The Practices and Challenges of Project Human Resource Management in It Projects at Awash Bank
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Date
2024-07
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The major purpose of this study was to assess the practices and challenges of project human resource management in IT projects at Awash Bank. It was a descriptive survey design. A random sampling technique was employed to 84 respondents, out of which 84(91.3%) responded to the questionnaire self-administered questionnaire developed through a comprehensive review of relevant literature indicating a high return-rate. Data were analysed quantitatively using SPSS version 23 showing Means and Standard Deviations The findings reveal generally employees have a positive perception of AB’s recruitment and selection processes, with moderate satisfaction regarding recruitment channels for attracting IT professionals (mean = 3.96), indicating room for improvement. IT staff were perceived to possess the necessary technical skills (mean = 3.98), while the selection interviews and pre-employment checks scored moderately (mean = 3.63), suggesting potential refinement areas. Retention strategies for skilled IT professionals showed moderate effectiveness (grand mean = 3.91), highlighting the need for targeted improvements. The study also uncovered variability in responses regarding HRM performance in IT projects, with areas such as meeting timelines, communication effectiveness, and handling project scope changes requiring attention. Despite the moderate overall outlook, these findings emphasize opportunities for enhancing HRM practices. Finally, the study concludes that improving recruitment processes, addressing candidate skill gaps, and tackling retention challenges are crucial for strengthening HRM practices at Awash Bank. While selection interviews and pre-employment checks are effective, they require less immediate focus compared to other critical areas. Implementing these recommendations will support the bank in achieving better HRM outcomes and IT project success. The study, therefore, recommended that to ensure that new hires are better aligned with the specific needs of IT projects, Awash Bank should involve IT project managers in the interview process. By including project managers, the recruitment team can assess candidates’ skills, experiences, and qualifications in the context of the bank’s current and future IT project requirements.
Keywords: Human Resource Management (HRM) , IT Projects , Awash Bank