Critical success factors for implementing ERP: the case of a Chinese electronics manufacturer

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementation experiences of a leading Chinese enterprise. The objective is to provide Chinese enterprises implementing ERP with knowledge about ERP implementation critical success factors.Design/methodology/approachConstruction of a case study of the company using semi‐structured interviews of the principals involved in the ERP implementation process as well as examination of company documentation supported by literature.FindingsThe major findings of this paper are that the critical success factors for the case company for implementing ERP is similar to its Western counterparts, with the addition of an underpinning theme – cultural characteristics. This study found that when an attempt is made to adapt the implementation to the Chinese culture, management and style of the company, implementation is successful.Originality/valueThe value of this paper is that it presents companies wishing to implement ERP as well as vendors and consultants with a set of critical success factors that is applicable in China. Understanding the critical success factors would lead to a smoother implementation path. Although as a single case study the ability to generalise the findings is limited, support from literature and the experiences of the company before and after making changes to their ERP implementation add to the knowledge of ERP in China.