $300,000. Abilities: currency transactions, Currency conversions, Various modules and interfaces (CRM, HR), Deployment options (desktop, web-browser), Hosted solutions

Centralized database

a comprehensive database that holds all the data for multiple applications/processes

Enterprise software (business application suites)

a type of software that integrates financial or accounting subsystems with CRM, business services, human resources, and supply chain management

hosted solution

an approach to acquisition of software where the package is rented over the internet, rather than purchased

Internet Connectivity

permits small businesses to create web sites and engage in e-commerce

front-office

refers to external functions and processes of an organization, such as those that involve customers, suppliers, and other business partners

back-office

refers to internal functions and processing within an organization, such as human resources and accounting (traditional ERP)

Scalable

the software can grow as the business grows (the organization can add modules to the software or upgrade to more powerful software without reinstalling or reconfiguring data)

Integrated Accounting software

Can process all types of accounting transactions. Organize transaction processing in modules and provide links among these modules. Transaction affecting general and special journals

Small Business Accounting Software

Information Needs of Small Business Owners are Cash Flows and Evaluating Profitability. Popular Software Packages are Microsoft Small Business Accounting, Quickbooks by Intuit, and Peachtree Accounting

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems

Integrated programs with a central database.Focus in real-time information.Modules center around business processes. Integration among major business processes Popular Products; Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, Oracle, Sage MAS 500

extended enterprise systems

back-office is extended with e-business and other front-office capabilities. Brings customers, suppliers, and other business partners together