Since the 1970s, extensive research has been conducted to improve the performance of MRP systems (Material Requirement Planning). We identified 86 papers in this domain. These papers examine the influence of configuration on performance measurement indicators in defined operating and instability conditions. These studies, in principle, provide production planners with a decision-making aid. The initial objective of this paper is to measure and characterize the accumulated knowledge in the 86 papers identified. The potential generalization of the knowledge gained is subsequently discussed. We propose a method of analysis of this knowledge.