An Evaluation of The Role of Electronic Government Procument in Service Delivery in The Public Sector: A Case of Selected Public Sector Organisations
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Date
2024
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Abstract
The study was aimed at evaluating the role of electronic government procurement in service delivery in the public sector, with a focus on selected public sector organisations. The study focused on Ministry of Health (MoH), Ministry of Education (MoE), Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), Rural Electrification Authority (REA), Workers' Compensation Fund Control Board, and ZESCO Limited. The sample size comprised 30% of the targeted population, that is 30% of 100, which was roughly 30 respondents from the 6 targeted organisations. The study was guided by the following research objectives: to assess the extent of the adoption of Electronic Government Procurement systems for service delivery; to find out the effect of Electronic Government Procurement Systems on users’ service delivery; to determine challenges of Electronic Government Procurement Systems in service delivery in the public sector. In order to carry out the objectives of the study, the concurrent mixed-methods research design was utilised. In terms of adoption, the findings revealed that the majority of respondents (37.5%) indicated significant adoption of e-GP procurement systems in their respective organisations for service delivery. Furthermore, findings also showed that the majority of 58.33% strongly agreed that the e-GP system has made the procurement process in their organisations more efficient and transparent, highlighting positive outcomes in terms of effectiveness and openness. The predominant concern, as presented in the findings by 45.8% of the respondents, revolved around a deficiency in training and the failure to upload necessary documents for specific tenders. The findings of the study also revealed that e-GP systems have positively influenced various aspects within their organisations, including daily output, procurement efficiency, transparency, and supplier management. Positive correlations between e-GP usage and enhanced productivity, efficient procurement processes, effective supplier selection, and reduced processing time are evident. Well-implemented e-GP systems significantly contribute to operational efficiency, procurement effectiveness, and transparency, aligning with the broader empirical literature on electronic procurement. Identified challenges, such as deficiencies in training, document uploads, computer literacy, supplier paperwork, and system understanding, underscore the need for enhanced awareness, education, and training. Addressing these challenges is crucial for
the successful integration and utilisation of e-GP systems in the context of public service delivery. This is not only imperative for efficiency but also for promoting transparency and fairness, aligning with broader e-government literature. Overall, the findings highlight the transformative potential of well-implemented e-GP systems in reshaping public service delivery in Zambia. The positive trajectory in adoption, the positive impact on users' service delivery, and the identification of challenges offer valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers. Addressing challenges through strategic training, awareness programmes, and user education will be instrumental in maximizing the benefits of e-GP systems.
Key Words: Electronic Government Procurement, Public Sector, Adoption