Microsoft Dynamics AX has been identified as a suitable upgrade for Dunkin Donuts owing to its numerous capabilities. The current legacy systems have proved ineffective in the competitive environment since most of the rivals in the industry have larger and more efficient systems. As thus, Microsoft Dynamics AX provides suitable replacement for its cloud based system as well as the Windows feel that it provides (Mourao & Weiner, 2006). Moreover, the use of the same platform increases the suitability of the system because the employees are familiar with the utilization of the Windows Outlook in the automation of digital processes. Automatically, therefore, utilization of an ERP system based on the same structure avails an easier platform for the work force of Dunkin Donuts. The decision to upgrade the system at the company is driven by a desire for growth and to adequately compete with the rival companies. The features of the system that provide for easier standardization of processes and efficiency in operations make it ideal to match the expansion requirements of the company.

In making the decision for the upgrade of the ERP system, the architecture, development and implementation processes of Dynamics AX were considered and deemed compatible with the company’s operations. The development of the system from the start was aimed at providing support to international implementations. This is particularly important for Dunkin Donuts as its provides a deeper integration of the different components. In fact, the integration of the systems is suitable as it is not limited to the components within the Dynamics AX systems. Rather, it covers applications in other platforms through the SQL server data base and is therefore effective in streamlining the company operations (Luszczak, 2015).

The system stores application objects such as tables and forms within an SQL database in a tree structure. The system incorporates two different development environments depending on the user requirements. Dunkin Donuts can use the Microsoft Visual Studio development environment for its effectiveness in generation of reports. In addition, the same development environment supports managed codes and is the only platform through which reports are delivered via the SQL Server Reporting Services. This development is particularly important for the company in terms of providing a tool for measurement of performance. For effective management of the company, employees as well as junior managers need to prepare daily reports to portray the company’s position. This development environment is closely integrated with Morphx IDE which provides an access to the AOT for designing, compiling and debugging code.

The system provides a hierarchy of levels in the application source code thus separating the standard application from modifications. In this regard, the user is presented with an opportunity to alter and customize the system without interfering with the standard objects that are stored in other layers. The system is structured to use a three tier architecture which is suitable in supporting a large number of users. This development is suitable for Dunkin Donuts for its large implementations and the availability of many different users. Overall, the architecture of the system provides for the separation of database, application and client through distinct channels. Each of these tiers contains unique components suitable for the execution of the many tasks at Dunkin Donuts. For instance, the application tier contains the business logic and executes the code designed in the chosen development environment (Pocius, 2015). On the other hand, the client tier stores the graphical user interface that enhances the process of data input and output processing.  In addition, data in the Dynamics AX system are managed and stored in a relational Microsoft SQ Server database. In the case of Dunkin Donuts, a database cluster shall be used because of the large installations in use.

The implementation of the system upgrade requires that all the hardware and software requirements are met beforehand as well as security and other components. Obviously, the first step in the implementation is the diagnosis of the company including the business processes and infrastructure. The operation of the company is identified as the manufacture and supply of donuts and coffee. The due diligence cycle ascertained the specific requirements of the company and the available resources. Ideally, the company is found to have the required hardware and software for the implementation owing to its vast IT resources and infrastructure.  Next, an analysis of the existing business models at the organization reveals a high conformity with the proposed system and provides a go-ahead in the implementation.

In the next stage, the design of the system integration is done including the functional, technical and solution designs.  In addition, the data in the company will be migrated into the design by first converting it into the required format. Later, the training documentation will be prepared depending on the different users at the company. Ideally, the document should cater for the requirements of the different users including junior and senior employees at the organization (Pocius, 2015). The development stage includes the testing of the solution to ascertain that it is compatible with the different functions at the organization. After all the conditions are met, the system is then deployed for installation by first migrating the data into the development environment. In addition, this stage includes the training of the different users and ensuring that the system goes live. Lastly, the implementation process finalizes through the operation process where pending issues are resolved. Moreover, the company is provided with support activities including after the project is closed.

References

Luszczak, A. (2015). Using Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012: Updated for Version R3.

Mourão, L. X. B., & Weiner, D. (2006). Dynamics AX: A guide to Microsoft Axapta. Berkeley, CA: APress.

Pocius, M. (2015). Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012 R3 development cookbook: Over 80 effective recipes to help you solve real-world Microsoft Dynamics AX development problems.

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