MSIS Theses and Dissertations (2011)

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A Prototype of a virtual union catalogue for Kenya Library and Information Service Consortium (KLISC) member libraries.
Gichiri, Peter Mwangi; Marwanga (Dr.), Reuben
Kenya lacks a national library union catalogue. As a result, researchers contend with overwhelming array of independent catalogues whenever they want to do inter-library research. Most libraries in Kenya are individually uploading their catalogues on the World Wide Web. Although this is a positive scenario, it does not address effectively role and nature of bibliographic information sharing. A fully functional national union remains the ultimate solution to inter-library research. This work involved gathering requirements, designing and developing a prototype for a Virtual Union Catalogue of Kenya Library and Information Services Consortium (KLISC) member libraries. We used online questionnaires generated using SurveyGizmo to gather data that informed the design of the virtual union catalogue gateway. The survey period covered 14th December 2010 at 7.00 am to 24th February 2011 at 12.00 pm. This work reveals the state and capacities of different KLISC member libraries to participate in the virtual union catalogue and suggestions on the design architecture of the virtual union catalogue. The Search/Retrieve via URL (SRU) query interface architecture was used to develop a functional virtual union catalogue prototype for KLISC member libraries. This data retrieval system model was adapted from Purdue University in Indiana United States of America. The prototype uses single query form to search individual libraries one at a time. Performing searches from a single portal provides a one-stop–shop for bibliographic data held by KLISC member libraries. This improves the records retrieval, enhances the inter-library loan services hence greatly reducing costs and effort incurred during inter-library loan operations. The achievement is notable in the realization of a union catalogue for the Kenya Library and Information services Consortium (KLISC).
Asset management system in the Government of Kenya
(2013-11-14) Wambugu, Ndumia P.
The purpose of this study was to assess the benefits of adoption of an asset management system in the public sector in Kenya. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; to determine the present state of asset management, determine the role an asset management system; analyze the present model for implementing an asset management system and to determine how the present model can be improved for successful implementation of an asset management system in the Government of Kenya. The research design for this study was a case study design. The population of interest for this study was employees from the Ministry of Finance. Stratified random sampling was used to select 70 respondents across the strata. Both quantitative and qualitative data was used in this study. Quantitative data was collected using a semi structured questionnaire. Qualitative data was collected by the use of interview guides. Secondary data were used; sources included text books, journals, newsletters, asset management implementation model manuals. Statistical Package for Social Science Software (SPSS) was used to help in analysis of quantitative data. The study found out that asset management in the government was not integrated across departments and therefore procurement department was most entrusted with the role of asset management. Study observed that previous AMS implementation process attempt did not observe the set timelines due to lack of policy, inclusion in implementation process and 'buy in' by the employees. Poor integration of activities within departments, lack of standardization in categorization/cataloging of assets, lack of AMS flexibility in its operation and poor design of the asset management model were challenges mentioned to hamper AMS implementation process. Study concludes that AM information system in the government is faced by various design, operation and implementation challenges leading to it being stalled. AM in the government remains exclusively a decision making process. The system also fails to integrate various departments either for regular information flow, monetary or occasional information.
Business Processes Reengineering and Change Management in Public Sector: A case of Implementing an Integrated Financial Management Information System (lFMIS) in the Ministry of Finance-Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2011) Kaua, Pius Muchai
The Government of Kenya through the ministry of finance has been implementing IFMIS from the year 2003 which is intended to bring sanity in public spending. The project is intended to cover budgeting, accounts, procurement, asset management and projects management modules. Currently only the accounts and procurement modules have been implemented in all the accounting units. Implementation is done in a phased approach. The accounting modules of the project are aimed at increasing efficiency of the accounting services, timely reporting and integrating all its business functions. Efficiency and accountability has presented themselves as major challenges across all public expenditure entities. It is for these reasons that ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) vendors like Oracle and SAP amongst others have come up with solutions that are meant to address these problems. The study focused on examining how IFMIS has managed Business Process Re¬engineering (BPR) on the accounting operations in government and challenges faced in the process of change management. In addition, the research seeks to establish how to manage change as a result of business process re-engineering. Specifically, the study examined the aims and objectives of the IFMIS in determining whether the system is addressing the problems it was meant to solve. The study used descriptive and exploratory research methods. The respondents were drawn from three departments in the Ministry of Finance, who are the key users in the accounting unit. The study established that business process re-engineering, change management; top management support and development of an implementation plan are critical success factors in ERP implementation. The implementation of IFMIS led to an increase in work efficiency due to increased accountability and work done within the time limit.
