Acquiring ERP Business Process Knowledge: A Network Structure Analysis

This research investigates the use of knowledge structures (aka mental models) and Pathfinder network graph analysis techniques to assess the acquisition of enterprise resource planning (ERP) system business process knowledge. Two different ERP learning models are compared: the more traditional ERP learning model executed in a static business environment focusing on conveying procedural ERP application interface knowledge, and the simulation-based learning model executed in a dynamic real-world business environment focusing on constructing conceptual, real-world ERP business knowledge. Support is found for the advantages of simulation-based educational methods in learning ERP business processes. Knowledge structures and Pathfinder network analysis techniques are found to be effective in assessing business process knowledge acquisition in the context of ERP education leading to user acceptance and adaptation.