A benefits realisation road-map framework for ERP usage in small and medium-sized enterprises

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop a benefits realisation road-map for ERP usage in the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Design/methodology/approach – Direct interviews were used to collect data from a random sample of 48 MBA students and 87 business managers (CIO/IT directors and CFO roles). Findings – The ERP benefits road-map suggests that a long-term vision is required in order to obtain a successful realisation of the potential benefits that ERP could bring. Thus, this analysis suggests that ERP benefits realisation dimensions are interconnected, and that managers should perceive ERP benefits realisation as a continuum cycle along the ERP post-implementation. Furthermore, new ERP updates and maintenance projects must take into account the results of ERP benefits realisation auditing to review ERP configuration, correct possible mistakes, and improve the efficiency of some expected ERP benefits. Research limitations/implications – Although the study focuses on the factors that influence ERP benefits realisation, it fails to differentiate between some factors that may influence the realisation of these benefits, such as size and type of company, ERP system implemented, and organisational context. Practical implications – The results may help to improve the understanding of ERP success and satisfaction levels, both expected and perceived, from ERP stakeholders. The findings also suggest that auditing the realisation of ERP benefits is a crucial stage in ERP usage phase. Originality/value – The paper contributes to the current literature in the benefits of ERP systems by defining a benefits realisation road-map to achieve the ERP benefits identified in the literature.