ERP Development Life Cycle

SDLC involves a systematic process of planning, designing, and creating an information system for organizations.
Its purpose is to avoid mishaps and coordinate tasks efficiently among the large systems development team.

ERP vs Other Packaged Software

ERP Systems cost millions of dollars, while other packaged software ranges from hundreds to thousands.
ERP is often mission-critical, while other software supports productivity improvements.
ERP implementation can take one to several years, whereas other software can be deployed almost instantly.
Success in ERP implementation requires a significant change management strategy from start to finish, including business process changes, training, and communications.
Other software requires some training and support.
ERP demands in-house employee time, consultant involvement, and vendor support costing millions of dollars.
Other software needs little to no consulting or vendor technical support.

Traditional ERP Life Cycle

Aspect	SDLC	ERP Life Cycle
Goal	Develop a new system to support organizational requirements.	Implement a packaged system to support organizational requirements.
Analysis	Evaluate user needs through observations and interviews, and create system specifications.	Vendor analysis and evaluation of business process changes due to implementation.
Design	Develop new system architecture, user interface, and reporting tools.	Installation and customization plan of ERP software, data conversion, and change management strategies.
Implementation	Acquire hardware and software, develop applications, installation, testing, training, and conversion.	“Go-Live” conversion or releasing the system to users, along with training and support.
Consultant Role	Provides technical support mainly during design and implementation.	Involves change management, process change, and technical support from beginning to end.
Management Role	Some oversight and support.	Significant oversight and involvement, especially in change management.
End-User Role	Focus group providing input during various stages, with most involvement during the implementation stage.	Multiple groups such as Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), advanced users, and self-service users are part of the implementation team with continuous involvement.
Operations	Maintains, updates, and provides technical support.	Maintains, updates, upgrades, and monitors the change management strategy.