What is ERP

Abstract: Though ERP has gained some prominence in the IS literature over the past few years and is a significant phenomenon in practice, through a) historical analysis, b) meta-analysis of representative IS literature, and c) a survey of academic experts, we reveal dissenting views on the phenomenon. Given this diversity of perspectives, it is unlikely that at this stage a broadly agreed definition of ERP can be achieved. We thus seek to increase awareness of the issues and stimulate further discussion, with the ultimate aim being to: (1) aid communication amongst researchers and between researchers and practitioners; (2) inform development of teaching materials on ERP and related concepts in university curricula and in commercial education and training; and (3) aid communication amongst clients, consultants and vendors. Increased transparency of the ERP-concept within IS may also benefit other aligned fields of knowledge. Keywords (MISQ): transaction processing systems; management information systems; management support systems; production planning information systems; information system evolution; enterprise resource planning; literature review