AN ASSESSMENT ON ELECTRONIC RECORDS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR IMPROVED EFFICIENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY: CASE STUDY AT BAGAMOYO DISTRICT COUNCIL.

This study assessed the Electronic Records Management System (ERMS) for improved efficiency and accountability, using Bagamoyo District Council (BDC) as a case study. The study was guided by four specific objectives: to assess the effectiveness of ERMS in improving operational efficiency, to evaluate its role in enhancing accountability, to identify challenges facing its implementation, and to propose measures for improving the system. A descriptive research design employing a case study method was adopted, drawing a sample of 25 respondents comprising 5 staff and 20 users of the Council. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews and documentary review, and wer----------------------------------------several departments still relying on hybrid systems that combine manual and electronic handling of records. Where the ERMS has been effectively utilized, it improved the speed of records retrieval, reduced instances of missing files, enhanced traceability, and strengthened the audit trail for decision-making. However, the study also identified challenges hindering full implementation, including inadequate ICT infrastructure, insufficient funding, limited technical skills, unreliable internet connectivity, resistance to change, and the absence of a comprehensive electronic records management policy. The study concludes that ERMS has significant potential to improve accountability and efficiency at BDC, and recommends that the Council invest in ICT infrastructure, develop a clear records management policy, and strengthen staff capacity, while the central government provides supportive policy and funding frameworks for local government authorities.

Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved