A Survey of Factors Driving Strategic Planning by Professional Associations in Kenya

Abstract

This study sought to establish the factors driving strategic planning by professional associations in Kenya. The study used a survey design to achieve this objective. Target population for this study consisted of 29 professional associations operating in Kenya. The response rate was 72%. Data was collected using a structured likert-type questionnaire. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics. Results from quantitative data analysis were presented in tables and figures while content analysis results for qualitative data were presented in prose. The study found that 85.7% of professional associations studied had adopted strategic plans as compared to 14.3% who had not. The study also found that majority (55.6%) of the professional associations’ strategic plans covered 5 years period and above. The factors that were found to be driving adoption of strategic plans include association's goals, association's vision and mission, availability of finance, availability of professional staff and size of the institution/association. The important situations considered in planning for the associations’ operations were labour market situations, technology, economic status, regulatory environment, and social responsibility. Key performance indicators and clear measuring criteria were also found to be important factors. Based on the findings, it is recommended that professional associations adopt more elaborate strategic plans with specific objectives, key performance indicators and clear measuring criteria. This study also recommends that through a well laid out criteria, where performance can be easily measured, professional associations should compete with one another based on comparative parameters like productivity per member or revenue per member. This would enhance the quality of services that the associations give to their members and the public. The study further recommends that a guideline of a strategic plan be developed suited for professional associations. Further study should be carried out to establish the relationship of industry performance and success of professional associations in that industry.