The enterprise resource planning (ERP) system industry accounts for $8.8 billion annually. Enterprise resource planning systems are not performing as expected due to implementation barriers, changes in job responsibilities, and access to information; 50% of all information technology failures are due to the implementation of ERP systems. Guided by general systems theory, the purpose of this qualitative case study was to identify key factors underlying an effective ERP system deployment. A structured interview protocol that explored participant perceptions of barriers, changes in job responsibility, and information exchange within and between departments was conducted with a purposeful sample of 20 local government employees. Recorded interviews and field notes were first coded and then sequentially analyzed to finally extract 3 emergent themes that characterized the ERP deployment: (a) efficiencies and inefficiencies, (b) access to information, and (c) future optimism. The recommendations in this study will help managers in local governments and the private sector understand critical considerations when implementing an ERP system. This understanding will influence social change through increasing cost savings by informing managers of the specific challenges faced with implementing an ERP system. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]