Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is a term usually used in conjunction with ERP software or an ERP system which is intended to manage all the information and functions of a business or company from shared data stores

An ERP system typically has modular hardware and software units and "services" that communicate on a local area network. The modular design allows a business to add or reconfigure modules (perhaps from different vendors) while preserving data integrity in one shared database that may be centralized or distributed

As the business needs are very complex in nature, the implementation of an ERP package needs Chartered Accountants with functional skills for evaluation, Business Process Reengineering (BPR), Mapping of Business requirements, Report designing, ensuring Business controls, customization of the package for the specific requirements, Documentation etc.

Opportunities exist for Chartered Accountants in the following areas

a) CA as a Consultant/ Functional analyst: Implementation of ERP solutions is one of the largest drivers of growth in the consultancy business. The introduction of such large and complex software like ERP, which enables an organisation to integrate their manufacturing, finance and marketing operations at all levels, is in itself a challenge, since it calls for technical and functional skills and a change in user mindsets. A Chartered Accountant as a Consultant will play a major role in implementation of an ERP solution.

b) CA as an auditor: Assuming a situation where the client has implemented an ERP solution. If the auditor is aware of ERP he can make use of the features of ERP and thereby: ensures that the internal controls and checks are consistently maintained.; ensures that the provisions of Income tax or other fiscal laws are not ignored ;ensures that the Accounting Standards are consistently followed across the company; Improves the quality of the reporting.

c) CA as an Advisor: As an advisor to a company a Chartered Accountant can participate in various stages of ERP implementation..

d) CA as a Manager/ Functional Implementation Team member / Implementation Project manager: ERP is a high end sophisticated software solution that reduces the pressure and work load of the Managers and provides accurate, timely information for taking appropriate business decisions. Chartered accountants as managers with knowledge of ERP will be able to achieve their targets and goals by proper implementation of ERP system in their organisation.