Publication Date: 28 September 2005 ID Number: G00130366
When to Consider a Single-Instance ERP Strategy
Nigel Rayner, Erik Dorr
Many consider deploying a single instance of an enterprise resource planning application to save on operational costs, reduce IT complexity and align their application strategy with the business strategy. Undertake such a project only if it matches most of Gartner's single-instance success factors.
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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Adopting a single-instance, single-vendor enterprise resource planning strategy can deliver benefits, but it does not make sense for every organization. It should only be undertaken if you have a good business case for the project and it matches most or all of Gartner's single-instance success factors. If the challenges balance or outweigh the success factors, then you should address organizational issues before proceeding. If this is not feasible, then consider limitedinstance consolidation or a tiered business application strategy.
ANALYSIS
Most large multinational organizations have a heterogeneous application portfolio that has built up over time. The portfolio often is made more complex by tactical purchasing and merger and acquisition