Factors Influencing Implementation of Integrated Financial Management Information Systems in Kenya: A Survey of Departments under the Ministry of Devolution and Planning

Abstract

Over the last few years, there has been increased determination among governments of both developed and developing countries to enhance the quality of public financial management. To address various challenges encountered in public financial management in Kenya, the government has initiated use of the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) in its ministries and departments, at the national level and also at the devolved government units (county governments). However, the implementation of the IFMIS system has been reported as unsatisfactory. This study sought to investigate the factors influencing implementation of Integrated Financial Management Information Systems in Kenya; a survey of Departments under the Ministry of Devolution and Planning. Specifically, the study sought to determine the influence of top management commitment, information technology infrastructure, staff capacity and change management on the implementation of Integrated Financial Management Information Systems. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional research design. The target population of the study was 260 staffs. The study employed stratified and simple random sampling techniques to select a sample size of 155 respondents. The study findings revealed that top management commitment, information technology infrastructure, staff capacity and change management played a significant role in facilitating effective implementation of IFMIS in the Ministry of Devolution and Planning in Kenya. The study recommended that the top management in the Ministry should actively participate in the implementation of IFMIS through provision of required resources and helping align the application of IFMIS to the Ministry’s broader strategies and policies.