The chapter has been greatly revised to emphasize ERP systems more than traditional transaction processing systems. Much of the discussion of traditional transaction processing
systems has been reduced or placed in simple lists. In addition, the adoption and use of
enterprise systems by SMBs is much more thoroughly covered.
A section has been added that discusses the use of transaction processing systems by SMBs
and identifies a number of software packages available that provide integrated transaction
processing system solutions for SMBs. The use of software packages to provide an integrated
set of transaction processing systems by the city of Lexington, KY is mentioned.
The material on ERP and CRM has been updated with new material and examples. For
example, the implementation of an ERP system by Gujarat Reclaim and Rubber Products,
Amgen, BNSF Railway Company and the resulting benefits is discussed.
A new section has been added that covers the use of ERP by SMBs and highlights the
special needs of those firms. Several open source ERP solutions, frequently preferred by
SMBs, are identified. The adoption of ERP systems at SMBs Cedarlane, Vertex Distribution,
Prevention Partners, Inc., and Galenicum is discussed. The 15 top-rated ERP and CRM
packages for both large organizations and SMBs are presented.
As with all other chapters, the opening vignette, Ethical and Societal Issues, Information
Systems @ Work, and chapter-ending cases are all new. New, real world examples are included throughout the chapter to maintain the reader’s interest and to demonstrate the actual
application of the topics being discussed. New end of chapter questions and exercises are
included.