Adoption of enterprise resource planning systems in Brazilian small and medium enterprises: overcoming barriers and maximizing opportunities

• Author(s): Mahfuz, Jorge Motta
• Date: 2025
• Persistent ID: http://hdl.handle.net/10362/181711
• Origin: Repositório Institucional da UNL
• Subject(s): Enterprise resource planning systems; Erp; Digital transformation; Technology Adoption; Implementation barriers; Operational efficiency; Cost challenges; Organizational change; Brazilian smes; Competitiveness; Domínio/Área Científica::Ciências Sociais::Economia e Gestão
• Document Type: Master thesis
• Language: English
• Advisor(s): Faroleiro, Paulo
• Contributor(s): RUN

Description

This study explores the adoption of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems in Brazilian Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), emphasizing the barriers and opportunities within this context. Using a mixed-method approach, it combines a systematic literature review, qualitative interviews with over 50 SME representatives, and a detailed case study of the author’s family SME. The findings highlight key challenges, including high implementation costs, skills shortages, and organizational resistance, as well as significant opportunities such as enhanced operational efficiency and scalability. The research provides actionable recommendations for SMEs, and stakeholders interested in implementing ERP systems.