Challenges of Strategy Implementation at the Municipal Council of Thika

Abstract

Strategy implementation is a process of transforming strategic intentions into actions. Successful strategy implementation is critical in any organization. However it is the most challenging aspect in strategic management process. This is because it requires the bringing together of the resources needed, both human and capital, the structure, systems and other variables. Increased business competitiveness and dynamic external environment have made it necessary for corporates to rethink on their strategy thus corporates are forced to continually review their strategic plans or formulate new ones to suit the environmental trend.The process of strategy implementation is very critical to the success of both private and public undertaking however, it poses a number of challenges which are triggered by sources external and internal to the organization. The extent of such challenges depends on the type of organization and its prevailing circumstances.This study focused on challenges faced by Municipal Council of Thika in strategy implementation, a local authority which is a public entity mandated to offer services to the local residents. The study also sought to establish the measures taken by the council to overcome the challenges in strategy implementation.To achieve this primary data was collected by way of personal interview that was guided by an interview guide. This was administered to the departmental heads, who form part of the senior management of the council. Secondary data was also considered and in this case the strategic plan was reviewed.The findings of the study were that Municipal Council of Thika has embraced strategy implementation however; it faces challenges from sources both external and internal to the organization. The key challenges faced are; resource constraints both financial and human, unsupportive structures, unsupportive culture, delays in strategy implementation, lack of appropriate policies and political interference were all highlighted as a hindrance to effective strategy implementation. The findings of the study also revealed that Municipal council of Thika has taken some measures to overcome the challenges in strategy implementation. These include; outsourcing some activities where the management is overwhelmed, sensitizing the civic leaders on their role as far as running the council is concerned, educating the staff on quality service delivery, recruitment of competent staff among others. The study however recommends that there is dire need to clearly define the roles of the administration wing and civic wing as far as management is concerned. Civic leaders need to be trained that their role is policy making and not implementation. This would significantly reduce political interference and improve the process of strategy implementation. A comprehensive human resource policy needs to be put in place that will address issues of recruitment, motivation and continuous training of the staff. This will enhance capacity which was found to be a major hindrance to strategy implementation.