Development of an enterprise resource planning systems (ERP) adoption model in Higher Education Institutions
[Thesis]
Albarghouthi, Mohammed
University of Bolton
2019
Thesis (Ph.D.)
2019
This research investigates and identifies some of the major factors affecting the adoption of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Saudi Arabia. ERP has become a significant computer system in organisations; therefore, this study was motivated by the lack of comprehensive research on the adoption of ERP systems by HEIs. The present study has extended previous research by examining factors that may affect the adoption of ERP systems, based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). HEIs must utilise information systems to achieve a competitive advantage; therefore, extra knowledge of the factors that affect their adoption is required to understand and facilitate acceptance. The study employed a quantitative approach and was conducted on six HEIs located in different cities in Saudi Arabia. The proposed model was validated by a survey of 394 ERP users and was estimated using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). A path model was developed to analyse the relationships between the factors in order to explain the adoption of ERP systems by HEIs. The results have shown that both organisational factors (top management support and user training) and individual factors (computer self-efficacy and computer anxiety) have significant effects on ERP adoption in HEIs. The current study provides both theoretical and practical contributions. The development of a new model extends the body of knowledge of the existing literature and research related to technology acceptance and, more specifically, to the adoption of ERP by HEIs. Along with these academic contributions, practical contributions are anticipated from this current study because HEIs need to enhance performance in the current competitive setting. This conceptual basis is aimed at providing an insight on the possible management procedures and activities that managers might utilise for examining the complexity of the ERP, thus equipping them with an instrument for exploiting its potential. This is critical because HEIs face challenges when applying ERPs through mechanisms that enable them produce the anticipated benefits. This research also provides useful insights into the relationship between the factors and the actual use of ERP systems, enabling the HEI adoption teams and technology developers to better understand the key determinants of user acceptance and how different decisions may influence the success of the new systems they produce. Therefore, the proposed model serves as a framework for thinking through and establishing the different requirements and development criteria for the new system.