Effect of ICT integration on teaching and learning in higher institutions : case of KCA University
(Strathmore University, 2011) Mondo, Fredrick Omondi
The underlying principle for integrating ICT in education is based on three vital rationales namely, the economic, the social and pedagogical rationales. In the view of the above, the universities need to adopt ICT in their instructional delivery for their critical role in the human resource development in a country. By so doing universities will produce a work force that is able to construct knowledge, form and sustain social networks as well as a workforce that is empowered through knowledge acquisition to participate in the society. Despite these important contributions of ICT, little is known about how Kenyan universities have integrated them in their teaching and learning, which is critical to obtaining benefits enumerated above. The purpose of this study is to examine the extent of integration of ICT in teaching and learning from the perspective of the lecturers and students in Kenyan Universities. A case study approach was taken with the collection and analysis of data. Stratified sampling technique was used to select 42 and 15 respondents from a population of 7000 and 110 students and lecturers from KCA University respectively. Two questionnaires, one for each stratum was used, data was analyzed and presented using descriptive statistics, cross tabulations and graphs, by the use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16. This study is likely to provide educational planners and policy makers in Kenya with an outline on which to have ICT framework that improve the quality of teaching and learning in the universities. From the lecturers' viewpoint, a study of this nature is likely to provide them with the direction for the improvement of their own teaching. From the students' viewpoint, this study is likely to help them to know the vast available ICT equipments that can be used for effective learning
A Framework for a Sustainable ICT Implementation Solution for Public Primary Schools: Case of Nairobi West District
(2013-11-15) Warui, Michael N.; Ateya, Ismail Lukandu; Marwanga (Dr.), Reuben; Kiraka, Ruth
Despite the emergence of ICT resources - such as computers, multimedia and the Internet, the proportion of public primary schools in Kenya making use of ICT is still very low. This research revealed that lack of technical support and access to educational software and econtent, and limited understanding on how to integrate ICTs into teaching were perceived by teachers as the key barriers to the further uptake of ICT in primary schools. Consequently, primary schools are unable to embrace an effective learning and quality pedagogy as they relate to ICT integration. Therefore, the dissertation undertook to develop a framework that would support, describe and promote good practice in the use of ICT in learning and teaching in public primary schools. To help schools introduce sustainable ICT into learning environments, a framework that has seven basic execution steps was developed. These steps are i) defining the educational objectives; ii) designing suitable e-school model; iii) selecting the specific technology platform along with the necessary content and applications; iv) deploying the ICT infrastructure; v) working out how much this technology will cost, not just initially but throughout the project life; vi) establishing user training, maintenance and technical support; and finally, vii) setting out framework implementation management, monitoring and reporting for continuous progress and improvement. In each of the steps, a school has to undertake several activities as the inputs in the execution of the framework. There is a resultant outcome after execution of each activity, which is measurable. A Likert scale of 5 has been provided to schools executing the framework in order to score or rate how they are able to attain the desired objectives. Implementation of the framework could help primary schools to introduce sustainable ICT into learning environments by identifying and assessing technology options, their benefits and feasibility.
