Post ERP implementation issues and challenges: exploratory case studies in the context of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the post–enterprise resource planning (ERP) issues and challenges in the context of Saudi Arabia. There is a lack of research in the context of developing countries regarding post-ERP implementation issues and challenges. The high failure rate of the ERP system is a reflection of many management issues that occurred at different phases of ERP implementation. Previous research indicated that even after a successful implementation, the ERP system was unable to sustain itself in the organizations.Design/methodology/approachAn exploratory case study design was adopted to proceed with this research process at two organizations in Saudi Arabia. The interviews of the top and middle management are conducted and transcribed. These case studies were further analyzed using the Creswell approach to generate several themes, and descriptions provided a deeper understanding of the post ERP implementation issues and challenges.FindingsResearch findings show that for successful ERP implementation, identified factors are top management support, integration, strategy, employee resistance, BPR, change management, vendor selection, team formation and culture. Moreover, factors for the post-ERP implementation that led to sustainability are top management support, training, system adoption, system testing, data migration, cost overrun, employee retention and post-implementation support.Originality/valueThis study is unique in its type to examine the issues and challenges organizations face after deploying ERP initiatives. This research's findings were useful and supportive for the senior management interested in successfully sustaining such an initiative in the organization.

Workhorse or White Elephant? End User Acceptance of ERP System in a Shared Service Center

“…Understanding consumer acceptability and management approval are essential determinants for efficient ERP use. Underutilization of ERPS hinders the intended outcome and ERP usage is highly dependent on user acceptability [3,8]. Many companies have successfully deployed ERPS, but others struggle to achieve their expected business value due to user aversion [43].…”

“…Implementing an ERPS in an SSC can bring numerous benefits, including improved access to accurate and timely information, streamlined processes, and increased efficiency [3,7]. This implementation, however, comes with its own set of challenges, such as careful planning and coordination, training and change management, data migration, and ensuring alignment with the organization's overall goals and objectives [8]. Organizational leaders have poured a great deal of money into ERP systems (ERPS), but not all have yielded the intended results [1,2].…”

“…Though ERPS has been used by organizations all over the world to provide a more standardized and efficient system, its advantages layout did not happen in many firms and was usually unsuccessful [9,[10][11][12]. It is rare for the system to achieve its absolute potential [8,9], and the reasons for these issues are not well understood [13].…”