Abstract:
Digitization is the representation of a physical item with the goal to digitize, preserve and
automate processes or workflows. It plays vital role in an organization and has effect on
workflow and organizational performances to give both opportunities and solutions for the
quality, efficiency, innovation, positioning and visibility of higher education institutions. The aim
of this study was to investigate the effect of digitization on workflow and organizational
performance in selected Ethiopian Higher Education Institutions. The study areas selected for
research were Jimma, Mettu, and Wollega Universities. Cross-sectional research design was
used in this study. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data
present in the study were obtained from primary and secondary sources. Instruments such as
questionnaires, interview and observation were used in this study. The data was analyzed by
descriptive and inferential statistics methods, with SPSS software version 25. The study found
that digitization has statistically significant in terms of time, cost, repetition and errors
reduction, efficiency, delivery services in administrative offices of Ethiopian Higher Education
Institutions. Moreover, the study found that there are challenges of implementing new digital
technologies in administration offices such as, lack of skilled personnel, lack of awareness, lack
of interaction between managers and employees, inadequate training, lack of attention among
institutions, system problems, lack of a clear guidelines, and polices. With regard to
organizational performance, all three universities are effective. However, according to their
experience of using digitization JU and Wollega Universities were more effective than MeU. In
particular HR, registrar and finance offices of selected universities were effective by using
digitization in their workflow. But, due to lack of digital technologies in transport offices there
was limited implementation of digitization in their workflow. Therefore, Universities should
increase awareness, provide training and human capacity. In addition, as well as policy makers
and ICT professionals should establish clear guideline for the use of digitization and new digital
technologies in HEIs, for more effective workflow and organizational performance. Managers
should facilitate among with their employees to implement and use new digital technologies in
their offices