A framework for establishing E-health systems in Kenya
(2013-11-15) Njeru, James A. N
Like any other Country in the world, Kenya is embracing ICT in its effort to improve service delivery to its citizens. In order to improve healthcare delivery, increase accountability, increase staff productivity, reduce cost and service delivery time, improve planning and decision making, the Ministry of Health has faced some challenges. The purpose of this study was to identify the various challenges in the implementation of ehealth in the ministry of Health and offer some recommendations. In this study based on literature review, concepts of health, health information systems, e-health, e-readiness models and an enterprise architectureframework were discussed. Various comparative country studies were also discussed and, and e-health readiness model was proposed. This study was conducted in the Ministry of Health which is the largest public health provider in Kenya. The Research design used was descriptive. The target population was drawn from staff of the Ministry of Health, Headquarters Nairobi. The study population comprised of 140 staff with a sample size of 100 Staff members. Based on the proposed e-readiness model, a questionnaire was provided and distributed among staff in the ministry of health who were familiar with ICT and internet in the Directorates of Public Health and Medical Services. After the analysis the main challenges were leT infrastructure, Lack of ICT Skills, Social and Cultural, Legal and security. With regard to e-readiness, e-health implementation framework was proposed and an e-health enterprise architecture framework based on enterprise architecture was proposed.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Access for Training and Employment Opportunities by Kenyan Youth.
(2013-11-13) Waswa, Gwen M.
This study addresses the issues facing the youth on access to ICT training and employment. It specifically addresses the case of the youth living in Nairobi province. It adapts the definition of a youth from the Kenya National Human Development Report, that defines a youth as people resident in Kenya who are between 15 to 35 years old (KNHDR, 2009). The objectives of the study were to establish the education level attained by the unemployed youth, to identify the benefits attained by the youth having the ICT skills, to identify the challenges faced by the youth in relation to ICT employment and training at all levels of education and to propose a framework for addressing school and unemployed youth access to ICT employment opportunities. The research design adapted in this study is quantitative design. In this design, structured questionnaires were prepared in line with the objectives and skillful research assistants were used to collect data from randomly selected household in Nairobi province. The target population for this study was the unemployed youths but economically active group, living in Nairobi province as defined in 2009 population and housing census. These are youth living in the four districts of Nairobi province namely; Nairobi West, Nairobi East, Nairobi North and Westland. The findings of the study revealed that majority of the youth seeking for employment are between the ages of 21-25 years old (55%). It also revealed that 57% of the unemployed youth lack ICT training. Out of the remaining 43% that have ICT training, 28% have basic computer application packages such as Microsoft office. The study proposes a framework that can be used by the youth to easily access ICT training and employment in Kenya. It also suggests an implementation matrix that is geared towards addressing the issue on youth access to ICT training and employment in Kenya. According to this framework, ICT training should be enshrined in the school curriculum. It should start from primary, secondary and tertiary for those youth in school. For those out of school without formal education some basic ICT training course can be offered that will lead to professional certification.
Information management framework for self-help groups
(Strathmore University, 2012) Wamae, George M.
The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Development (MGCSD), in Kenya is charged with the responsibility of mobilizing communities to form groups and then register them to undertake socio-economic activities for self reliance to participate in development. An information management framework would provide adequate and reliable information required in planning and future-projection of resource allocation to groups towards the implementation of their programmes. The main aim of this research was to explore the way MGCSD was collecting and managing information on registered Self Help Groups, with the intent to develop an information management framework for SHGs. This framework would provide a good basis for managing the bulk of information collected on SHGs from all over the country and package it in an appropriate manner for purposes of planning and information sharing. Literature on information management frameworks and self help movement was reviewed to provide theoretical framework for this research. The research methodology focused on the case of the MGCSD to establish the gaps and challenges faced when collecting data and managing data on SHGs. This was accomplished through analyzing programme reports, conducting key informant interviews with officers from the DGSD and administering questionnaires to officers in charge of social development in the MGCSD. The research findings established that the MGCSD is faced with a lot of challenges when capturing and managing data on SHGs. This was attributed to the fact that data was captured manually and officers lacked basic skills on how to manage and update information for easier retrieval and effective planning. In conclusion, the researcher recommends the need to enhance infrastructural development, develop human resource capacity and provide necessary equipment for proper implementation of the information management system.
Integration model for electronic documentation applications
(2013-11-14) Oluoch, Patrick O.
