Maas, J. -B., Van Fenema, P. C., & Soeters, J. (2018).

Post-implementation ERP usage: A

longitudinal study of the impact of control and empowerment. Information Systems
Management, 35(4), 330-347.

Purpose (What are the objectives for writing the paper?):

 Provide recommendations on how to improve the utilization of ERP systems

 Investigate the challenge of underutilization of ERP systems in organizations
 Study the longitudinal impact of control and empowerment on individual usage
behaviors

Design / Methodology / Approach (How are the objectives achieved? Include the main
methods used for the research and the approach to the topic.):

In this research, data was collected using questionnaires. The questionnaires included
established scales and additional items for demographic information. The sample consisted of
anticipated users of an ERP system, aiming for diversity. Participants were asked to think
about their expected usage behavior. They completed the questionnaires based on this. In
addition, the procedure involved giving participants the questionnaires and providing any
necessary instructions for allowing researchers to gather insights into participants expectations
of the ERP system.

Findings/ Conclusions (What was found in the work, and what are the major conclusions)?
This will refer to analysis, discussion, or results.):

Based on the results and findings, the study concluded that most of the hypotheses were
supported. It was found that routinization and infusion have a significant relationship across
timeframes, but not within the same timeframe. The results show that users can engage in both
behaviors during the post-implementation phase, and different factors predict each behavior.

Practical Implications (What outcomes and implications for practice, applications, and
consequences are identified?):

The consequences identified for recognizing and understanding the different types of ERP
usage are dual. First, managers can better assess the effectiveness of ERP usage by focusing on
quality rather than just on quantity. Thid can lead to improved decision-making. Second,
aligning the desired behavior with system objectives can enhance productivity and innovation.
Organizations can maximize the benefits of ERP systems by encouraging exploitation and
exploration where appropriate.

Critique (Which parts of the paper do you like? Which parts of the paper do you not like?
Why?):
The part I like in this paper is the way authors described the usage of ERP by examining the
relationship between perceived control and perceived empowerment. They conducted a
longitudinal analysis at an individual level in a major public organization to understand how
ERP use evolves over time.

That’s why ERP systems continue to have a significant influence on organizations. They are
widely implemented to improve integration and positive business outcomes.
However, there are still challenges that need to be addressed, such as underutilization. It’s
important for organizations to focus on post-implementation topics and ensure that ERP
systems are effectively utilized to increase their benefits. We believe that organizations can
enhance their efficiency and productivity by addressing these challenges and continuously
adapting to evolving technology.