THE ROLE OF ERP-INTEGRATED DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEMS IN ENHANCING EFFICIENCY AND COORDINATION IN HEALTHCARE LOGISTICS: A QUANTITATIVE STUDY

Abstract

This study addresses a logistics problem: ERP platforms integrate transactions, yet limited decision support can keep ordering and exception handling inconsistent, weakening coordination and efficiency. The purpose was to test whether ERP integrated Decision Support System capability (ERP-DSS capability) improves logistics coordination and logistics efficiency, and whether coordination contributes to efficiency beyond ERP-DSS capability. Using a quantitative cross-sectional, case-based design in an ERP case, survey data were collected from 220 ERP users (mean experience 5.37 years). Key variables were ERP-DSS capability, logistics coordination, and logistics efficiency; means were slightly above midpoint (M = 3.16, 3.16, and 3.18) and reliability was strong (α = .84 to .87). Analyses used descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and multiple linear regression with experience and ERP training as controls. ERP-DSS capability related positively to coordination (r = .55, p < .001) and efficiency (r = .46, p < .001), and coordination related to efficiency (r = .44, p < .001). In regression, ERP-DSS capability predicted coordination (b = 0.58, β = .55, R² = .316) and efficiency (b = 0.47, β = .47, R² = .219). When both predictors entered, ERP-DSS capability (b = 0.33, β = .32) and coordination (b = 0.25, β = .26) remained significant and fit increased (R² = .265), indicating a coordination pathway alongside a direct ERP-DSS effect. Implications are that organizations should prioritize ERP-DSS features that enhance visibility, analytics, alerts, and decision rules and reinforce cross-unit workflows in enterprise and cloud ERP deployments.