Abendroth, Adrian | Schulze Neuhoff, Helena | Schilling, Christopher

The Missing Link in ERP Customization: Integrating Low-Code Platforms and Business Process Libraries

Abstract

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems provide organizational stability but often lack the flexibility needed for specific process adaptations. While Low-Code platforms (LCP) enable domain experts to design extensions, the integration of business process libraries (BPLs) with Enterprise Systems (ES) remains under-researched. This paper investigates the link between ERP customization, LCP, and BPL through 20 qualitative interviews with process experts and consultants. The findings reveal a dual capability core where visual modeling lowers entry barriers for business users, while conventional code remains necessary for complex logic. The study identifies integration challenges regarding API stability and transparency, alongside a five-role socio-technical governance model for maintainable, decentralized adaptations. By conceptualizing BPL as lifecycle-oriented artifacts bridging modeling and execution, this research contributes to ES and LCP literature with actionable guidance for scalable, governable process customization. Future research should explore prototypical implementations, AI-driven process creation, and long-term governance impacts.