The Effect of Competence and Information System Quality on the Smooth Distribution of Traffic Control Devices at the Transportation Office of North Sumatra Province

Abstract

This paper examines how employee competence and information system quality shape the smooth distribution of traffic control devices at the Transportation Office of North Sumatra Province. The study is presented in conference proceedings format based on the completed research narrative contained in the source manuscript. Competence is treated as the first independent variable, information system quality as the second independent variable, and distribution smoothness as the dependent variable. The field findings indicate that distribution performance is still constrained by delays, document inaccuracy, and mismatch between requested and delivered items. Competence problems appear in weak mastery of standard procedures, limited cross-unit coordination, and insufficient ability to use digital tracking tools. Information system quality problems are reflected in weak real-time stock visibility, slow access, and low report accuracy. The analysis shows that the two variables operate as mutually reinforcing factors in public-sector logistics. Stronger employee capability supports planning accuracy and execution discipline, while better information system quality increases visibility, monitoring, and decision speed. Therefore, the smooth distribution of traffic control devices requires simultaneous improvement in human competence and system reliability so that public service delivery can become more timely, accurate, and accountable.