Strategy implementation at the Kenya animal genetics resource center

Abstract

This project studied the strategy implementation process at the Kenya Animal Genetics Resource Center. The process of strategy implementation has many challenges leading to most organizations failing to achieve the objectives of the strategies. The findings revealed the strategy had seven SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time bound) clear objectives developed with participation by stakeholders both internally and externally. The organization employed multiple methods to ensure adequate and clear communication to everybody involved. The Board and the MD had taken ownership of the strategy document and were spearheading its implementation in the organization and therefore provided effective leadership for the implementation process. A new organization structure that clearly defined the roles and responsibilities of various departments without overlap or conflict had been created. Performance contracts that were linked to the strategy objectives had also been introduced and embraced by all the employees. The implementation process also faced some key challenges. These were inadequate financial and human resources, organization culture that had persisted from the traditional civil service that was not responsive to change, compensation systems that had not been linked to strategy and lack of adequate information systems for monitoring the implementation progress. The management had responded to the challenges by phasing activities and prioritizing activities such that those within the current financial reach and with high probability of success are implemented first. A new scheme of service has been developed to enable the organization recruit, motivate and retain highly qualified personnel. Organizational values have been communicated to employees and placed in conspicuous places throughout the institution. Finally the acquisition of modern information technology system has been given priority. The study recommended capacity building for employees, implementation of a robust Information Technology system and a Knowledge Management System to enable it support creation, transfer and application of knowledge in the organization.