Organizations invest in lCT software with the aim of improving internal process efficiency. Many organizations use more than one application in the same or different phases of their documentation life cycles to meet predefined ends. Since these applications are developed at different times, and in different settings to solve different problems, they are more often disjointed. In such a scenario, end users are required to integrate the functionality of several independent applications in line with predefined business processes. Manual integration requires extensive user input which can compromise the throughput and quality of documents. Application integration provides an opportunity to improve the efficiency of documentation processes through automation of repetitive manual user input and enforcement of documentation procedures using preprogrammed rules of use. This research aimed at determining applications used in documentation processes of Geothermal Development Company (GDC) Nakuru Office and identifying any gaps which arise due to separately implemented ones. The study then designed a model to abate challenges attributable to application disjointedness. Descriptive research methodology was used since no variables at play could be controlled by the researcher. Through stratified random sampling, a representative sample of respondents was selected to whom a questionnaire was administered. Analysis of responses determined that GDC uses two key categories of applications in predefined documentation processes - word processor and electronic mail client. Use of the aforementioned applications requires manual user input to align their combined functionality with predefined business rules. This in addition to lack of a web publishing application to centrally archive documents has lead to various challenges encountered by end users which include delays in documentation due to limited collaborative support, document version mix-up and difficulty in locating documents published in e-mail. Having identified the need to integrate three applications - word processors, electronic mail client and web publishing applications, this research went ahead to develop a model to guide in achieving the same using Business Modeling Language (BML). BML is useful to all levels of stakeholders from management to technical personnel. An implementation guideline to offer more information about how the applications should be integrated to maximize on the usefulness of the integration model was further highlighted. It is important for organizations using disjointed applications with internal process efficiency improvement needs to consider application integration as the next vital step forward before investing in new applications designed to achieve the same end. This will ensure that maximum return on investment is made on already implemented applications in a shorter time while avoiding the risk of minimal yields from investment in completely new applications.
Integration of E-commerce and M-commerce: infrastructure, framework and implementation
(2013-11-13) Wambui, Mwangi J.; Lukandu, Ismail Ateya; Marwanga (Dr.), Reuben; Kiraka, Ruth
Electronic Commerce (e-Commerce) and Mobile Commerce (m-Commerce) are evolving at a pace that is revolutionizing how business is carried out. These two technologies can indeed open up markets beyond borders. The purpose of this research was to propose an integrated framework for e-Commerce and m-Commerce and to suggest a suitable implementation strategy. The objectives of the research were achieved through extensive review of vast literature on the subject matters. The research starts by looking at the various aspects of Electronic Commerce and Mobile Commerce, their barriers, benefits and possible future. Existing electronic payment modes were then discussed to identify common methods in which online transactions take place. It was found that there exists a formal framework for eCommerce, but frameworks for m-Commerce were organization specific. Extensive data collection and analysis was done to ensure that the proposed framework was as close to facts on the ground as possible. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 17 and Microsoft Excel 2007. Results of the analysis indicated that 51% of the population knew about e-Commerce. It also found that only 15% had used credit cards to pay for items bought online. The proposed generic framework can help provide a starting point for e-Commerce businesses in Kenya enabling them to operate on similar platform. This proposed theoretical framework borrows from the works of Turban et al., in 2006 and aside from additional components; it allows implementers focus on important aspects of eCommerce and m-Commerce that would otherwise not receive the attention that they deserve such as policy and infrastructure requirements. This framework can then be modified to meet specific business needs. Lastly, recommendations for further research in this area were made.
