PurposeTo explore the current literature base of critical success factors (CSFs) of ERP implementations, prepare a compilation, and identify any gaps that might exist.Design/methodology/approachHundreds of journals were searched using key terms identified in a preliminary literature review. Successive rounds of article abstract reviews resulted in 45 articles being selected for the compilation. CSF constructs were then identified using content analysis methodology and an inductive coding technique. A subsequent critical analysis identified gaps in the literature base.FindingsThe most significant finding is the lack of research that has focused on the identification of CSFs from the perspectives of key stakeholders. Additionally, there appears to be much variance with respect to what exactly is encompassed by change management, one of the most widely cited CSFs, and little detail of specific implementation tactics.Research limitations/implicationsThere is a need to focus future research efforts on the study of CSFs as they apply to the perspectives of key stakeholders and to ensure that this stakeholder approach is also comprehensive in its coverage of CSFs. As well, there is need to conduct more in‐depth research into the concept of change management. One key limitation of this research is the occurrence of duplication in the frequency analysis of the success factors. This is attributed to secondary research being the main methodology for a large number of the articles cited.Originality/valueThis research provides a comprehensive compilation of all previously identified ERP implementation success factors, through a clearly structured methodological approach.

Two alternative work designs are identified for operators of stand-alone advanced manufacturing technology (AMT). In the case of specialist control, operators are limited to running and monitoring the technology, with operating problems handled by specialists, such as engineers. In the case of operator control, operators are given much broader responsibilities and deal directly with the majority of operating problems encountered. The hypothesis that operator control would promote better performance and psychological well-being than would specialist control (which is more prevalent) was tested in a longitudinal field study involving work redesign for operators of computer-controlled assembly machines. Change from specialist to operator control reduced downtime, especially for high-variance systems, and was associated with greater intrinsic job satisfaction and less perceived work pressure. The implications of these findings for both small and large-scale applications of AMT are discussed.One of the most important issues currently facing manufacturing companies is how best to exploit recent developments in computer-controlled production technology. With its potential to reduce lead times, improve quality and consistency of output, increase throughput and provide greater flexibility in response to changing market demand (Majchrzak, 1988), computer control promises a competitive advantage that cannot be ignored.For some, the ultimate goal of this advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) is the fully computer-integrated, "peopleless," factory of the future (Sharit, Chang, & Salvendy, 1987). At present, however, application is at a much more modest level. A small minority of companies have introduced flexible manufacturing systems and other intermediate levels of computer automation, but, for the vast majority, technical and economic constraints mean that smaller scale applications, such as computer-numerical-control (CNC) machines, are the reality (Corbett, 1987;. CNCs are the building blocks for the eventual development of larger integrated systems, but for now most CNCs will continue to be operated as stand-alone systems involving considerable human support (Hirschhorn, 1986;Valery, 1987).The study reported was conducted at the Social and Applied Psychology Unit of the University of Sheffield, which is jointly funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) of the United Kingdom.We gratefully acknowledge the cooperation received from the many participants in the study, who for reasons of confidentiality must remain anonymous.

This paper introduces a theoretical framework to guide research into the psychological effects of advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) on shopfloor operators. The framework has two main aspects. First, based on the emerging literature on the job content implications of AMT, it identifies four key constructs, namely: control, cognitive demand, production responsibility and social interaction. Second, by drawing on the more established job design, stress and related literatures, it predicts how these independent variables differentially affect system performance, job‐related strain and job satisfaction. The wider implications and limitations of the theoretical framework are discussed.

Purpose -To examine the mechanisms through which downsizing affects employees' affective commitment to the organization in two Korean banks. Design/methodology/approach -A total of 910 questionnaires were completed by bank employees. Data was analysed using hierarchical regression and LISREL path analysis techniques. Twenty semi-structured interviews were also conducted. Findings -The results show that the more severe the extent of downsizing, the lower employees' affective commitment to the organization. Moreover, downsizing has an impact on employees' affective commitment to the organization through several of the daily work experiences of employees. Thus, downsizing affects employees' affective commitment to the organization both directly and indirectly. However, its indirect impact is much stronger.Research limitations/implications -The research was conducted in Korea and may have limited generalizability to Western cultures. Practical implications -Sympathetic management of downsizing can minimize the negative impact on the affective commitment of surviving employees. Originality/value -This paper offers insights into organizational commitment in a (relatively under-researched) Korean context.

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