Taking the ERP plunge in stages: Socio‐technical challenge to new ventures

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

Long gone are the days when only large organizations used enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to integrate their processes and data. These days companies, both large and small, and within diverse sectors, take advantage of ERP technology's benefits and there are an array of packages for comprehensive, integrated business management systems to choose from. These systems reflect a new phase in integrating business processes and information resources within and between organizations. But when should newly‐established firms take the ERP plunge? Their managements will, sooner or later, have to consider questions such as: “Do we need an ERP system or can we do without it?” and “When do we need it – now, or as we grow and when we can better afford it?” And “When will we know the time is right?”

Practical implications

Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.

Citation

(2010), "Taking the ERP plunge in stages: Socio‐technical challenge to new ventures", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 24 No. 1, pp. 34-36. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777281011010523