A Project Governance Model for the Provincial Broadband Project : the Case of the Eastern Cape Province

Abstract

This study focused on institutional arrangements to facilitate the design of a project governance model for the implementation of the Provincial Broadband Project in the Eastern Cape Province (henceforth the Broadband Project). This project was contextualised within the National Broadband Policy, the Eastern Cape Broadband Master Plan, and other statutory policy frameworks related to information technology applications in the South African Government. Even though provincial policymakers have been keenly aware of the Internet’s increasing economic importance, there is no clear and precise methodology for governing the Broadband Project. Therefore, the primary objective of the study was to develop a project governance model for the Provincial Broadband Project in the Eastern Cape Province. The literature review focused on the conceptualisation of projects and project management principles as well as on how projects influence organisational change and act as instruments of effective resource utilisation. The literature review also analysed theoretical perspectives of project-based organisations, including the role of associated organisational arrangements such as a project management office (PMO). Finally, project governance was conceptualised and contextualised, including its typical principles, scope, structures, and frameworks. The theoretical framework of the study further explored the application of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in the South African Government and focused on the existing strategic statutory and regulatory frameworks in South Africa that govern ICT initiatives, such as e-Governance (or electronic Governance) and the Broadband Project. For this purpose, 52 participants were selected, comprising 12 accounting officers from strategic departments in the province, 10 Provincial Broadband Steering Committee members, 15 Provincial ICT Working Group members, nine district municipalities, four provincial tertiary institutions, and the two metropolitan municipalities in the province. Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews, telephone interviews, and e-mail communication were utilised to obtain data regarding perceived challenges associated with the governance of the Broadband Project. The conclusions drawn from this empirical investigation are solely based on the interpretation of literature and data collected from the participants. This enabled the researcher to design a comprehensive project governance model developed for the successful implementation of the Provincial Broadband Project in the Eastern Cape. Lastly, recommendations for further research were outlined to guide the design of similar governance models for government projects.