However, Ciganer noted, the system did require some work-arounds. It replaced 150 custom-built applications that supported NASA's various organizations, he said, and the data-conversion process was extremely difficult.

Ciganer also acknowledged that there was some end-user resistance. "This is NASA. We have very smart people. You can't just say, 'It will be better for you,' " he said. For its part, SAP said in a statement that the overall project is a challenging one, but "in the long run NASA will benefit by becoming a more efficient agency." SAP will continue to work with NASA to "make this process design a success," it said.

NASA's costly liftoff

Core financials: SAP R/3 4.6

Runs all 10 NASA facilities