Software is a major topic in most ERP discussions. Notice that we are well into this book on Class A ERP with almost no discussion concerning the software tools. APICS now actually has two definitions for ERP and includes the software as one version of what ERP is. Without software, ERP is impossible to accomplish in today's complex and competitive world. Software is like the tools in a carpenter's or cabinetmaker's bag. Elaborate cabinets could be made with no tools or with just a hammer and a chisel, but the time and efficiency of this process would make it undesirable and the skill-level requirements would be exponentially above the cabinetmaker who uses only modern tools. Instead, today's competitive carpenters and cabinetmakers use elaborate fixtures and powerful tools. Intricate designs can be copied and duplicated with great speed.

ERP business systems today are much like the power tools. These new systems can make schedule changes happen quickly and easily through the use of "drop and drag" capabilities. Almost as soon as the change is updated in the system, modern systems can quickly re-"net"/recalculate the changes to requirements and connect directly to supplier signals communicated through the Internet. Try that without software!

Having now underlined the importance of software, it is equally important to underline the need for good process. Without solid and robust process design, the tools do not work. Just as undisciplined and unknowledgeable people could not make cabinets with modern tools, neither can undisciplined and unknowledgeable people succeed at...