The Significance of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in Property Management. A Study of Selected Firms in Nairobi

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to determine the significance of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in Property Management on selected firms in Nairobi. The objectives were to identify the property management systems used by the firms; determine the extent to which these firms use these systems in their operations, establish how the usage. of the systems has improved the firms and finally determine how these firms have benefited from using the systems. The following were the key finding first, a high percentage of firms in Nairobi have some form of a computer based property management system. All the firms in the study that were incorporated before 1990 had a computer based system. The various systems identified are used mainly in the area of operational work. Secondly, there are many benefits that the firms with a computer-based system enjoy. However, there are some firms that have not invested in any sort of a computer-based system. The study concludes that in order to remain competitive, property management firms should strive to attain competitive advantage by being efficient and effective in their operations. This can only be achieved through the use of an appropriate property management system. The study also recommends that property management firms need to change with the times. There is need to take advantage of the continued improvement in communication network in Kenya. Further, firms need to use the information available on the Internet, to empower staff and to be innovative.