Processes and Systems Designing the IT system architecture

The fundamental reconstruction of the IT infrastructure is currently occupying many companies, especially in the case of systems for advanced digitization with complex backgrounds. Outdated ERP and WMS, for example, cannot simply be replaced: Before selecting and implementing such solutions, the entire IT system architecture must be analyzed according to the new requirements in order to ensure smooth and sustainable operation.

IT departments are faced with the challenge of modernizing systems while meeting customer demands for additional services and faster service, as well as balancing investments in new solutions with support for existing business-critical systems. agiplan provides comprehensive support in a multi-stage consulting process, from project setup to evaluation of the chosen strategy.

In our projects, the setup and inventory of the hardware and software used throughout the company, as well as an overview of maintenance (contract terms, cancellation periods, etc.), provide us with the necessary altitude to discuss the IT strategy and target scenario with our clients.

Especially when introducing an ERP or an MES / Warehouse Management System (WMS), our understanding is that the production and logistics processes as well as the targeted innovations play a central role. In the course of this, decisive questions about the future IT architecture are clarified, be it about the characteristics of, for example, an SAP-EWM or an alternative solution as well as the mapping of possible automation approaches in the software. Possible options include automated warehouse technology (MFR/MFS), route trains (transport control system) and MES systems (BDE).

Once we have developed a target landscape, we finally create a migration strategy that describes the conversion of the ACTUAL state to the new target landscape. Here we consider two dimensions:

Horizontal:

• All functions of one level, e.g. of a WMS, are migrated.
• The subordinate levels have to be converted in parallel, otherwise old interfaces will be adapted to the new environment.

Vertical:

• Conversion according to locations, first WA, then WE, then all warehouse systems.

Basically, we come to the following conclusion: There is no pure doctrine in the design of IT architecture, but always individual mixed solutions that must be evaluated individually according to customer needs.