Enterprise Information Systems

Instructions for Assignment-

Read the unit overviews, the associated chapters in the book, participate in the online discussions, read related research, the case study for this assignment and answer the associated questions. The case study for this assignment is on Enterprise Information Systems for SMEs and it is by Hicks, Culley and Powel. The case study can be found on the module page or online here:

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0923474810000056 http://ac.elscdn.com/S0923474810000056/1-s2.0 S0923474810000056main.pdf?_tid=b00f68a8-8ae811e292f5-

00000aacb35e&acdnat=1363074456_713fcc6fc8a3330aa10e84c5c98e8e1a

Write this as a report, including a table of contents, abstract, introduction, conclusion, index (if needed) with descriptive chats and diagrams as illustrations as required.

Reference: Hicks B.J., Culley S.J., McMahon C.A., Powell , P. (2010) ‘Understanding information systems infrastructure in engineering SMEs: A case study', Journal of Engineering and Technology Management, vol. 27, pp. 52-73.

Questions

1) Discuss the classification of functionalities used in this article and leading vendors. Why are these classifications used and what do they mean.

2) Based on the theory presented in the course, other research on IS and the case study make an outline of an EIS solution for an SME engineering company. Consider the organizational strategy, the functionalities and the applications.

3) Choose one or more of the functional groupings illustrated in ‘Table 1' of the case study and draw a possible entity-relationship diagram. You may need to make assumptions but try to make it as realistic as possible.

4) The functionalities and systems that support them are usually designed by a small number of people in the organization. Popular standardized ERP systems may also be used without any significant changes. Is it therefore important for all members of an organization to have an understanding of these functional areas and the systems that support them? Analyze the arguments for and against and defend your position.