Implementing cloud ERP solutions: A review of sociotechnical concerns

Abstract

Cloud ERP solutions allow organizations of all sizes to support and coordinate key business processes by leveraging virtualization. Nevertheless, the implementation of cloud ERPs is not straightforward and there are significant issues that need to be taken into account when launching cloud ERP initiatives. To explore these issues, we conducted an in-depth systematic review of related research literature. We identified six key issues related to cloud ERP implementation: a) functionality fit, b) integration, c) data migration, d) organizational change, e) data security, and f) reliability. Furthermore, we mapped these issues to the different sizes of organizations. Based on this review, we identify two sociotechnical concerns that influence cloud ERP implementation: linking to the installed base to ensure continuity with the past and sustainability in the future. We argue that these two concerns have different implications for organizations of different sizes and we call for further empirical research.