Solved
Discussion: Where to start with ERP integration?
Posted on 2013-06-05
We have a large ASP.NET webforms application that manages skill and abilities for staff. This is a standalone application built upon SQL Server 2012.
Recently prospective clients have asked if our software can 'integrate with Oracle/SAP/etc?'
Although we have strong ASP.NET skills, we have zero knowledge of ERP software and how integration even works. Therefore, I'd appreciate any guidance on the following questions...
1
We assume integration takes place via web methods or web services (or the new WCF)?
2
Are there any starting points on what type of integration is possible?
3
Do companies such as Oracle/SAP provide documentation on methods of accessing and working with data in their systems, e.g. what methods are available and how the data is formatted (XML etc)?
4
I see off-the-shelf software for sale that all state they 'integrate' with these systems. Aren't SAP deployments customised, and therefore are all slightly different? How can something integrate off-the-shelf?
5
How do companies like ours test integration without having a product licence? We contacted Oracle who basically said we'd have to buy a license at around $30k, which is never going to happen. So how do small companies afford to even start with integration?