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Effects of Structural Dimension of Business Networking on Organizational Efficacy among Small and Medium Enterprises in Nairobi Kenya
No full textDespite being recognized as the backbone of the country’s Kenya’s economy, many Kenyan SMEs face significant challenges, key among them being long term viability. This study investigated the effects of structural dimension of business networking on organizational efficacy among small and medium enterprises in Nairobi Kenya. The study was informed by the Network Theory. This study utilized Positivist philosophy. The research utilized explanatory research design. The research design collected quantitative data. The study utilized deductive reasoning when conducting the research. The study area was Nairobi City County. The target population for the study was 4,896 SMEs in the manufacturing industry, registered and licensed to operate in Nairobi City County in the year 2022. The population was classified as Small – 3,307, and Medium – 1,589. The unit of observation and the respondents were the owners/managers of the SMEs in Nairobi, Kenya. Because of the large population of the target group, the study employed Multistage Area Sampling technique in selecting the respondents using Makadara Sub-county. After clustering, simple random sampling was utilized to derive the units. A sample size determination, a sample size of 369 was realized. The research purely relied on primary data that was collected using a questionnaire. Correlation results indicated that structural dimension was positively and significantly associated to organizational efficacy (r=0.704, p=0.00<0.05). Regression coefficients revealed that there was a positive and significant relationship between structural dimension and organizational efficacy (β =0.414, p=0.000). This was supported by a calculated t-statistic of 6.076 that is larger than the critical t-statistic of 1.96. The study concludes that the structural dimension of business networking has a significant effect on organizational efficacy among SMEs in Nairobi, Kenya. The study recommends that small and medium enterprises in Nairobi, Kenya, prioritize the development and strengthening of their business networks' structural dimensions. This includes fostering robust connections, enhancing communication channels, and establishing well-defined roles and relationships within the network. Emphasizing these structural aspects can significantly boost organizational efficacy.
Keywords; Structural Dimension, Business Networking, Organizational Efficacy, Small and Medium Enterprise
The Moderating Role of Cultural Orientation on the Relationship between Business Networking and Organizational Efficacy among Small and Medium Enterprises in Nairobi Kenya
No full textThe importance of SMEs to the economy and employment makes it essential for the state to facilitate supportive networks. However, the understanding of why SMEs fail to fully exploit their potential, especially in the context of business networking and organizational efficacy, remains limited. This study sought to investigate the moderating role of cultural orientation on the relationship between business networking and organizational efficacy among small and medium enterprises in Nairobi Kenya. The study was informed by Theory of Planned Behavior. This study utilized Positivist philosophy. The research utilized explanatory research design. The research design collected quantitative data. The study utilized deductive reasoning when conducting the research. The study area was Nairobi City County. The target population for the study was 4,896 SMEs in the manufacturing industry, registered and licensed to operate in Nairobi City County in the year 2022. The population was classified as Small – 3,307, and Medium – 1,589. The unit of observation and the respondents were the owners/managers of the SMEs in Nairobi, Kenya. Because of the large population of the target group, the study employed Multistage Area Sampling technique in selecting the respondents using Makadara Sub-county. After clustering, simple random sampling was utilized to derive the units. A sample size determination, a sample size of 369 was realized. The research purely relied on primary data that was collected using a questionnaire. The results indicated that cultural orientation was a positive and significant moderating variable for structural dimension 0.000<0.05, structural dimension at 0.00<0.05 and social dimension 0.000<0.05. The study concludes that cultural orientation plays a significant moderating role in the relationship between business networking and organizational efficacy among small and medium enterprises in Kenya. The study recommends that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) integrate a strong understanding and application of cultural orientation in their business networking strategies to enhance organizational efficacy. SMEs should invest in understanding the cultural dynamics of their business environments and networks, recognizing that different cultural orientations can significantly influence how business relationships are formed and maintained.
Keywords: Cultural Orientation, Business Networking, Organizational Efficacy & Small and Medium Enterprise
Competitive Strategies and Performance of Accredited Universities in Kenya
No full textUniversities in Kenya, with the mandate of developing Kenya’s human resource, have received increasing attention due to rising concerns regarding their competitiveness for sustained performance. These concerns have been triggered by environmental shocks such as the recent covid-19 pandemic which caused disruptions in the global market, the Russia-Ukraine conflict that affected the country’s dollar liquidity and in turn causing runaway inflation, global oil price shocks, extreme weather conditions that caused drought in most of the arid and semi-arid areas, declines in real gross domestic product and severe hardship facing Kenya’s government’s capacity to fund university education. Against this backdrop, a conceptual model was developed whose main objective was to determine the effect of competitive strategies on performance of accredited universities in Kenya. The corresponding hypothesis stated that competitive strategies have no significant effect on the performance of accredited universities in Kenya. The implications of performance on competitive strategies were anchored on the Industrial Organization (IO) Economics theory as propounded by Mason (1939), advanced by Bain (1968) and adopted by Porter (1985). The theory was based on the structure-conduct-paradigm (SCP), which postulated that the structure of a market and/or industry impacted the “conduct” of businesses, which then impacted their performance. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design targeting a population of 53 accredited universities in Kenya was used. Primary data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires. The response rate from completed questionnaires was 66.6%. Data was analysed using multiple linear regression analysis. The findings from the analyzed data showed competitive strategies that had significant influence on performance of accredited universities in Kenya namely; market penetration, strategic alliances, focus strategy, differentiation and cost leadership, in that order. Future research could include other respondents such as staff and students to eliminate single source bias to enrich the study. Other methods such as longitudinal design could offer richer data and greatly support the research design and the outcomes.
Key words: Competitive strategies, Competitive advantage and Performance of Accredited Universities in Kenya.  
