Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the implementation of the ARIS
pro gramme at Moi University as an organization response to technological
change. This was achieved through the following objectives; To establish:
1. the extent to which the expected users (specifically administrative
assistants) had been sensitized about the new innovation,
2. the extent to which the end-users had been trained and prepared for
change, and
3. the compatibility of the innovation and the users I attitude towards the
innovation.
The study was guided buy Gross et..al (1971) theory on factors of implementation as its conceptual framework.
A survey research design was adopted to facilitate the sampling of 22 Administrative assistants at Moi University who constituted the sample
group. Two members of the technical staff were further purposively sampled
to participate in the study. Questionnaires were developed and used to collect
data from the administrative assistants while an interview schedule was used
for technical staff respondents.
The study found out that, though sensitivity on the ARIS programme had
fairly been done, there was need for a more focused and systematic awareness
programme to clearly elaborate on the need and the objectives of the
innovation.Training of the expected users also required to be intensified SU1Ce
only (50%)had attended training programmes on ARIS application. All respondents were found to be enthusiastic to take lessons on the application. Then-attitudes was established as very positive and then- expectations of the
innovation were high. There was, however, need for enhanced top
management support.
The creation of awareness programmes, seminars, provision of user manuals
and help screens, participatory approach, and enhanced top management
support were among recommendations made. The high level of positive
attitude was rated a valuable asset which the implementers would take
advantage of to launch a successful implementation of the innovation, It was
also imperative that a change agent be introduced basing on the principles of
organizational development to hasten and direct the implementation process.
