Managements’ perception of the influence of institutional culture on the implementation of strategic change at Strathmore University
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Date
2009-09Author
Waweru, Gladys W
Type
ThesisLanguage
enMetadata
Show full item recordAbstract
As a result of the rapidly changing technological advancements, increased competition and
customer expectations, most institutions of higher education and businesses at large are being
forced to evolve with their surrounding environment or risk redundancy. This evolution has
demanded that a change of perspective, which is sometimes planned and on other occasions
emergent be adopted and embraced by institutions that want to operate successfully. There exist
several critical dimensions to be considered when implementing such changes. One such
dimension is the prevailing Organizational Culture. This study was conducted as a case study to
gain an understanding of Strathmore University’s Managements Perception on the influence of
culture on the implementation of strategic change at the university. The researcher constructed
questionnaires which were administered to managers and relevant data collected. Findings of the
study suggest that the cultural aspect of the organization is critical towards successful change
implementation in the university. It was noted that the existing organizational structure and
policies were supportive of the intended strategic changes. However there existed gaps in the
information relayed and available to lower cadre employees. Informal cultural dimensions were
notably given little concern and could thus be hindering the successful implementation and roll
out of the strategy as intended. A lack of awareness amongst employees and poor
communication channels were seen to be major hindrances to change implementation. To bridge
this gap, it was recommended that training for employees be enhanced an that the
communication channels within the organization be reviewed to keep everyone abreast of the on
goings of the institution.
Sponsorhip
University of NairobiPublisher
School of Business, University of Nairobi