The case of the Proquote System for Supply Chain Management at the North West Provincial Department of Public Works and Roads

Abstract

The use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) is radically changing the way in which jobs are undertaken. Governments worldwide are embracing technology in their operations, for the motive of improving efficiency and effectiveness. Technology has a profound impact in making operations much quicker and it reduces human interaction, which is typically the point where corruption is possible. In this case technology tools and systems are adopted and used in public procurement operations of many governments, including South Africa. ICT tools are adopted and used with the aim of reducing the corruption challenges which are normally associated with public procurement processes, among others. It is in this light that the research sought to study the effectiveness and efficiency of the adoption of the Proquote System used by the North West Provincial Department of Public Works and Roads. The research sought to understand the contribution and impact of ICT tools in Supply Chain Management in the context of South Africa's public procurement process.