Managing ERP configuration variants: An experience report

Abstract

The concepts of Software Product Line Engineering (SPLE) have been adapted and applied to enterprise IT systems, in particular the ERP systems of a production company. Based on a 2-layer feature model for the domain of the company's business processes, individual, albeit similar division's ERP system configurations can be derived by feature selection forming a variant description model. It is indicated that regular release upgrades can also benefit from the SPLE approach. The customization capabilities of the ERP platform are captured in another model; building up this model is automated according to information extracted online. As well, customizing an ERP system - based on the models mentioned - is performed online with the help of a connector developed in this project. Quantitative analysis and lessons learned during the project conclude this experience report. © 2010 ACM.