Optimising management information systems for Local Economic Development practice in KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

Local Economic Development is at the epicentre of South Africa’s growth, and government is emphasising its implementation in policies, strategies and developmental goals of the country. Therefore, different government institutions, private sector entities, civil society organisations and even communities have been tasked with the implementation of Local Economic Development in their local areas. However, in reviewing the implementation processes, there is evidence of a lack of information sharing amongst all respective stakeholders as well as information quality constraints relating to relevant, accurate and up-to-date information regarding Local Economic Development implementation. The research in this paper undertook an exploratory approach aimed at identifying and establishing how a management information system can be customised to be used by all relevant Local Economic Development stakeholders within the province of KwaZulu-Natal and a framework was produced. A qualitative design was utilised through conducting 16 in-depth interviews with Local Economic Development managers from three government departments and district municipalities and one metropolitan municipality in KwaZulu-Natal and two development agencies. The overall findings of the paper revealed that there is currently no integrated management information system in place for Local Economic Development stakeholders to create, store and share critical information required for effective and efficient economic development practice. Results imply that such information sharing could, in turn, enhance Local Economic Development implementation in various ways if designed according to the needs of the users. Recommendations include each stakeholder to address internal-oriented data-management techniques for information management strategy or culture.