The use of information and communication technology (ICT) in the public sector
has brought much transformation. Governments worldwide have adopted the use
of ICT to improve their operations with impressive results. Electronic government
(e-government) has proved that it has the ability to reduce government
expenditure, to strengthen communication within organisations as well as between
government and citizens, to increase effectiveness and efficiency in government
operations and also to increase transparency in government operations, thereby
combating corruption.
Though e-government promises a lot of benefits, these benefits will only be
realised by those who are committed to its proper implementation. There are
various factors that have been identified in e-government literature as essential for
e-government implementation. These factors, when not taken into consideration
during the implementation phase, will complicate sound e-government
development. They include the availability of an e-government vision, availability
of a sound ICT infrastructure, a sound financial commitment, and leadership that is
committed to e-government projects, among other factors.
This study assesses the e-government implementation process in Harare City
Council (HCC). The findings reveal that the implementation is not according to
acceptable best practices. A number of factors that are crucial for e-government
implementation success have been overlooked and need attention if HCC is to
fulfil its e-government objectives.