Exploring the challenges and adoption dynamics of e-procurement in private organizations in Singida, Tanzania: A survey-based analysis

Abstract

The study explored the challenges and adoption dynamics of E-procurement in private organizations, a case of the Singida Region. The study targeted hospitals, schools, shops (retail and wholesale), hardware shops, garages, hotels, restaurants, and petrol stations around Singida. Primarily, the study investigated challenges in using E-procurement and factors affecting the adoption of E-procurement among retail and wholesale companies in Singida. Ultimately, it aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice by offering actionable recommendations for maximizing the benefits of E-procurement in private organizations. A cross-sectional survey design was used, and a total of 50 privately owned organizations were selected, along with a sample of 50 respondents (using a judgmental sampling technique), one member from each organization. The investigation through descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient, and multiple regression analysis with a p-value of 0.05 uncovered that the uptake of E-procurement in Singida has been slow and confined. A combination of cost and financial constraints, political factors, and software network availability contributed to this predicament. To tackle these obstacles and advance electronic procurement in Tanzania, the investigation recommends diverse strategies like training and support, a user-friendly interface, integration with existing systems, and vendor collaboration as key factors in making E-procurement easier to use. On the other hand, there is more contention regarding strategies like creating a standard policy and regular communication on the patterns of procurement processes.