Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems play a critical role in modern organisations by integrating business processes and enabling data-driven decision-making. However, despite advances in intelligent ERP platforms, many systems most especially within small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) and developing economies which continues to suffer from weak access control mechanisms, exposing sensitive organisational data to insider threats and unauthorised access. This study proposes the design and implementation of an intelligent ERP system integrated with a Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) mechanism to enhance data security, operational efficiency, and administrative control. A hybrid development methodology combining Agile practices and the Spiral Model was adopted to ensure iterative refinement, stakeholder involvement, and systematic risk management throughout the system development lifecycle. The proposed RBAC framework adopted in the study defines hierarchical access levels based on organisational roles therefore enabling controlled access to ERP modules such as finance, human resources, inventory and project management. Furthermore, a Rule-Based algorithmic model was developed to govern user authentication, role identification, access evaluation, and continuous security monitoring. The system was implemented as a web-based application and evaluated through functional testing and user interaction scenarios. Results from the implementation demonstrate that the integration of RBAC effectively restricts unauthorised access, improves accountability through activity logging, and enhances overall system usability. Then the study concludes that embedding intelligent access control mechanisms into ERP systems significantly strengthens data protection and supports secure, scalable enterprise operations. The proposed framework offers a practical and adaptable solution for organisations seeking to improve ERP security and governance.
Chinasa et al. (Fri,) studied this question.