Tell us about your DBA Research – V. Samantha Matharaarachchi
Consultant/Project Manager – ERP Systems Implementations
V. Samantha Matharaarachchi successfully completed his DBA degree programme at theFaculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo, in year 2023.
The title of his DBA thesis is “Organizational Culture and User Adoption of Enterprise Resource Planning Systems: Cases of Two Leading Family-Owned Companies in Sri Lanka”.
How did you develop an interest on this topic?
Currently, ERP systems have become an integral part of the organizational operations. ERP systems facilitate to integrate internal and external information across the organization and it helps to streamline and incorporate the entire business processes of the Company into a single IT platform. However, extant literature illustrates many challenges in the adoption process of ERP systems. On the other hand, I have practically witnessed instances of low user adoption of ERP systems in many organizations. That sparks my interest in exploring this matter further.
What are your main findings?
The research findings revealed that how organizational culture influence on the adoption of ERP systems in two family-owned manufacturing organizations in Sri Lanka. It elucidated the critical role of organizational culture in shaping the success or failure of ERP system adoption. Further, the study hhighlights how the influence of interpersonal and power dynamics within a family- owned organization on ERP systems adoption. This enriched the existing body of knowledge by adding a novel perspective to it.
What are the implications of your research?
The findings of this study have important implications for senior leadership/managers of a company who are involved in ERP system adoption. Managers should nurture a culture of openness, collaboration, cohesion, and continuous learning and goal-oriented to facilitate the adoption and utilization of the ERP system. To address power dynamics challenges, it is important for organizations to create a culture that encourages open communication, transparency, and merit-based decision-making.
What was it like to do a DBA at the University of Colombo?
I had sound knowledge of research techniques prior to embarking on DBA program which I cultivated during my master’s degree at the University of Colombo. The theoretical knowledge of lecturers in relation to the research methodologies i.e., quantitative and qualitative approaches is truly unparalleled. This is one of the reasons for opting the University of Colombo to pursue my doctoral degree.
Finally – what will you do next?
I intend to continue my academic developments while advancing my professional career. I envision a harmonious balance between these two facets of my life. The rigorous knowledge of research techniques acquired through a DBA degree enable me to make significant contribution to the development of business practices.
