Implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning Systems as a Strategic Approach by the Equity Bank Limited in Kenya

Abstract

Equity Bank Limited is one of the institutions in Kenya currently implementing enterprise resource planning system as a strategic approach. This study sought to establish the factors that influence the implementation of the system as a strategic approach by Equity bank limited. The study was based on the resource- based view theory and Mayer’s contingency theory. A case study approach was adopted for the study. The interviewees were departmental heads from the various departments of the bank. An interview guide was used to collect data from the interviewees; analysis was done through content analysis. The resultant findings were presented using tables. The results of the study revealed and confirmed critical factors in the implementation of the enterprise resource planning approach. The factors included: system design, system selection, training and education of staff and change management process. The study also revealed some of the challenges experienced in the implementation of the approach, this included: loss of information during data migration, high system interdependce, low staff motivation and high cost overruns due to underestimation of resources during planning The study recommended increased staff involvement in system design, adequate system selection, appropriate training and education of the staff proper change management during transition and allocation of adequate resources for the implementation. The study concluded that the implementation of ERP system approach by the Equity Bank Limited approach was an approach that most institution should consider investing in however there is need to pay attention to the critical factors that influence the implementation .The above mentioned factors were confirmed to be indeed critical and needed to be considered by institutions currently implementing or were intending to adopt the enterprise resource planning system as a strategic approach.