Challenges of strategy implementation in private security companies in Kenya

Abstract

A brilliant strategy may put a company on the competitive map and increase its performance. Unfortunately, most companies struggle with implementation. In a dynamic environment, managers need to adapt to changing trends in strategy implementation while embracing the key success factors for implementation; structure, resources, culture, leadership, systems, people and communication. What is the way to implement the business strategy effectively and what challenges can harm the successful implementation? The purpose of this study was to identify the challenges of strategy implementation among the private security companies in Kenya. In undertaking the study, private security companies in Kenya registered with Kenya security industry association were targeted. The study adopted a survey research design. The respondents were senior and middle managers. Data collection was done by use of questionnaires which were distributed by drop and pick and the collected data was analyzed using descriptive analysis. The study found that the most frequent challenges in strategy implementation among the Kenyan private security firms studied were; the implementation of strategy took more time than originally allocated; there was poor and improper communication especially in the various units of the organization and lower level employees lacked skills and capabilities for executing strategy due to inadequate training. Other challenges identified include; disharmony due to poor coordination; improper management and environmental uncertainty. The study also through the findings proposed some measures that could be adopted to overcome the above identified challenges. These measures include: more time should be spend in analysis phase, proper communication and employees must be trained to acquire skill on implementation. In conclusion, there are several challenges that can harm the successful implementation. However, using right methods, frameworks and timing may reduce or minimize them. Finally involving all stakeholders during strategic planning process, proper communication and providing training on both strategy formulation and implementation were the recommendation given.