A Critical Realist ERP Implementation in Zimbabwean Mining Industry Organisations

Abstract

This research uses a critical realist framework to examine the factors influencing the success of enterprise resource planning (ERP) system implementation in Zimbabwean mining industry organisations. From the perspective of critical realism, the mining industry in Zimbabwe faces a complex interplay of opportunities and obstacles while implementing ERP systems. The deployment of ERP in mining firms is critically examined in this paper, emphasising how these systems might improve operational efficiency while considering Zimbabwe's particular socioeconomic circumstances. By exploring underlying structures, mechanisms, and outcomes, the research aims to identify critical challenges and opportunities and develop practical recommendations for improving ERP adoption and effectiveness. The study employs a critical realist approach to comprehend the interconnectedness and feedback loops among structures, mechanisms, and outcomes. The researcher combined qualitative and quantitative data gathering and analysis approaches using a contemporaneous mixed methods design. The researcher conducted four in-depth interviews with key stakeholders to gather rich, contextualised insights and administered eighty cross- sectional survey questionnaires to a broader sample to collect quantitative data. This study examined the multiple obstacles and success aspects of ERP system installation in Zimbabwean mining organisations. The study discovered that while ERP systems offer significant potential benefits, their successful implementation is contingent on several technological, economic, organisational, and regulatory factors. The findings emphasise the need for strong leadership, effective change management, training and development, proper ERP selection, risk management, business process engineering, data migration, and user contact to facilitate successful ERP adoption in the Zimbabwean mining industry. The findings of this research offer valuable guidance for mining organisations in Zimbabwe seeking to implement ERP systems effectively.