EFFECT OF INFORMATION SYSTEM USER SKILL AMONG STAFF MEMBERS AND IS INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF UNIVERSITIES IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the effects of information system user skills and IS infrastructure on performance of universities in Nairobi County, Kenya.

Methodology: The study assumed a descriptive research design because it facilitated the gathering of quantifiable information that was used for statistical inference on the target group.

Results: Information system user skill among staff members had significant influence on the performance of universities with frequent use of IS strongly relating; this was followed by proficiency in Microsoft office applications and ease of IS use among staff members. The results also showed that there was significance relationship between Information system infrastructure and the performance of universities.

Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: User skills remain a critical component towards adoption of IS, it is therefore recommended that IS continuous user training is entrenched within the user framework so as to increase IS up-take and enhance efficiency in its execution. This can be realized through collaborative engagements between the human resource and ICT teams in the respective universities in rolling out capacity building programs which are tailor made to meet and address specific ICT user needs. The state of IS infrastructure is pivotal in ensuring that IS services and products are relayed and availed to the user with requisite reliability and availability. It is therefore incumbent upon universities to ensure that there is a continuous improvement program on the IS infrastructure. Specific is the need to facilitate and realize computer access to all staff members; this coupled with a reliable connectivity increases user confidence levels in their interactions and use of IS solutions.