Enterprise resource planning nas instituições de ensino não superior

: um estudo empírico

Abstract

Progress in technology and information systems has promoted new forms of management, in terms of planning, control and decision-making, for organizations. In this context, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems emerge as an opportunity for managers to lead their organizations more efficiently, since they allow more effective connection between different departments, improve the information existing within or-ganizations and make the management process more agile. These systems are increasingly common in industrial and service organizations and their application in ed-ucational institutions should be considered due to the possible advantages. This research is centred on the case study of three institutions of non-higher edu-cation that implemented ERP systems, with the aim of analyzing the motivations, impacts, difficulties faced and critical success factors concerning their implementation. The methodology used was multiple case studies and based on direct data collection through observation, documentary analysis and interviews. The study showed that the motivations leading educational institutions to adopt the ERP system are fulfilled by its implementation, namely the integration and quality of information, improvement in services and reduced working time. Despite the benefits achieved, it is necessary to bear in mind the difficulties felt and faced in its adoption and implementation, particularly the lengthy installation process due to its complexity, us-ers’ resistance to change and the need to make a significant number of adaptations. Identified as key factors for success are motivation towards implementation, which is based on previous explanation of the gains and benefits of the system to all parties in-volved, the need for suitable training, the existence of a dynamic and wide-ranging project team which should have leadership support, and a solid partnership with the supplier of the ERP system extending beyond the implementation process.

Date of Award	2013
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Nuno Filipe Rosa Melão (Supervisor)