BP and Amoco are likely to use both Oracle and SAP ERP software to run the company’s operations when the $50bn merger goes through early next year. With BP using an Oracle-based system originally written by its in-house IT team and Amoco wedded to SAP’s R3, a harsh choice between the two packages appeared the most likely outcome to the merger (CI No 3,473). A spokesperson for BP said that until final approval for the merger had been received, no decision would be taken on the IT set-up in the merged company. But discussions on the merits of the system to be used by the merged company have taken place. It looks as though the Oracle and the SAP platform will have a part to play, she said. A ‘mix ‘n match’ solution using modules of different companies ERP software is not unusual. However, last month Siemens AG indicated it would replace the Peoplesoft human resources software and move over to a complete SAP package because it wanted a homogeneous system to reduce internal spending on maintenance and software. In the case of BP/Amoco, Oracle’s International Supply Systems ISP is likely to run the refineries and transportation while SAP will handle the financial and business support services.
