The Strategic Center Firm (SCF)
Kaplan University

Leticia Butler

IT-521: Decision Support Systems
Professor Desiree Depriest
Date Submitted: 7/23/2013

Executive Summary As one of the largest providers of outsourcing, collaborating opportunities firms, and newly appointed Strategic Center Firm. The organization must become the foundation for all network structures. This will require the company to operate globally. Contingent upon the case study provided by the CEO, we would begin an aggressive proposal to design and implement a DSS. The DSS will create cooperative and collaborative relationships with all shareholding companies globally. This design will include implementation of tools, application, data warehousing, and current DSS available. There are solid recommendations with justifications of current market products. The experience I have as a technical analyst will be present, showing my knowledge and understanding of technology requirements; integrate them into this proposal for the CEO, which supports the objective of this project. The components chosen will support current and future initiatives of the organization. There have been logical assumptions declared based on the objective of the case study that will bring global success to this organization.

The Challenge The challenge as the new Strategic Center Firm (SCF), we must be the foundation for all the network’s structures. We must build a decision support structure that satisfies formal reporting relationships and procedures, manage complex cooperative interactions among network partners, align incentives among networked partners to have a reason to stay connected, and manage the strategic network and control its operations. In addition to the previously mention challenges, the organization must currently provide network access for their customers, partners, vendors, contractors, and other guests to enable greater productivity, improved collaboration, and better service. This challenge can be corrected by implementing a complete solution to offer guest and partner access service, enterprises can control network access, reduce or eliminate IT support for non-employee personnel, maintain full auditing capability, and keep their traffic securely separated from restricted internal resources. An additional challenge comes into play, when international cooperative strategies require more networks that are complex. Becoming a multinational firm with multiple regional strategic centers to manage their various cooperative arrangements with partnering firms can be tasking. However, separating larger networks into smaller more manageable networks, aid in maintaining the difficulty of the many relationships.

Overview –Applications /Tools
Decision support system entails a variety of system, tool, and technologies. DSS is a useful term for many different information systems that support the decision making process. I will proceed to review available applications and tool that support current and future DSS.
Business Performance Management (BPM)/ Business Intelligence (BI)
There are two components in relation to this topic that people agree on: 1) BI involves raw data that must be integrated first from an unfamiliar source system and then transformed into information; and 2) BPM leverages that information. In reference to information is much more valuable than data points, because integrating and transforming data using calculations and pattern discovery results in potentially meaningful information used for making decisions (Cokins, 2006). IT dashboard: * The IT Dashboard is a website enabling federal agencies, industry, and the general public and other stakeholders to view details of federal information technology investments. * Dashboards can build in a way that will allow them to be custom focused and the individual user. The executive user may see a high level graph of department productivity, while the department manager could see the specifics by employee, and the department employee would see their specific details for the month * This gives them the ability to see the details behind the summary information if they wish to but keeps that detail from the standard view unless it is deemed necessary. * Because dashboards are driven off current data in a real-time or near real-time structure, the dashboards should be an accurate reflection of the current data. People do not have to wait for the weekly or monthly reports in order to see what’s going on. * Benefits of Finance Dashboard: Monitor Revenue, Profit, Loss and Expenses * Benefits of HR Dashboard: Monitor Employee activity, Headcount growth, Expenses etc * Benefits of IT dashboard : Monitor system activity, this may include database monitoring, server monitoring, memory metrics etc * Benefits of Inventory Dashboard : Monitor Inventory levels, warehouse and item information, orders etc
Features/benefit of Microsoft Balanced Scorecard Framework: * Develop and deploy a scorecard economically using an existing infrastructure. * Manage and display the data and knowledge pertinent to Balanced Scorecards. * Facilitate analysis of measures so that prompt corrective action can take place.
The framework provides a comprehensive, flexible, cost-effective way to deploy the Balanced Scorecard and deliver superior returns on people, processes, customers, and technologies.
