Challenges Facing Open Performance Review and Appraisal System (Opras) in Local Government Authorities in Tanzania

Abstract

This study assessed challenges that affect the implementation of OPRAS at Arusha City Council (ACC). The study adapted case study design with quantitative research approach. The study involved a sample size of 110 respondents who were subordinate employees working at ACC. Data were collected using questionnaires, and analysis was performed through frequencies, percentages and regression analysis. The study found that ACC often adhere to the procedures of OPRAS such as involvement of subordinate employees in rating their performance, reviewing performance based on agreed targets, considering facts in appraising performance, considerng external factors that may interfere with performance of subordinate employees, allowing subordinate employees to invite externa observers at Arusha CC. The study identified six technical challenges, including bias in rating performance, difficulties in filing appraisal forms, insufficient training in implementing OPRAS, supervisor’s neglegence in apprasing performance, lack of customers’ opinions in the appraisal process, and limited peer review in the appraisal process. The study identified four resource challenges, including shortage of human resource experts, shortage of offices, shortage of budget, and lack of use current technology in implementation of OPRAS. The study identified four socio-cultural challenges that affect implementation of OPRAS. They included negative attitude towards OPRAS was the most cited challenge, lack of culture of post performance evaluation, shifting of blames between supervisors and subordinates, and neglegence in filling appraisal forms The findings of regression show that cultural challenges (p= .000), and technical challenges (p= .022) have significance influence on affecting the implementation of OPRAS at Arusha City Council. The study identified six strategies which included improving guidelines is a necessary strategy for improving implementation of OPRAS, application of current technology in performance appraisal, provision of sufficient training to subordinates and supervisors, hiring sufficient human resource experts, effective participation of subordinates in performance appraisal decisions, and conducting regular human resource audits.This study further concludes that implementation of OPRAS at Arusha City Council is affected by multifaced challenges ranging from technical, socio-cultural and resource constraints.