Examining the influences of external expertise and in-house computer/IT knowledge on ERP system success

External expertise and adequate levels of internal computer skills and knowledge are essential factors that can contribute to the success of complex information technology (IT) systems, including enterprise resource planning (ERP). Studies examining the effects of external expertise and in-house or internal computer/IT knowledge on the success of ERP packages are rare. This present study was designed to fill this gap in research. A relevant research model was developed to test fifteen (15) hypothesized paths or relationships among the study's variables. Data was collected in a cross-sectional field survey of 109 firms in two European countries. The partial least squares (PLS) technique was used for data analysis. The PLS results supported eleven (11) out of the fifteen (15) hypotheses. Essentially, this research's results confirmed that external expertise (an exogenous factor) and internal computer/IT knowledge (endogenous factors) are pertinent to success enhancement of ERP system success for adopting organizations. The implications of the findings for both practice and research are discussed, and possible areas of future research identified.

► External expertise is critically important for the success of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
► Business employees’ computer and information technology (IT) skills bode well for the success of ERP for adopting organizations.
► In-house IT professionals’ skills and expertise are essential in ensuring the effectiveness of deployed ERP systems in organizations.
► External expertise and internal know-how or skills are key antecedents of ERP success.