Fatores críticos de sucesso e satisfação dos usuários em implantação de sistemas ERP : um estudo de caso múltiplo na indústria química

Abstract

This research analyzed the introduction of management integrative systems, called ERP, as to major success factors in undertakings of this nature, comparing users' satisfaction level with the new system. These integrative systems are ready software available in the retail market and offered to companies; they are also called packages, multimodules which link all the operations of a company on a single database and spreadsheet. This research was developed with multiple case study methodology, in which two international companies from the chemical sector participated. It was carried out by the means of both qualitative and quantitative analyses. In the qualitative analysis a series of interviews was made use of in order to find out, from those involved in the projects, the success factors in the introduction of the ERP system. In the quantitative analysis questionnaires were used and made valid by data handling in a statistical perspective of factor analysis which reduced the variables to seven influencing factors as to the system users' satisfaction: meeting users' needs; system operation; impact on activities; success factors; users' adaptation; quality of system information and difficulties with introduction. This study demonstrated a particular which was an amplitude of projects herewith presented in an integration proposal within a global plan, linking all the assessed companies to other corporate units of their organization all over the world. The final result of the research showed that as for the users, their information needs have not been thoroughly met yet, however, they are satisfied with the system and they are aware of its importance to the performance of the company. As for the opinion of those involved in the project, four major success factors were identified in the introduction of ERP, the human element being the main factor, the people who take on the responsibility of achieving the goals; then a sound project management, the instructions and objectives put forth by the company directors, and a satisfactory training for the permanent users, providing confidence in the operation of the new system.