Customer relationship management (CRM) According to Burnham (2013), “A CRM system allows businesses to manage business relationships and the data and information associated with them. With CRM, you can store customer and prospect contact information, accounts, leads and sales opportunities in one central location, ideally in the cloud so the information is accessible by many, in real time” ( para. 1). iCAN Solutions web-based CRM will allow you to access the your business's core information where ever you are. This business management system will revolutionize information access throughout your business.
IE Trade CRM solutions benefits
With IE Trade you can manage your accounts through storing all your customer profiles including product details, what they use/buy/sell, historical data and forecasting tools to generate budgets. Leads management and tracing ability, details all current and historical contract information including document management specific to trade, and manage all shipment / delivery schedule associated to each contract and features a reminder system for key dates. Business report gives you real-time business reporting for you to know at any point. Migrate your historic business data into one system and ensure your business continuity, high data security to protect the integrity of your important data and you can access the system from anywhere anytime with Internet access (iCAN Solutions , 2010).

Figure 1. CRM Model Courtesy of: blogs.cornell.edu
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) integration According to Webopedia (2013), “Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is business management software that allows an organization to use a system of integrated applications to manage the business. ERP software integrates all facets of an operation, including product planning, development, manufacturing processes, sales and marketing” (para. 1). Cloud based ERP provides the customers with application scalability and reduced hardware costs. In addition, Cloud computing technology made it easier for Acumatica to deliver ERP software as a service (SaaS) for consumers who want to acquire cloud ERP and not have to manage hardware, software, and upgrades while reducing up-front expenses. Customers can build an internal cloud to reduce ongoing hardware costs while maintaining an overall control over integration and require local access to their data server. With the elimination of client software, consumers can save money and time on installation and maintenance. Also, access is delivered via the Web from any device on any platform without the hassle of a complicated VPN and remote access software. Multi-tenancy can happen at the infrastructure level, platform level, or application level. The give and take between cost and flexibility simply justifies different platforms of multi-tenancy. An internal cloud allows a large corporation to own a server with as many servers as a clout datacenter. If a organization has only one server, the capability would be limited. There is a marginal area where experts debate over internal if deployment can be considered a cloud. Hosted versus cloud is a doorway to outsourcing IT operations. Hosting is effective only if there are not client components in the software (Hendrikse, 2013).
ERP key benefits

Figure 2. Enterprise Resource Planning (SaaS).
Coutesty of : http://www.acumatica.com/landing/what-is-cloud-erp-software
Strategic Center Firm Solutions To following are our recommendations based on the Strategic Center Firm needs. The solutions chosen will be reviewed in depth naming tools and applications that support the objective. The solution would be to use the ERP - EDI Managed Services – OpenText, formerly EasyLink, as a one stop shop for your Data Center, performance management and Network Virtualization needs. I will expound on all the services that meet the needs of the Strategic Center Firm objective (OpenText, 2013).
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the computer-to-computer exchange of routine business data between trading partners in standard data formats. This definition contains three key concepts about EDI:
Computer-to-computer: EDI in its most efficient form travels directly out of a sender’s computer system directly into a receiver’s computer system without any human intervention. Routine business data: EDI is used for routine business documents that are exchanged frequently between trading partners like purchase orders and invoices. Non-routine business documents, such as contracts or information meant for humans to read, review, and analyze, do not travel via EDI. Standard data formats: A standard definition of the location and structure of the data is provided (OpenText, 2013).
Benefits of EDI Speed, the data moves with no delay directly from one computer to another, allow faster buy-sell cycle time. Accuracy minimizes errors, because no re-entry is necessary, allowing quicker cash flow. Simple, data will be formatted and found easily with EDI specified standards, which reduces order lead time and inventory. Security, only authorized users can access EDI and it produces audit trails and archiving of data, this improves trading partner’s relationships, knowing the data is safe (OpenText, 2013).
