ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL AS AN EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT TOOL IN THE STATE OWNED UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN GHANA

Performance appraisal is viewed as a distinct and formal management procedure used in the evaluation of work performance. There has been considerable growth and interest in the process in recent years as a result of the fact that it is considered as one of the most important requirements for a successful business and human resource development. Productivity is very important in every organization. This is because it is only with high level of productivity that an organiz an be achieved. Organizational productivity depends largely on the interplay of certain factors namely, capital, technology and human resource. This study discusses the impact of performance appraisal on librarians in six state owned university libraries in Ghana. In particular, it explains the concept of performance appraisal, methods used in appraising employees and how far it is being implemented in the state owned university libraries in the country. The challenges facing these institutions in implementing effective performance appraisal strategy are highlighted. Appropriate recommendations and solutions to the problems identified are suggested to ensuring quality service delivery.

Source: KNUST
Performance appraisal as employee motivation mechanism in financial institutions in Ghana: a study of employees of selected financial institutions in Kumasi

The performance appraisal system (PAS) has been viewed by academics and human resource practitioners as an effective tool for human resource management. Yet effective PAS remains a practical challenge to managers and employees because of cognitive, motivational and behavioural factors. In Ghana, empirical evidence indicates that PAS began in the mid-1990s as annual confidential reports in public organisations but it took a top-down approach which did not pass the test of employee motivation. A review of recent studies also showed that employees in some financial institutions viewed PAS as discriminatory, punitive and judgemental where bias and cronyism replaced objectivity. These reports make one wonder what appraisal approaches were used and the level of employee involvement in the appraisal process especially in financial institutions. Would participatory approaches engender perception of fairness and satisfaction with appraisal process and outcome? And would participatory approaches pass the test of employee motivation and increase productivity? To find answers to these questions, a social survey was conducted among employees of six financial institutions in the Kumasi Metropolis. The institutions were sampled based on convenience and proximity while the employees were sampled using the proportionate random sampling technique. A survey questionnaire was administered among both managerial and subordinate staff. The data gathered were analysed quantitatively using both descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The descriptive statistical tools used included frequency tables, pie charts, bar charts and percentages which permitted comparison of responses. The inferential statistical tools used involved scatter plots and correlation tables which permitted tests of relationship between variables. The findings of the study revealed that employee participation in the appraisal process was generally high and this increased satisfaction and fairness with both appraisal process and outcome. It also increased employee motivation to perform. The findings again indicated that manager/subordinate interaction was very cordial and this also boosted employee motivation. Furthermore, whereas managers mostly used appraisal for rewards administration such as promotion, pay increase, and bonuses; majority of employees preferred appraisal to be used for training and development. Finally, it was found out that the performance appraisal system in financial institutions in Ghana was effective in promoting employee motivation and productivity.

Source: KNUST
Performance appraisal of Garden City Savings & Loans Ltd and First allied Savings & Loans Ltd in Kumasi

Despite the increasing number of financial institutions, relative macro-economic stability, liberal financial policies, majority of people in the informal sector, who engage in micro and medium scale vocations continue to crave for effective, reliable, efficient and affordable financial services deliveries. Most formal financial institutions had tended to lend financial services to the rich and affluent in society who use these facilities for expansion and growth of their businesses at the neglect of the majority poorest of poor. It is in line with these developments that microfinance has been recognized as an anti-poverty tool and a wise investment in human capital that the world had resolved to reduce by half, by the year 2015; as the number of people (1.2 billion) live on less than a dollar a day in this world (Annan, 2002). Ghana is no exclusion of this developmental drive. For it had been recognized that microfinance operations rely upon the existence of an enabling environment made up of efficient and adequate infrastructure, sound macro-economic environment and financial stability, as well as greater involvement of civil society. Besides, strategic words banking leadership today are thorough knowledge of socio-economic profiles of target and potential customers driven products and relationship approach to services delivery (Andah, 2005). Again, in response to fast and dynamic changes in the financial sector more MFIs have expanded their clientele catchments’ areas with periodic opening and management of branches of operations. The aim is to keep a competitive pace with their counterparts in the formal banking sector, for profitability, growth and survival. Yet, existence of Micro Finance Institutions have been constrained with pertinent challenges such as stringent institutional and regulatory frameworks, teething credit and savings mobilization setbacks affecting consumers demand on services/products offered, among others. Premised on the above, MFIs need much attention if they are to perform their pivotal role in reducing poverty in Ghana, which is in line with the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of halving poverty by the year 2015. These developments prompted the author to undertake this research study that sought, obtained and analyzed data and information throughout the study and proposed some recommendations that would help MFIs to restructure their activities in order to serve relatively better, compete favourably and to remain vibrant. For the private sector to be accomplished as the engine of growth and development, the recognition and implementation of microfinance policies cannot be overemphasized.

