Management of Movable Assets and the Application of Supply Chain Management Policies in the Department Of Human Settlements, Kwazulu-Natal Provincial Government

Abstract

The Department of Human Settlements (DoHS) has over the years received reports on lack of proper implementation of the Supply Chain Management, in particular the management of movable assets processes. Asset Management is a sub-component within Supply Chain Management in the DoHS. Asset Management is responsible for the management of all movable assets procured by the department. Movable assets such as departmental vehicles, office furniture, computer sets, are used by the officials in performing their day-to-day functions. Officials in the Department are responsible for the management and safeguarding of the assets assigned to them. The research covered in this article aimed to investigate how the department manages its assets and complies with the transversal policies of Supply Chain Management (SCM), which deal with demand management, acquisition management, utilisation management and disposal management processes. The information covered within this research is from varying records, official documents and departmental policies, dealing directly with the problem at hand, especially the management and monitoring of movable assets. Varying methods of collecting and analysing data were used to achieve valid and reliable results. The researcher analysed and compared various information records that informed findings with regard to risk management and control measures, value for money, responsibility and accountability and intervention strategies that may bring about efficiency and effectiveness in the department with regard to management of movable assets. This was done to address the issue of audit queries received by the Department of Human Settlements.