Intergration model for electronic documentation applications:a case of geothermal development company
(Strathmore University, 2011) Oluoch, Patrick O; Lukandu, Ismail Ateya; Kiraka, Ruth; Marwanga (Dr.), Reuben
Organizations invest in ICT software with the aim of improving internal process efficiency. Many organizations use more than one application in the same or different phases of their documentation lifecycles to meet predefined ends. Since these applications are developed at different times, and in different settings to solve different problems, they are more often disjointed. In such a scenario, end users are required to integrate the functionality of several independent applications in line with predefined business processes. Manual integration requires extensive user input which can compromise the throughput and quality of documents. Application integration provides an opportunity to improve the efficiency of documentation processes through automation of repetitive manual user input and enforcement of documentation procedures using preprogrammed rules of use. This research aimed at determining applications used in documentation processes of Geothermal Development Company (GDC) Nakuru Office and identifying any gaps which arise due to separately implemented ones. The study then designed a model to abate challenges attributable to application disjointedness. Descriptive research methodology was used since no variables at play could be controlled by the researcher. Through stratified random sampling, a representative sample of respondents was selected to whom a questionnaire was administered. Analysis of responses determined that GDC uses two key categories of applications in predefined documentation processes – word processor and electronic mail client. Use of the aforementioned applications requires manual user input to align their combined functionality with predefined business rules. This in addition to lack of a web publishing application to centrally archive documents has lead to various challenges encountered by end users which include delays in documentation due to limited collaborative support, document version mix-up and difficulty in locating documents published in e-mail. Having identified the need to integrate three applications – word processors, electronic mail client and web publishing applications, this research went ahead to develop a model to guide in achieving the same using Business Modeling Language (BML). BML is useful to all levels of stakeholders from management to technical personnel. An implementation guideline to offer more information about how the applications should be integrated to maximize on the usefulness of the integration model was further highlighted. It is important for organizations using disjointed applications with internal process efficiency improvement needs to consider application integration as the next vital step forward before investing in new applications designed to achieve the same end. This will ensure that maximum return on investment is made on already implemented applications in a shorter time while avoiding the risk of minimal yields from investment in completely new applications.
A monitoring and evaluation system in a research organization : a case of African Population and Health Research Center
(Strathmore University, 2011) Kiliswa, Matthew Shahi
The African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) has gone through rapid expansion in terms of research focus, geographical scope, budget, staff and funders over the last 10 years. As a result, it became necessary to have an automated monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system to capture, monitor, and measure results as well as the impact of the Center’s work. Furthermore, an external review on the Center’s operations done in 2009 identified the need for a better projects and results tracking system and mechanism. Therefore, the development of the system is a significant milestone in the results based management of programs at APHRC. Initially, the system was to be out-sourced. However, after an assessment of six external Project Management Systems, the Center concluded that none was context specific to her needs as a research organization. It was also going to be expensive to procure and pay annual maintenance charges for the selected system. With the support of a core team composed of the System Developer, M&E Officer, Development Manager and Head of Finance and Administration, APHRC made the decision to develop an in-house system. The modules in the new automated M&E system are informed by the logic model and metrics in the Center’s M&E framework. The seven modules include: Grants, Project Progress Tracking and Reporting, Publications, Media Appearances, Policy Engagement Events and Outcomes, Training and Institutional Support, and Alumni Tracking. Open source software such as APACHE HTTP server, PHP, MySQL and other web design scripting languages such as Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) and Java Script have been used to design the system. The system is now in use at APHRC. The system can be accessed via the center’s Intranet.
The role of flatters( outsourcing, workflow software, mobile and wireless technologies) in providing a level playing field in the banking industry in Kenya : a case study of Equity Bank
(2011) Mate, Moses G.
Globalization is shrinking the world, leveling the universal playing field, flattening our planet by abolishing hitherto unavoidable barriers of space and time. The title of Thomas Friedman’s book “The world is flat” is a metaphor for viewing the world as a level playing field in terms of commerce, where all competitors have an equal opportunity. Friedman makes use of the word ‘flatteners’ to denote the ten forces that have led to globalization. One of the flatteners he describes in his book is "The Steroids": Wireless, Voice over Internet, and file sharing. Personal digital devices like mobile phones, iPods, personal digital assistants, instant messaging, and voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). Digital, Mobile, Personal and Virtual – all analog content and processes (from entertainment to photography to word processing) can be digitized and therefore shaped, manipulated and transmitted; virtual – these processes can be done at high speed with total ease; mobile –can be done anywhere, anytime by anyone; and personal – can be done by you.The general objective of this study was to determine to what extent Equity Bank is conforming to Thomas Friedman’s flatteners and how they are impacting on its business. The study was aimed at addressing the following specific objectives: to establish which flatteners are applicable to Equity Bank with the kind of infrastructure available; to determine to what extent Equity Bank is conforming with the flatteners; to determine the impact of the flatteners on Equity Bank; and to propose a model for responding to the flatteners. The nature of the research design was a survey. Data was obtained mainly from questionnaires and interviews with the relevant managers and directors as well as from secondary sources. Analysis was done using Microsoft Excel and SPSS computer programs and output presented using appropriate visual techniques i.e. frequency distribution tables, graphs and charts. The study established that the flatteners relevant to the banking industry were workflow software, outsourcing and the steroids with the bank conforming to these flatteners to varying degrees. However, the impact of the steroids is quite apparent with the total number of transactions steadily rising in recent times. The transactions related to the steroids have been rising in recent years, while the mundane banking transactions i.e. over the counter have been reducing. A Branchless banking model with Enterprise application integration was also proposed by the study as an innovative strategy in line with the Thomas Friedman flatteners. Main recommendations from the study were in the form of further research areas in which the implementation of the branchless banking model in terms of timelines and in line with the recently released agency banking guidelines from the Central Bank of Kenya can be looked into as well as which additional functions within the bank can be outsourced so as to benefit from the same.
