AN ASSESSMENT OF THE CONTRIBUTION OF RECORDS MANAGEMENT IN ENHANCING ADMINISTRATIVE EFFICIENCY IN LEARNING INSTITUTIONS: A CASE STUDY OF THE SCHOOL OF LIBRARY, ARCHIVES AND DOCUMENTATION STUDIES (SLADS)

This study assessed the contribution of records management in enhancing administrative efficiency in learning institutions, using the School of Library, Archives and Documentation Studies (SLADS) as a case study. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving a sample of 25 respondents selected through stratified random and purposive sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, and an observation checklist. The findings revealed that SLADS operates a hybrid records management system, combining paper files with digital storage on shared network drives. However, practices were inconsistent due to the lack of a comprehensive, institution-wide records management policy. The study found that inefficient records management significantly hinders administrative efficiency, with 64% of respondents reporting retrieval times exceeding 15 minutes and 64% occasionally or frequently experiencing delays in administrative processes. While records were acknowledged as important for decision-making, the current systems were perceived as delaying service delivery by 44% of respondents. Key challenges identified included the absence of a formal policy, lack of staff training, inadequate storage space, and insufficient digital infrastructure. The study concludes that SLADS, despite training records professionals, does not yet model best practices. Recommendations include the urgent development of an institutional records policy, investment in an integrated digital records system, comprehensive staff training, and increased resource allocation.

Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved