The perceived influence of performance contracting on the performance of Kisumu polytechnic, Kenya

Abstract

Public institutions in Kenya have been known for poor performance. In the recent past the trend has change due to introduction of performance contracting where employees set and meet the work goals or targets from their employer hence the need to enable them to perform. The study was conducted to investigate the perceived influence of performance contracting on the performance of Kisumu Polytechnic. The objective of the study was to establish the perceived influence of performance contracting on the performance of Kisumu Polytechnic. This study uses the goal setting theory. The research design was descriptive research design and the target population was 265 staff of Kisumu Polytechnic. A sample of 79 was used in the study. Primary data was collected from the respondents using questionnaire. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study found that indeed performance contracting has helped to improve performance of Kisumu Polytechnic to a greater extent in terms of quality of service delivery, achievement of performance contract targets though to a moderate extent it helped the institution to response to customers needs, it enable the cost of service to be fair. Based on the study findings, it was concluded that in order to improved performance commitment by top management is mandatory, performance contracting has a positive influence on service delivery. The study recommend that incentives to be awarded employees should be adequate in order to motive staff. The researcher recommends the enhancement of feedback mechanism. In addition it further recommends the participation and involvement of all staff in the process of setting performance targets.