Original Research
A framework for the digitisation of records and archives at selected state universities in Zimbabwe
Submitted: 17 September 2020 | Published: 19 July 2021
About the author(s)
Godfrey Tsvuura, Department of Information Science and Records Management, Faculty of Applied Social Sciences, Zimbabwe Open University, Harare, ZimbabwePatrick Ngulube, School of Interdisciplinary Research and Graduate Studies, College of Graduate Studies, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
Abstract
Background: This study examines the digitisation of records and archives at two state universities in Zimbabwe that have embarked on digitisation of their records and archives resources in line with new technological trends of doing business online.
Objectives: One of the objectives of this research study was to identify the gaps existing in the digitisation of records and archives at the two selected state universities and recommend ways of filling those gaps. The other objective was to find out if the state universities have adopted a framework or model for the smooth digitisation process of the records and archives.
Methods: The study adopted a qualitative multiple-case research design to provide an in-depth understanding of the cases of the digitisation of records and archives at the selected state universities. Data were collected via purposive sampling using interviews.
Results: The major findings of this study revealed that the two state universities are digitising records and archives without a framework or model for a smooth digitisation programme.
Conclusion: The study recommends for a centralised model to cater for the digitisation of records and archives at the state universities in Zimbabwe. A model for managing digital records and archives which combines best practices and top management support with a centralised approach is proposed. This model is built on integrated systems that will enable the two selected state universities to enhance cost-effectiveness, sharing and exchanging digital records and archives amongst employees. This study is pertinent as it enriches the literature in the field of records and archives management and provides strategies on the management of digital records and archives in state universities in Zimbabwe.
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Crossref Citations
1. Design of an Effective Archive Management System with a Compression Approach for Network Information Technology
Juan Li, Deepak Kumar Jain
Wireless Communications and Mobile Computing vol: 2022 first page: 1 year: 2022
doi: 10.1155/2022/3503841