Abstract:

An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is a program that integrates all the departments and functions of the entire organization in a single IT system so that employees can take decisions by displaying information of the entire company using a single database. Therefore, ERP systems usually have a modular architecture, in which each module manages the functions of a different business area such as accountability, finance, project management, geographic management systems, logistics, or procurement. These modules are interrelated using a single common database.

Thus, an ERP offers the following benefits to companies:
- Integrates applications and share information globally.
- Impacts positively on employees satisfaction and motivation.
- Prevents the maintenance and updating of custom-made systems.
- Reduces costs and improves customer service quality.

An ERP system assumes, for any type of company, a coherent method for the effective planning and control of all the resources necessary for the preparation, sending and accounting of the orders of its clients. Notwithstanding, as pointed out by recent literature (e.g., Forés et al., 2021) this IT systems are essential for the implementation of new organisational business models, improvement of the supply chain and even enable more sustainable business strategies linked to the circular economy.

Nowadays in the market it is possible to differentiate between two types of ERP system: proprietary systems and open source systems. Open source is the term used for software distributed under a license that allows the user access to the source code, making the user possible to study and modify the software with total freedom. Furthermore, its redistribution is allowed as long as this possibility is in accordance with the license terms under which the software is acquired, promoting collaboration between users. However, this type of open ERP do not have a company behind that provide support, so without a supportive community of users the software can dissapear. Also, its usability and attractiveness is not as good as proprietary software.

Specifically, lecturers of the subject Introduction to Firms Information Systems have introduced Odoo software as for the declared advantages related to its user friendliness and extensive supportive community, among other. This subject is taught in the degrees of Business Administration, Finance and Accounting, and Economics at the Universitat Jaume I.

Specifically, using active methodologies based on Role Playing and study case lecturers involve students in the design and implementation of an Odoo ERP for the management of the specific requirements of a real business.

In order to know the previous background, engagement, motivation and overall satisfaction with this educational innovation, we carry out an online survey to students.

The results of this survey will be presented and suggest future avenues for carrying out actions that contribute to the knowledge on the management of these ERP management systems for the different necessities of the firm. In addition, the main implications for the business management information systems education will be presented.

Keywords:

ERP, open-source software, higher education, information systems, active learning, students’ assessment.