NetworkWorld: The back end, Part 1: ERP

“In choosing a server platform for a large-scale ERP rollout, a lot
of enterprise network managers probably feel more comfortable
sticking with operating systems from companies such as Microsoft,
Sun and IBM for such a project. Another factor in the relatively
low usage of Linux application servers has been the lack of
application server software for the platform. This is starting to
change, however, as more major ERP, database and application server
software companies begin to jump on board the Linux platform.”

“Most notably, ERP giant SAP recently announced that its popular
R/3 suite and its mySAP.com business-to-business platform are now
available for Linux. User demand was the main factor behind its
announcement to do SAP on Linux, the company says. Offering SAP R/3
for Linux lets customers minimize costs for an ERP system by
allowing them to use cost-effective Intel hardware and the
inexpensive Linux operating system, according to SAP.”

“The fact that SAP and SAP’s customers have an extensive
history with Unix helped to make the jump to Linux easier, SAP
says. Because its users are, for the most part, Unix savvy, the
learning curve for Linux is shortened.”

Complete
Story