SAP-Centric Projects

On top sits what we call the "enterprise layer". This is the overall process or program owner. It typically is part of or integrates with a fully functional ERP system like SAP. Related purchasing, materials management, financial accounting, sales and production processes need to fit in with the rest of the organization.  

What we experience is that SAP users that implement SAP-centric project solutions as the program owners are much more concerned about the integration with their financial systems and with setting up and working with a functional WBS system. Cost planning, cost budgeting, and financial control systems require generic estimating of resources needed and a general idea about timing, but this typically will stay on a high level. What SAP calls "logistical" functions like scheduling and resource planning and leveling are not their immediate concern. These are aspects that the project owner focuses on, though - bringing us to the next layer.