An Analysis of IT-Enabled Change in a Public Organization in Tanzania

The implementation of information technology (IT) is always associated with a series of complex organizational change issues. In developing countries, these issues are even more complex because the IT infrastructure, technology and governance are still poorer and information systems development and associated resources are less established. Therefore in our research paper we have analyzed the IT-enabled change in Tanzania Revenue Authority, a public organization in Tanzania by applying Ward and Elvin framework. Using this framework, we have analyzed the changes from almost paper to computerized-based business operations and how such changes affected the performance of the organization. The results indicate that, although there is some problems related to the maturity of technology deployment in the country and scarcity of resources, the IT-enabled change (that takes into account both technology and organizational issues) is likely to meet the organizational change objectives. Based upon the results arrived from use of the Ward and Elvin framework, we have summarized six main success factors that are worth noting for replication to other similar IT-enabled changes or research programs including the ones focusing to developing countries. It includes involvement and commitment of senior/top management; engagement of the key stakeholders; alignment of IT and business; identifying and developing necessary skills, competence and motivation; institutionalization of the change process; and incorporation of the learning process for adjustment and future intervention. Finally in conclusion, we could notice that the alignment of IT with business is the backbone of any meaningful IT-enabled change process and is illustrated by use of a benefit dependency network schema.