SAP

The City of Edmonton spent $32 million on introducing the SAP system, linking several of the financial systems - accounts payable, purchasing and warehousing.

Represented the Purchasing side for six months in the initial drafting of requirements and scripting. Was recognised as one of the leading critics of the system. Initially the system was not at all suitable for municipal government, having been created for manufacturing plants, but the amendments requested and made by the City (and also paid for by them!) in time overcame these shortcomings.

Adjustments had to be made to purchasing procedures to adapt to the new system. Wrote step-by-step procedures to clarify the instructions provided by SAP, including notes on all the problems or variations which could be met with during the process.

Also devised procedures for utilising or side-stepping the system for maximum efficiency.

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