A Conceptual Model for Cloud Erp Adoption in Smes in New Zealand: a Case Study of a Retail Company

Cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems present opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that often encounter limitations in terms of information technology (IT) resources and budget. However, there is limited research on the adoption of cloud ERP systems in New Zealand (NZ) SMEs, specifically within the retail sector. This study aims to investigate the characteristics that influence the adoption of cloud ERP systems in the NZ retail SMEs. To accomplish this, a holistic conceptual model is used combining the technological, organisational, and environmental (TOE) framework with the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) for cloud ERP adoption in SMEs. The study's findings reveal that the top five characteristics influencing the adoption of cloud ERP systems in NZ retail SMEs are relative advantage, organisational readiness, complexity, external IT support, and top management support. In addition, this study has identified new characteristics influencing the cloud ERP adoption in NZ retail SMEs, which are system quality, security and privacy, organisational culture, communication between decision-makers, vendor reputation, trading partner compatibility, and personal innovativeness. These valuable insights can assist SME decision makers in adopting cloud ERP in their organisations. Further, the integration of TOE and UTAUT frameworks in a theoretical model represents an innovative approach, making a significant contribution to the existing body of knowledge.