An Evaluation of Digital Addressing System Implementation in Ghana

Abstract

Purpose: The research reviews the implementation of Ghana’s Digital Addressing System. Nearly six years into implementation and without an outward appearance of the meeting of the announced goals of the project, the research sets out to find out the likelihood of success or failure of the project and suggest remedial measures. Relevance: The implementation of digital addressing in Ghana holds and demonstrates promise for benefits relative to transportation, courier services, taxation, property ownership and title, among others. For policy makers, the findings of this work give direct pointers to what needs to be done to keep the concept useful. For researchers, the work has only opened the doors for further academic and technical introspection into digital addressing and its nuances especially in Ghana. Methods: Using a variety of quantitative and qualitative techniques the study assessed the implementation of the policy employing interviews, surveys, workshops and group discussion. It hinged on the Design-Reality Gap (DRG) model to identify the issues of interest with Ghana's digital addressing systems. Findings: We found out that the attempts, although well intended, fall short in several best practice aspects. The research found it difficult to confidently showcase any immediate successes arising out of the implementation of the Ghana Post GPS App and System and proceeds to point out specific areas in need of attention if Ghana’s Digital Addressing efforts are to meet the presumptive goals. Conclusion: The Digital Addressing System might be a partial failure unless action is taken to close design-reality gaps.