Source: KNUST
The performance assessment of Agricultural Development Bank of Ghana in the Kumasi Metropolis

The research was designed to assess the performance of the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB). A bank set up by the CPP (Convention People's Party) with aft act of Parliament (Act 268) in 1965 to promote and modernise the agricultural sector through appropriate but profitable financial intermediation. It further throws light on the purpose for which the bank was established, the activities undertaken by the bank, $nd the contribution of the bank to the economy of Ghana and the factors that influence the performance of the bank. The study was conducted to determine whether the performance of the bank meets the expectations of its customers^ and to find out whether ADB should be sold out as some sections of Ghanaians proclaim. In view of this, the following findings came to light: The performance of the bank has improved over the years under review (2004 -2007). The resource mobilisation and asset growth had maintained its composure. The bank had networked all the fifty branches in Ghana. The bank continued its support to the agricultural sectors of the economy by offering credit facilities and sponsoring National Best Farmers' Award. There was a good customer relation which promotes free interaction. It has improved and expanded its services and facilities. There is an introduction of ATM and opening of more branches. The workers' socio-economic background such as; education, experience, salary, and allowances influence the performance of the bank. It was concluded that the bank should not be sold out because the customers were satisfied with its performance. However the following recommendations were made; Provision of education to customers, Expansion of facilities, Extension of social responsibility, Quick service delivery, Technological advancement.

Source: KNUST
Performance assessment of micro-financing in First Allied Savings & Loans Limited (FASL)

Micro-finance as an economic development tool has evolved as an approach to benefit low income sector in both rural and urban centres. It refers to the provision of financial and sometimes social intermediation services to the low-income clients. Suppliers of micro-finance can be as formal, semi-formal and informal financial institution depending upon the form of regulation. The formal financial institution (Banks and Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs) are regulated and supervised by the Bank of Ghana defined from the PNDC Law 225 and PNDC Law 328 for banks and NBFIs respectively. The general objective of this work was to review the performance of First Allied Savings & Loans Limited (FASL) as micro finance institution and its ability at promoting a more facilitating environment with regards to the development of micro, small and medium term enterprises in Ghana. Further recommendations were made to correct various impediments of micro-finance institutions so as to enhance the growth of poverty alleviation in Ghana. The framework governing the micro-finance industry to ensure that the Micro Finance Institutions have sound portfolio performance, low delinquency ratios, high diversification to reduce risk, ensure safety of deposits and low liquidity risk have been reviewed. The performance of FASL since its establishment such as detail financial performance, deposit mobilization analysis, portfolio quality description and social economic impact assessment in terms of contribution to employment, social responsibility contributions as well as an extensive description and detail analysis of FASL as an institution, its operational and the staffing position have been assessed and clearly explained.

Source: KNUST
Performance assessment of microfinance institutions in the Ashaiman Municipality

The object of this study is to identify the microfinance institutions operating in the Ashaiman municipality, measure their performance through the use of indicators such as Portfolio Quality, Financial Performance based on their audited accounts to determine return on Equity, Investment, Debt/Equity Ratio, and Return on Assets.For efficient collection of the relevant information, a sample size was selected from the entire population. Asimple questionnaire was developed and administered among the sample. Inaddition to the administering of the questionnaire, there were interviews with key managers of the Rural Banks, Savings and Loans and Credit Unions. Through the study, it was observed that customers that obtained loans from the Savings and loans company were more than the Rural Bank and the Credit Union, even though their cost of borrowing (from the Savings and Loans) is higher. It was also found that Credit Union have very low recovery rate.It is recommended that since most customers prefer accessing loans from the Savings and Loans, the management of the Savings and Loans reduce their interest rates in order not to ‘kill’ the smaller businesses since their profit is not so high.

