Analyzing Characteristics of ERP Adopters in the AIS Curriculum

Incorporating an ERP (enterprise resource planning) software or other accounting system software into an introductory AIS (accounting information systems) course can achieve multiple learning objectives, such as teaching business processes, enhancing critical thinking, and incorporating technology into the curriculum. Many software choices are available, and all of them permit instructors to meet key AIS learning objectives while simultaneously exposing students to current technology; however, the choices have varying levels of functionality. We identify key AIS learning objectives from prior research. In addition, we surveyed 89 accounting instructors to identify which systems are in use, how they are being used, why they were selected, and barriers to adoption. We encourage AIS instructors evaluating accounting systems software for their courses to consider this information when choosing a system.