Context-Aware Framework for ERP

Abstract

Like many existing ERP models (e.g., Podolsky, 1998; Van Stijn & Wensley, 2001), the OOAB framework is also based on a widely accepted assumption that a corporate-wide information system consists of a set of potentially related subsystems; and as a result, information flows among these subsystems must be identified, and required resources planned, using an appropriate ERP methodology. However, up until now there existed no formalised framework that facilitates sharing of contextual knowledge in ERP processes. A unique attribute of the OOAB framework is that it treats ERP processes as a collaborative processes where various roles/actors collaboratively perform tasks in order to achieve a common overall goal. An object-oriented framework is presented in this article that facilitates sharing the contextual knowledge/resources that exist within ERP processes. Context is represented by a set of relevant collaborative semantic concepts or “objects”. These are the objects that are localised/contextualised to specific sub-process within the ERP process.