Like any complex information technology, ERP systems can be deployed in many different kinds of ways. Since enterprise systems by definition are as broad as the enterprise itself, it follows that the number of ways it could be implemented is limited only by the imagination of the participants ” which, in an organization of any size, is almost unlimited. Obviously, not all of these ways of implementing ERP systems are equally good; some will produce effective results and corporate returns; others will result in extremely expensive doorstops and paperweights. As the case for this module, you’re asked to think about ERP implementation. For starters, please read two articles with practical advice regarding implementation: Burns, M. (2010). How to select and implement an ERP. 180 Systems. Retrieved December 2, 2011, from Donovan, R. M.(n.d.). Successful ERP implementation the first time. Retrieved December 2, 2011, from The €œOpen Directory Project€ purports to be a reasonably comprehensive catalog of the information available on the Web. Unlike a search engine like Google, it doesn€„¢t offer any assessment of the sites it links to; it simply takes them at their self-described word. If you’re not familiar with the Open Directory Project, click here for a quick rundown. For our purposes, we€„¢re particularly interested in some nine companies (or collections of companies that are found in their ERP listing (The Open Directory (2011) ERP Systems. Retrieved December 2, 2011, from These are: Baan (9) Industrial and Financial Systems-IFS (10) J D Edwards (15) Kewill (8) Lawson Software (26) Manman (2) Oracle (9) Peoplesoft (36) SAP (138) The numbers in parentheses indicate how many sub-listings there are for various lines of business or other company aspects; obviously, you don€„¢t have to consult more than a few of them in the course of your research here. You should also be prepared to use material from the Background Information or other related materials you find yourself (be sure to reference properly whatever specific sources you draw on). As your assignment here, you are to take a good look at two to four of these ERP vendors from the Open Directory. Examine some their web sites, look over the resources they make available, and read about how they see the process of implementing ERP. When you have completed this examination and made your notes, please prepare a short (3-5 page) paper addressing the following questions: œWhat do vendors seem to know and not know about implementing ERP systems? How much influence should vendors have in an organization’s ERP decision?  CASE EXPECTATIONS: Your paper should be between three and five pages. Take a definite stand on the issues, and develop your supporting argument carefully. Using material from the background information and any other sources you can find to support specific points in your argument is highly recommended; try to avoid making assertions for which you can find no support other than your own opinion. You will be particularly assessed on: Precision: Your draw on a range of sources, and to establish your understanding of the historical context of the question. You carried out the exercise as assigned, or carefully explained the limitations that might have prevented your completing some parts (running out of time isn€„¢t generally considered an adequate limitation). Support for assertions: You use examples, citations (especially to the required readings), and elaboration to support assertions. You provide evidence that you have read the required background materials. Clarity: Your answers are clear and show your good understanding of the topic. You see what the module is all about and to structure your paper accordingly. Breadth and Depth: The scope covered in your paper is directly related to the questions of the assignment and the learning objectives of the module. Critical thinking: The paper incorporates YOUR reactions, examples, and applications of the material to business that illustrate your reflective judgment and good understanding of the concepts. It is important to read the œrequired readings posted in the background material plus others you find relevant. Your informed commentary and analysis is vital ” simply repeating what your sources say does not constitute an adequate paper. Overall quality: Your paper is well written and the references, where needed, are properly cited and listed (refer to the university guidelines (http://www.trident.edu/Media/Default/pdf/Well-Written-Paper.pdf) if you are uncertain about formats or other issues.Â