The important role of the consultant

Abstract: Title: The important role of the consultant Problematization: In today’s competitive markets it is important to maintain a competitive advantage. One opportunity to do this is by implementing an ERP system to the organization. Many organisations have implemented an ERP system, but a lot have been unsuccessful. Studies have been done to identify the main success factors connected with the implementation such as top management support, effective communication and education. However the roles of the consultant in the process carries a lot of responsibilities but are still not mentioned as a main success factor. The question is if the role of consultant is an important factor to consider when implementing an ERP system. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to describe and analyse the role of the consultant in an ERP implementation. Methodology: This master thesis is a qualitative case study done at one particular company. The case study is executed by several meticulously done interviews with personnel at the case company. This is complemented by interviews with several experts in the field and additional data and litterateur. Conclusions: The analysis of the case study shows that the consultants are one of the main success factors in this particular ERP implementation. Traditional success factors were met but still the implementation was unsuccessful. This thesis shows that the consultants followed the implementation plan but the roles of the consultant were not handled sufficient in the implementation process. Consultants need to have sufficient knowledge and experience to be able to handle the implementation successfully. They also have to lead the process and distribute this knowledge to their client company in a efficient manner.