scholarly journals Integrating ERP and enterprise social software

2017 ◽  
Vol 23 (1) ◽  
pp. 2-15 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrew Greasley ◽  
Yucan Wang

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the use of a hybrid enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, combining an ERP system with enterprise social software (ESS). The study will provide a critical assessment of the implementation of this process technology. Design/methodology/approach Multiple case studies of organisations based in China were conducted to understand the use of ERP systems in different contexts. Following an evaluation of the context of each ERP implementation (within-case analysis) the research draws a cross-case conclusion that defines the nature of a hybrid ERP system and then synthesises the propositions related to the benefits and challenges of implementation. Findings The authors find that a hybrid ERP system is able to support efficiency in business process management and also provide a flexible response to changes in business requirements. It does this by allowing for the continued use of informal processes that cannot be incorporated into the ERP system. Practical implications This research indicates how ERP systems in conjunction with ESS can provide a flexible response to changing business requirements and increase collaboration within the organisation. Key lessons include the need to perform informal activities under the guidance of managers and provide clear boundaries for the implementation of informal activities. Originality/value This study has found that the use of case studies can provide a valuable insight into the use of a hybrid ERP system from the perspective of its use within the organisation as a work system that requires an assessment of the context within which organisational members perform their work.

Author(s):  
Cesar Alexandre de Souza ◽  
Ronaldo Zwicker

The 90’s witnessed an impressive growth of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems in the market of corporate IT solutions. For instance, O´Leary (2000) reports that a single ERP system (SAP´s R/3) is used by more than 60% of the multinational firms. Among the explanations for this phenomenon are the competitive pressures suffered by the companies that have forced them to seek alternatives for cost reduction, differentiation of products and services and integration of their business processes. The ERP systems evolved exploiting the need for quick deployment of integrated systems to meet these new business requirements, while companies were (and still are) under pressure to outsource all the activities that are not embraced by their core business.


Author(s):  
Kalinga Jagoda ◽  
Premaratne Samaranayake

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose an alternative integrated approach based on the stage-gate method to implement enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems which will enhance the effectiveness of ERP projects. Design/methodology/approach A literature review was conducted on ERP system implementation and its effectiveness. The need for improving implementation approaches and methodologies was examined. Based on the insights gained, a conceptual framework for ERP system implementation is presented by combining the state-gate approach with the pre-implementation roadmap. Findings The proposed framework aims to enhance the overall ERP implementation outcomes, ensuring critical success factors and eliminating common causes of failures. A pre-implementation roadmap is identified as a key element for eliminating many causes of failure including lack of organisations’ readiness for ERP. The post-implementation stage can be used for further improvements to the system through internal research and development. Research limitations/implications The development of the framework is an attempt to contribute to improving ERP implementation. This research is expected to motivate researchers to work in this area, and it will be beneficial to practicing managers in the identification of opportunities for improvements in ERP systems. Case studies will be valuable to refine and validate the proposed model. Originality/value This paper explores research in a needy area and offers a framework to help researchers and practitioners in improving ERP implementation. This framework is expected to reduce the implementation project duration, strengthen critical success factors and minimise common problems of ERP implementation projects.


2014 ◽  
Vol 20 (3) ◽  
pp. 480-501 ◽  
Author(s):  
Peter Ekman ◽  
Peter Thilenius ◽  
Torbjörn Windahl

Purpose – Research has shown that companies focus their internal processes when they adopt enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. However, the ERP systems need to expand their functionality to include customers and suppliers (with e-commerce functionality) to reach their full potential. The purpose of this paper is to consider business relationships as a resource but also a limitation when companies strive to get an extended ERP system. Design/methodology/approach – The paper presents an illustrative case study of an industrial company's process of developing an extended ERP and how the company's portfolio of business relationships has affected the solution. The analysis is supported by the markets-as-networks theory. Findings – The process of developing an extended ERP system needs to incorporate the company's business partners (customers and suppliers). It is a simultaneously bottom-up and top-down process given that the operative frontline staff hold the knowledge about the company's business relationships while the corporate management has the means of extending the ERP system functionality and align it with the focal company's strategy. Research limitations/implications – Companies need to consider the fact that the technological and financial status of their customers and suppliers differ. Thus, an effective and flexible extended ERP system needs to include both a high-end and low-end solution as well as understand that a full interorganizational integration might not be realistic. Originality/value – The paper puts forth business relationship portfolios as an important factor to consider when extending the ERP system functionality in the supply chain and toward customers.