Source: KNUST
Performance assessment of procurement practices of the Suntreso Government Hospital, Kumasi

Section 91 (1) (2) (3) of Act 663 which stipulated that there should be a regular procurement audit to assess procurement performance, monitoring and evaluation necessitated the need for this study. This study sought to assess the performance of procurement practices of the Suntreso government hospital and to determine the extent to which the Hospital followed the requirement of (PPA 2003, Act 663) in the planning, execution and monitoring of procurement operations. The study also sought to analyze the challenges the Hospital encountered in performing procurement practices in the management of procurement operation. Face to face interview was used in collecting data for this study because of its ability to provide very rich meaningful information. The main research instrument used was the Semi-structured, face to face interviews. The researcher also made use of a census in the survey. The study revealed that National Competitive Tendering and price Quotation were the mostly used method procurement methods in the operations of the Suntreso Government Hospital. The study again revealed that the use of ICT in their procurement operations was very low because no specialized procurement software was available hence almost all their procurement activities were done manually. The study further revealed that the entity encountered in its operations Difficulty in obtaining funds, Lack of understanding of the procurement Act on the part of the local suppliers, Cost Overrun, Interference from top hierarchy and inadequate qualified personnel. It was therefore recommended that procurement entity should further collaborate with the public procurement Authority and the Zonal office in Kumasi, address the challenges and effective monitoring and evaluation of procurement activities in the entity as well as applying sanctions to punish conflict of interest and interference from top management to improve its performance.

Source: KNUST
Performance assessment of small and medium scale enterprises (SMES) in the construction and mining industries in the Ashanti region.

The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of selected small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) in the construction and mining industry (CMI) in Ashanti Region. The study measured the financial and non-financial dimensions of SMEs within the construction and mining industry. The study identified factors that influenced the choice and investments into construction and mining equipment by SMEs. The measure of SME performance in this study was limited to their financial and non-finical capacities. The financial capacity looked at profitability and project outputs of SMEs. The non-financial capacity includes firm governance and administration, firm management, project management, human resource management, equipment selection and maintenance culture (fleet size, type of equipment). The study adopted the mixed research design in answering the research questions. Simple random and purposive samplings were used. Although the study was designed to collect data from 184 respondents, the results of the study were based on the analyses of data from 156 survey respondents. The study found that majority of the SMEs sampled did not have professional financial managers and do not prepare financial statements. However, 97% of the respondents have their SMEs keep records of expenses and receipts as well as their assets. Majority of the respondents (71%) consider factors of manufacturer or price as the basis for their equipment selection. Challenges within the SME sector include inadequate financing, unprofessional employees, management shortfall of SMEs compared to the larger and multinational counterparts, financial mismanagement and the inability to access credit facilities among others. The study generally concludes that the performance of small and medium scale enterprises in the construction and mining industry is mixed on the indicators assessed.

Source: KNUST
Performance assessment of Tetteh Quarshie interchange using computer simulation

Interchanges on urban arterials have in recent years become an essential intervention for most of the shortcomings associated with at-grade intersections. However the absence of the knowledge of their real operations can pose a serious set-back after the infrastructure has been built. Interchanges are crucial structures in the operations and performance of an intersection in any traffic system. Analysis of the probable or potential performance of interchanges is essential to avoiding the construction of a structure that would not perform after being built or contribute to the problem it was intended to address. In the advent of modern computers traffic simulation models have been widely used in both transportation operations and traffic analysis because simulation is safe, less expensive and faster than field implementation and testing. The need for micro-simulation has become more important in cities where rapid growth takes place such as Accra which has about fifteen interchanges/overpasses and still counting. Therefore, the need for calibrating simulation models to local situations is urgent to assess the performance of interchanges and also project the performance in the future. The main objective of this research is to calibrate a micro-simulation models to assess the performance of Tetteh Quarshie Interchange.

