Swedy - Report
Swedy - Report
DODOMA, TANZANIA
ASSESSMENT OF THE CHALLENGES FACING IMPLEMENTATION OF
ELECTRONIC RECORDS MANAGEMENT IN THE PUBLIC
ORGANIZATION IN TANZANIA REVENUE AUTHORITY (TRA) AT
DODOMA CITY COUNCIL
By
2024
CERTIFICATION
We, the undersigned certifies that he/she has read and hereby recommend for
acceptance by the Mzumbe University a research report titled; assessment of the
challenges facing implementation of electronic records management in the public
organization in Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) at Dodoma city council, in
partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of Bachelor Degree of Public
Administration in Records and Archives Management (BPA-RAM) of Mzumbe
University.
Signature
………………………….
Major Supervisor
Signature
…………………………
Internal Supervisor
Signature
________________________________
DEAN, School of Public Administration and Management
i
DECLARATION AND COPYRIGHT
I, Swedy Hamis Samwel, declare that this research report is entirely my own work, and I
have not submitted it or will not submit it to any other institution for a similar or different
degree qualification.
Signature
………………………….
Date
………………………….
© 2024
The research report is a legally protected work under the Berne Convention, Copyright Act
1999, and other national and international laws governing intellectual property. Reproducing
the entire or any part of the dissertation without written consent from Mzumbe University
and the author is strictly prohibited. However, short extracts may be used for research,
private study, critical scholarly review, or discourse with proper acknowledgement. Any
violation of this copyright law is subject to legal penalties
ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Firstly, I extend my deepest gratitude to Almighty God for granting me the strength,
wisdom, and perseverance throughout this research journey. Your guidance has been
instrumental in navigating the challenges and triumphs encountered during this
study.
Thirdly, I extend my heartfelt thanks to the management and staff of the Tanzania
Revenue Authority (TRA) at Dodoma City Council for their cooperation and
willingness to participate in this study. Their insights and cooperation were
indispensable in gathering the necessary data and information for this research.
Lastly, I extend my appreciation to all those who contributed to this study, especially
my classmates, whose support and camaraderie provided a conducive environment
for learning and growth. Your constructive feedback and discussions have been
invaluable in shaping the direction of this research.
iii
DEDICATION
This work is dedicated to my family, led by my father, Mr. Hamis Samwel, whose
support and encouragement have been my guiding light. Their love and sacrifices
have fueled my journey towards academic excellence.
iv
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
Archives Management
UK : United Kingdom
v
ABSTRACT
vi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CERTIFICATION ..............................................................................................................i
DECLARATION AND COPYRIGHT ............................................................................. ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ............................................................................................. iii
DEDICATION ..................................................................................................................iv
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS .......................................................................... v
ABSTRACT ......................................................................................................................vi
TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................ vii
LIST OF TABLES ............................................................................................................. x
LIST OF FIGURES ..........................................................................................................xi
CHAPTER ONE .............................................................................................................. 1
INTRODUCTION AND PROBLEM SETTING .......................................................... 1
1.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Background of the research problem ........................................................................... 1
1.3 Statement of research problem ..................................................................................... 3
1.4 Objectives of the study ................................................................................................. 3
1.4.1 General objective ...................................................................................................... 3
1.4.2 Specific objectives .................................................................................................... 3
1.5 Research Questions ...................................................................................................... 4
1.6 Significance of the study .............................................................................................. 4
1.7 Scope of the study ........................................................................................................ 4
1.8 Organization of the study ............................................................................................. 5
CHAPTER TWO ............................................................................................................. 6
LITERATURE REVIEW................................................................................................ 6
2.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................. 6
2.2 Theoretical Literature Review ...................................................................................... 6
2.2.1 Definitions of Key Terms .......................................................................................... 6
2.2.2 Understanding of theories ......................................................................................... 7
2.3 Conceptual Framework ................................................................................................ 7
2.4 Empirical literature review ........................................................................................... 9
2.5 Research gap .............................................................................................................. 10
vii
CHAPTER THREE ....................................................................................................... 11
RESEARCH METHODOLOGIES .............................................................................. 11
3.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................ 11
3.2 Research design .......................................................................................................... 11
3.3 Area of the study ........................................................................................................ 11
3.4 Population of the study .............................................................................................. 11
3.5 Sampling techniques .................................................................................................. 11
3.6 Sample size................................................................................................................. 12
