Enterprise System Implementation MSc-MTech-PgDip-PgCert
ObjectivesThe postgraduate level Enterprise System Implementation programme is designed to address the skills gap for professionals to deploy ICT systems. The knowledge and skills development extends project management into business change management and benefits realisation.The course aims to equip students with the integrative approach and practical skills required to ensure success of implementation projects.On completion students will be able to make an immediate contribution to the design and management of projects within a wide range of manufacturing, commercial business and public service organisational contexts.Enterprise systems change working practice and how people relate to one another both within the organisation and in the supply chain. Effective implementation of ICT system introduces new business processes and creates dynamics that requires changes in organisational structure. This means technical and organisational decisions have to be taken, with consequential impact on the work force and the business effectiveness. These decisions are often beyond the experience and training of the persons asked to deliver the results.The course builds up the theoretical understanding and practical skills in the two key areas needed for enterprise system implementation: * Alignment of enterprise systems and business organisation using the socio-technical approach that considers the interaction between the structure and behaviour of the work organisation. * Project management with a focus on business and human change management.
Academic titleEnterprise System Implementation MSc/MTech/PgDip/PgCert
Course descriptionIn business, government, charity and even home environments, computer systems are playing an integral role. The introduction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a complex process with many reported difficulties. Many of these failures are due to companies neglecting 'organisational and people' changes introduced by the new technology . With European Commission support and a network of European partners, Cranfield has completed in-depth research on understanding the soft issues in ICT implementation. This MSc is designed to address the knowledge gap identified in this research.
This course equips students with the integrative approach and practical skills required to ensure success of such projects. On completion students will be able to make an immediate contribution to the design and management of projects within a wide range of manufacturing, commercial business and public service organisational contexts.
To complement the soft skills, students have access to a range of enterprise systems in the Enterprise Systems Laboratory. This expanding laboratory includes SAP R/3 and UGS Teamcentre Engineering systems.
The MSc comprises eight one-week assessed modules, a group project and an individual project. Students undertaking the Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) complete the eight modules and the group project. Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) students complete six modules.
Group project
Students form teams to work full-time on a consultancy-type project, usually sponsored by industry. The project requires students to apply their learning and take responsibility for solving a real business problem, under academic supervision. Students develop their teamwork and project management skills in an applied context. Success is dependent on the integration of various activities and working within agreed objectives, deadlines and budgets. Project sponsors include major organisations such as Ford and Airbus. For part-time students a dissertation usually replaces the group project.
Individual project
Students select the individual project in consultation with the Course Director. Students are provided with the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to carry out independent research, think and work in an original way, contribute to knowledge, and overcome genuine problems. Many of the projects are supported by external organisations. Previously, students have been placed with companies such as SAP, the largest business software company in the world.
Modules:
Modules are structured to support learning in the areas of enterprise systems, business organisation and project management.