RESEARCH TITLE

ODA BULTUM UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDY
MASTER'S OF BUSINESS ADMINSTRATION
TITLE WRITING FORM
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CONCEPT NOTE: FEASIBILITY STUDY ON PROVISIONING SHARED CLOUD CORE BANKING

SYSTEMS IN THE ETHIOPIAN FINANCIAL INDUSTRY

Title: Feasibility Study On Provisioning Shared Cloud Core Banking Systems In The Ethiopian Financial
Industry

Objective:
The primary objective of this feasibility study is to assess the viability and potential benefits of
implementing shared cloud core banking systems within the Ethiopian financial industry. The study aims to
explore the technical, economic, and operational aspects associated with transitioning to cloud-based core
banking solutions, considering the specific needs and dynamics of the Ethiopian financial sector.

Background:
The Ethiopian financial industry is experiencing rapid growth and modernization, driven by advancements
in technology and evolving customer expectations. Traditional core banking systems are often
characterized by high costs, limited scalability, and inefficiencies in operations. In contrast, cloud-based
solutions offer flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, potentially enabling financial institutions to
streamline their operations and enhance service delivery.

Key Components:
1. Technical Assessment: Evaluate the technical requirements and capabilities of cloud-based core banking
systems, including infrastructure, security, data management, and integration with existing systems.
2. Economic Analysis: Conduct a cost-benefit analysis to assess the financial implications of migrating to
shared cloud core banking systems, considering factors such as initial investment, operational costs,
savings, and return on investment.
3. Operational Considerations: Examine the operational implications of adopting cloud-based solutions,
including changes to workflow processes, staff training, risk management, and compliance requirements.
4. Regulatory and Legal Framework: Analyze the regulatory environment and legal considerations relevant
to the implementation of cloud-based core banking systems in Ethiopia, ensuring compliance with industry
standards and data protection regulations.
5. Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with key stakeholders, including financial institutions, regulatory
bodies, technology providers, and industry experts, to gather insights, address concerns, and garner
support for the proposed initiative.

Expected Outcomes:
The feasibility study is expected to provide valuable insights into the potential benefits, challenges, and
risks associated with provisioning shared cloud core banking systems in the Ethiopian financial industry. By
identifying opportunities for innovation and improvement, the study aims to inform strategic decision-
making and pave the way for the adoption of modernized core banking solutions that can drive growth,
efficiency, and competitiveness within the sector.

Concept Note: Internal Factors Affecting Bank Profitability: A Case of Private Commercial Banks in
Ethiopia

Title: Internal Factors Affecting Bank Profitability: A Case of Private Commercial Banks in Ethiopia

Objective:
The primary objective of this research is to investigate the internal factors that influence the profitability of
private commercial banks operating in Ethiopia. By identifying and analyzing these factors, the study aims
to provide valuable insights into the drivers of bank profitability within the Ethiopian banking sector.

Background:
The profitability of commercial banks plays a crucial role in ensuring financial stability and supporting
economic growth. In Ethiopia, the banking industry has undergone significant transformation and
expansion in recent years, with private commercial banks emerging as key players in the sector. However,
achieving and sustaining profitability amidst competitive pressures, regulatory requirements, and economic
challenges requires a thorough understanding of the internal factors that impact bank performance.

Key Components:
1. Financial Performance Analysis: Conduct a comprehensive analysis of the financial performance
indicators of private commercial banks in Ethiopia, including measures of profitability such as return on
assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), net interest margin (NIM), and efficiency ratios.
2. Internal Factors Identification: Identify and categorize the internal factors that may influence bank
profitability, including factors related to asset quality, capital adequacy, liquidity management, cost
efficiency, and revenue generation.
3. Quantitative Analysis: Utilize statistical methods and econometric models to analyze the relationship
between internal factors and bank profitability, exploring factors such as loan portfolio quality, capital
levels, funding mix, operating expenses, and revenue diversification.
4. Qualitative Insights: Gather qualitative insights through interviews, surveys, and focus group discussions
with bank executives, regulators, and industry experts to understand the nuances of internal factors
affecting bank profitability in the Ethiopian context.
5. Comparative Analysis: Compare the findings with international best practices and benchmarks to assess
the relative performance of Ethiopian private commercial banks and identify areas for improvement.

Expected Outcomes:
The research is expected to generate valuable insights into the internal drivers of bank profitability within
the context of private commercial banks in Ethiopia. By identifying key factors and their impact on
profitability, the study aims to provide actionable recommendations for bank management, policymakers,
and regulators to enhance the financial performance and sustainability of private commercial banks in
Ethiopia.

Concept Note: Assessment of Project Procurement Management Practices: The Case of Defense
Construction

Title: Assessment of Project Procurement Management Practices: The Case of Defense Construction

Objective:
The primary objective of this assessment is to evaluate the procurement management practices employed
in defense construction projects. Focusing on specific projects within the defense sector, the study aims to
assess the effectiveness, efficiency, and compliance of procurement processes to ensure transparency,
accountability, and value for money in defense infrastructure development.

Background:
Defense construction projects are critical for national security and defense preparedness, involving
complex procurement processes, stringent requirements, and high stakes. Effective procurement
management is essential to ensure the timely delivery of quality infrastructure assets while optimizing
resource utilization and mitigating risks associated with cost overruns, delays, and corruption.