3.7 Methods of data collection ......................................................................................... 13
3.7.1 Primary data ............................................................................................................ 13
3.7.1.1 Questionnaires ...................................................................................................... 13
3.7.2 Secondary data ........................................................................................................ 13
3.7.2.1 Documentary Review ........................................................................................... 13
3.8 Data analysis .............................................................................................................. 14
3.9 Ethical Consideration ................................................................................................. 14
CHAPTER FOUR .......................................................................................................... 15
PRESENTATION OF FINDINGS ............................................................................... 15
4.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................ 15
4.2 Social-demographic characteristics of respondents ................................................... 15
4.3 Analysis of the challenges hindering the successful implementation of electronic
records management systems in in TRA at Dodoma City Council ................................. 17
4.4 The impact of the identified challenges on the efficiency, accessibility, and
accuracy of electronic records management within TRA ................................................ 18
4.5 The strategies for overcoming hindering the successful implementation of
electronic records management systems in TRA at Dodoma City Council ..................... 19
CHAPTER FIVE............................................................................................................ 21
DISCUSSION OF RESEARCH FINDINGS ............................................................... 21
5.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................ 21
5.2 The challenges hindering the successful implementation of electronic records
management systems in in TRA at Dodoma City Council .............................................. 21
5.3 The impact of the identified challenges on the efficiency, accessibility, and
accuracy of electronic records management within TRA ................................................ 21
viii
5.4 The strategies for overcoming hindering the successful implementation of
electronic records management systems in in TRA at Dodoma City Council ................. 22
CHAPTER SIX .............................................................................................................. 23
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS .............................. 23
6.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................ 23
6.2 Summary of the study ................................................................................................ 23
6.3 Conclusion ................................................................................................................. 24
6.4 Policy implications ..................................................................................................... 24
6.5 Recommendations ...................................................................................................... 25
6.6 Area for further study ................................................................................................. 25
REFERENCES................................................................................................................. 27
APPENDICES ................................................................................................................. 30
ix
LIST OF TABLES
Table 4.1. Social-demographic characteristics........................................................... 16
Table 4.2 Challenges hindering the successful implementation of electronic records
management systems .................................................................................................. 17
Table 4.3 Impact of the identified challenges on the efficiency, accessibility, and
accuracy of electronic records management .............................................................. 18
Table 4.4 Strategies for overcoming hindering the successful implementation of
electronic records management systems .................................................................... 20
x
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2.1 Conceptual framework................................................................................ 8
xi
CHAPTER ONE
1
grapple with barriers like limited digital infrastructure, inadequate technical expertise,
and resistance to change (Mnjama, 2020; Nkomo et al., 2022). These obstacles have
impeded the seamless integration of ERMS, leading to disparities between the
envisioned benefits and the actual implementation status. Incomplete or inaccurate
records, inefficient information retrieval, and potential data security vulnerabilities
have emerged as critical outcomes.
2
1.3 Statement of research problem
The implementation of electronic records management systems (ERMS) within
public organizations in Tanzania is driven by the ideal of enhancing administrative
efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of information (Rwezaura & Mnjama,
2018; Shebuge & Mlozi, 2020). However, the reality of ERMS implementation in
Tanzania presents a multifaceted scenario. While certain strides have been made,
challenges persist that have hindered the complete realization of the intended
objectives. Caused by limited digital infrastructure, resource constraints, varying
levels of digital literacy, and resistance to change have collectively contributed to the
uneven adoption of ERMS across public organizations (Mcharo & Mnjama, 2022;
Kassim, 2020). As a resulted to ddisorganized records systems, information silos,
and potential data loss have become significant repercussions. This current study
aimed to address this gap by employing a comprehensive data collection approach,
such as questionnaires.
3
1.5 Research Questions
i. What are the challenges hindering the successful implementation of
electronic records management systems in in TRA at Dodoma City Council?
ii. What are the impacts of the identified challenges on the efficiency,
accessibility, and accuracy of electronic records management within TRA at
Dodoma City Council?
iii. What are the strategies for overcoming hindering the successful
implementation of electronic records management systems in in TRA at
Dodoma City Council?
4
Tanzania. The study aimed to comprehensively analyze the identified challenges and
their impacts on the efficiency, accessibility, and accuracy of records management
processes. Geographically, the study was confined to the TRA at Dodoma City
Council, situated in Tanzania. While the broader context of electronic records
management challenges in public organizations within the African region was
acknowledged, this research specifically delved into the challenges unique to the
TRA at Dodoma City Council.
5
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
This chapter provided a comprehensive review of the literature delving into existing
research, theories, and scholarly works relevant to assessing the challenges facing the
implementation of electronic records management in the public organization in TRA
at Dodoma City Council.
