Enterprise Content Management system implementation: Insights from the National Library and Archives of UAE

Abstract

This study aims to elucidate the key elements that contribute to the successful execution of an Enterprise Content Management (ECM) system. The insights provided are based on the experiences of professionals at the National Library and Archives of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during their ECM implementation. An interpretive philosophical model, along with qualitative methodologies such as interviews and focus group discussions were employed for data collection. The participants included professionals from the UAE's National Library and Archives who played a significant role in the ECM system's implementation. A thorough review of relevant literature was also carried out to validate and reinforce the viewpoints obtained from the interviewees and focus group participants. The study discovered that comprehensive business needs assessment, detailed research, system compatibility, clarity of policies, and effective change management are vital for the successful roll-out of an ECM system. However, it's worth noting that the proposed implementation model offered in this study may not be all-encompassing. The insights shared are limited to the experiences of one archival institution, and the literature consulted may not cover all existing viewpoints. Despite these limitations, this research provides essential guidance, particularly to national archival institutions contemplating the adoption of ECM systems. It underlines the importance of ECM in effectively managing an organization's structured and unstructured data and emphasizes the need for due diligence during ECM implementation. Further research is recommended to explore the advantages arising from the successful implementation of an ECM system.