A New Framework for Enterprise Resource Planning Systems Implementation for SMEs in the Industrial Manufacturing Sector in Iran

This thesis proposes an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) implementation model for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the discrete manufacturing industry sector in Iran. Three discrete manufacturing SMEs, in two different geographical locations in Iran (Isfahan and Tehran), were used as the case studies for primary qualitative research and data analysis. The proposed model identifies ERP implementation phases, three main dimensions of change and a range of related change elements that influence ERP project success in the discrete manufacturing sector in Iran. The three main dimensions of change are technology deployment, people competencies, and process improvement; and these are evident in this study’s three implementation phases: pre-implementation, implementation, and post-implementation. Being exploratory in nature and adopting an interpretivist epistemology, the research pursues a qualitative approach, consisting of a survey (with follow-up interviews), questionnaires, semi-structured interviews and documentary evidence for data collection. The case study approach allowed the researcher to gain an in depth understandings of the nature of ERP implementation in discrete manufacturing SMEs and the degree of success they have achieved. The first set of data was collected through a literature review and qualitative survey of 75 manufacturing SMEs in Iran in order to understand the extent of IS/ERP systems implementation in Iranian manufacturing SMEs. The findings from the literature were used to develop a provisional conceptual ERP implementation model. The second set of data was collected from three discrete manufacturing SMEs through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews conducted with various employees. The conceptual ERP implementation model was further improved based on findings drawn from the case study research. The final model was developed to represent ERP implementation phases, dimensions and elements of change in the context of SMEs in the discrete manufacturing sector in Iran. The model is a contribution to knowledge in this field, and affords IT practitioners and professionals a better understanding of the potential challenges they may face during such ERP projects. The model enables them to balance the three dimensions of change, providing a roadmap of change elements that need addressing as an ERP project progresses from phase to phase

The implementation of ERP systems in Iranian manufacturing SMEs

The quest to implement Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software to support all main business functions has been actively pursued by in-house IT departments, software vendors and third party consultancies for over three decades. It remains a key element of many companies’ information systems strategy in the developed world, and increasingly, in the developing world. In the specific context of Iranian SMEs, there has been relatively little research on information systems in general, and very little specifically on ERP systems projects. This paper attempts to help address this dearth in the existing literature by examining three case studies of ERP systems deployment in Iranian manufacturing SMEs. It investigates the underlying information systems strategies and examines how this has been implemented in the core process areas of these companies. The analysis is based on a conceptual model that combines defined implementation phases with change dimensions and elements, which provide the basis for the development of an implementation framework for subsequent ERP projects in this business and technology environment

Implementing Integrated Software Solutions in Iranian SMEs

There has been little research on information systems in Iranian companies, and this paper helps to address this by examining the implementation and functioning of integrated software solutions in two small to medium sized enterprises in Iran. This is of particular interest now that the sanctions on trade with Iran have been removed, which will inevitably lead to increased sales opportunities for western technology companies in the country. This study uses a process mapping and systems profiling approach to establish the current status of software implementation in these manufacturing companies. It investigates the underlying information systems strategy and examines how this has been implemented in the core process areas of these companies. The outcome of these major systems projects is assessed, and comparisons are drawn between these Iranian based “Total Systems” software products and similar products more widely available in the developed world

ERP implementation in manufacturing SMEs: Lessons from the Knowledge Transfer Partnership scheme

This article examines how the experience gained from two Knowledge Transfer Partnership projects in the UK can usefully benefit companies faced with similar challenges in a developing world context. Specifically, it addresses the issues faced by manufacturing SMEs intent on replacement of their information systems with one integrated software suite – an Enterprise Resource Planning package. After exploring relevant literature, the article focusses on how the key change elements of process, technology and people can feature in assessing the readiness of such companies for the major upheaval involved in these major change projects. Through further analysis of the projects, it is concluded that the three change components must be kept in balance when implementing these major software suites, both in developed and developing world contexts

Evaluating the Root Canal Morphology of Permanent Maxillary First Molars in Iranian Population

