Perceived Influence of Operational Strategies on Performance of Weighbridges in Kenya
Abstract
The objective of study was to determine the perceived influence of operational
strategies on the performance of weighbridges in Kenya. The study adopted crosssectional
descriptive design. The target population was 5 weighbridge cluster
managers and 30 assistant managers in the 10 weighbridges in Kenya. Since the
population was small the study adopted a census study therefore all the 35
respondents (5 weighbridge cluster managers and 30 assistant managers) formed the
sample size of the study. The study collected primary data through use of a
questionnaire which will have both closed and open-ended questions. The
questionnaire which was administered by the researcher through drop and pick later
method. The data collected was first edited, coded, entered into a software (SPSS
version 20) which also aided in the data analysis. Both descriptive and inferential
statistics were adopted for the study. The qualitative data was generated from the open
ended questions and was categorized in themes in accordance with research objectives
and reported in narrative form along with quantitative presentation. The quantitative
data was analyzed using descriptive statistics which included frequency distribution
tables and measures of central tendency (the mean), measures of variability (standard
deviation) and measures of relative frequencies. The inferential statistics included a
correlation analysis which established the relationship between variables. Data was
presented using tables, charts and graphs. The study found out that innovativeness
driven operations strategy, quality-driven operations strategy, flexibility driven
operations strategy and reliability driven operations strategy had been adopted in the
weighbridges to a great extent. Adoption of these operational strategies had been
prompted by the need to: improve operations processes; improve efficiency at the
weighbridges; increase capacity of the weighbridges; and need to improve quality of
the services offered at the weighbridges. The operational strategies had improved
operational efficiency at the weighbridges, enhanced the quality of services offered at
the weighbridges, increased the capacity of the weighbridges, and improved
customers satisfaction. The study concludes that the implementation of operational
strategies influenced performance of weighbridges in Kenya. The study recommends
for continued improvements at weighbridges in terms of increased use of technology,
enhancing speed and increasing capacity in the weighbridge in order to increase
compliance with the axle load limits and further enhance efficiency of road transport
along the Northern Corridor by eliminating unnecessary congestion at the
weighbridges. There is also need for increased and regular training of staff at the
weighbridges in order to equip them with the right skills and also change their
attitude.
Publisher
University of Nairobi