Realizing Sustainable Value from ERP Systems Implementation

Abstract

This paper investigates enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementations to improve the ability to realize outstanding value from such systems. In particular, it aims to provide a deep understanding of realizing sustainable value from ERP systems and to examine the relevance of benefits management (BM) in this context. To do so, this research applied a qualitative case study approach to investigate the implementation of Tier-1 ERP systems in two firms. Key findings initially suggest five considerations to better understand the realization of benefits from ERP implementation. Consequently, this research outlines the key activities undertaken by the investigated organizations and aligns them with activities suggested by benefits management literature. In conclusion, this research conjectures that while benefits management is a good practice and a systematic approach to realizing benefits from information systems, it may be ineffective in addressing the benefits that emerge in practice, i.e., when integrating the ERP system with modern digital technologies. Therefore, this research advocates either revisiting the current BM techniques or improving the implementation of digital technologies, including ERP systems with BM concepts and principles by incorporating such BM concepts within the implementation process. This study responds to research calls for maximizing the returned value from the implemented ERP systems by providing insightful recommendations.