ERP selection using the AHP method: A case study in the defense industry

This study aims to determine the significance levels of the criteria considered in the selection of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system by an electronic circuit board manufacturer operating in the defense industry sector. Due to high security standards and critical infrastructure requirements, the process of technological infrastructure change in this sector holds substantial importance in terms of sustainability and compatibility with existing systems. Within the scope of the research, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), one of the multi-criteria decision-making techniques, was preferred. Based on the literature and expert opinions, six main and twenty-three sub-criteria were determined. In order to determine the relative importance of these criteria related to ERP system selection, a pairwise comparison questionnaire was administered to 16 participants, consisting of internal decision-makers and external experts. The questionnaire was prepared based on the 1–9 scale of importance levels developed by Saaty (1977). Using the responses provided by the participants, pairwise comparison matrices were constructed, and the importance weight of each criterion was calculated. In the context of the findings, it was determined that the ERP system in the examined defense industry company was preferred not based on short-term operational needs, but rather on factors such as traceability, flexibility, and long-term technological alignment. In addition, participants emphasized the importance of system log data and up-to-date software support, particularly due to the sector's emphasis on information security. This research aims to provide both theoretical and practical contributions to ERP selection decisions within the defense industry and similar sectors. By identifying sector-specific prioritization of criteria, the study proposes a framework to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of decision support processes in enterprises.