The Application of an Enterprise Resource Planning System for the Return Material Authorization Process in High-Tech Manufacturing

摘要

Over the years, the integration of information systems technology with production management techniques has created opportunities for greater efficiencies in the production and operations environment. Recently, the implementation of large enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems has become a top priority of many high-tech manufacturing companies. In fact, currently 8 of the 10 largest high-tech manufacturing companies have implemented SAP R/3, the leading ERP package. ERP systems focus on the integration of the primary processes of an organization's supply chain including accounting, materials management, manufacturing or operations, sales, and human resources processes. One of the key processes in the supply chain is the return material process. This process crosses several functional areas, so any information system solution must also integrate these different functional areas (materials, accounting, manufacturing, sales, and service). In this paper the development of a solution utilizing an ERP system is described and critical issues discussed. This paper will focus on the design of a return material authorization process and the information system required in supporting this process.