TWO DISCUSSIONS

Why is ERP (and other large programs) so difficult to implement and why do they fail to deliver so often?

ERP has been so difficult to implement because of environmental incompatibility. There are some ERP’s which work under specific environment and hardware configurations only. Therefore, creating up a compatible environment for ERP can include an extra overhead cost. Lack of communication made ERP difficult to implement .This can happen when there is no clarity between the customer and the ERP solution provider. Lack of communication can lead to ERP implementation failure in modern business (Grabot, et al.,2008). Another reason which makes ERP difficult to implement is cost. ERP solution is known to align business processes and assure the security of business data sometimes complexity of solution needs higher training costs.

Setting expectations is also a reason why ERP is difficult to implement. Each ERP has its own limitations. Setting the right expectations of ERP at the beginning is important. This will assist the stakeholders, to recognize the functioning of the solution, and be prepared for results accordingly (). ERP fails to deliver so often because of poorly defined goals for the ERP software. Many organizations see the introduction of ERP software as a solution to their problems but they do not take time to define the specifics of what they need to accomplish or how to succeed. Lack of sufficient management commitment leads to ERP failure to deliver. ERP project needs a considerable amount of commitment and overtime work from workers (Grabot, et al.,2008). Time and careful attention in ERP is also needed. 

What mistakes did the Air Force make in this project?

Airforce Force's major mistakes were failing to outline its business requirements while they attempted to upgrade its disparate systems (Boulton, 2013). They did not highlight the cost of the new project which needs a business software system.

 Why are ERP systems important?

ERP is important in looking to manage organizations' business functions within a centralized and integrated system (Grabot, et al.,2008). ERP is often used by companies working within the supply chain to assist keep track of all the moving parts of manufacturing and distribution. 

References

Boulton, C. (2013, February 5). Air Force hopes IT overhaul takes wing. WSJ. 

https://blogs.wsj.com/cio/2013/02/05/air-force-hopes-it-overhaul-takes-wing

Grabot, B., Mayère, A., & Bazet, I. (2008). ERP systems and organisational change: A socio-

technical insight. Springer Science & Business Media.