The purpose of this assignment is to analyze the decision points surrounding whether or not to buy, modify, or build software for an organization.

Enterprise resource management (ERP) systems integrate organizations' data around accounting, sales, production, and many other areas. The data and processes integrated are determined by the industry. ERP systems are complex and expensive.

Research and evaluate the possibility of implementing an ERP system for a small to medium-size manufacturer and distribution organization. A recommendation will be made, using an executive summary to management, for one of the following options: To buy a software package and implement as is, to buy a software package and modify it to meet requirements, or to build software from scratch.

Part 1: ERP Matrix

Use "Small Business ERP Software," from the Software Connect website, provided in the Topic resources, locate a suitable software-recommendation. Review only software with a 4-star or higher rating.

Please note: Use only the information found on the Software Connect website. Do not request information from the companies listed unless you need it for personal or professional reasons.

Utilize the "ERP Matrix" spreadsheet to complete your evaluation using the following scenario.

Organizational Review:

Employee Count: 1,800, including management.

Business Sector: Outdoors – Build and distribute watercraft, such as canoes, wakeboards, kayaks, etc.

Customer Base: Retail organizations, such as Sports Authority, DICK'S Sporting Goods, Cabelas, and Bass Pro, etc.

Part 2: Executive Summary

Determine which ERP option (buy, modify, build) to recommend to management based upon cost, current, and future functionality.

Write an executive summary (250-500 words) describing the researched alternatives and outlining the proposed solution. Explain the benefits of your recommendation and rationale for your conclusion. Be sure to address the following:

Cost of hardware/software

Whether the software cost is via license or purchase

How the application will be accessed via the cloud

If the solution is on-premise or off-premise

Which costs can and should be capitalized

Training considerations

General Requirements:

You are required to submit the completed ERP Matrix and executive summary to the assignment dropbox.

While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.

This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. A link to the LopesWrite technical support articles is located in Class Resources if you need assistance.