The project to replace Portland's existing software with SAP started with a planning phase in 2004 and was originally budgeted at US$14 million, . But while the project has now achieved its primary goal, the implementation ended up costing more than $47 million and took longer than 30 months, instead of an expected 14.

That tab does not include other costs, such as payroll and benefits for many full- and part-time city workers who participated in the project.

SAP and its software did not come under fire in the report.

"The issues that have appeared pre-dated SAP's involvement in this project," said SAP spokesman Andy Kendzie. "To my knowledge, the project is under control and moving forward. They are a very valued customer."

Indeed, the relationship between SAP and Portland appears sound. City officials participated in an on the project, and also put out a