(Re-) evaluating user interface aspects in ERP systems - An empirical user study

Abstract

In recent years, several user studies have examined specific usability problems in the field of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). These studies focused on different branches, various usability aspects, and several user groups. In spite of this diversification, some common and essential usability problems have become apparent, which are related to system complexity and difficulties in finding required information. Although these results revealed essential shortcomings in ERP usability, they date back up to 2005 and comprised only individual ERP systems in specific branches with small user groups. Therefore, this paper first addresses the question of whether the identified usability problems are still present today. Second, it extends the research focus to additional considerations, such as the role of menu type, uncertainty in system usage or the support in problem situations. The results are based upon a broad survey sample of 184 ERP users from small and medium-sized enterprises. © 2014 IEEE.