Historically, JD Edwards has used a 32-bit architecture for all of its programs running on Windows and Linux; however, Oracle is now transitioning all applications for Release 22 to a 64-bit architecture. This changeover represents a significant challenge for customers. Not only will they need to manage the technical refresh, they’ll also need to ensure compatibility with their third-party applications and manage testing of the entire solution.
Code Current
While conducting a 64-bit technical installation, most customers will need to perform comprehensive testing of the majority of their business processes. For this reason, many will choose to go code current. Code current upgrades install JD Edwards application code updates, which provide new functional features, bug fixes, and enhancements, but they also require an upgrade of the technical JD Edwards tools and extensive testing. For this reason, going code current and 64-bit simultaneously makes sense for many customers.
3rd Party Applications
Third-party applications for JD Edwards also require careful consideration during 64-bit migrations. Each third-party application must be evaluated to ensure that the vendor has a supported 64-bit version that has been certified by Oracle. Not every vendor has a 64-bit compatible version and not every 64-bit package has been certified by Oracle.
In light of these issues, when planning a 64-bit migration, customers will need to ensure that they incorporate plans for installing, upgrading, and testing any relevant third-party applications.
DSI dcLink and JD Edwards x64
One third-party application that many customers are looking for 64-bit upgrade information on is DSI’s dcLink, which is used for scanning and barcoding automation in JD Edwards-enabled supply chains. Many customers have been struggling with the time and costs associated with the DSI dcLink upgrade process and even obtaining the necessary information on an upgrade.
Server Installation and Configuration
Customers will need to plan a new technical architecture for JD Edwards as part of the 64-bit upgrade process. JDE Orchestrator, a JD Edwards automation tool, can help facilitate this process. The JDE Orchestrator offers unprecedented opportunities for creating process automation and integration, although it has its own architectural and server requirements that will also need to be addressed in the 64-bit upgrade process.
This upgrade also offers an opportunity to consider business changes and future business roadmap as part of the architecture. For customers planning a significant number of new users and/or an increase in overall JD Edwards usage, this update is an excellent chance to resize JD Edwards appropriately.
Retrofits
Since most customers will choose to go code current as part of their 64-bit update, retrofits of existing code will be necessary. Code retrofits require a developer to look at the old version of each custom object and then make any necessary changes to data structures and code modules to make them compatible with the latest release. Most customers will choose to only retrofit custom code that has been used recently. ERP Suites Clarity can help customers identify this code, and thereby reduce the time, cost, and scope of retrofits.
Testing
A 64-bit refresh requires a more thorough testing plan for JD Edwards and third-party applications such as DSI dcLink. A testing plan should incorporate all major business processes that are considered mission critical, and most customers will choose to do multiple rounds of testing. One round of testing is usually performed by the business and functional analysts, while the second round of testing is usually performed by the business community. Keys to a strong testing approach include well-considered test scripts, business community buy-in, central testing management, and third-party review.
Action
ERP Suites has industry expertise and experience from hundreds of upgrades and implementations to help you choose the right path for your business. We are also hosting a webinar where experts will focus on third-party applications that need to be reviewed.
David Schenz
David Schenz is a leader in building teams that deliver complex business systems transformations and roll-outs. With nearly ten years SAP experience, he offers deep knowledge of retail accounting processes, insurance accounting, and retail business strategies. As Director at ERP Suites, David guides employees toward a common goal of helping customers achieve optimal success.