Introduction: A successful endodontic treatment depends on a comprehensive knowledge of the morphology of canal and its variations, an appropriate access cavity, proper cleaning and shaping and adequate root canal filling. The present study was carried out to evaluate the root canal morphology of permanent maxillary first molars in an Iranian population. Methods and Materials: In this in vitro study, 80 extracted permanent maxillary first molars from a population in Rafsanjan, Iran were collected. Root canal morphology was evaluated by clearing technique under stereomicroscope under 40× magnification. A combination of Vertucci’s and Sert and Bayirli’s classifications were used to determine the root canal types. Data were analyzed by SPSS 18 software using descriptive statistics. Results: All palatal roots and almost all distobuccal roots had type I configuration. Ten different types of root canal system were found in mesiobuccal roots, among which type I was the most common (38.75%), followed by type II, IV, V, VI, IX, XV, XVI=XIX and VII, respectively. Conclusion: The mesiobuccal roots of permanent maxillary first molar had the most complex root configuration.Keywords: Maxillary First Molar; Root Canal Anatomy; Root Morpholog

The Evolution of the Customer-Centric Helpdesk: Two Case Studies

This article examines how the helpdesk function has changed over the past three decades through examination of two case studies. In 1985, the European shipment of PC workstations overtook shipments of simple terminals (i.e., video display units and keyboards, with very little processing power), instigating a revolution in end-user computing, with computer users taking advantage of new word-processor, spreadsheet, graphics, email and database applications. This article looks at two snapshots of end-user computing and helpdesk operations separated by a 30 year period – one at Glaxo Pharmaceuticals in 1988, and the other at the University of Gloucestershire in 2018. This case study research finds that whilst the range of technologies requiring support has increased markedly, this has been counter-balanced somewhat by the emergence of standards and dominant products in many technology categories. It also finds that the concept of support and the role of the end-user have evolved significantly in a rapidly changing technology landscape

The implementation of ERP systems in Iranian manufacturing SMEs

The quest to implement Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software to support all main business functions has been actively pursued by in-house IT departments, software vendors and third party consultancies for over three decades. It remains a key element of many companies’ information systems strategy in the developed world, and increasingly, in the developing world. In the specific context of Iranian SMEs, there has been relatively little research on information systems in general, and very little specifically on ERP systems projects. This paper attempts to help address this dearth in the existing literature by examining three case studies of ERP systems deployment in Iranian manufacturing SMEs. It investigates the underlying information systems strategies and examines how this has been implemented in the core process areas of these companies. The analysis is based on a conceptual model that combines defined implementation phases with change dimensions and elements, which provide the basis for the development of an implementation framework for subsequent ERP projects in this business and technology environment

Cybersecurity and the Evolution of the Customer-Centric Service Desk

Cybersecurity is now seen as a central function of the modern IT Service Desk. This article examines two case studies of Helpdesk or Service Desk operations in different technology eras, and highlights the recent emergence of Cybersecurity as a critical area of Service Desk responsibilities. The article profiles the Helpdesk operations at Glaxo Pharmaceuticals in the late 1980s and the Service Desk functions at the University of Gloucestershire in 2019. Comparative analysis shows that whilst the range of technologies requiring support has increased markedly, this has been counter-balanced somewhat by the emergence of standards and dominant products in many technology categories. Cybersecurity, however, has emerged as a key concern that permeates all fields of Service Desk support. It also finds that the role of the end-user has evolved significantly in a rapidly changing technology landscape

Critical Appraisal of Reporting Quality of Case-Control Articles Indexed in SID Website Based on STROBE Statement

The STROBE (strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology) statement presents recommendations to improve the reporting of observational studies. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of reporting the case-control articles indexed in the Scientific Information Database (SID). This descriptive study was conducted in 2016 in the all case-control articles indexed in the SID website over a 10-year period (2006 to 2015). The researchers visited the SID website and used the keywords of "case" and "control" in titles or keywords of the articles. Then, the STROBE checklist was completed for each article. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The first item of the checklist was observed in 100% of the studied articles. None of these articles had described "duration of exposure" and "how missing data were addressed." None of these articles had used the flowchart. The quality of reporting in studied articles was acceptable, but some of the items in the STROBE checklist need more attention