THE INFLUENCE OF ADEQUATE RECORDS MANAGEMENT ON STRATEGIC DECISION-MAKING: A CASE OF BAGAMOYO DISTRICT COURT

ABSTRACT This study assessed the influence of adequate records management on strategic decision-making at Bagamoyo District Court. It was guided by four objectives: to examine current records management practices, identify their influence on strategic decisions, examine the main challenges and suggest strategies for improvement. A descriptive case study design and mixed-methods approach were used. The study involved 22 participants, consisting of 13 registry and support staff represented in the questionnaire results and 9 court administrators and judicial officers represented in the interview themes. Quantitative results were analysed through frequencies and percentages, while qualitative responses were grouped into themes. The findings showed that case numbers, filing years and case types were the main methods used to organise files. However, 84.6% rated storage from fair to very poor, and 61.5% reported that retrieval normally took at least 15 minutes, more than one hour or sometimes failed. A total of 92.3% stated that records management had a significant or moderate effect on decisions. Major challenges included inadequate storage space, limited computer systems, insufficient filing equipment, weak file tracking and staff shortage. Participants supported computerisation, digitisation, better storage, staff training and regular records audits. The study concludes that reliable and accessible records improve the speed and quality of court decisions. It recommends an electronic file index, stronger movement control, gradual digitisation, application of retention schedules, improved equipment, training and quarterly audits. The numerical results retained from the source report should be checked against the completed field instruments before final submission.

Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved