Information and supply chain performance in Uganda: A case study of National Medical Stores

Abstract

The study examined the relationship between information and supply chain performance at National Medical Stores (NMS) in Uganda. This study was based on the model of “Contextual and Performance Factors of the foundations of supply chain integration” (Vanpoucke et al 2009). It was intended to achieve three specific objectives. The first objective was to assess the relationship between information sharing and supply chain performance at NMS. The second objective was to assess the relationship between information quality and supply chain performance at NMS and the last objective was to assess the relationship between information system applications and supply chain performance at NMS. The study was a cross sectional design intended to assess how information relates to performance at NMS.A total of 119 respondents, all NMS staff of different cadres participated in the study. The study findings show a significant relationship between information and supply chain performance at NMS. The correlation results revealed a positive significant relationship between information sharing, information quality, information system application and supply chain performance at NMS. The study revealed that the order fulfilment rate was 70.73%, which is the key performance indicator of NMS. The study concluded that the current information sharing channels available at NMS had gaps which need to be reinforced through the public relations office and the nine regional NMS liaison offices. The study observed data quality gaps and recommended that the NMS regional officers in collaboration with health development partners strengthen the health facility staff in making accurate and complete orders. The study revealed MIS user knowledge gaps and recommended extensive and routine training of MIS users. The study observed MIS applications functional inabilities and therefore recommended an upgrade to new ERP system that has features to cover the current functionality gaps, which include, web based ordering and fleet monitoring among others. Future studies to explore contract execution and information flow efficiency