International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 7, Issue 4 (July-August 2025) Submit your research before last 3 days of August to publish your research paper in the issue of July-August.

Design Science Research for Enhancing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems in Zimbabwe’s Mining Industry: A Framework for Efficiency and Sustainability

Author(s) Mr. Jairos Mukwenha, Dr. Alfred Mutanga
Country Zimbabwe
Abstract Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are crucial for optimising complex operations within Zimbabwe's vital mining industry. However, Zimbabwe’s mining industry faces unique challenges, including infrastructure constraints, regulatory complexity, and sustainability imperatives that hinder the effectiveness of ERP systems. The study employs a rigorous Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, iteratively designing and evaluating an ERP enhancement framework. Through empirical fieldwork, including semi-structured interviews with twenty-five industry stakeholders and a structured questionnaire administered to one hundred and two mining professionals to validate qualitative findings and assess the framework's perceived utility, critical pain points were identified, which included fragmented data integration, inadequate real-time reporting, and poor alignment with Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) goals. Research findings demonstrate that the framework significantly improves data accuracy, reduces operational latency, and enhances compliance with sustainability reporting. The framework proposes solutions including change management, data governance, technology integration, and performance metrics. Preliminary results suggest that a contextually relevant framework, informed by both managerial experience and broader industry perspectives, is crucial for realising the ERP system's full potential. This study delivers a validated, actionable framework to guide Zimbabwean mining companies towards enhanced operational efficiency, improved resource utilisation, and greater environmental and social sustainability. It also reinforces the applicability and rigour of DSR in addressing complex organisational problems, particularly in resource-intensive industries facing unique socio-economic circumstances.
Keywords Design Science Research, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Efficiency, Sustainability, Framework
Field Computer > Data / Information
Published In Volume 7, Issue 4, July-August 2025
Published On 2025-07-19
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i04.51459
Short DOI https://doi.org/g9t2cf

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