6
2.2.2 Understanding of theories
In the context of this study, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was applied
to assess how employees within the Dodoma City Council perceived the adoption of
electronic records management systems (ERMS). By analyzing users' perceptions of
the usefulness and ease of use of ERMS, the study aimed to offer explanations for
the challenges encountered during implementation. For instance, if employees
perceived ERMS as difficult to use, this might have contributed to resistance and
hindered the successful adoption of the system.
7
Figure 2.1 Conceptual framework
Independent variables
Dependent variable
▪ Digital
infrastructure
• Electronic records
▪ Records
management systems
management impact
adoption
▪ Implementation
strategies
8
2.4 Empirical literature review
The empirical literature review examined previous research works conducted in
Tanzania that were relevant to the study's focus on the challenges, adoption, and
utilization of electronic records management systems (ERMS) within public
organizations, specifically in TRA at Dodoma City Council.
The research conducted by Rwezaura, B., & Mnjama, N. (2018), titled "Exploring
Barriers to Electronic Records Management Adoption in Tanzanian Public
Organizations," aimed to identify key barriers hindering the adoption of electronic
records management in Tanzanian public organizations. Their objectives centered on
pinpointing challenges acting as barriers to implementing electronic records
management systems, assessing their impact on organizational efficiency and
accountability, and proposing strategies for overcoming these barriers to promote
successful adoption. Utilizing survey questionnaires and interviews, the researchers
gathered quantitative and qualitative data to gain insights into employees' perceptions
of barriers and management's perspectives on technological challenges and potential
solutions. This research was relevant to the current study as it provided insights into
common challenges faced in electronic records management adoption within
Tanzanian public organizations, offering valuable insights into potential obstacles
and strategies for overcoming them, thus informing the assessment of challenges and
proposing practical solutions within the context of TRA at Dodoma City Council.
9
multiple ministries to understand existing practices and gather qualitative insights
into challenges and experiences related to electronic records management. This
research was relevant to the current study as it provided insights into challenges
faced in electronic records management within government institutions, offering
recommendations for improvement that could inform strategies within TRA at
Dodoma City Council.
The research conducted by Mcharo, H. S., & Mnjama, N. (2022), titled "Impact of
Electronic Records Management on Service Delivery: A Study of Tanzanian Local
Government Authorities," aimed to assess how electronic records management
influences service delivery in local government authorities, providing
recommendations for improvement. Using surveys and document analysis, the
researchers gathered data on perceptions of electronic records management's impact
on service quality and reviewed records to assess information accuracy and
accessibility. This research was relevant to the current study focusing on the TRA at
Dodoma City Council, as it provided insights into the relationship between electronic
records management and service delivery within local government contexts, offering
valuable recommendations for improving service delivery that could inform
strategies within TRA at Dodoma City Council.
10
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGIES
3.1 Introduction
This chapter present the research methodologies the selection and application of
these methodologies were crucial in ensuring the validity, reliability, and relevance
of the study's findings;
11
representation from various departments and hierarchical levels within the Tanzania
Revenue Authority (TRA) at the Dodoma City Council. This approach aimed to
ensure that the sample drawn reflected the diversity of ERMS users within the
organization, enhancing the credibility and generalizability of the study's findings.
𝑁
𝑛=
1 + 𝑁(𝑒 2 )
Where:
n = Sample size
N = Total population size (43 in this case)
e = Desired margin of error (chosen based on the study's requirements)
Let's assume that the desired margin of error (e) is 0.1 (10%).
43
𝑛=
1 + 43(0.12 )
43
𝑛=
1 + 43(0.01)
12
43
𝑛=
1 + 0.43
𝑛 = 30.06
𝑛 ≈ 30
The sample size is 30.
13
ERMS challenges, strategies, and outcomes. It complemented primary data by
offering insights from a different angle.
14
CHAPTER FOUR
PRESENTATION OF FINDINGS
4.1 Introduction
This chapter presents the presentation of findings, provides an in-depth analysis of
the data collected in the study. It covers the social-demographic characteristics of
respondents, main findings related to ERMS implementation challenges, impacts,
and proposed solutions. Each section is supported by tables, and textual explanations,
offering a concise overview of the research findings.
Sex
In research, sex refers to the biological distinction between male and female genders.
According to Table 4.1, out of the total 30 respondents, 12 were male (40%) and 18
were female (60%).
