Why is Alignment Important in an Enterprise System Selection?
David M. Houle, MS, CPP
Not long ago, CIOs and IT Directors had two viable options when looking to address the implementation of a Student Information System (SIS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP); 1.) attempt to build their own system or 2.) purchase a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) system.
If you are currently in the market for a new enterprise information system, or if you have recently made this transition, you know that more options are available today. In addition to “make or buy” options, there are new alternatives such as Open Source software and many collaborative initiatives that allow for improved economies of scale.
Each of the enterprise system options offer benefits to the end-user, such as streamlined business processes, improved delivery of services to clients, and potential cost savings.
How do you know which option is going to work best for your organization?
You must consider your organization’s business needs and staffing capabilities.
Understanding Your Business Needs
A good way to begin assessing your college or university’s needs and technology requirements is to:
Staff Considerations
Depending on the type of software you select, your internal IT resource needs may vary greatly. Before you narrow down your field of enterprise system options, consider your organization’s IT personnel and their ability to operate and maintain the potential new system.
Ultimately, the solution that leverages the strengths of your IT staff will ease the transition to a new enterprise system. If you choose a system that does not leverage the strengths of your IT staff, you can make this process smoother by planning for gaps in training.
It’s about the business
In the end, the college’s business needs should be the primary driver in identifying the right enterprise system. Assessing your IT staffing capabilities early in the selection process, and aligning resources with an enterprise system selection that best fits the needs of the institution will position the organization for success further down the road when the real challenges begin: implementing the system!
Dave Houle is a senior consultant in Berry Dunn’s Management and Information Technology Consulting Group. He may be contacted at dhoule@bdmp.com.