Developing a framework for information resource sharing in information centres in electric power sub- sector in Kenya

Abstract

The Electricity Supply Sub-sector is part of the energy sector in Kenya, with the mandate to generate and supply electric energy throughout the country. It has been undergoing restructuring and reforms since the mid-90s, which has affected the operations of its information centres. Consequently, a probable lack of a formal information resource sharing program is likely to have contributed to poor information services in the sub-sector’s operations, resulting in low quality work when it comes to customer service. The aim of this study was to investigate information resource sharing activities in ESI, to identify shortcomings and to suggest strategies for their improvement that leads to development of an information resource sharing framework. Specifically, it examined information resources and services available, their access and use; it determined the forms and adequacy of information resource sharing activities; the extent of ICT use in information resource sharing; the challenges ESI experiences in information resource sharing; and finally, recommended strategies for improvement that led to developing a framework for information resource sharing activities in ESI. The study was informed by Intra-type Resource Sharing Model and the Secure Layered Model for Digital Libraries Interaction. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were used. Using the qualitative approach, the study employed exploratory method and applied purposive sampling. Nine senior staff of information centres in ESI were sampled and face-to- face interviews used to collect data from them. Under the quantitative approach, survey method was employed and it applied simple random sampling. A sample of 250 (95% confidence level and ±6 margin of error) out of 3320 target population was selected and the data collection instrument used was the questionnaire. Both thematic and descriptive statistics results were used for data analysis. The study revealed that there is availability of varied information resources and services, that access to and use of information resources is not as extensive as it should be, that there was a lack of a formal program on information resource sharing and inadequacy of informal information resource sharing activities. The study revealed that the useof ICT in information resource sharing activities is limited. It also identified challenges like inadequate resources, users’ unawareness of services available and limited networking among information centres. In conclusion, the lack of a formal information resource sharing program in ESI negatively affects information services. The recommended strategies for improvement were: establishing more information centres, automation and digitization of existing centres, enhancing policies on information resource sharing and the use of the developed framework for information resource sharing. A framework in information resource sharing which provides the structure and guidelines in establishing information resource sharing program in ESI has thus been developed and proposed for adoption in ESI. This is expected to impact positively on information services, thus improving the quality of services and products in ESI.