J.D. Edwards Finds Its Inner-Self Within Its 5th Incarnation
Part 4: Challenges and User Recommendations
P.J. Jakovljevic - October 7, 2002

Challenges

Nevertheless, the acquisition of YOUCentric bears its challenges too. The major one is that YOUCentric has had only a handful of customers that have integrated their new SFA software to an ERP system including J.D. Edwards’ one, whereas other CRM modules have yet to create a live reference. As YOUCentric offering is rather a CRM development platform than a well-defined CRM product, it may not have a major appeal to customers that prefer the off-the-shelf product. Therefore, it will take some time for the complete architectural products’ alignment beyond the mere integration at portal level as to have an overall market appeal and consecutive impact to J.D. Edwards’ top line, despite the products compatible architectures, data mapping technology and therefore potentially expedient integration. There has almost not been articulated industry-specific CRM functionality yet, contrary to the company’s espoused vertical focus at the J.D. Edwards 5 level...