Impact of an Integrated ERP System on Corporate Structure and Corporate Culture – the Case of and African-Based Flower Growing Enterprise, Marginpar

Despite the growing adoption of ERP systems in the life of enterprises, less research has been conducted on its impact on corporate structure and culture. This study addresses this relationship, focusing on Marginpar, a multinational flower company, growing flowers in African premises and employing local Africans, and examines the effects of ERP introduction on both corporate culture and structure. The research includes in-depth interview with Marginpar's Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) manager, surveys distributed to Marginpar employees through the ESG manager in Africa and the Netherlands, and analysis of online articles from the company's website. The findings reveal that the ERP implementation has significant impacts on corporate culture and structure, specifically, it leads to clearer task definitions, changes in employee attitudes toward greater task orientation, departmental modifications, altered communication patterns, organizational disarray, shifts in employee roles and responsibilities, and changes in employee positions. These results underscore the profound influence of ERP systems on a company's culture and structure. Future research should expand on these findings by examining the ongoing impacts of ERP systems on corporate culture and structure over time. This study highlights the critical need for organizations to understand and adapt to these transformative effects when implementing ERP systems.