ABSTRACT
The requirements for an effective Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system implementation are relatively few. Even the most complicated ERP implementation has at its core the same basic requirements. These basic requirements are the building blocks of every ERP software package no matter what platform or operating system. Many companies during their implementation will get carried away with the technology that is available to them and will overlook the importance of having these very simple building blocks in control; as a result, the implementation crumbles. After a career of watching and participation in ERP implementation, it has been noted that having good control of these requirements moves a company quickly through the implementation process. Instead of fighting the basics, the enterprise can focus on the successful application of the software to its specific company and situation so that bottom-line results can be achieved. No matter how simple these requirements look, each one is critical to overall success. The basic requirements are:
1. Unique item identification, including part number, lead-time, order sizing rules, stocking policies, and safety stock.