Age
Age distribution is a key aspect of demographic analysis in research. According to
Table 4.1, out of the total 30 respondents, 2 (6.7%) were under 20, 5 (16.7%) were
aged 20-30, 11 (36.6%) were 31-40, 9 (30%) were 41-50, and 3 (10%) were over 50.
Educational qualification
Educational qualification is crucial in research, reflecting participants' academic
backgrounds. Table 4.1 shows that out of 30 respondents, 6.7% had a secondary
school education, 13.3% held a diploma, 56.7% had a bachelor's degree, 20% had a
master's degree, and 3.3% had a doctorate degree.
15
Job position
In research, job position reflects participants' occupational roles. According to Table
4.1, out of 30 respondents, 10% held entry-level positions, 70% were in mid-level
management, 13.3% occupied senior management roles, and 6.7% were in
administrative or support staff positions.
Years of experience
Years of experience in research is vital, reflecting participants' professional expertise.
According to Table 4.1, out of 30 respondents, 13.3% had less than 1 year of
experience, 46.7% had 1-5 years, 20% had 6-10 years, 13.3% had 11-15 years, and
6.7% had more than 15 years of experience. This breakdown provides insights into
the diverse levels of professional experience within the sample, crucial for
understanding potential influences on research outcomes.
16
4.3 Analysis of the challenges hindering the successful implementation of
electronic records management systems in in TRA at Dodoma City Council
The objective focuses on identifying challenges in implementing ERMS at TRA,
Dodoma City Council. Through exclusive questionnaire surveys, respondents
provided insights into these hurdles. The summarized findings in Table 4.2 shed light
on the specific obstacles TRA employees encounter in ERMS integration.
17
responses highlight diverse perceptions regarding ERMS implementation challenges
within TRA at Dodoma City Council.
4.4 The impact of the identified challenges on the efficiency, accessibility, and
accuracy of electronic records management within TRA
The second objective seeks to evaluate how the challenges identified affect the
efficiency, accessibility, and accuracy of electronic records management within TRA
at Dodoma City Council. The questionnaire administered to respondents gathered
their insights on these aspects, the results of which are summarized in Table 4.3.
Table 4.3 Impact of the identified challenges on the efficiency, accessibility, and
accuracy of electronic records management
No Variables Strongly Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly
Agree Disagree
1 Reduced efficiency in 10 8 (26.7%) 4 (13.3%) 5 (16.7%) 3 (10.0%)
accessing records (33.3%)
2 Increased risk of data 7 (23.3%) 10 (33.3%) 3 (10.0%) 6 (20.0%) 4 (13.3%)
inaccuracies
3 Hindered accessibility to 9 (30.0%) 6 (20.0%) 5 (16.7%) 7 (23.3%) 3 (10.0%)
important information
4 Compromised data 8 (26.7%) 5 (16.7%) 6 (20.0%) 7 (23.3%) 4 (13.3%)
security
5 Hindered decision- 6 (20.0%) 7 (23.3%) 4 (13.3%) 8 (26.7%) 5 (16.7%)
making processes
Source: Field data, (2024)
18
(10.0%) neutral, 6 (20.0%) disagreeing, and 4 (13.3%) strongly disagreeing.
"Hindered accessibility to important information" had 9 respondents (30.0%)
strongly agreeing, 6 (20.0%) agreeing, 5 (16.7%) neutral, 7 (23.3%) disagreeing, and
3 (10.0%) strongly disagreeing. Meanwhile, "Compromised data security" had 8
respondents (26.7%) strongly agreeing, 5 (16.7%) agreeing, 6 (20.0%) neutral, 7
(23.3%) disagreeing, and 4 (13.3%) strongly disagreeing. Finally, "Hindered
decision-making processes" had 6 respondents (20.0%) strongly agreeing, 7 (23.3%)
agreeing, 4 (13.3%) neutral, 8 (26.7%) disagreeing, and 5 (16.7%) strongly
disagreeing.
The descriptive statistics from Table 4.3 reveal widespread agreement among
respondents on the impact of identified challenges in electronic records management
at TRA. Most respondents either strongly agreed or agreed with the statements,
indicating a consensus on challenges such as reduced efficiency, data inaccuracies,
hindered accessibility, compromised security, and hampered decision-making.
