Business Process Integration Flashcards

Which ERP integration pattern uses a central hub to route messages between different business modules?

Answer: Hub-and-spoke integration

Hub-and-spoke integration routes all inter-module messages through a central hub, reducing the number of connections needed compared to point-to-point.

In ERP systems, what does 'order-to-cash' (O2C) process integration primarily connect?

Answer: Sales, fulfillment, and accounts receivable

The order-to-cash process spans sales order entry through delivery, invoicing, and payment collection, integrating sales, fulfillment, and AR modules.

What is the primary risk of using point-to-point integration when connecting 10 ERP modules?

Answer: Exponential growth in integration connections (up to n*(n-1)/2)

Point-to-point integration creates up to n*(n-1)/2 connections, making 10 modules require up to 45 separate interfaces that are difficult to maintain.

Which business process integration scenario would most benefit from event-driven architecture in ERP?

Answer: Automatic inventory replenishment triggered by stock depletion

Event-driven architecture excels when actions must trigger automatically in response to real-time events, such as a stock level falling below a reorder point.

In ERP procure-to-pay (P2P) integration, which document triggers the three-way match process?

Answer: Vendor invoice

The vendor invoice initiates the three-way match, which verifies it against the purchase order and goods receipt note before authorizing payment.

What integration challenge arises when an ERP system must synchronize data with a legacy system that uses a different data model?

Answer: Semantic mapping and data transformation requirements

When data models differ, semantic mapping must translate field names, data types, and business rules between systems to ensure accurate data exchange.

Which ERP integration approach best supports real-time visibility across supply chain partners without exposing internal system architecture?

Answer: API-based integration with defined contracts

API-based integration exposes only defined endpoints and data contracts, enabling real-time data sharing while hiding internal system complexity from partners.