Centralized end-to-end identity and access management and ERP systems: A multi-case analysis using the Technology Organization Environment framework

Abstract

System security is a top issue facing global organizations. This study investigates the constraints and benefits of a successful centralized end-to-end identity and access management (CIAM) implementation and the moderating role that ERP systems have in the implementation. We apply the Technology Organization Environment (TOE) framework to a case study approach. We find that organizational and technological factors result in lapses in IT governance and act as barriers to CIAM. Environmental factors also hinder CIAM implementation. Additionally, ERP systems facilitate the development of a CIAM due to integration and standardization of identities and automated provisioning. When the ERP system supports CIAM, the organization and its employees experience significant benefits including single sign-on capabilities, increased security and privacy, efficiencies in user provisioning and password management, and audit process improvement. Our results will be of value to any organization implementing CIAM and ERP. Researchers can also use our findings to further study IAM, ERP or extensions to the TOE framework.