The social impacts of ERP implementation on employees and work environments in higher education institutions

Abstract

Numerous studies have been concerned with investigating the key success factors (KSFs) of implementing ERP systems. Very little has been done. However, on the social impacts of technological innovations and, more particularly, ERP implementation processes on employees and work environment. As this, this study seeks to understand the impact of implementing ERP systems on the work environment and employees’ careers with a focus on Higher Education institutions in Saudi Arabia. The study is based on a quantitative and qualitative analysis of data collected from the survey, interview, and organizational documents. Results indicate that employees’ negative perceptions of the impact of the implementation of the ERP system on their social life and work environment have a close relationship to their satisfaction with the new system. For the successful implementation of the new system, this study suggests that employees’ concerns and problems should be considered. This can be done by means of more employee involvement and effective training. ERP researchers and designers are finally recommended to find solutions that are more tailored to the needs and convenience of the employees and the workforce. Organizations and institutions are also recommended to create a proper working environment prior to and during the ERP implementation processes. Although the study is limited to the Saudi Higher Education institutions, the findings can be extended to the other departments and Ministries.