2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
José Luís Martins ◽  
Carlos Santos

Purpose This paper aims to investigate the changes caused by the use of the enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems in the accounting of organizations at different levels: organizational structure; processes; and employees. Design/methodology/approach The authors use a qualitative methodology with interpretative analysis through the study of five cases in Portuguese companies that implemented the Sage ERP X3. The data collection was carried out mainly through semi-structured interviews. Findings The results indicate that the successful implementation of the ERP system is associated with changes in the organizational structure, reengineering of processes and changes in the functions of employees. These changes interact and cause modifications among themselves, which makes it difficult to identify the origin and sequence of changes related to the implementation of the systems. It was possible to identify the direct impact of the ERP system on the change of processes, which is reflected in the functions of the employees, as well as to verify that the ERP system provides the opportunity for companies to change their organizational structure. Originality/value This paper contributes to the accounting literature by providing evidence on the influence of ERP systems on organizational aspects of accounting in the Portuguese reality, attesting that the successful implementation of the ERP system is associated with changes in the organizational structure, reengineering of processes and changes in the functions of employees.


2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nizar Mohammad Alsharari

Purpose This study aims to explain the transformation process from using regular enterprise resource planning (ERP) system into implementing Cloud ERP system in the UAE public sector. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a qualitative case study and analyzes the primary evidences from in-depth interviews with the case organization’s personnel. It conducts a thematic analysis of the interviews’ findings. Furthermore, the study uses secondary and tertiary resources from published sources comprising the case organization’s website and previous studies. Findings The findings demonstrated that the transformation process to Cloud ERP could result in different practical benefits in an organization’s controlling system, cost reduction and profitability. Conversely, results revealed that the effectiveness of implementing cloud ERP is dependable on the provider’s professionalism; hence resulting in issues related to minimized organizational independence. In addition, the paper’s findings provide evidenced clarifications about the controversial misconceptions of Cloud ERP’s privacy issues. Research limitations/implications The paper is exposed to the regular case studies limitations, as the study is a qualitative research studying one case company. Thus, the study findings should be strengthened by future quantitative researches on more companies with implying more statistical analysis. Practical implications The paper has important implications for practitioners and decision-makers, as it presents significant and reality-based information about Cloud ERP implementation’s benefits and drawbacks. It thus enhances decision-makers’ ability to make an appropriate and suitable decision about adopting the Cloud ERP in the public sector. Originality/value As Cloud ERP is still emerging, this study is one of the very few case studies that discuss and present some experienced benefits and issues related to Cloud ERP implementation in UAE Government. This study also uses transformation theory to analyze the data.


2017 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
pp. 37-40

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings The use of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems has escalated over recent years. Implementing such systems helps companies to raise performance levels in line with other organizations around the world. A capacity to initiate change is one of the most significant features of an ERP system. It can, for instance, transform how different organizational functions connect. Existing practices are likewise subject to change. Scope also exists for ERP to significantly impact on the prevailing structure and culture of the company. Employees are not immune from its effects. Practical implications The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.


2011 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
pp. 60-78 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dimitrios Maditinos ◽  
Dimitrios Chatzoudes ◽  
Charalampos Tsairidis

PurposeEnterprise resource planning (ERP) systems enhance productivity and working quality by offering integration, standardization and simplification of multiple business transactions. The present study seeks to introduce a conceptual framework that investigates the way that human inputs (top management, users, external consultants) are linked to communication effectiveness, conflict resolution and knowledge transfer in the ERP consulting process, as well as the effects of these factors on ERP system effective implementation.Design/methodology/approachThe examination of the proposed conceptual framework was made with the use of a newly developed questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed to a group of 361 Greek companies that have implemented an ERP system. Information technology (IT) managers were selected as the key respondents of the questionnaire. After the completion of the four month research period (September to December 2008), 108 usable questionnaires were returned (response rate=31 percent approximately). The empirical data were analyzed using the structural equation modelling technique (Lisrel 8.74).FindingsThe main findings of the empirical study can be summarized in the following categories: the assistance provided by external consultants during the ERP implementation process is essential; knowledge transfer is an extremely significant factor for ERP system success; knowledge transfer concerning technical aspects of ERP systems is more important than effective handling of communication, as well as conflict resolution among organizational members; the role of top management support seems to be of less importance that the one provided by users.Research limitations/implicationsThe present study is limited by the poor definition of its population (due to lack of available data) and the relatively small size of the sample.Practical implicationsThe paper points out areas that adopting companies should emphasize in order to successfully implement an ERP system and, therefore, harvest its potential benefits.Originality/valueThe paper proposes an enhanced conceptual framework that examines vital issues concerning ERP system effective implementation, thus, providing valuable outcomes for decision makers and academics. The originality of the paper lies in its three dimensional approach.


