jessez wrote the following post on 5/19/2004 8:13:00 AM
Well let’s see, you definitely have your hands full. I’ve been through this same scenario with clients in the past. Fortunately for you, Microsoft has addressed these needs in the last couple of years. Prior to Microsoft acquiring Great Plains we used to have to use a tool called Integration Manager. Unfortunately, this tool wasn’t originally created with the volume transactions in mind. Of course, this is something that follows with a successful eCommerce business. Since then, Microsoft has introduced an SDK toolbox called eConnect. This was a huge step in the right direction.
Before this toolbox was rolled out, we would have to write a custom application to accomplish an efficient integration to the type of solution you have developed. And a lot of times the cost was a major barrier to entry for a company wanting a tight integration. eConnect has solved this problem by offering tools in the form of business logic. Essentially they are almost like templates, but not exactly. eConnect gives you the foundation to build on. You are basically saving the cost of having the pour the foundation yourself. All the electrical wiring and plumbing has been laid for you. You even get building supplies with eConnect. Now it’s up to you to build the structure/bridge that connects the disparate systems.
By the way, Great Plains is a great choice for a mid-market financial solution. It’s the most widely accepted package in its class. And staying within the Microsoft solution stack will give you excellent mobility and a major competitive advantage. Microsoft has built a nice wrapper around its set of offerings.
Costs are also something I can address for you; however, their not something I want to post on a message board. Contact me offline if you want to talk numbers. Best of luck in your endeavors.