OpenText/EasyLink is an EDI services provider that offers a complete set of fully outsourced EDI services that helps companies to take full advantage of their EDI investment. With OpenText/EasyLink's EDI services, companies are able to optimize the efficiency, reliability, and reach of their electronic supply chain while reducing costs, infrastructure and overhead. Their secure, fully-redundant global infrastructure links partners and vendors in agile business relationships that drive mutual success (OpenText, 2013). OpenText/EasyLink’s broad portfolio of EDI services and solutions answers all of your challenges. As a large 500 Strategic Center Firm, you will require EDI hub with mission-critical applications, OpenText/EasyLink’s EDI services portfolio can be tailored to your company’s requirements.
Performance EDI -Dashboard Performance EDI software is designed to effortlessly link you to your trading partners and efficiently automate your transaction process, the software solution can be configured to fit the specific needs of your business. Employ a fully-integrated system for data translation and retail product management or deploy any of those components in combination or individually to meet your business needs. Either way, the solution helps you comply, coordinate and collaborate with your trading partners and streamline your operations.
With functionality offered on a modular basis, you are able to customize the software according to your needs by selecting the components that automate and add value to your day-to-day processes. Moreover, the components within the solution are designed to integrate for support of multi-company and multi-user environments.
Benefits of Performance EDI
Performance EDI software offer proven responsiveness to trading partner mandates, requirements, streamlined operations and electronic communications, and easy transition to new ways of conducting business (OpenText, 2013).
EDI - VAN
EDI-VAN is a feature that enables secure, reliable, and efficient communication with trading partners around the globe. It includes services, such as Hosted Translation, that allows you to convert data into any format, EDIINT Services for processing AS2 data, and the ability to process any type of data format with any trading partner regardless of their technology. OpenTextVAN services can be extended with capabilities that include OpenTex.COMMS: offer a variety of customized communication options including Internet-based, AS2 and browser-based accessibility with added security provided by VPN, PGP and frame relay to meet unique communication requirements.
Benefits of EDI-VAN
Reduces costs and higher profitability, OpenText allow you to create a streamlined supply chain in a cost-efficient manner. This permits the option of eliminating cost for maintenance, recurring IT expenses, and infrastructure.
This is a Cloud-based EDI communicator for OpenText, which offers supreme communications liberty and integrating agility, on-demand messaging. Offers, in-line translation functioning, and effortlessly supports any data format. Converts documents that have been faxed to the format of your choice, and process the finding into workflow, which only enhancing the fully automated solution. With the EDI-Van, you will enhance your existing relationships and increase new members to your community as well.
Privacy, security, and records retention is a breeze with OpenText carrier grade network. It ensures total confidentiality and security to stay in compliance with privacy and record-keeping directives of today’s world. OpenText provides an automated workflow process that tracks, audits, archives, and retains thorough audit trail for each and every transaction that goes through their network.
OpenText offers EDI B2B Management Center, The B2B Management Center (B2BMC) is a web-based VAN provisioning portal that allows you to proactively manage your trading partner relationships. Monitor and track messages with the OpenText EDI Document Manager, track important information using a customizable dashboard, and submit trouble tickets to customer support (OpenText, 2013).
Web EDI
Web EDI allows EDI enabled companies to trade with non-EDI companies who have access to a web browser. This allows for the efficient processing of transactions bi-directionally so that all parties can process data in their preferred format.
Web EDI benefits
Web EDI is flexible; it allows you to use a web interface to communicate with any non-EDI trading partner, anywhere. It’s centralized, which unifies interactions with your partners using a common, standardized tool. It’s secure, which keeps your EDI transactions safe (OpenText, 2013).
EDI Managed Services
EDI managed services provide outsourced EDI services tailored to fit your budget, technical sophistication, and trading partner requirements. You conduct your business and OpenText manages your EDI services.
EDI Managed Services benefits
You can optimize your EDI-based supply chain with unparalleled scalability, reliability, and availability. Outsourcing EDI from your IT team allows them to focus on other technology initiatives for the enterprise. Ensure excellent return on investment with reduced OpenText implementation fees (OpenText, 2013).
EDI Service Bureau
EDI service Bureau is one of the largest Service Bureaus in the world supporting the retail trading community helping to bridge technology gaps between large retail hubs and their non-EDI suppliers.
