JPAS (Journal of Public Administration Studies)

Perceptions of Human Resource Practitioners on the Value of Electronic Human Resource Management: The Case of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality

Kingwell Chirwa, Mr Gwala — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Using the perspectives of human resource practitioners, this study sought to determine whether the implementation of the e-HRM in the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality increased the efficiency of the human resource practices. Manual human resource practices may be time consuming, error prone, and difficult to measure. They are further associated with time-consuming data management and analysis due to paper-based systems and spreadsheets. e-HRM enables businesses to increase organizational efficiency while saving time and effort by automating human resource procedures. The study was conducted within the theoretical lens of the Technology Acceptance Theory (TAT) which analyses the adoption factors, including external influences like COVID-19 and unique challenges like load shedding. The study applied a qualitative exploratory research design to acquire rich and descriptive information about the perceptions of human resource practitioners concerning the introduction of e-HRM. The intention of the study was not to generalise the findings to the study population. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from fifteen (15) research respondents. The study shows that human resource practitioners have a positive attitude towards the introduction of the e-HRM. In addition, E-HRM has been credited with improving the operational efficiency of human resources. The introduction of a recruitment portal has enabled the municipality to better meet the deadline for filling posts within the three months period. In addition, the municipality was able to reduce the costs associated with employee trainings by utilizing online training programs. Additionally, other respondents expressed skepticism regarding the introduction of e-HRM in the municipality. The respondents believed that the use of e-HRM would result in the loss of jobs in the long run. It is evident from the perceptions of the human resource practitioners that technological tools such as e-HRM can be used by public servants to significantly enhance human resource functions.

Examining the Contribution of Hybridity and Co-Production towards Enhancing the Delivery of Potable Water in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

Impi Kuhlengisa, Uchenna Omoruyi, Nqobile Sikhosana — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The purpose of this study is to examine the extent to which hybridity and coproduction have been adopted and implemented in local governments` quest to provide portable water services in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. To achieve the study objectives, we used a qualitative research approach, a case study design where the Eastern Cape Province was used as a case. In addition, data was collected using expansive literature, and thematic analysis was utilized to analyze data. The study revealed that the implementation of hybridity and coproduction mechanisms in the province have remained marginal. These mechanisms are multiple-use water services (MUS), public-private partnerships (PPPs), and water schemes. Despite these hybridity and coproduction mechanisms' existence, potable water delivery has not improved due to many challenges, including the top-down approach to water delivery, resistance to sharing power and resources, lack of coordination across departments and community skepticism towards the government. We recommend adopting a decentralised approach, enhancing coordination across departments, building community trust and capacity and incentivising innovative solutions from the private sector. Its critical examination of existing hybridity and coproduction mechanisms, revealing their inadequacies while proposing actionable strategies that integrate community engagement and decentralised management to enhance potable water service delivery thereby advancing both practical solutions and theoretical insights within the body of knowledge on coproduction.

Effects of Internal Control Mechanisms on Operational Efficiency of State-Owned Enterprises: Evidence from Malawi

Chisomo Kanyongo, Andrew Munthopa Lipunga — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Internal controls are crucial in ensuring the efficient utilization of resources to accomplish organizational objectives. When implemented effectively, they enhance operational efficiency. In the case of public institutions, operational efficiency is critical given that these entities deliver services paid by taxpayers and whose interest revolves around resource optimization. The study investigates the effect of internal control mechanisms on the operational efficiency of State-owned Enterprises (SOEs) in Malawi. A cross-sectional survey design was employed. Data was collected through a questionnaire and was analyzed using the least squares multiple regression model. The results showed that control environment and information and communication have significant positive effects on operational efficiency. On the other hand, although control activities and monitoring and evaluation positively influenced operational efficiency, their relationships were not statistically significant. Similarly, although risk assessment negatively influences operational efficiency, the relationship was not statistically significant. The results demonstrate the importance of a supportive environment and effective information sharing in enhancing operational efficiency in SOEs.