EFFECT OF E-PROCUREMENT PRACTICES ON THE PROCUREMENT PERFORMANCE OF PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS IN GHANA: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF STAFF COMPETENCE

Abstract

Purpose: This study examined the effect of e-procurement practices on procurement performance and the mediating role of staff competence in public institutions in Ghana. Hence, this research study first sought to determine the influence of e-procurement practices on procurement performance and then to examine the mediating role of staff competence in the relationship between e-procurement and procurement performance. Design/ Methodology/ Approach: The study's population comprised 500 procurement professionals from several Ghanaian government agencies. Quantitative data were collected from 251 of these professionals via online, structured questionnaires over the course of one month. The data were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) in SmartPLS 4 software, and all research constructs were measured reflectively. Findings: The results suggest that e-sourcing, e-invoicing, and staff competence had a significant, positive, direct effect on procurement performance, whereas e-tendering and e-supplier selection had no significant direct effect. E-tendering, however, had a direct positive effect on staff competence. The study also established that staff competence mediates the relationship between e-tendering practices and procurement performance. Practical Implications: The study identifies key factors for effective public procurement management in Ghana, focusing on the importance of staff competence and e-procurement practices. Social Implications: This research underscores the importance of using technology to acquire goods, works, and services for the general public's consumption. It further highlights the need to build procurement personnel's competencies to procure sustainably. Originality / Value: This study highlights the mediating role of staff competence in the relationship between e-procurement and procurement performance.