Balanced scorecard in strategy implementation at discovery learning alliance of Kenya
Abstract
The main aim of the paper is to investigate balanced scorecard in strategy
implementation at Discovery Learning Alliance. Strategy implementation involves
organization of the firm's resources and motivation of the staff to achieve objectives.
The environmental conditions facing many firms have changed rapidly. Today's
global competitive environment is complex, dynamic, and largely unpredictable. The
study reviewed on strategy implementation, balanced scorecard framework for
nonprofits organizations and challenges faced in using the balanced scorecard for
strategic implementation. This study was conducted through a case study and it was
considered suitable as it allows an in-depth study of the subject on investigating the
application of balance scorecard as a tool for strategy implementation. The study used
primary data collected from the management and staff members of Discovery
Learning Alliance. Using an interview guide, the researcher interviewed twelve top
and middle level managers from the Nairobi branch including the country director or
his designated assistant, a member from each of the six core-business areas of the
Discovery Learning Alliance and five members from the support service departments.
Content analysis was used to analyze the data. The study draws a conclusion that of
Balanced Scorecard at Discovery Learning Alliance clearly stipulate how each
objective will be achieved. Discovery Learning Alliance‟s objectives regarding
beneficiary/ stakeholders‟ welfare are to improved livelihoods, increase contribution
to national policy, enhance community ownership and to increase access to services.
The application of Balanced Scorecard at Discovery Learning Alliance has resulted in
benefits such as improved efficiency of education management at Discovery Learning
Alliance, strengthening of education operations, improved provision of video in the
classrooms equipment and social services, strengthening the organizational capacity
for effective and efficient implementation of programmes, improvement of
community livelihood and improved the work relationship among DLA units. In order
to achieve successful strategic implementation, Discovery Learning Alliance has to
address challenges such as lack of funds, inefficiency in governance, lack of
cooperation in the implementation of strategic plan, poor networking with other
NGOs, ineffective communications, limited capacity, unfamiliarity with
organizational strategic approaches, disparity in remuneration among NGOs and
political interference. The study recommends that when an organization applies
Balanced Scorecard, it need to take a very close look at the organization structure and
evaluate if it supports the strategies.
Publisher
University of Nairobi
Description
Thesis