Managing information systems in the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority

Abstract

The study examined managing information systems in the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority. The purpose of the study was to examine the factors affecting the use/implementation of information systems in the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority. Using a case study design, data was collected from a sample of 63 staff at PPDA using self administered questionnaires and interviews. Study findings have indicated that the introduction of the information system in PPDA has resulted into the creation of new departments, restructuring of the organization to match with the new changes. However, many of its employees lack the required expertise to use the information systems which has greatly affected its applicability. Findings have indicated that it is important for the users in different departments to be involved at the design stage, communication from the top management is necessary to ensure effective use and implementation of the IS. It also indicated that Employees from the different user departments do not actually get support from top management. PPDA does not have a strategic plan for the implementation of the information systems and many employees lack the training and education to use the IS. The study concluded that the introduction of IS in an organization is associated with many changes like restructuring of the organization in an effort to accommodate the new developments, can result in the introduction of training and development of new skills for staff members. It recommended that top management has to improve on its communication to staff, ensure coordination and cooperation in the project team, training for staff members, provide support to staff. It must also have a strategic plan.