EDI Service Bureau benefits
OpenText EDI Service Bureau professionals have unmatched knowledge of each retailer's specific requirements, allowing them to serve as an extension of your staff without your organization having to become EDI compliant.
Using any combination of these EDI services provides you with a world of opportunity to strengthen your existing business relationships, add new partners and vendors at will, obtain higher levels of efficiency, and improve your overall ability to gain control of your EDI application.
OpenText/EasyLink EDI Hosted Applications offer an alternative to operating and supervising your own EDI environment. With access to a Web browser, you have the tool required to easily access EDI technology, streamline your processes, and participate in electronic data interchange. By enabling EDI capabilities without the investment in hardware or software for EDI translation, they help reduce your costs, simplify your operations, and provide the specialized EDI expertise you require (OpenText, 2013).
Competitor
Standard Life Company uses EDI OpenText Service. A organization established in 1825, Standard Life is a leading global provider of long-term savings and investments to 6.5 million customers worldwide. Headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, Standard Life is part of The Standard Life, which is comprised of savings and investments businesses, corporate pensions and benefits businesses, global investment businesses, and joint ventures. Has had much success with the use of OpenText EDI Services.
Strategy and Implementation Summary Our strategy will be to position your Strategic Center Firm’s website and services as a better way of handling securities transactions, accessing financial and market data, and strategizing on investments. To follow will be a detailed proposal of the implementation DSS plan, along with timelines and design.
Defining Business Criteria
Task: Begins with an electronic survey This process of electronic surveying uncovers the information required to customize The Strategic Center Firm needs. The survey documentation will include: * Analysis of the current reports and IS tools used by business users. * The business objective and functions of the inter-departments. * Priorities of The Strategic Center Firm * The current IT structure
Task: Develop Business procedural documents This process will incorporate all new information regarding the design of the Decision Support System for SCF.
Task: CEO/ Board of Directors and user sign-off on the business criteria
This process will produce a presentation of the business criteria documentation, with the business CEO and users. Also, have a question and answer portion to get vital feedback, in efforts to make revision where necessary.
Data analysis and Modeling
The business criteria for SCF will be explained in an Web based database design ER Model. The understanding of the (OLTP) model can help to bridge the gap between operational system designs. The EDI department monitors EDI traffic 24/7. Most EDI activities are stored in the applications audit log. The EDI operations team keeps track of a report of the status of all jobs, how they ran and what their status was. The purpose of this log is to determine any deviations from the original schedule.
Task: Perform analysis of current data sources
This process will analyze the current data sources, mapping, aligning them with the business process, and documenting each complexity surrounding the data workflow process.
Task: Web-based database modeling
This process builds a modern web-based database easily used front-end to a performance management EDI complex data base. The connection between the web and the data base is called middle-ware. The web server, the middle-ware, and the data base are all different computers. This is a multi-tier architecture. Security is a vital concern when you hook up the web to a data base. EDI Application is a client/server application and is being used with a Microsoft SQL Server database.
Task: Controls in the logical Web-based data modeling
A cloud database relies on cloud technology. We have to create the controls in the logical web-based data model. Both the database and most of its DBMS reside remotely, in the cloud, while its applications are both developed by programmers and later maintained and utilized by applications, and end-users through via a web browser and Open APIs. This will adhere to improved performance, summary reporting, and improved inquiry performance. The EDI subject matter expert is responsible for adhering to all SOX controls related to the application layer.
Task: Evaluation of Web based data model and sign-off
The Web based data model will be shown to the business analyst via presentation and await feedback of revisions, and acceptance.
Technology Structure Design
Task: Documents existing IT infrastructure
This requires a detailed analysis of Strategic Center Firm's IT infrastructure and applications, to determine the appropriate BI tools and applications and the Integration platform necessary to meet the business criteria.
Task: Execute source system analysis
Document all the data feeding pipes to the staging area. This should including raw data as well and transformed data and chart them with the existing business applications.
Task: Execute the ETL (Extraction, Transformation and Loading) system
This task can be accomplished using the Informatica ETL – EDI tool migration. This will generate the ETL mapping and testing feature, to load the data, using SQL scripts (Informatica, 2012).