2017 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 306-342 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mona Althonayan ◽  
Abraham Althonayan

Purpose Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are complex and comprehensive software designed to integrate business processes and functions. Despite the difficulties and risk, the adoption of ERP systems is expanding rapidly. Universities make large investments in information systems and expect positive impacts. However, universities are facing serious challenges in implementing new technology. Therefore, this research aims to evaluate the impact of ERP systems on higher education (HE) from the perspective of stakeholders’ performance. Design/methodology/approach This research paper conducted a case study of an ERP system in a Saudi university to explore the impact of ERP system on the performance of the system’s stakeholders among the university’s employees. Findings The system quality factors (flexibility, compatibility, availability of right data, availability of currency, ease of use and timeliness) were found to affect performance positively, as were service quality factors (tangibility, reliability, responsiveness and assurance). This research further found that factors from pre-implementation, implementation and post-implementation phases had a direct effect on stakeholders’ performance. Research limitations/implications Future research would be useful during the maturity phase to include all stakeholders in several Saudi universities. In addition, more research can be beneficial to test the applicability of the impact of the ERP system on stakeholders’ performance in other public sector organisations and in the private sector. Practical implications The results suggest that organisations in general and HE institutions in particular should focus on the early stages and the implementation phase if they wish to achieve high standards of stakeholder performance. Originality/value This research makes a novel contribution by attempting to evaluate the impact of service quality on stakeholder performance in the ERP environment. The contribution uses service quality as a dimension consisting of four factors – reliability, assurance, tangibility and responsiveness. All four factors were found to be significant on ERP stakeholders’ performance.


2008 ◽  
Vol 19 (4) ◽  
pp. 430-446 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aman Deep ◽  
Peter Guttridge ◽  
Samir Dani ◽  
Neil Burns

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the findings of research carried out as part of an industrial project for selection of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system in a made‐to‐order (MTO) small‐to‐medium enterprise (SME) scenario. It develops a framework or methodology for selection. It also highlights the areas pertaining to the unique needs of, first, the SME sector and, second, the MTO sector, to be considered while selecting a solution. A work book is developed to provide a structured ERP software selection process for SMEs using a comprehensive literature review plus practical experience. This research is potentially aimed at being useful to other SMEs as a guide for a structured selection process.Design/methodology/approachA combination of comprehensive literature review and experience of managing the selection process for an ERP system in an SME was employed for the study.FindingsOver the past few years, the number of large companies buying new ERP systems has reached saturation point. This has led to the ERP developers seeking instead other potential markets among SMEs. The MTO scenario within the SME sector is one which is very capricious in terms of demand forecasting, lead times, routings, etc. When selecting a system, an organisation in such a segment needs a tailored methodology and a list of key target areas to consider.Practical implicationsThe paper represents a very useful source of practical information for the SME sector to consider when selecting an ERP system.Originality/valueThe paper provides valuable insight into the details of ERP selection, focusing on the peculiarities of the SME MTO sector.


2018 ◽  
Vol 14 (2) ◽  
pp. 120-137 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gary Spraakman ◽  
Winnie O’Grady ◽  
Davood Askarany ◽  
Chris Akroyd

Purpose This paper aims to show how our understanding of the effects of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems on management accounting are influenced through “nudging” by researchers in their preamble before interviews begin. Design/methodology/approach There were two groups of comparable respondents. Each group received a different preamble to the same questions. The differences in group responses were analyzed. Findings When the impact of ERP implementation on the physical, transactional and information flows within the firm were nudged, the responses focused on how the chart of accounts had to be expanded to account for the additional data introduced by transaction processing. When the IT and ERP system knowledge and skills were nudged, the responses tended to emphasize analyses or the use of new information through the use of drill down functionality. This research provides new insights and contributions to understanding how nudging affects or directs respondent assessments of the impact of ERP systems on management accounting. Research limitations/implications The research is limited by the relatively small samples and by the fact that these were different research projects. Practical implications Nudging has an obvious impact on research that should not be ignored. Social implications Unintentional nudging should be considered with all research projects. Originality/value This paper makes explicit that nudging occurs in research whether intentional or unintentional.


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