Proposal for investigating and prototyping an ERP system for university information functions

Abstract

Initial research has shown that a majority of BRAC University's information functions are compartmentalized and detached from one another. This information arrangement stifles visibility of information that aids the strategic decision making process. This project aims to analyse in detail BRAC university's current information management and dissemination methods and understanding whether modern enterprise resource planning software can provide integration of such compartmentalised information into a 'single source of truth', as well as implement the ability for systems of different functions to interface with each other. Once an ERP system is in place, all aspects of BRAC University can work in harmony instead of every single system needing to be compatible with each other. The analysis will involve investigation use of information that is common in nature by various faculties of the University. It will also take into account various information components from different areas that can be collaborated to produce better decision making mechanisms at a corporate or organisational level. This study will then take into account software currently in the market that can achieve seamless information integration and robust interfacing to ensure that greater visibility of University's operations. Finally a human resource management system will be built that will demonstrate capabilities and advantages of modern ERP software. This will also involve understanding the level of customisability of selected ERP software. This research will produce a thesis for a plan to implement a full scale ERP system at BRAC University to manage its increasing information volumes. In addition inventory control system will be designed for the university .