ERP or Enterprise Resource Planning is an integrated computer based system used to manage internal and external resources including tangible assets, financial resources, materials and human resources. Built on a centralized database, ERP systems consolidate all business operations into a uniform and enterprise wide system environment. This is a definition commonly used to understand an ERP system. In modern organsations, ERP solutions have become the main driving force today, as it effectively and efficiently manages the company's complex business processes resulting in increased productivity and profitability.

Mrs. Roshni Fernando, Deputy Chairperson, Jinasena (Pvt) Ltd. Mr. Senaka Attygalle, Managing Director, Jinasena Infotech (Pvt) Ltd, ONAK ERP Training Academy (Pvt) Ltd., Mr. Rohan Jinasena, Chairman, Jinasena (Pvt) Ltd, Jinasena Infotech (Pvt) Ltd, ONAK ERP Training Academy (Pvt) Ltd., Mr. Srinivas Acharya, Director, Sundaram Finance Ltd. Mr. Pubudu Basnayake - Director SMS & P, Microsoft Sri Lanka.

In moving with this technological revolution, Microsoft Corporation released its own suite of ERP solutions called Microsoft Dynamics, formerly known as Microsoft Business Solutions a few years ago. This suite of ERP software products streamlines business processes and decision making for organisations. Currently there are over 83,000 businesses, including major blue chip companies which use Microsoft Dynamics applications worldwide. In Sri Lanka, there are a large number of companies which use these applications and ERP usage is expected to grow in the future.

ONAK, the island's FIRST and ONLY exclusive Microsoft Dynamics ERP training academy is a joint venture between two strong and competent parties, Jinasena (Pvt) Ltd of Sri Lanka and the Sundaram Finance Group of India. The academy will operate out of its own cutting edge training facility conveniently located in the heart of Colombo at Level 2, No. 285, R.A. De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 3.

Mr. Rohan Jinasena, Chairman, Jinasena (Pvt) Ltd and Jinasena InfoTech (Pvt) Ltd stated that we are proud to venture into quality ERP training in an exclusive manner with facilities to obtain hands-on training in all of the associate companies of Jinasena (Pvt) Ltd, thereby ensuring the same core values of the Jinasena group, Quality, Service and Integrity being taken forward as the prime focus of the new venture.

Mr. Senaka Attygalle, Managing Director, Jinasena InfoTech stated that ONAK is geared to offer focused, interactive and comprehensive training on ERP, from introductory courses to the development and diploma phase of these world class Microsoft business solutions. We will also provide students with on-the-job industry training in our group of companies, fully preparing them to face the challenges prevalent in modern organisations.

The academy's panel of lecturers are well experienced professionals from the industry and overseas who are well equipped and well conversant on Microsoft Dynamics ERP Solutions. Additionally most of the lecture panel are also Microsoft Certified Trainers or MCTs, which is another clear advantage for students. A unique feature is that the academy will be involved in the job placement process for its outstanding students.

Microsoft has been a strong force in the development of the local ERP landscape, and is firmly behind this wonderful initiative taken by two of its leading partners. Mr Erwan Philippe - Dynamics Regional Manager for South East Asia of Microsoft stated that it is a great opportunity for Sri Lanka to skill up students and professionals to the newest applications. These trainings will not only improve their personal skills but will also improve local enterprises to drive their business more effectively. I am very excited about this unique experience that ONAK is offering, he added.

Students who are interested in following such courses can contact the ONAK ERP training academy on 011 - 4950000.