The Influence of Strategy Implementation on Performance of KCB Group in Kenya

Abstract

Excellently formulated strategies will fail if they are not properly implemented. Besides, it is important to note that strategy implementation is not possible unless there is stability between strategy and each organizational dimension such as organizational structure, reward structure; resource-allocation process. A luminous strategy may put a company on the competitive map and increase its performance. Unfortunately, most companies struggle with implementation. In a dynamic environment, managers need to adapt to changing trends in strategy implementation while embracing the key success factors for implementation. The purpose of the study was to establish how strategy implementation influences performance of KCB Group in Kenya. In undertaking the study the senior Managers from KCB Group were targeted. The study adopted a case study design. Data collection was done by use of an interview guide which involved an in depth interview with the top managers. Content analysis was used to analyze collected data. Based on the study findings, it can be summarized that individuals who are mostly in strategy implementation process at the KCB group in Kenya are the management staffs as they have the authority to allocate responsibilities and resources for effective implementation of strategies. The study established that the level of participation and involvement of staff affects strategy implementation. The findings indicated that KCB Group ensures staff is committed to strategy implementation by involving them in the strategy implementation process, taking their opinions into consideration in the implementation process and making sure they are conversant with the organization’s opportunities and threats within the plan. The study revealed that senior management takes the lead in strategy implementation through communication and building consensus on how to proceed with the implementation process. The study identified the factors which have contributed to successful strategy implementation to include: changing assumptions as the environment changes and upgrading the group’s capabilities to meet the challenges of an ambitious strategy, strategic leadership, rewards and incentives, allocation of adequate resources to strategy and establishing strategy supportive policies. Based on the study findings, it can be summarized that KCB Group faces some challenges that affect strategy implementation.The study also revealed the possible solutions adopted by KCB Group in response to the challenges facing strategy implementation. It was established that strategy implementation influences performance to a very great extent. The study revealed that strategy implementation is a critical factor in improving the performance of an organization. The findings of this study are important to strategic management policy makers in establishing how Strategy Implementation influences performance of organizations and the challenges of strategy implementation. Many a time, good and well developed strategies failed simply because of implementation challenges. This study helps shed light on successful strategy implementation. The study has contributed to the body of knowledge which is beneficial to scholars and researchers and simulated further research in this field of strategy implementation. The study is a source of reference material for future researchers on other related topics. It is important to other academicians who undertake the same topic in their studies.