On October 1, 2003, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is pulling the plug on these software systems and replacing them with SAP R/3, a fully integrated Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software application. When fully implemented, SAP will replace the core financial, procurement, and property systems at CBP.

At this point, if you are a legacy system user, you are probably feeling a little anxiety because just when you thought you were getting the old systems down pat, someone is taking them away from you. Knowing that you will have to learn yet another software package doesn't help either. The SAP project team will make this process as painless as possible.

At this very moment, the SAP project team is configuring the new system and developing training materials to provide you the proper support before the system goes live. Some training will be the traditional classroom method, but most will be "state-of-the-art" Web Based Training (WBT). WBT is self-paced and allows you to go back over the materials as many times as necessary. It will include step-by-step instructions on how to complete a SAP transaction.

In addition, end-users will have an opportunity to practice exercises in a simulated SAP environment as well as a live SAP "sand box" so they can become familiar with transactions.

Other types of support materials include quick reference guides, and on-line help, as well as a live SAP helpdesk. Communications about training will soon be distributed via Customs and Border Protection Today, the SAP project newsletter, the Managers' Communication Toolkit, poster and fliers around CBP offices, and the SAP Project Web site on CBPnet at http://SAP.

Some of you are probably wondering what SAP will be like and why CBP is switching to a new system: the answers are simple. SAP combines all the functionality of the legacy systems into one application. SAP is an integrated system, meaning that data is entered once and shared between SAP modules. This means data can be shared between CBP offices and can be accessed in real-time. The integration increases overall data accuracy and will eliminate data duplication.

SAP will also provide simplified monthly and year-end closeout processes due to its ease-of-use reporting functionality. It is available online so users can access and print reports and reduces the need for offline spreadsheets. Furthermore, the software provides a full audit trail to ensure accountability and tracks how each user makes every transaction.

SAP Project Web site The SAP Project Web site is up and running and can be accessed via the Customs intranet at http://SAP. The Web site contains information ranging from a SAP project overview to SAP terminology and even includes a "Tips" page. Other available features include key project personnel contact information, frequently asked questions (FAQs), help desk information and a "What's New" page that will be updated monthly with the most current project news. SAP Project Mailbox To ensure that you, the end-users, have a voice in the SAP implementation process, the SAP project team has created a dedicated project email mailbox. End-users can submit questions or suggestions to the SAP team at: sap.project@customs.treas.gov. The SAP Team and we would like to hear from you. The SAP Corner Each month, the SAP Corner will run in Customs and Border Protection Today and will include up-to-date information about the project and how users can sign-up for training. Be sure to look for the SAP Corner in issues.

Be sure to visit all of the resources to ensure you're up-to-date with the latest project news and information. Only you, the end-user community, can ensure a successful implementation of SAP by attending training and keeping yourself informed with all the latest project news and events.