Affiliations: Sao Paulo Business School, Fundação Getulio Vargas, São Paulo, Brazil
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: Taiane Ritta Coelho, Sao Paulo Business School, Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV-EAESP). 2029, 9 de Julho Av., São Paulo 01313-902, Brazil. Tel.: +55 11 3799 7777; E-mail:taiane.coelho2014@gvmail.br
Abstract: This article investigates the client-consultant relationship in the
implementation of enterprise resource planning (ERP) using a case study of
the human resource model in the government of the state of Minas Gerais,
Brazil. To understand this relationship, we use the theoretical framework of
Pozzebon and Pinsonneault, which suggests that knowledge and power are
shared and negotiated during ERP implementation. The findings show a unique
dynamic of cooperation between the client and the consultant due to mutual
dependence, with nine identified mechanisms of knowledge and power that
influence the relationship. Some of these mechanisms may be specific to
governments and large corporations, including a common language, the
involvement of an external agent in the project, and the external
information technology (IT) team. This study provides insight that can
benefit governments and consultants in successful implementations of ERP.
Keywords: Client-consultant relationship, ERP implementation in government, power/knowledge mechanisms
