Influence of Strategy Implementation on the Performance of Private Universities in Kenya. A Survey of Universities in Nairobi County, Kenya

Abstract

This study sought to find out the influence of strategy implementation on the performance of private universities in Kenya. Specifically the study sought to examine the association between the markets focus strategy and performance of private Universities, to analyze relationship between differentiation strategy and performance of private universities in Kenya and to find out the relationship between product development and performance of private universities in Kenya. The study was a cross-sectional survey and used descriptive design. The study target population was private chartered universities in Nairobi County. From a total staff of 308 of all the staff in the selected universities, a sample of 92 which was 30% formed the top management staff. Data was obtained from members of top management staff by means of a google form (online questionnaire). The questionnaire comprised of both open-ended and closed-ended questions. Data was entered into SPSS 23 for analysis and descriptive statistics such as the frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation presented the data through frequency tables and charts. Correlation and regression was also conducted to establish associations and relationships between the variables. The study results revealed that the implementation of cost leadership strategy to a large extent affect university's performance (R=0.63, P=0.00), F (6, 84) = 9.279, P=0.00. Secondly, a strong positive association between the Implementation of market focus strategy and university's performance (R=0.61, P=0.00), F(6, 84) = 8.106, P=0.00). Differentiation and product development strategies had an intermediate positive relationship with performance. The study recommended that chartered private universities need to define their own cost strategy as well as employ a strong research culture to attract grants funds, also develop more international partnerships in order to create focus on international students and academic exchange programs. Also develop more customized relevant programs that meet the industry needs as well as impacting skills for problem solving, competency based curriculum (CBC) and short-courses.