19
Table 4.4 Strategies for overcoming hindering the successful implementation of
electronic records management systems
No Variables Strongly Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly
Agree Disagree
1 Investing in 10 (33.3%) 15 (50%) 4 (13.3%) 1 (3.3%) 0
infrastructure
2 Enhancing staff 8 (26.7%) 16 (53.3%) 5 (16.7%) 1 (3.3%) 0
technical expertise
3 Providing continuous 9 (30%) 14 (46.7%) 5 (16.7%) 2 (6.7%) 0
support
4 Encouraging a culture 7 (23.3%) 17 (56.7%) 4 (13.3%) 2 (6.7%) 0
of innovation
5 Conducting regular 11 (36.7%) 14 (46.7%) 3 (10%) 2 (6.7%) 0
assessments
Source: Field data, (2024)
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CHAPTER FIVE
This objective aligns with previous research conducted by Rwezaura, B., & Mnjama,
N. (2018), titled "Exploring Barriers to Electronic Records Management Adoption in
Tanzanian Public Organizations." The study aimed to identify key barriers hindering
the adoption of electronic records management in Tanzanian public organizations, a
theme closely related to the challenges faced by TRA at Dodoma City Council. The
research by Rwezaura and Mnjama sheds light on various barriers, including limited
technological infrastructure and resistance to change, which resonate with the
challenges identified in the current study. Based on the findings of the research
objective, several suggestions can be made to address the challenges hindering
ERMS implementation at TRA, Dodoma City Council, there is a clear need for
targeted training and capacity-building programs to enhance staff technical expertise
and mitigate the impact of limited digital literacy.
5.3 The impact of the identified challenges on the efficiency, accessibility, and
accuracy of electronic records management within TRA
The second research objective in chapter four focuses on assessing the impact of
identified challenges on ERMS efficiency, accessibility, and accuracy within TRA at
Dodoma City Council. Descriptive statistics extracted from Table 4.3 illustrate a
21
strong consensus among respondents regarding the adverse effects of these
challenges.
This objective aligns with research conducted by Mcharo, H. S., & Mnjama, N.
(2022), which delved into the impact of electronic records management on service
delivery within Tanzanian local government authorities. The similarities in findings
suggest a broader trend across public organizations in Tanzania, emphasizing the
critical role of effective records management in service delivery. Based on the
findings, recommendations can be proposed to mitigate the impact of identified
challenges on ERMS efficiency, accessibility, and accuracy. Strategies may include
investing in advanced technology and infrastructure, implementing comprehensive
training programs to enhance staff skills, developing clear policies and guidelines for
ERMS usage, and fostering a culture of innovation and openness within TRA.
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CHAPTER SIX
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6.3 Conclusion
In conclusion, this study sheds light on the challenges hindering the successful
implementation of electronic records management systems (ERMS) within the
Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) at Dodoma City Council. Through a
comprehensive exploration of existing literature and empirical research, key
obstacles such as limited technical expertise, resistance to change, and inadequate
support emerged as significant barriers to effective ERMS adoption. The findings
underscore the importance of addressing these challenges to enhance efficiency,
accessibility, and accuracy of electronic records management. Despite the hurdles
identified, the study also highlights promising strategies for overcoming these
obstacles, including investing in infrastructure, enhancing staff expertise, and
fostering a culture of innovation.
Policymakers need to establish clear and standardized policies and guidelines for
electronic records management within public organizations. These policies should
outline best practices, procedures, and protocols for ERMS implementation, ensuring
consistency and adherence to regulatory requirements across different departments
and levels of government.
24
6.5 Recommendations
25
contribute to a deeper understanding of the evolving role of ERMS in enhancing
governance, transparency, and accountability in the public sector.
26
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Jones, C., Smith, R., & Walker, D. (2022). Challenges in Implementing Electronic
Document and Records Management Systems in Public Organizations: A
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28
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29
APPENDICES
30
3. Please rate the following statements according to your agreement on the
challenges hindering implementation of electronic records management
systems: (1=Strongly Agree, 2=Agree, 3=Neutral, 4=Disagree, 5=Strongly
Disagree)
No Challenges 1 2 3 4 5
1 Limited technical expertise among staff
2 Inadequate training and capacity building programs
3 Resistance to change from traditional paper records
4 Lack of clear policies and guidelines for ERM
5 Insufficient support from top management
31
3. Please rate the following strategies according to their effectiveness in
overcoming challenges: (1=Strongly Agree, 2=Agree, 3=Neutral, 4=Disagree,
5=Strongly Disagree)
No Strategies 1 2 3 4 5
1 Investing in infrastructure development
2 Enhancing staff technical expertise
3 Providing continuous support from top management
4 Encouraging a culture of innovation and openness
5 Conducting regular assessments and reviews
Thank you
32