Implementing Enterprise Resource Planning

We have a multinational organization making the decision to implement an Enterprise Resource Planning finance system module using a standard package such as offered by Oracle and SAP. This system will only be used by the organization's employees; that is, there are no interfaces to systems owned by the organization's external partners. A system integrator (SI) has to be engaged to provide the subject matter expertise; furthermore, the SI has been selected and is under contract to start work. The Information Systems department has no experience working with SIs. The system will take 1 year to develop, using a typical Systems Development Life Cycle approach, and 1 year to roll out across the organization's domestic and foreign business units.

What are your personal opinions and thoughts as to which departments are likely to be affected? What are some of the issues they are likely to face? Research this topic with an open mind, put yourself in the position of Lead Integrator and speak from this point of view.

Discusses implementation of ERP system in an organization.