Dimensions of Strategic Intent Execution and Performance of Universities in Kenya
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Date
2016-11
Authors
Muraguri, Charity Wairimu
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
Universities worldwide are facing challenges arising from a high level of
competitiveness and pressure to deliver their strategic intents according to their
mission and vision statements; however, they lack the capacity to sustain achievement
of their full potential. Empirical evidence suggests the existence of performance
complexities in universities, but few endeavours have been directed towards
understanding the manner in which the execution of strategic intent affects
performance of universities in Kenya. This study sought to investigate dimensions of
strategic intent execution and performance of universities in Kenya. The specific
objectives of the study were: assess the effect of organisational leadership, strategic
communication, and strategy alignment variables on performance of universities in
Kenya; assess the combined effect of dimensions of strategic intent execution on
performance of universities in Kenya; establish the mediating effect of process
execution on the relationship between dimensions of strategic intent execution and
performance of universities in Kenya; and determine the moderating influence of
institutional environment on the relationship between dimensions of strategic intent
execution and performance of universities in Kenya. The study adopted a mixed
research design consisting of explanatory and cross-sectional survey designs. The
target population was 25 universities that had been in operational for at least five
years by the time of this study. These universities had a total of 289 respondents at
managerial and faculty levels. A sample of 168 respondents was selected using
stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Primary data were collected using
an interview schedule and a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire based on
a five-point Likert scale. Secondary data were collected through document review of
strategic plans, and university quality circles and policy manuals. Descriptive
statistics was used to summarise the survey data while multiple regression analysis
was utilised for testing the research hypotheses and drawing conclusion. An analysis
was through using Stata version 21.0. The results were exhibited in form of figures
and tables. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis and the findings
presented according to patterns and themes. The study revealed the existence of a
positive relationship between dimensions of strategic intent execution and
performance of universities in Kenya in which organisational leadership, strategic
communication, and strategy alignment were statistically significant. The study also
found a partial mediation effect of process execution on the relationship between
organisational strategic intent execution and performance. The findings further
revealed that institutional environment had no moderating effect on the relationship
between organisational strategic intent execution and performance. The findings of
this research are likely to trigger policy makers in universities to develop new
competencies and capacities using strategic intent as a key resource. The research
findings could provide a framework for improving the performance of universities in
Kenya as the key pillars in the education sector as well as the realisation of Vision
2030. As universities evaluate the execution of their strategic intent, the results of this
study could be of value in calling for intensified action and goodwill in the form of
investment in the key dimensions of strategic intent, which are critical to the
performance of these institutions.
Description
A Thesis Submitted to the School of Business in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration of Kenyatta University, November 2016