A Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Model for ERP Selection in Moroccan SMEs Using Fuzzy AHP

Today, selecting an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system has become a strategic decision for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) seeking to improve their operational efficiency, modernize their information systems, and strengthen their competitiveness in an increasingly digitalized environment. In this context, identifying the most relevant ERP selection criteria is essential to support decision-makers in choosing the solution that best fits their organizational and strategic needs. However, previous studies have generally examined ERP selection criteria from a broad perspective, without prioritizing their relative importance according to the specific context of SMEs. The objective of this study is therefore to identify and prioritize the ERP selection criteria that are most critical for Moroccan SMEs, as well as to propose a decision-making model that supports ERP evaluation and selection. To achieve this objective, a mixed-methods approach was adopted. Semi-structured interviews with ERP professionals and practitioners were conducted to identify the most relevant criteria in the Moroccan SME context. In addition, the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (Fuzzy AHP) method was used to evaluate and weight these criteria under conditions of uncertainty and subjective judgment. The results reveal that functional scope is the most critical criterion in ERP selection, followed by ease of use and total cost. Technical criteria such as compatibility and security are considered moderately important, whereas scalability appears to have less influence on the selection decision. Based on these findings, a decision-making model is proposed to help SMEs evaluate ERP alternatives more effectively and reduce the risks associated with ERP selection. This research contributes to the existing ERP literature by providing a structured and prioritized analysis of ERP selection criteria specifically adapted to Moroccan SMEs. It also offers ERP consultants and decision-makers a practical framework for assessing ERP solutions and improving the quality and reliability of ERP selection decisions.

@article{Zouhair2026,
  title     = {A Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Model for ERP Selection in Moroccan SMEs Using Fuzzy AHP},
  journal   = {International Journal of Advanced Computer Science and Applications},
  volume    = {17},
  number    = {6},
  year      = {2026},
  publisher = {The Science and Information Organization},
  author    = {Yassine Zouhair and Younous Elmrini},
  doi       = {10.14569/IJACSA.2026.01706103},
  url       = {https://doi.org/10.14569/IJACSA.2026.01706103}
}