An effective decision-support framework for implementing enterprise information systems within SMEs

Abstract

Small-and-medium enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of the economy in most countries. With the opening up of the economy, it is crucial that SMEs continuously improve their competitiveness to assert themselves in the global market. There is also a greater need for information integration in SMEs that lack the financial resources and business resilience of large enterprises. This research paper presents the development process of an effective decision-support framework for adopting integrated information systems within SMEs. The methodology comprises 11 steps, such as identifying information systems-related business problems, forming a project team, and assessing legacy systems and software vendors. The development process of the decision-support methodology has passed through four major stages: identifying the required specification of the methodology, selection and justification of the most suitable delivery medium, creating and evaluating a pilot version of the methodology, and developing the final decision-support methodology and the workbook in which it is embodied. An evaluation of the methodology concluded that it would help to improve the outcome of an integrated systems project by providing motivation, saving time, reducing risks, and assisting with decision making.

Keywords:

• Enterprise Information Systems
• Implementation
• SMEs
• Decision support

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to express their thanks to the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Douglas Bomford Trust for sponsoring this Doctor of Engineering (EngD) project. Besides our grateful thanks to Professor R.G. Godwin for his invaluable advice during conducting the study.