Introduction to

Enterprise Resources Planning (ERP)

The Introduction to Enterprise Resources Planning (ERP) course will help you determine if your organization is ready for an ERP implementation, examine the benefits of implementing an ERP system, and build a compelling business case in support of an ERP implementation. Introduction to ERP provides a foundation for understanding the process integration of business-wide functions (demand management, product design, and delivery) required and supported by an ERP implementation.

The Introduction to ERP course explores essential terminology, investigates guidelines for implementation, and includes a manufacturing case study. The course also addresses tactical functions required, such as project management and project planning, and provides an overview of implementation alternatives for ERP.

Session topics include:

          1. Introduction to ERP and the Benefits of Implementation
          2. Developing a Business Case to Justify an ERP Implementation
          3. Business Process Alignment
          4. The Value Chain Process
          5. Technology and International Considerations
          6. Change Management and ERP Implementation
          7. Implementing ERP
          8. Expanding on ERP

          View sample pages from the facilitator guide and the participant workbook.

Who will benefit from this course?

• Professionals employed by organizations or government agencies considering or beginning an ERP implementation

• ERP project managers

• Consultants employed as ERP integrators

• Professionals who desire employment in the ERP integration field

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to

• Describe the concept of ERP and the ERP model; define key terms; explain the transition from MRP to ERP; identify the levels of ERP maturity.
   

• Identify the international issues that impact a worldwide implementation of ERP; identify the key technological considerations and infrastructure concerns in ERP implementation; describe the strategic use of technology for ERP.
   

• Explain how the key elements of organizational change management apply to an ERP implementation; define change readiness; describe a learning requirements plan; explain the use of assessment tools to identify the readiness of an organization to change; identify the methods of implementing and sustaining the change.
   

• Describe project organizational considerations; define the project management tools and resources needed to implement an ERP system; describe the roles and responsibilities of the key organization players; describe the tactics, tools, and methodologies available to implement ERP; evaluate the success of the implementation.

View a complete list of Introduction to ERP learning objectives

Listen to what one professional has to say:

"The ERP course provides the background knowledge necessary before an ERP decision is made ... then progresses through successful implementation. I found the course to be solid and well focused. I can't wait to offer this course to our members and member firms!"

     - Joe Schreiver, vice president, professional development, APICS Austin Chapter

About Your ERP Course Instructor

     Randy Napier, CFPIM, is a principal in SRH Consulting, an ERP consulting practice located in Grapevine, Texas.  He has over twenty years experience in management and consulting, with the last ten years dedicated to implementing and supporting ERP systems.

     Randy holds a B.A. in Economics from Northwestern University, an M.S in Accounting from Florida International University, and a J.D. from the University of Houston Law Center.  He is qualified as a Certified Public Accountant and has earned APICS’ CPIM designation.  An active member of the APICS-GFTW Chapter, Randy speaks and writes frequently on topics related to the selection, implementation, and management of enterprise software systems.