ERP acceleration layer

An Acceleration Layer builds a flexible architecture around the core system and enables changes to be made faster, without compromising operational reliability. It acts as a modern intermediary layer where integrations, automation flows, and micro-services can be developed and adapted according to the business needs. 

Technologies we often use: 

• Azure API Management: a standardized and secure gateway for ERP integrations. 

• Power Platform (Power Automate, Power Apps): rapid development of business processes and low-code solutions. 

• Azure Logic Apps, Service Bus, Event Hub: event-driven and scalable integration between ERP, MES and PLM. 

• Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS): running micro-services securely and scalably. 

Typical deliveries: 

• Integration Blueprint: architecture, principles and flow models for integrations between ERP and other systems. 

• Proof of concept or pilot integration, for example ERP ↔ MES or ERP ↔ Supply Chain. 

• API portal with clear documentation and controlled access. 

• Automated processes such as order, invoicing or logistics flows. 

Roles that typically participate:

Enterprise Architect, Integration Engineer, ERP Specialist, and Delivery Lead. 

By separating business logic from the ERP and complementing it with a modern integration layer you create a flexible and future-proof architecture. This allows you to build new services and processes without affecting ERP code, while maintaining high quality and security. 

Technologies we often use: 

• Azure Functions and .NET 8 micro-services: encapsulating business logic outside the ERP. 

• API Gateway, OAuth 2.0 and Entra ID: secure and controlled data access and identity management. 

• DevOps pipelines such as GitHub Actions and Azure DevOps: automated testing and deployment. 

• Power Platform Copilot Studio: rapid development of user-facing solutions and apps. 

Typical deliveries: 

• Refactored business logic running as standalone micro-services. 

• New functionality and services built without modifications to the ERP. 

• CI/CD configurations for faster, safer and more predictable releases. 

• Innovation sandbox environment connected to ERP via APIs for experimentation and development. 

Roles that typically participate:

Solution Architect, Cloud Engineer, DevOps Engineer, Business Analyst. 

An Acceleration Layer creates a platform built for scalability, where systems and data interact in a structured and sustainable way. It provides a stable technical foundation for growth, standardization, and continued digitization, even in complex environments. 

Technologies we often use: 

• Azure Integration Services (Logic Apps, Service Bus, API Management): centralized and scalable integration management.

• Microsoft Fabric OneLake / Synapse Link: seamless data exchange and analysis connection to ERP.

• Container-based architecture (Docker, Kubernetes): modular and flexible scalability.

• Application Insights / Azure Monitor: monitoring of operation, performance, and health.

Typical deliveries: 

• Scalable integration platform in the cloud tailored to the needs of the business. 

• Monitoring dashboard that visualizes integration flows and system performance. 

• Standardized API contracts that simplify communication between systems. 

• Service catalog / Developer Portal for internal developers and external partners. 

Roles that typically participate: 

Integration Architect, Cloud Infrastructure Engineer, and Operations Lead. 

By reducing the complexity of ERP and dependencies, you free up both time and budget for more strategic initiatives. This creates a faster return on digital investments and provides a more predictable and cost-effective IT environment.  

Technologies we often use: 

• Azure Cost Management & Monitor: analysis and optimization of cloud costs. 

• Power BI: reporting and monitoring of integration efficiency and ROI. 

• Cloud-native services (Serverless Functions, Storage Queues): reduces operating costs and increases scalability. 

Typical deliverables: 

• Business case & ROI analysis for Acceleration Layer. 

• Reports and dashboards that visualize IT efficiency and cost savings. 

• Dismantling unnecessary ERP customizations for lower management costs. 

• Plan for reuse of components between business areas for better synergies. 

Roles that typically participate: 

Program Manager, Enterprise Architect, and Finance Business Partner. 

A clear and future-proof architecture for data and integration lays the foundation for advanced analytics, AI initiatives, and new data-driven business models. With the right structure, your organization can evolve in step with technology. Without being limited by its ERP.  

Technologies we often use: 

• Microsoft Fabric + Azure Data Factory: establishes robust data flows from ERP to data warehouses. 

• Azure Synapse Link for ERP: direct connection to data models for faster and more up-to-date analysis. 

• AI Copilot integration (Power Platform/Fabric): makes data available in everyday work tools. 

• Azure Digital Twins/IoT Hub: enables new data-driven services and business models. 

Typical deliverables: 

• Data and integration architecture adapted for an AI-ready ERP. 

• Data readiness assessment for upcoming AI initiatives. 

• Proof of Concept in, for example, predictive reporting or automatic KPIs. 

• Governance model for data flows between ERP and Fabric. 

Roles that usually participate: 

Data Architect, Integration Lead, AI Specialist, and Solution Owner.