Competitive strategies and performance of private Secondary schools in Nairobi County, Kenya

Abstract

Competitive strategies analyses the core competencies and capabilities of a firm vis-a- vis the competition and the customers' needs so as to select the position the firm will take in order to survive and compete successfully. Today's dynamic markets and technologies have called into question the sustainability of competitive advantage. Several competitive typologies have been developed to explain how firms compete, however, Porter's generic strategy types seem to integrate the central concepts of these typologies. These are; Cost leadership, differentiation and focus strategies. Game theory as advocated by various scholars came to the forefront as a strategic tool that offered perspectives on how players might act under various circumstances as well as other kinds of valuable information for making decisions. This study sought to establish the perceived relationship between competitive strategies and performance of private secondary schools in Nairobi. The objective of the study was to establish the competitive strategies adopted by private secondary schools in Nairobi County and the link between competitive strategy and performance. A cross sectional survey was conducted whereby a sample data was collected from the top management and senior teachers of Private secondary schools in Nairobi. Data collection was via a structured questionnaire. This data was analyzed using the SPSS program .Descriptive statistics whereby tables, frequency distribution charts, pie charts and percentages were used to present and interpret the data. It was ascertained that Private secondary schools use more of differentiation strategies followed by cost leadership strategies then focus competitive strategy which was not very popular compared to the other two competitive strategies. The findings showed a general positive relationship between competitive strategies and performance. The strength of the relationship was positively strong on differentiation strategies than in focus strategies and cost leadership strategies. The findings show that there is a relationship between competitive strategies and performance of Private secondary schools in Nairobi County because the strategies adopted by schools influence both academic and financial performance. There is need therefore to adopt these strategies to remain more competitive in the market. Firms can outperform rivals by pursuing various strategies. Each of these strategies creates different needs, motivations, and opportunities for collaborative activity. Based on the findings of the study, various conclusions, recommendations for policy and practices as well as further studies have been made. Institutions need to understand the industry in which they are operating in while formulating strategies. Excellent recruitment, staff training and continuous motivation are key success factors in ensuring successful strategy implementation.