Defining Business and IT Requirements for ERP Selection at a Major Middle Eastern Oil & Gas Entity
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE
A leading Oil & Gas entity in the Middle East required a structured approach to define its business requirements and IT specifications for selecting an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. The objective was to optimize the purchasing and procurement process, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure seamless integration of IT functionalities with business needs. The project focused on assessing the entity’s current capabilities, identifying gaps in technical and business processes, and developing a comprehensive ERP selection program that aligned with the company’s strategic goals.
PROJECT APPROACH
The engagement started with a strategic diagnostic to assess the organization’s current capabilities and IT infrastructure. The project team identified gaps in technical and business requirements to ensure a clear roadmap for ERP implementation. A detailed operating model assessment was conducted to determine the optimal IT functionalities required. The ERP system requirements were defined by evaluating industry best practices and assessing potential vendors. Finally, a structured selection program was developed and executed, ensuring that the client selected the most suitable ERP system, vendor, and integration strategy.
OUR METHODOLOGY
The methodology incorporated several key tools to ensure a structured ERP selection process. An operating model assessment tool was utilized to map the company’s workflows and IT integration points. Service and competitor analysis was conducted to benchmark best practices in the industry. A requirement-gathering process ensured that all business and IT needs were documented for ERP vendors. The Request for Proposal (RFP) development approach was implemented to evaluate potential system providers. Finally, a robust implementation and execution plan was created to guide the client through system integration, vendor contracting, and long-term sustainability of the ERP solution.
THE RESULTS
The project successfully helped the client clearly define its business and IT requirements, facilitating the selection of a suitable ERP solution and engaging a system integrator for seamless implementation. A comprehensive business plan with a detailed activity roadmap was delivered to ensure structured execution. The project also ensured that the ERP selection program was established in a sustainable manner, allowing for future scalability and continuous improvements.
