Abstract:

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have been around since the mid-1970s when they first ran on mainframe computers. It has been suggested (eg, Musaji, 2002) that four significant trends are shaping the evolution of ERP system: the continuing improvements in ERP integration and flexibility, extension to e-business applications, broader reach to new users, and the adoption of Internet technologies. As is suggested by Webster and Watson (2002) an effective review of literature creates a firm foundation for advancing knowledge. With this aim in mind we have reviewed research papers on ERP systems between 1998 and 2006 from different types of academic journals in different areas. The literature is further classified by its topic, the major outcomes and research methods of each study are addressed. This is followed by implications for future research.