A framework for post-implementation evaluation of public sector financial information systems: a case of IFMIS in Kenya
Abstract
The use of Information Systems (IS) is indispensable for public service success in service
delivery, oversight, policy formulation and accountability functions.
Various studies have been conducted to investigate the implementation of these systems and only
a few have explored post implementation evaluation. Literature review also shows that
practitioners using financial information systems often lack knowledge on which issues to pay
attention to when evaluating them.
The study employs a two-phased approach similar to that employed by Gable et al (2003)
consisting of the exploratory phase (framework development) to identify the silent dimensions
and measures followed by a confirmatory phase (framework testing) for testing model validity.
Survey method was used to obtain data from diverse respondents in 20 out of 50
Ministries/Departments which are currently using IFMIS.
Data analysis using descriptive statistics and principal component analysis plus regression
analysis for hypothesis testing supported 4 of the 6 proposed dimensions in the research
framework namely; system quality, information quality, vendor/consultant quality and individual
impact. Principal component analysis did not support workgroup impact and organizational
impact. The analysis also found that the selected contingencies positively influences the value
attached to public sector FIS with Technology (IT) related variables being the most critical.
Regarding the perspectives of the evaluator, Mann-Whitney U test indicated no significant
statistical differences between the views of Management staff and Operational Staff. Similarly,
no significant statistical difference was noted between the view of business managers and those
of ICT professionals.
A framework based on Ifinedo (2006a) was validated. All the contingency variables were found
to influence the value attached to financial information systems. Stakeholders intending to
evaluate public sector financial information systems can therefore use this framework as a guide.
We belief our study will enhance knowledge in the area of research by providing a base from
which future researchers wishing to study information systems especially in developing counties
can benefit.
Citation
Masters of science in computer sciencePublisher
University of Nairobi School of Computing and Informatics
Subject
frameworkpost-implementation evaluation
public sector
financial information systems
IFMIS
Kenya