Optimising ICT infrastructure performance in developing countries: Kenyan viewpoint

The aim of this study was to ascertain how the delivery of information communication technology (ICT) projects in Kenya can be optimised. As established from the reviewed literature, it is not possible to realise benefits and ascertain a meaningful set of ICT infrastructure indicators without knowing what form and level of performance is required and valued by stakeholders. It was for this reason that the researchers set out to establish how the amalgamation of stakeholders, performance and benefits realisation can be attained. A purposive sampling strategy targeting ICT policy makers, project directors, engineers and project planners in various ICT projects was used. A total of 500 questionnaires were distributed to participants, and 286 usable questionnaires were received from respondents. Data was analysed through descriptive statistical tests supplemented with t-tests to compare means. The findings of the study suggest that ICT performance be measured against the achievement of stakeholder integration and realisation of benefits. Commitment to project objectives, competence of key stakeholders, alignment of stakeholder skills, understanding of core project processes and addressing stakeholder needs and expectations were found to be key to stakeholder integration. Through theory elaboration, we have structured the sequence relations of project management constructs that could be used to assess and optimise the delivery of ICT infrastructure projects.

Automated summary

The study found that stakeholder integration is crucial for achieving project performance and benefits realization in ICT projects in Kenya. Key factors for stakeholder integration include commitment to project objectives, competence of key stakeholders, alignment of stakeholder skills, and addressing stakeholder needs and expectations. Through theory elaboration, the study structured a sequence of project management constructs that could be used to assess and optimize the delivery of ICT infrastructure projects.