SAP System: Understanding Its Key Elements - Essay Sample

Introduction

A computer system is composed of various elements; whose separate functions lead to the entire system performing tasks which it is programmed to undertake. The elements include system data, software, hardware, network, database, and security elements. The different elements play different roles, which have the result of enabling the functionality of the computer system. In this case, the computer system being considered is SAP, which has various modules like supply chain and product lifecycle management, as well as enterprise resource planning. Even though SAP has a wide variety of modules that can be used, Torreate's operations are limited to the five mentioned above. All these modules have different functions, which are enabled by the dedicated computer system elements on whose basis SAP is capable of functioning. First, it will be the identification of the specific elements that SAP uses to operate and highlighting their role in the operations that SAP is programmed to undertake.

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The hardware element is the first element to be considered; because it is the physical component of the system, which one interacts with basically when working with the computer system. First and foremost, concerning SAP's hardware, are the desktops and laptops that the systems are installed into so that it can run. That is the essential hardware component, as it enables input of data into the computer system so that it can be stored or processed (Muir & Kimbell, 2007). Other mobile devices, too, such as tablets, can be used for this function, provided they can support the various processes by SAP. The other hardware component is the disk storage system that is used in the computer system. The function of the disk storage system is the store data before it is processed, or the storage of information after processing. Network gear is the other hardware component, which is comprised of security firewalls, network switches, and routers. These are dedicated to enhancing connectivity in an organization regarding the various SAP functions.

Concerning software, SAP has various elements that enable it to perform its functions for Torreate. First SAP_ABA, which is used to manage tasks that cut across multiple functionalities such as billing, which affect the supply chain, product life cycle, and the enterprise resources within the organization. Moreover, there is SAP_HR; on which the software component that is used in the human resource management functions. Lastly is the SAP _APPL, which is dedicated to accounting and logistics functions within the organization. These are the major software components of the SAP being used by Torreate. The software was in the form of supply chain management, product lifecycle management, and enterprise resource planning modules for the organization. That is because it has limited functions, which match the needs of the organization. Given the chance that there is a need for more tasks by the organization, there can be a re-design to accommodate the desired changes.

The other element of SAP being used by Torreate is the data, which is the input to the computer system. The data entered into the system is limited to the functions that the organization is specialized in. Thus, the first type of data fed into the computer system is about the organization's supply chain management undertaking. Here, data on order types, time, and scheduling is fed into the system. Later, it is processed, and the efficiency of the organization's supply chain can be determined. Moreover, there is data on product lifecycle management, which specifies details about the organization's raw materials, work in progress as well as the finished products. This information is kept in the form of reports, which can be analyzed to reflect the level of efficiency within the organization. Lastly is data about the organization's intergraded business processes. That is because ERP is the organization's business management software, which is dedicated to the collection, management, and interpretation of data for the main operating activities. The data needed for this include production capacity, raw material availability, payroll, and the status of business commitments.

The network element is another aspect that is part of the SAP used by Torreate, which is dedicated to the interconnectivity of its various functional elements. That is enabled by the servers, as well as mobile devices, laptops, and desktops that are used by the organization and its clients. It enhances the efficient sharing of information between the clients, employees, and management of the organization. The network is in the form of three interface types; that is client interphase for submitting user requests, application servers for receive and process requests, and the database system that has multiple databases on which the organization's processes are dependent. Next is the database element of the information system, which is supported by numerous vendors like Microsoft and Oracle. The databases' function is the storage of information regarding the daily operations, supply chain activities, products, and employee details. It forms a central place where information about all services of the organization can be found. Lastly is security, which is meant to safeguard the organization from unauthorized external parties' access. That is achieved by the use of passwords, physical barriers, and firewalls, which is intended to protect the system's integrity.

There are various software elements that are used in the SAP computer system that was being used by Torreate. First, regarding its supply chain management ( SCM), which is one of the essential modules in SAP. It is under the demand planning, product planning, and supply chain management undertaking of the organization. It does not work on its own, but is integrated with other business processes from which it gets its data, and channels its information; in terms of reports (Dickersbach, 2009). It aims to make sure that the logistics network of the organization is streamlined; despite the complex supply chain network that an organization might be having. Its strengths include real-time analysis and planning of supply, demand, and order capacity within the organization. Furthermore, based on its processing power, it is capable of accurately forecasting the operating capacity and requirements of the organization.

Moreover, the other software element is used at Torreate is product lifecycle management ( PLM), which is specialized for designing, planning, and administration of production with better efficiency. It has business intelligence and analytical tools that enable an organization to spot and work on strategic opportunities. Furthermore, it allows an organization to align talent with specific operations hence increasing the productivity of labor (Raap, 2013). Through the use of its integrated product management feature, it enhances better cost control, product engineering, and other product development processes that increase the effectiveness of the organization's production plans. Product compliance is the other use that product lifecycle management enables an organization to undertake. It allows the management in identification and assessment of regulations, process quality, and compliance with commodity distribution over time. Other features that are instrumental in the use of product lifecycle management include portfolio management, collaborative development, Program, and Project Management. Despite a great deal of convenience it creates, there is the difficulty when it comes to managing some types of files, which forces the use of other vendor software tools.

Enterprise Resources Planning ( ERP) is the other software element that is used by Torreate. Its role in the organization is the maintenance of efficient communication within the organization and its external environment (Magal & Word, 2011). Its purpose is the consolidation and of bulk data and the management of operations. The significant features that make ERP an excellent tool for organizations include financial management, management of logistics, and human resource management as well. It works by incorporating various functional areas of an organization; through the analysis of data relating to specific operations. It is used in streamlining finance, sales, employee, manufacturing, and procurement operations in the organization. As a result of the convenience created by the software, it enables an organization to gain a competitive advantage against others in its environment. However, it should be used by individuals with relevant skills so that the organization can achieve its productive capacity. The major disadvantage of SAP ERP is that it is costly to buy, as well as training employees on how to use it effectively.

Information systems play a significant role in the success of operations in an organization. That is evident through the highlight of the use of various software programs by Torreate, which create convenience in its services. The significant advantage of using information systems is the ability to attain goals and objectives more reliably. However, the software programs have their setbacks, which the organization should always work to make sure the intended benefits are realized in the long run.

References

Dickersbach, J. T. (2009). Supply Chain Management with SAP APOTM: Structures, Modelling Approaches and Implementation of SAP SCMTM 2008. Springer Science & Business Media. https://books.google.co.ke/books?hl=en&lr=&id=5CA3y7_LY2MC&oi=fnd&pg=PA2&dq=SAP+SCM+&ots=xxW3l9As0S&sig=CIT15OwLgdzOZk0HyMpu_XzEQpk&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=SAP%20SCM&f=false

Magal, S. R., & Word, J. (2011). Integrated business processes with ERP systems. Wiley Publishing. https://dl.acm.org/doi/book/10.5555/2011876

Muir, N., & Kimbell, I. (2007). Discover SAP. SAP PRESS. https://dl.acm.org/doi/book/10.5555/1554786

Raap, H. (2013). SAP Product Lifecycle Management. Sap Press. https://dl.acm.org/doi/book/10.5555/2559467