Key Components:
1. Procurement Process Evaluation: Evaluate the end-to-end procurement processes involved in defense
construction projects, including needs assessment, planning, solicitation, vendor selection, contract
negotiation, and contract management.
2. Compliance and Transparency Assessment: Assess the extent to which procurement practices comply
with legal and regulatory frameworks, including defense procurement regulations, public procurement
laws, and transparency requirements. Evaluate the transparency of procurement decisions,
documentation, and stakeholder engagement.
3. Risk Analysis: Identify and analyze key procurement risks and challenges faced in defense construction
projects, including risks related to budgetary constraints, project complexity, technological requirements,
geopolitical factors, and supplier performance.
4. Stakeholder Engagement and Accountability: Evaluate the involvement of stakeholders, including
defense agencies, contractors, suppliers, oversight bodies, and civil society organizations, in the
procurement process. Assess mechanisms for accountability, monitoring, and reporting to ensure
transparency and integrity in procurement activities.
5. Best Practices Benchmarking: Benchmark procurement management practices against international
standards, industry best practices, and comparative case studies to identify opportunities for improvement
and innovation in defense construction procurement.

Expected Outcomes:
The assessment aims to provide evidence-based insights and recommendations to enhance the
effectiveness, efficiency, and transparency of project procurement management practices in defense
construction projects. By identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, the study seeks to
contribute to the optimization of procurement processes, the mitigation of risks, and the achievement of
value for money in defense infrastructure investments.

Concept Note: The Effect of Leaders' Personality on Employee Job Satisfaction: A Case Study of Awash
International Bank

Title: The Effect of Leaders' Personality on Employee Job Satisfaction: A Case Study of Awash
International Bank

Objective:
The primary objective of this research is to examine the influence of leaders' personality traits on employee
job satisfaction within Awash International Bank, Ethiopia. The study aims to explore how different
leadership styles and characteristics impact employee morale, engagement, and overall job satisfaction
levels within the organization.

Background:
Leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping organizational culture, employee motivation, and job satisfaction.
In the banking sector, where service quality and employee productivity are paramount, understanding the
relationship between leaders' personality and employee satisfaction is crucial for fostering a positive work
environment and enhancing organizational performance.

Key Components:
1. Leadership Style Assessment: Evaluate the leadership styles and personality traits exhibited by managers
and executives within Awash International Bank using established frameworks such as the Big Five
personality traits or leadership behavior theories.
2. Employee Job Satisfaction Analysis: Measure employee job satisfaction levels through surveys,
interviews, and quantitative assessments, focusing on factors such as work-life balance, career
development opportunities, recognition, and organizational support.
3. Correlation Analysis: Analyze the correlation between leaders' personality traits (e.g., extraversion,
conscientiousness, emotional intelligence) and employee job satisfaction scores to identify patterns and
associations.
4. Qualitative Insights: Gather qualitative insights through focus group discussions and individual interviews
with employees and leaders to explore the nuances of leadership impact on job satisfaction and
organizational culture.
5. Recommendations and Implications: Provide recommendations for leadership development programs,
talent management strategies, and organizational initiatives aimed at enhancing employee job satisfaction
and fostering a positive leadership culture within Awash International Bank.

Expected Outcomes:
The research is expected to provide valuable insights into the relationship between leaders' personality
traits and employee job satisfaction within Awash International Bank. By understanding how leadership
behaviors and characteristics influence employee perceptions and attitudes, the study aims to inform
strategic decision-making and human resource management practices to create a more fulfilling and
productive work environment within the organization.

Concept Note: The Role of Project Management Information Systems in Enhancing Project Success at
Oromia International Bank S.C.

Title: The Role of Project Management Information Systems in Enhancing Project Success at Oromia
International Bank S.C.

Objective:
The primary objective of this research is to investigate the role of project management information systems
(PMIS) in enhancing project success within Oromia International Bank S.C. The study aims to examine how
the adoption and effective utilization of PMIS contribute to improved project planning, execution,
monitoring, and control processes in the banking sector.
Background:
In the dynamic and competitive banking industry, effective project management is essential for driving
innovation, implementing strategic initiatives, and delivering value to customers. PMIS play a critical role in
facilitating communication, collaboration, and decision-making among project stakeholders, thereby
improving project outcomes and organizational performance.

Key Components:
1. PMIS Evaluation: Assess the functionality, features, and usability of the project management information
systems used within Oromia International Bank S.C., including software platforms, tools, and technologies
for project planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and performance tracking.
2. Project Success Metrics: Define key performance indicators (KPIs) and success criteria for measuring the
effectiveness and impact of PMIS on project outcomes, such as project completion time, budget adherence,
stakeholder satisfaction, and deliverable quality.
3. Case Study Analysis: Conduct in-depth case studies of selected projects within Oromia International Bank
S.C. to examine the application of PMIS throughout the project lifecycle, from initiation to closure, and
identify best practices, challenges, and lessons learned.
4. Stakeholder Perspectives: Gather insights from project managers, team members, executives, and other
stakeholders through interviews, surveys, and workshops to understand their experiences, perceptions,
and expectations regarding PMIS utilization and its impact on project success.
5. Implementation Strategies: Develop recommendations and implementation strategies for optimizing the
use of PMIS within Oromia International Bank S.C., including training programs, process improvements,
technology upgrades, and organizational initiatives to enhance project management capabilities and
maximize project success rates.

Expected Outcomes:
The research is expected to provide empirical evidence and practical insights into the role of project
management information systems in enhancing project success within Oromia International Bank S.C. By
identifying opportunities for improvement and best practices for PMIS utilization, the study aims to support
the bank in achieving its strategic objectives, improving project outcomes, and delivering value to
stakeholders.

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