Task: Design the Access layer:
This process of designing the services and functions and accesses the BI analytics for Strategic Center Firm's DSS. This involves designing the web based front end applications using Performance EDI. Evidence must exist to prove to the auditors that all EDI related transactions that are sent electronically must be sent via secure via authentication, encryption and access controls (Oxley, 2012).
Task: Design the Analytics layer
This process includes designing Business Intelligence Framework (applications/ tools) to fulfill the business inquiries produced impromptu or frequently by users. We will utilize Performance EDI dashboard tool in the development of the analytics layer. EDI’s provides a Role Based Dashboards, Financial Reporting and Forecasting for Strategic Center Firm’s BI needs for DSS (Oxley, 2012).
Task: Data Integration
This requires all data produced to be integrated and moved into the warehouse operating environment. To be made available through the Access Layer to improve its quality, and converts data into a standard format for presentation.
DSS Development
Task: Implement the physical database design
The physical database design follows the logical database design. This involves the creation of indexes on the data, based on the Web based database model.
Task: Data Migration
This involves analyzing the necessary data sets for creating the BI applications.
Task: Develop the BI applications
This task includes creating access, developing the employee portals, dashboards using performance management Dashboard application tool. Role Based Dashboards, Financial Reporting and Forecasting applications will be built using Performance EDI software.
Testing
Task: Develop test cases and test plans
Task: Perform QA (Quality assurance) testing
Task: Perform UAT (user acceptance testing)
Deployment
After the DSS infrastructure and applications have been systematically tested for bugs, errors, viruses and performance issues, it will be ready for deployment into the production environment.
Task: Data migration and ETL
This will allow migration of current data using ETL from the various data sources.
Task: Setup Electronic Infrastructure Network
The electronic infrastructure network will bridges a wireless network to a wired Ethernet virtual network. This will assist in connecting the various BI application requirements for SCF.
Task: Deploy the BI Applications:
The various BI applications developed for Strategic Center Firm will be deployed in the production environment.
Training
With access to the Web browser, staff will participate in a two-hour training program from the comfort of their office. No travel required.
Task: Setup interactive online training course
Task: Notify staff of the training sessions
Conclusion
We are confident that EDI Services will cater to the needs of your organization; I can provide all your needs to ensure the Strategic Center Firm is successful in creating a centralized network structure that allows you to build cooperative relationships with all shareholding companies. This proposed Strategic Center solution will provides your company with a world of opportunity to strengthen your existing business relationships, add new partners and vendors at will, obtain higher levels of efficiency, and improve your overall ability to gain control with EDI applications services.
OpenText EDI services are the leader in Enterprise Information Management (EIM). EIM enables organizations to grow the business, lower costs of operations, and reduce information governance and security related risks. OpenText focuses on the key drivers of business success to improve business insight, strengthen business impact, accelerate process velocity, address information governance and provide security.

References
Burnham, J. (2013, Jan. 4). What is CRM? Retrieved from: http://blogs.salesforce.com/company/2013/01/what-is-crm-your-business-nerve-center.html Cokins, G. (2006, April 6). How do business intelligence and performance management fit together. Retrieved from: http://www.information-management.com/news/1051320- 1.html
Hendrikse, S. (2013). How cloud erp software can benefit your business. Retrieved from: http://www.acumatica.com/landing/what-is-cloud-erp-software iCAN Solutions. (2010). IE Trade CRM Solution. Retrieved from: http://www.i-can.com.au/Solutions/IETrade Informatica. (2012). ETL – EDI Tool Migration. Retrieved from http://www.informatica.com/company/Pages/index.aspx OpenText. (2013). What is EDI? Retrieved from: http://www.easylink.com/easylink-services/edi/edi-fundamentals.php Oxley, S. (2013). EDI & industry compliance. Retrieved from: http://www.acom.com/ecommerce/articles/edi_industry_compliance_0508.html Webopedia. (2013). ERP – Enterprise resource planning. Retrieved from:
http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/E/ERP.html