The Coordination Challenge   ERPs excel at linear workflows within single departments. They struggle with multi-party coordination requiring communication across boundaries. Understanding where workflows break down reveals AI agent value proposition.    Reality: 60-70% of ERP exceptions involve multi-party coordination that ERPs cannot automate.      Where Coordination Breaks Down   Breakdown 1: Cross-Department Coordination   Scenario: Vendor bill doesn't match purchase ord

The API Necessity   AI agents cannot function without ERP API access. Understanding what APIs are, why they're required, and whether your ERP has appropriate capabilities determines implementation feasibility.    Reality: Modern ERPs (2015+) typically have suitable APIs. Legacy systems may need work.      What an API Is   Application Programming Interface Explained   Simple explanation: A standardized way for software systems to exchange data  Analogy: API is like a restaur

The Data Question   "What data do AI agents need?" determines implementation preparation. Understanding data requirements - historical examples, decision criteria, outcome definitions - enables realistic timeline planning.    Reality: Data gathering takes 2-3 weeks, not months. Implementation partner guides the process.      Data Category 1: Process Examples   Historical Exception Scenarios   What's needed: 20-30 examples of typical exceptions with outcomes  For AR collectio

The Generic AI Temptation   "Can't we just use ChatGPT?" is a common question. Understanding why generic AI tools don't work for ERP exception handling prevents wasted effort and disappointment.    Reality: Exception handling requires purpose-built AI agents, not general-purpose AI chatbots.    What Generic AI Tools Are   ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot, Gemini   What they are:   Conversational AI platforms  General knowledge and reasoning  Text generation and analysis  Question ans

The Disruption Concern   "We can't afford disruption to current operations" is a valid concern. Understanding how to run AI pilots in parallel with manual processes prevents service degradation while proving AI value.  Proper pilot design creates zero customer-facing disruption.      Parallel Operations Approach   Week 1-2: Shadow Mode   How it works:   AI processes exceptions but does NOT contact customers  AI generates recommended actions only  Staff reviews AI recommendati

The Oversight Reality   AI agents are not "set it and forget it" automation. They require ongoing human oversight for quality assurance, relationship management, edge case handling, and continuous improvement.  Understanding why oversight is permanent and what it entails prevents disappointment while enabling realistic expectations.      Why Oversight Is Permanent   Reason 1: Business Judgment Requirements   What AI cannot do:   Evaluate unique business situations requiring e