THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PEPMIS IN ENHANCING EMPLOYEE JOB PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Performance management systems are essential tools for improving employee efficiency, accountability, and motivation in public organizations. In Tanzania, the Public Employees Performance Management Information System (PEPMIS) was introduced to promote transparency, enhance goal alignment, and strengthen accountability among public servants. However, limited empirical evidence exists on its effectiveness in improving job performance within regional hospitals. This study assessed the effectiveness of PEPMIS in enhancing employee job performance at Mawenzi Regional Hospital. The specific objectives were: to identify the influence of PEPMIS on employee goal setting and alignment; to examine the influence of PEPMIS on employee motivation and engagement; and to evaluate the role of PEPMIS in promoting accountability and transparency in employee job performance. A qualitative research design guided by the interpretivist philosophy was adopted. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews involving 25 participants, including hospital administrators, healthcare workers, and IT personnel. Thematic analysis was employed to identify patterns and meanings emerging from the participants’ experiences. The findings revealed that PEPMIS enhances clarity in goal setting, promotes fairness in appraisals, and strengthens accountability through transparent performance tracking. However, challenges such as limited feedback, weak digital infrastructure, and inadequate managerial training hinder its full potential. The study concludes that PEPMIS has positively influenced employee job performance at Mawenzi Regional Hospital, but sustained improvements require managerial commitment, reliable ICT infrastructure, and continuous user training. It recommends capacity-building programs for hospital leaders, integration of feedback mechanisms, and enhancement of digital infrastructure to optimize PEPMIS implementation