Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are vital for growing organizations, yet according to a recent Gartner® report more than 80% of ERP initiatives in midsize enterprises are not meeting expectations of executives or end-users, leading to reputational damage for the CIO.
Why ERP failure isn’t a tech problem (believe it or not)
We believe that ERP failures don’t typically stem from picking the wrong software or partner.
They happen when:
- Business stakeholders aren’t engaged early
- There’s no clearly articulated “why” behind the change
- End-users don’t see what’s in it for them
- Change management is treated like an afterthought
- The ERP strategy is imposed, not co-created
In midsize enterprises, where every resource counts and every failure is felt, CIOs can’t afford to let ERP become “just another IT project.” ERP must be a business transformation, and that transformation starts with leadership—not configuration.
Why vision matters more than software
Too many ERP projects start with vendor selection before asking the most important question: "Why are we doing this?" When employees don’t understand the purpose behind a new system, they disengage. Without shared meaning, even well-funded ERP projects struggle. That’s why CIOs must lead with purpose. Begin by asking:
- Why are we implementing this ERP? What value will it bring?
- What will the future look like with the new ERP in place?
- How will we govern, implement, and evolve this system over time?
This three-part framework creates clarity and helps align everyone — from executives to end-users — around the initiative.
Your role as CIO isn’t to implement ERP — It’s to lead the business forward
A successful ERP vision doesn’t come from the CIO alone. It requires a strong, cross-functional leadership team including:
- C-suite sponsors who champion the initiative
- Business leaders who expect clear ROI
- Project managers who oversee delivery
- Key users and SMEs who represent the workforce
These people must co-create the vision, communicate it effectively, and continually reinforce its value. Involving key users early also boosts morale and reduces roadblocks during implementation.
Create a clear, inspiring ERP vision that aligns with business goals
Your ERP vision should be more than a mission statement, it should be a practical, flexible guide. Include:
- Business value ("We’re enabling agility to support long-term growth")
- Clear expectations ("We aim to reduce lead time by 20%")
- Governance principles (e.g., limited customization to stay agile)
- Life cycle mindset (ERP is not a one-time project, but an evolving platform)
Once the vision is built, communicate it relentlessly through formal presentations, informal chats, intranet posts, and shop floor meetings. Don’t just broadcast — invite feedback, listen, and adjust. When employees feel heard and see their ideas reflected in the vision, they become powerful advocates.
Why you should download this report
Based on thousands of interactions with Gartner clients since 2016, they estimate that 20% to 25% of ERP initiatives are considered failures. Another 55% to 60% are compromised in some way by the organizations undertaking them, resulting in poor user experience and unmet CEO executive expectations. By downloading this report we believe you'll learn:
- The hidden leadership gaps that compromise 80% of ERP initiatives
- How to craft and communicate a purpose-driven ERP vision
- Why traditional governance models often backfire
- What your stakeholders need to hear — and how often — to stay aligned
- How to turn your ERP vision into an enterprise-wide transformation
For ERP success, midsize enterprise CIOs must stop thinking software-first and start leading with vision. A shared, evolving purpose — built collaboratively and communicated consistently — is the foundation for meaningful transformation and enterprise-wide engagement.
Download the full Gartner® report now and learn how to craft a vision for ERP success.
Discover strategic recommendations and insights from "Gartner® Creating a Vision for ERP Success: A Guide for Midsize Enterprises”
Gartner, Crafting a Vision for ERP Success: A Guide for Midsize Enterprises, Alexander Buschek, 19 May 2025.
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