Challenges facing local government authorities in the use of electronic record keeping for human resource management

Abstract

This study determines the challenges faced by Local Government Authorities in the use of e-record keeping for Human Resource Management (HRM). The study was conducted at Morogoro Municipal Council (MMC) as among the Local Government Authorities (LGAs) which continue to use paper-based record keeping in Tanzania. A case study design was employed to ensure an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon. A questionnaire and interviews were used in collecting data from 107 respondents. Data from the questionnaire were analysed descriptively through the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) whereby means and standard deviatons were calculated. On the other hand, data from interviews were analysed through content analysis. The study was guided by two models, which are Kurt Lewin’s Change Management Model, as the guiding model, and ADKAR Change Management Model, as the supporting model. The study revealed lack of reliable internet service, lack of top management support, inadequate IT experts, staff resistance, and inadequate funds as the main challenges facing MMC in the use of electronic record (e-record) keeping for HRM. This implies that, in some cases, the government formulates good policies without ensuring a conducive environment for their implementation. In the light of the revealed challenges, the study recommends that LGAs especially MMC should take initiatives to develop and implement a comprehensive e-governance programme that, among other things, will address the revealed challenges. In addition, the government should creation environments that support implementation of its policies particularly those related to ICT and e-governance.