Challenges facing the ministry of finance in the adoption of automated financial systems

Abstract

This study is an assessment of the challenges faced in the adoption of Automated Financial Systems (AFS) such as Integrated Financial Management Information Systems (IFMIS) where the ministry of finance is taken as a case study. These challenges originate from the difficulties inherent in the management of any change process. Though the Government of Kenya has realized the importance of AFS towards efficient and effective service delivery and though several studies and consultative workshops have been carried out in an effort to prepare a road map for introduction and implementation of these AFS applications, there has been numerous challenges. These challenges include, resistance to change, institutional challenges, political challenges, technical challenges and human resource and capacity requirements. This study aimed at determining the extent of challenges facing the ministry of finance in the adoption of Automated Financial Systems (AFS). This study adopted a descriptive case study design and it focused on specific ministry, the Ministry of Finance. However, the researcher collected data from twelve key persons from three departments and these include accountant general, procurement and government information technology. A descriptive case study enabled an in-depth understanding of the phenomena. An interview guide was used for data collection and the data was analyzed by use of descriptive and inferential statistics. It was then be presented using graphs and charts.