Success factors in ERP systems implementations: Lessons from practice

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to reveal the mechanisms determining the success of enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementations on the basis of research conducted among practitioners dealing with ERP projects. Design/methodology/approach – A collection of potential ERP implementation success factors was identified. The respondents expressed their opinions concerning the importance of subsequent factors for the implementation success and about the factors’ appearance in their projects. The synthetic measure of implementation success was constructed and the factors’ impact on the implementation project success was examined. Then, the most influential factors for the ERP implementation success were selected. Findings – The paper recognises the factors that have the greatest influence on implementation success, regardless of the project type. Moreover, the leading roles of certain factors appear among specific project groups. The practitioners do not appreciate the significance of particular factors which have an important influence on project success. Nevertheless, some factors, such as project manager presence, are overestimated. Some differences in perceptions and attitudes between parties involved in an implementation project were revealed. Research limitations/implications – There is need for further research on the success factors verification depending on the project type, with possible introduction of additional criteria such as enterprise industry. Practical implications – The research outcome is useful for professionals leading implementation projects and those making decisions for the first time on ERP system implementation. The results can be used by practitioners while managing the project and handling people’s attitudes. Originality/value – This paper proves the influence of particular factors on the ERP project’s success in certain circumstances, thus giving insight into the genuine mechanisms determining ERP project outcome.