The effect of information technology governance on successful project management in public agencies: A case of Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA)

Abstract

The study examined the effect of Information Technology (IT) governance on successful project management at Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA). This study was guided by the IT governance framework but also looked at the project management theory. The study was cross-sectional and was conducted at Tanzania Ports Authority. The population of the study was workers and leaders of the Tanzania Ports Authority. The sample size of the study was 95 respondents who were found randomly and purposively. Primary data were collected using questionnaires and interviews. Data analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and thematic analysis. The findings showed that IT governance practices are aligned with strategic objectives; however, financial and human resources are not allocated to IT projects based on their strategic importance. The study also found that risk management mechanisms in IT projects at Tanzania Ports Authority are effective. It was also found that organizational silos, risk-averse culture, insufficient funding, and digital skills gaps are some of the challenges facing TPA in implementing IT governance frameworks. Therefore, it is recommended that TPA should adopt a structured approach to allocate financial and human resources based on the strategic value of IT projects. It is also recommended that a dedicated IT budgeting process should be established to ensure that high-priority IT projects receive adequate funding. It is recommended that TPA should strengthen its cybersecurity framework by implementing advanced security protocols, regular vulnerability assessments, and employee cybersecurity awareness programs to address emerging threats.