Implementation strategies for ERP adoption by SMEs

ERP systems are considered to be mission-critical information systems in the current business environment. The adoption of ERP should not be hindered solely by the size of an organisation. The key aims of this paper are to elucidate the various strategies Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) vendors have developed to encourage Small to Medium Enterprises (SME) to adopt their products. These strategies focus around solutions such as pre-configured solutions, implementation methodologies and hosting options. In order to meet this aim, this paper utilises two case studies as examples which demonstrate the experiences of companies who have utilised these strategic options. Based on the extant literature, the barriers to implementation of ERP systems in SMEs have also been discussed. Discussion about the implementation barriers is included to explain how organisations can prepare and plan for effective ERP system implementation.