Objectives and competences
In this course, students:
1. Understand the strategic role of business information solutions in digital business environments.
2. Develop the ability to use ERP solutions for executing key business processes.
3. Acquire knowledge of the procedures for implementing ERP solutions in organizations and understand the phases of implementation.
4. Enhance their digital competencies and understanding of the sustainability and ethical dimensions of ERP usage.
5. Develop the ability to critically analyse ERP solutions and understand the impact of different implementation approaches on success.
6. Are able to critically assess information support across various business functions within an organization.
Content (Syllabus outline)
The course Business Information Solutions introduces students to the use of ERP solutions as the central information support for business operations. Through hands-on work with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, students learn how to execute key business processes, explore ERP implementation methodologies, and analyse the role of such systems in the digital transformation of organizations. Special emphasis is placed on sustainability aspects, the use of artificial intelligence, and comparisons with open-source solutions such as Odoo.
Detailed course content:
1. Introduction to business information solutions and ERP rešitve
o The role of business information solutions in digitalised organisations
o Information architecture and process-oriented approach
o Introduction to ERP solutions: functionalities, benefits, and risks
o Overview of current trends (cloud ERP, mobility, RPA, AI)
2. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central – introduction and use
o Getting started with the MS Dynamics 365 BC environment
o Basic system configuration and setup
o Use of basic master data and parameters
3. Execution of key business processes in an ERP solution
o Procurement process: from inquiry to invoice posting
o Sales process: customer relationship management (CRM), order processing, invoicing
o Production process: basic planning and execution
o Finance: journal entries, reporting, fixed assets
o HR records: data entry and management
o Service: handling service tasks
o Projects: planning, execution, and monitoring
4. ERP Implementation and the SureStep Methodology
o Phases of ERP solution implementation
o Practical use of the Microsoft SureStep methodology
o Critical success factors and case study analysis
5. Additional modern aspects of business information solutions
o Use of artificial intelligence in business information systems
o ESG and sustainability aspects in ERP solutions
o The role of business information solutions in digital transformation
o Comparison with open-source solutions (e.g., Odoo)
Learning and teaching methods
- lectures;
- case analysis;
- discussion;
- programmed learning;
- practical exercises and assignments;
- gamification
- flipped learning
Intended learning outcomes - knowledge and understanding
Development of knowledge and understanding:
Students:
1. Acquire fundamental concepts in the field of business information solutions and ERP solutions.
2. Learn to use Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central for executing business processes.
3. Distinguish the key characteristics of ERP solutions and understand their impact on the digital transformation of companies.
4. Recognise the importance of artificial intelligence and sustainability (ESG) aspects in modern ERP solutions.
5. Are able to connect ERP solution concepts with ethical and responsible business practices.
Intended learning outcomes - transferable/key skills and other attributes
Cognitive/Intellectual skills:
Students:
1. Are able to analyse business processes and map them to an ERP solution.
2. Plan the implementation of an ERP solution using the SureStep methodology.
3. Evaluate the effectiveness of ERP solutions based on data analysis.
4. Develop critical thinking skills when selecting and implementing business solutions.
Key/Transferable skills
Students:
1. Use ICT to support business processes.
2. Collaborate in teams during the implementation of business solutions.
3. Strengthen their professional and digital ethics.
4. Develop the ability for independent learning and reflection.
5. Increase their interest in lifelong learning and technological innovation.
1.
Practical skills:
Students:
1. Gain practical experience working with MS Dynamics 365 Business Central.
2. Independently execute complete basic business processes (procurement, sales, production, finance with fixed assets, HR records, projects, service).
3. Are able to configure basic system parameters in MS Dynamics 365 Business Central.
Readings
Sternad Zabukovšek, S., Bobek, S., Deželak, Z. (2021). Celovite informacijske rešitve – učno gradivo. Maribor: Ekonomsko-poslovna fakulteta.
Microsoft Learn (e-learning platform) na https://learn.microsoft.com/.
Bobek, S., Deželak, Z., Šišovska Klančnik, I., Zabukovšek, U., Sternad Zabukovšek, S. (2023). Raziskava ponudnikov poslovnih informacijskih rešitev za digitalno transformacijo podjetij. Maribor: Univerzitetna založba Univerze v Mariboru.
Additional information on implementation and assessment Written exam (40%)
Practical exam (40%)
Coursework (20%)
Comments:
The written exam can be replaced with two midterm exams.
The practical exam can be replaced with two midterm exams.
