Implementation of ERP System by Unilever Plc - Advantages and Limitations, Project Management Tools - Example

The paper “Implementation of ERP System by Unilever Plc -  Advantages and Limitations, Project Management Tools” is an actual example of the report on management. This report covers in detail the implementation of an ERP system by Unilever Plc towards the harmonization of its global operations. The report narrows down its discussion to the implementation of the ERP system by highlighting the various challenges faced during the implementation process. A methodological approach is adopted towards describing the implementation process step-by-step from feasibility studies to the post-implementation stage. Additionally, this report highlights the merits and limitations associated with ERP systems as well as the scope within which the ERP system should be implemented in the organization.

The complexity of ERP systems renders the project implementation task very difficult as it is very vital to understand the system software, business workflow, and organizational information needs. This report provides various project management tools that are crucial in directing the project towards the achievement of its objectives.

ERP’s within organisation seek to harness information flowing within an organisation towards the realisation of its objectives. Values, norms and cultures underlying an organisation have to be factored in the adoption of ERP software to protect the organisation culture. On the other hand, the unlocking of the ERP’s information and automation capabilities depends on the quality of implementation and level of integration along the different functional areas. However, due to the magnitude of the organisation’s operations, the implementation of an ERP project within the organisation has to be carefully planned with set timeframes to ensure efficient resource utilisation. ERP systems are made up of four broad elements namely; software, change management, the customer mind frame and process workflow (Gunasekaran 2007, p21). Apparently, the fifth element, methodology seeks to ensure integrated and systematic implementation of the four elements to ensure harmony. This report seeks to provide a conceptual approach towards understanding the complexity of ERP systems by discussing the various ERP components and their integration.