Critical factors for enterprise resources planning system selection and implementation projects within small to medium enterprises

Abstract

The work presents research on enterprise resources planning (ERP) system characteristics particularly relevant for small to medium enterprises (SME). The duration of ERP system selection and implementation are critical for SMEs due to limited resources. Authors investigated the duration of the project phases to establish the human resource requirements through the selection, implementation and support of the ERP project. Preimplementation training costs and ongoing license upgrade costs as a percentage of the implementation cost were also analysed. Common factors that are crucial for an SME in the manufacturing sector embarking on an ERP system are identified in This work for system selection and implementation. User survey was carried out for a target group of SME companies around Brisbane, Australia. The survey captured both qualitative and quantitative data relating to the ERP system in place at a target group of electrical and electronic equipment manufacturing companies located in South East Queensland, Australia. Quantitative analysis was carried out on the cost of the ERP selection and implementation project, both in terms of capital outlay and human resources. The research provided an overall perception of the success level of ERP systems.