Assessment of Factors of Institutional Information Systems which Facilitate Adoption of Institutional Repositories: case of four universities in Tanzania

The main objective of this study was to assess factors of institutional information systems that facilitate adoption of institutional repositories in four universities namely; Open University of Tanzania, Sokoine University of Agriculture, University of Dodoma and University of Dar es Salaam. Conceptual framework variables of the study were derived from relevant empirical literature, and information systems theories and models. Three specific objectives were set to identify components of institutional information systems which facilitate adoption of institutional repository, determine how components of the institutional information systems affect adoption of institutional repository and evaluate prospects and challenges of institutional information systems in relation to adoption of institutional repository. This qualitative study used triangulation methodology whereby longitudinal approach and four methods of data collection were applied. Direct observation method was used at the research field to observe information systems physical components such as people, infrastructures, ICT hardware and software, procedures of conducting organizational business, databases and applied technologies. Documentary review was done to examine available institutional documents. Semi-structured interview was conducted to key staff informants and questionnaire was supplied to postgraduate students and staff members in all four universities. Finally, thematic analysis was done and the findings indicated that; there are inadequate information systems’ components, adoption of institutional repositories still face several challenges and prospects which were indicated by visibility and enhanced trends in improvements in adoption of the institutional repositories and thus, key stakeholders were recommended to get fully involved by playing their parts fully so as to improve the status quo.