Information technology outsourcing and employee perceptions at Keswick books and gifts limited in Kenya

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to examine employees’ perceptions on IT outsourcing at Keswick books and gifts limited. The specific objectives of the research were to determine the level of IT outsourcing, benefits of IT outsourcing and challenges to IT outsourcing in the organization. This study adopted cross sectional survey research design. The study targeted employees of Keswick books and gifts limited. A consensus sampling technique was employed to sample respondents from the targeted population. The study used questionnaire to collect primary data. Collected data was analyzed by use of descriptive and inferential data analysis methods, this was done with aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The data was interpreted, inferences were made, and presented inform of charts, graphs and percentages. The study found out that various IT services are outsourced at Keswick books and gifts limited. The IT outsourcing practices at this firm was found to have some benefits as well as challenges. It was also revealed that employees in this organization had negative attitudes towards IT outsourcing. The inferential analysis results revealed that accounting and backup systems are the key IT services which were found to have significant relationship on employee perception. The study recommends that organizations should embrace change in conformity with changing technology and trends. The act of maintaining a proper relationship between the workers, client and vendor, should be practiced by organizations to ensure mutual trust and better communication. The study further recommends for more studies to be carried out to build on and further develop knowledge in this area