Sustainability Partnership Framework for e-Health Systems in the Public Health Sector: A Case of District Health Information Systems in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2011) Omwomo, Washington Okoth
This research work was designed to answer five key objectives, which together tried to explore the possibility of developing a partnership framework that brings together . key health stakeholders with common business interests/functions to support the development, implementation and sustainability of a national health information system for the public health sector. The research work adopted an exploratory based approach in which both primary and secondary data were collected using self-administered questionnaires, key informant interviews and published and unpublished data. Questionnaires were given to all participating institutions while key informant interviews were conducted with selected experts based on their experience on the subject matter. Published and unpublished data were used to expound on the emerging critical issues from questionnaires and key informant interviews. The research work established the existence of both the opportunity and willingness among key stakeholders to pull together resources, through a well-structured and viable business framework to support the development, deployment and sustainability of the national system. The country lacks the enabling environment (eHealth policy and regulatory framework); stakeholders' coordination structures are weak, duplication of efforts among development partners supporting HIS functions is rampant, and institutional and human capacity needs strengthening to support DHIS operations. Research work has identified critical success factors, and strategic roles of key stakeholders for effective use of public-private partnership. Partnership framework and its implementation plan have been developed. Implementation of the framework will result strengthened and responsive GoK leadership and coordination structures, local socio-technical capacity development and increased high-level political-business goodwill among policy makers. These are the required enabling factors to strengthen the stewardship and governance of District Health Information System for long term sustainability.
A web based model for management of research information in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2011) Kitsao, Nyanje Kadzovu
For Kenya to become a knowledge-led economy, there must be better coordination of Kenya’s multiple institutions dealing with research and development, and that Kenya must adopt a better dissemination strategy. The current method of managing research information does not adequately address research sharing, duplication of research and dissemination. The study aimed at investigated how research information is managed in Kenya and sought to identify information requirements for management of the research, identify any limitations of the current system and propose a model for management of national research. The study reviewed research management activities being undertaken by some selected countries developed and developing in Africa and across the world and found that most countries have already employed or are putting into place, measures to consolidate research information for knowledge sharing and elimination of duplication of research effort. The study found that there is a lot of research going on in Kenya. However, research information is scattered across the various institutions performing research. The research revealed there is willingness by institutions to share their research information but Poor infrastructure, none enforcement of regulations on research and lack of a central location to collect this information are major limiting factors to the access and sharing of research information. A model was proposed that can be implemented for suitably managing research information nationally. The model was proposed as a central database on a web-based platform after an analysis of the current research activities in Kenya and a review of existing models used by other countries/organizations. The Research concluded that the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST) is nationally mandated to coordinate all research operations in Kenya. It is therefore, suitably placed to host the Centralized Database and since the model proposed has a very wide range of takeholders for research information; its implementation requires NCST to vigorously create awareness of the roles it plays in coordination of research in Kenya and let stakeholders buy into the benefits likely to accrue due to shared central research resources. Regulations and procedures for any conduct of research done in Kenya should be enforced with penalties or sanctions being imposed on those that default.

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