The impact of a geographic information system on organisational performance: The case of Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of a Geographic Information System on organisational performance of ZETDC. It was guided by four objectives which sought to determine the impact of GIS on ZETDC’s asset management; investigate the way ZETDC’s GIS system affect revenue assurance; establish the impact of GIS on efficient resolution of faults as well as to establish the impact of ZETDC’s geographic information system on network planning function. To accomplish this theoretical and empirical literature was reviewed as well as analysis of models and frameworks that have been previously introduced in prior studies. In particular, issues to do with application of Geographic Information Systems and their impact on organisation operational performance were explored. Furthermore, gaps in previous researches in the subject area were identified. In terms of methodology this study adopted the positivist philosophy by relying on empirical data to test the relationships between the independent and dependent variable. In this case the relationship tested was between the geographic Information System (independent variable) and organisational performance (dependent variable). Questionnaires were distributed to staff and management of ZETDC Harare branches using Google. Furthermore, primary data obtained through questionnaires was analysed and the data was presented using bar charts and pie charts with brief discussions proffered to explain each graph. Inferential tests in the form of correlation tests and regression analysis were undertaken and its statistics were used to test the above mentioned hypotheses. The analysis and discussion of results from the descriptive and inferential statistics led to the study reaching the conclusion that although currently the adoption of GIS has had an average impact on ZETDC’s organisational performance; if the level of GIS adoption is enhanced statistically it has an effect of significantly improving asset management, resolution of faults, revenue protection and network planning function by ZETDC. Hence to improve impact of a Geographic Information System on organisational performance at ZETDC the study recommends the development of GIS functional models, user training, provision of adequate resources, formulation of the GIS policy as well as review of the organisation structure to create a dedicated GIS team.