The tools exist nowadays to achieve most
transitions. First, it is necessary to appreciate the
basic components of any typical information system. Whilst
the details can be very complicated the overall system
can be simplified into 3 distinct areas;
Application Software
The set of programs that provide the ‘user
interface’ to the business tasks that the
particular software relates to (e.g. sales, orders,
stock control).
Database
The files and programs that store and retrieve
the information (data) in a structured way, normally
based on a unique value (e.g. Order Number “XB-12319”)
or a descriptive search.
Operating System
The ‘hidden’ programs that run your
computer and support the operation of the Application
Software, Database and access to and from them via
network connections. The network may be local (e.g.
just within the office) or have some remote capability
(typically to the internet via some connection of
varying speed, depending on cost of service).
The ‘bottom line’
is that most existing business applications can be adapted
or new systems developed alongside to deliver B2B capability.
Some applications now support a ‘web enabled’
version of their software, where the user may choose to
use an Internet ‘web browser’ (the program
that allows Internet pages to be displayed). Therefore
it may be possible to configure the application for secure
access by partners.
Even if the application does not support this feature
it is may be possible to develop a new interface to the
database layer based on Internet web pages.
The current non-internet based software (which normally
only allows local office or special ‘dial up’
access) can continue, so there is no loss of current skills
and investment. New systems can of course be developed
alongside existing systems, databases and applications,
and long term this may be the best solution. Information
can flow between the new B2B database and the previous
system, and can run in tandem or be phased out over time.
