A Framework for the Selection of ERP Packages for Small to Medium and Large Organizations

INTRODUCTION An enterprise resource planning (ERP) system is a software infrastructure embedded with “best practices,” respectively, best ways to do business based on common business practices or academic theory. The aim is to improve the cooperation and interaction between all the organizations’ departments such as the products planning, manufacturing, purchasing, marketing and customer service department. ERP is a fine expression of the inseparability of IT and business. As an enabling technology as well as an effective managerial tool, ERP systems allow companies to integrate at all levels and utilize important ERP applications such as supply chain management (SCM), financials and accounting applications, human resource management (HRM) and customer relationship management (CRM). They represent large, complex, computerized nd integrated systems, which can strongly influence long-term business success. ERP systems promise the development and sustainment of competitive advantage in the global marketplace through