Intended learning outcomes: Disclose factors that influence the range of implementation of ERP software. Differentiate between important factors and less important factors.
Continuation from previous subsection (9.3.2)
Figure 9.3.2.2 shows a selection of the factors that might influence the range of implementation.
Fig. 9.3.2.2 Factors that influence the range of implementation of ERP software. (From [Mart93]).
The company features (total number of employees, influence from the group level, company type, and branch of industry) had just as little influence over the range of implementation as the data processing equipment used (hardware, operating system, or cost of software). The selected ERP software also had no influence over the range of implementation, although it did appear to matter whether it was the first implementation of such software or a replacement for an existing package. This result is particularly interesting in view of the opinion that, “Every ERP software package is good.”
Of the project features, the importance of “ownership” of the project was key. The most successful projects were those in which responsibility was held solely by the Organization and Data Processing Department, rather than by a specialist department or two or more departments. This is one of the most unexpected results of the survey. It can be explained by the fact that, in an SME environment (small- or medium-sized enterprise), responsibility for the ERP software probably lies with employees in the Organization and Data Processing Department, rather than the specialist departments.
The number of levels of the management hierarchy that receives training is also very important. Training must be received by at least the top level (board) and the bottom level (group leader). It is also important to adopt a professional procedure for evaluating standard software (visiting reference customers, vendor tests using the company’s own data, analysis of the current situation, list of requirements) and clear project management (appointing employees for the project, establishing a control committee and project team). In contrast, the number of project teams, team members and represented departments, and the project leaders and the amount of time they are able to devote to the project are less important.The average acceptance of the ERP software, which is derived from the individual acceptance scores, also has a significant influence over the range of implementation.
To summarize, the survey shows that, for the acceptance and range of implementation of ERP software, the characteristics of the software are important with regard to two points. First, individuals must believe that it is suitable for their own work and that they will retain freedom of choice in their work. Equally important is the support provided during implementation, the employee training, and the quality of the project management in general. If these requirements are fulfilled, it is possible to gain acceptance for and implement any of a number of ERP software products, which ultimately leads to the view that “Every ERP software package is good.” This opinion is normally expressed by those who work with the ERP software every day and is not necessarily applicable to people who only use it sporadically.
Course section 9.3: Subsections and their intended learning outcomes
9.3 Factors for Successful Implementation of ERP Software and SCM Software
Intended learning outcomes: Explain possibilities and limitations of the IT support of planning & control. Disclose factors that influence individual acceptance and the range of implementation of ERP software.
9.3.1 Limitations of the IT Support of Planning & Control
Intended learning outcomes: Explain the influence of ERP or SCM software on the extent to which corporate objectives are fulfilled.
9.3.1b Possibilities of the IT Support of Planning & Control
Intended learning outcomes: Disclose why objectives aimed at improving the company’s performance can only partly be affected by the ERP or SCM software. Identify situations where ERP or SCM software can be used to good effect.
9.3.2 Factors That Influence Individual Acceptance of Implementation of ERP Software
Intended learning outcomes: Describe factors that influence individual acceptance of ERP software.
9.3.2b Factors That Influence the Range of Implementation of ERP Software
Intended learning outcomes: Disclose factors that influence the range of implementation of ERP software. Differentiate between important factors and less important factors.
