User adaptation and ERP benefits: moderation analysis of user experience with ERP

Purpose - The purpose of the study is to measure the impact of user adaptation of enterprise resources planning (ERP) post implementation through an appreciation of the benefits ERP provides to its users in Saudi Arabia (SA). The study will also measure the moderation effect of user experience with ERP on the relationship between user adaptation of ERP and user benefits from ERP. Design/methodology/approach - The authors conducted a survey questionnaire study of 253 ERP users and tested the research model through the application of a hierarchical multiple regression analysis. Findings - The findings show that user adaptation of ERP has a strong positive impact on ERP user benefits. In addition, it is found that the level of user experience with ERP has no significant moderation effect on the relationship between user adaptation of ERP and ERP user benefits. Practical implications - The study findings suggest that functional management should develop appropriate strategies to effectively manage user adaptation of ERP. An equally important implication is for the ERP vendors to consider making their ERP systems as flexible and maintainable as possible by offering effective tools to easily accommodate changes in user requirements with minimum effort and cost. Originality/value - This study provides insights into the inter-relationships between the motivation for improving user adaptation of ERP and gaining more benefits from ERP systems. It will also extend our understanding of the moderation effect of user experience with ERP on the relationship between user adaptation of ERP and ERP user benefits in developing countries.