Abstract
Recognizing the importance of information management systems, Bahirdar University introduced its student information management system in 2009. However, studies had not been conducted on the functioning of this system. This study, therefore, examined the information management practices of the University. The academic leaders, core process owners, and the system administrators were the research participants selected purposely, for they are main actors in initiating and managing the information system of the university. The information collected using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussion was analyzed using thematic analysis. Accordingly, it was revealed that apart from achievements made, lack of required resources, the centralized nature of the system, poor culture of the academic staff in meeting deadlines stipulated in the system, and lack of adequate computer skills on the part of the users were the major challenges encountered in the implementation of the existing student information management system, which has not yet been implemented in managing the information of distance, summer, extension, and graduate program students. Worst of all, this practice was not extended to the library and other administrative core processes. Hence, the University should revisit the functioning of its student information management system, and also take initiatives in automating the information management systems of the other administrative core processes. Key words: Information, management, system, university.
Highlights
Today, which we call information age as many technological developments have been experienced; the biggest task that an organization should shoulder is to stay sensitive to change
The student information management system has been introduced at Bahir Dar University since 2009
The findings indicated that encouraging attempts were made by the university to automate the student information management system
Summary
Today, which we call information age as many technological developments have been experienced; the biggest task that an organization should shoulder is to stay sensitive to change. Many significant factors such as continuous developments in information technologies, information exchange, increasing expectations of the society, modern managing perceptions and applications cause organizations all over the world to develop new information management systems in order to survive (Demir, 2003). As being adaptable to changes, these systems are helpful to cope with the demands for change. The management of information systems improve the adaptation of the educational institutions to the environment; they enable the institutions to comprehend and define inner and outer
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