Source: KNUST
Performance assessment of the SMEC’S bituminous road surface dressing technology in Ghana

Exclusive performance assessment of the SMEC’S Bituminous Surface Dressing Technology has not been conducted since the implementation in 1998. Field observations have indicated eight (8) measures of performance related to bituminous surface dressing in Ghana. These are (1) General structural condition, (2) Raveling, (3) Bleeding, (4) Excess chipping, (5) Joint condition, (6) potholes, (7) streaking, and (8) Surface uniformity. Thirty-eight performance influencing factors were identified in four (4) literary works and were used to explain the performance of the SMEC’s technology. The primary objective of this study was to assess the performance of the SMEC’s Bituminous Surface Dressing Technology which has been in use in Ghana since 1998. A road condition survey was undertaken by road engineers to identify and rate the eight identified measures of performance on twenty-four test sections in three randomly selected political regions namely Volta, Eastern and Ashanti. Test sections selected were four years old however, the terrain were slightly different. Evidence of potholes, lack of surface uniformity, raveling, and streaking were detected. Potholes were identified on almost all the test sections however the severity levels were low. Lack of surface uniformity was detected on most of the test sections. Raveling and streaking were also evident. Expertise of crew, Experience of contractor on similar projects, Average Least Dimension and Condition of plant were found to have influenced the performance. The research found out that generally, the performance of the SMEC technology was good. Nevertheless there were areas that require attention. The following recommendations were made for the consideration of Ghana Highway Authority: (i) There should be training and retraining of staff of contractors and the road agencies (ii) Bituminous dressing contracts should be separated from general road contracts to enable contractors specialize (iii) Quarries should be assisted to upgrade their equipment for better and sufficient products (iv) Contractor’s equipment should be inspected and calibrated periodically to ensure compliance with specification. (v) There should be the creation of Performance Monitoring Data Base for all bituminous roads in Ghana.

Source: KNUST
Performance based financing, local government revenue and district assembly performance in Ghana: the case of MMDAs in Ashanti Region

Decentralization is motivated to be the better way of allocating resources more effectively and efficiently because local governments have better information about the needs for and requirements of public goods in their jurisdictions. It is because local governments have a high degree of autonomy and use their discretion when it comes to resource allocation. The level of autonomy and discretion in resource allocation only rest on the local governments’ ability to generate its own local revenue (IGF) even though the budgets of local governments are dominated by external transfers/grants from the central government that are mostly tied to a specific expenditure item that may not match the priorities of the local government. A Performance Based Grant System (PBGS) called District Development Facility (DDF) under the Functional Organizational Assessment Tool (FOAT) was introduced into the local government system of Ghana where access to additional development funds is linked to an annual performance assessment under FOAT in 2008.Using local governments’ public finances (both revenue and expenditure form different sources) from the period 2011 to 2014 panel data of 30 MMDAs in the Ashanti region of Ghana and other local governments’ specific characteristics, this research work estimated the effect of District Development Facility on local governments’ own revenue generation (also called IGF)and further examined the effect of District Development Facility on MMDAs’ performance in terms of FOAT assessment. Estimated results show that, DDF was significantly and negatively associated with local governments’ own revenue generation which implies that DDF transfers/grants to MMDAs appeared to discourage rather than encourage local revenue generation or IGF. Also, evidence suggests that DDF transfers to MMDAs are likely to reduce MMDAs’ performance score. It is therefore recommended that, the Capacity Building grant component of the facility be used to revalue all landed and immovable properties of all MMDAs in to the country to aid in the collection of property tax.

Source: KNUST
Performance challenges facing employees of the national health insurance scheme: a case study of four schemes in Brong Ahafo region

In recent times there have been strong interests of politicians, technocrats and academics in the staff performance issue of NHIS. This has raised a lot of questions about the capabilities and suitability of some staff in managing the day to day operations and challenges of this fast-growing national programme. The main objective of this research was to find out and analyse human resources management challenges facing the employees of the scheme. The study is comprised of a typical descriptive and cross-sectional survey with both qualitative and quantitative components. The sample selection criterion was purposive and judgmental in nature. Sixty respondents were selected from the four schemes for the study. The main instruments designed for the study are a self-administered questionnaire and interview guide. The study revealed that refusal to perform the assigned duty and performing below the agreed standard are the main performance gaps identified in the selected four schemes. It was realised that tracking progress against organisational goal, identifying opportunities for further improvement, comparing performance with both internal and external standard and identifying where the strength and weakness of organisation are a way of identifying and filling performance gaps within the four schemes used for the study. Furthermore, further education and training, which include in-service training, on the job training and workshops as well as seminars are possible ways to overcome performance challenges of NHIS employees.

Source: KNUST