The Adoption of Electronic Procurement and Readiness Assessment in Central Ethiopia Regional State
Hanna Moges Dereje1, Getnet Assefa Habete2
1Hanna Moges Dereje, Department of Construction Technology and Management, College of Engineering and Technology, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia.
2Getnet Assefa Habete, Department of Information Systems, College of Engineering and Technology, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia.
Manuscript received on 02 May 2024 | Revised Manuscript received on 10 May 2024 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 June 2024 | Manuscript published on 30 June 2024 | PP: 32-44 | Volume-13 Issue-5, June 2024 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijeat.E446713050624 | DOI: 10.35940/ijeat.E4467.13050624
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© The Authors. Blue Eyes Intelligence Engineering and Sciences Publication (BEIESP). This is an open access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: Electronic procurement is a digitalized means of procurement processes. This study aims to assess its applicability in the Central Ethiopia regional state by examining the hindrance factors and the opportunities that can arise for the region’s construction sector. A descriptive and explorative study approach has been performed. Qualitative data were collected from public procurement administrators, IT professionals, and construction stakeholders through interviews. Neither P nor eGP has been introduced to the region yet. Additionally, factors such as the knowledge gap, lack of infrastructure provisions, and the fear of losing competitiveness were probable hindrances to its use. On the other hand, resource-saving, increasing transparency, and improving the accuracy of bid evaluation were identified as the main probable opportunities. Incorporating practitioners and combining system development with an adaptability test can provide helpful input for further development. Timely support from the federal government, capacity-building programs, facility and infrastructure development, and government enforcement mechanisms were identified as necessary to implement the e-P system for the construction sector. This research is the first study in the area on this topic, and it is also a relatively new area of interest in the country as a whole. Hence, in a way, it introduced the system for public construction procurement in the region and among stakeholders. The findings serve as a valuable source for the public body to launch the eGP Ethiopia in the area and as a lead for private developers. Additionally, it embodies the multidisciplinary nature of the research by incorporating IT professionals.
Keywords: Construction Sector, e-procurement, Region, Procurement
Scope of the Article: Civil Engineering and Applications