Strategic Sensitivity and Operations Efficiency of Communication Companies in Nigeria
No full textThe study examined the relationship between strategic sensitivity and operations efficiency of communication companies in Nigeria, as well as the moderating role of decision support systems in this relationship. The study employed a cross-sectional survey methodology, using three major communication companies in Nigeria as the target population. Data were obtained through questionnaires and summarized in their respective groups. The study applied the inferential statistical tool of Spearman's rank order correlation to test the level of significance among variables. SPSS version 21.0 was utilized for the analysis. The study found that there is a significant relationship between strategic sensitivity and operations efficiency in communication companies in Nigeria. The analysis revealed a very strong positive correlation between these variables (rho = 0.915, P = 0.000), indicating that strategic sensitivity strongly contributes to improved levels of operational efficiency. Additionally, the research discovered that decision support systems play a positive moderating role in this relationship. The indirect relationship (R = 0.480) and direct relationship (R = 0.394) both showed positive correlations, with significant p-values (PV = 0.000 for indirect relationship, P = 0.12 for direct relationship). These findings led to the rejection of both null hypotheses, demonstrating that strategic sensitivity is crucial for operational efficiency and that decision support systems enhance this relationship. The study also noted that communication companies in Nigeria actively engage in practices reflecting strategic sensitivity (mean = 3.3343) and adequately express features of operational efficiency (mean = 3.2567), suggesting a strong emphasis on these aspects in the Nigerian communication sector. The study concludes that there is a positive relationship between strategic sensitivity and operations efficiency in communication companies in Nigeria. The study recommends that communication companies in Nigeria should prioritize and maintain their strategic sensitivity activities, given the significant relationship identified between strategic sensitivity and operations efficiency. Companies should invest in developing and refining their strategic sensitivity capabilities, including market analysis, trend forecasting, and adaptive planning. Furthermore, the study recommends that communication companies should focus on improving their managerial competence in handling strategic sensitivity over the long term. Companies should also consider implementing leadership development programs that emphasize strategic sensitivity and its practical application in operational contexts.
Keywords: Strategic sensitivity, agility, customer satisfaction, operations efficiency, Communication Companies, Nigeri
The Effect of Project Management Tools on Success in Project Implementation; A Case of Business Development Fund (BDF)
No full textThe general objective of this project was to find the the effect of project management tools on success in project implementation. The specific objectives of the study were to assess the effect of risk management tools on success of projects implementation at the Business Development Fund in Rwanda, determine the effect of scheduling and planning tools on success of projects implementation at the Business Development Fund in Rwanda, evaluate the effect of communication and collaboration tools on success of projects implementation at the Business Development Fund in Rwanda and investigate the effect of resources management tools on success of projects implementation at the Business Development Fund in Rwanda. The population of the study 120 and the sample size calculated by Slovin’s formula. The sample size was 92 people have project successes in BDF. Tools of data collection were questionnaire, interview and documentary. The study descriptive analysis for the examination of distributions of a single variable and correlation analysis, or regression analysis when it involves more than one variables. The Pearson correlation coefficient between Risk management tools and Success in project implementation is 0.759 (p<0.05). This indicates a strong positive correlation. The Pearson correlation coefficient between Scheduling and Planning tools and Success in project implementation is 0.732 (p<0.05), indicating a significant positive correlation. The Pearson correlation coefficient between Communication and Collaboration tools and Success in project implementation is 0.707 (p<0.05), signifying a strong positive correlation. The Pearson correlation coefficient between Resource management tools and Success in project implementation is 0.712 (p<0.05), representing a strong positive correlation. The results indicate The R Square value is 0.683. This value represents the proportion of variance in the dependent variable (Success in project implementation) that is explained by the combination of predictor variables. BDF and related Rwandan institution should Establish risk management teams, adopt modern project management software, prioritize communication tools, and invest in resource management tools to enhance project efficiency and success
Effect of Women’s Development Projects in Improving the Social Welfare of the Beneficiaries: A Case of Mother and Child Development Center in Gakenke District
No full textThe study aimed to analyze the effect of women’s development projects on improving the socio-welfare of beneficiaries in Gakenke district. Specifically, it sought to examine the impact of financial support provided by the Mother and Child Development Project on beneficiaries' social welfare, to assess the effect of women’s advocacy efforts by the Mother and Child Development Project on social welfare, to determine the influence of women’s training and development initiatives provided by the Mother and Child Development Project on social welfare. The sample size, calculated using the Slovin formula, comprised 170 respondents, representing beneficiaries of the Mother and Child Development Project in Gakenke district. Data were collected through documentary analysis and questionnaires. Statistical analyses, including correlation coefficient and R-squared values, were employed to assess the relationships and variations in the outcome variables. The study results found a strong positive correlation (correlation coefficient = 0.901) between financial support provided by the Mother and Child Development Project and beneficiaries' social welfare. The R-squared value of 0.63 indicated that 63% of the variation in social welfare improvement could be attributed to financial support. Additionally, the advocacy efforts of the project showed a strong positive relationship (correlation coefficient = 0.742) with social welfare improvement. The model explained 39.8% of the variation in the improvement of social welfare. In conclusion, the women's development projects, particularly those providing services like healthcare, nutrition, education, and psychosocial support through centers like the Mother and Child Development Project, significantly enhance the socio-welfare of beneficiaries. The study highlights the importance of sustained government support and the need for project sustainability to ensure long-term impact. The study recommends continued government support for women's development projects, emphasizing sustainability and long-term impact. Additionally, it suggests further research to explore additional factors influencing social welfare improvement and to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of such projects.
Keywords: Women's development, Socio welfare, Beneficiary, Mother and Child Development Center, Gakenke District, Rwand
Project Planning and Performance of Twigire Mumikino Project Implemented by Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) in Nyamasheke District, Rwanda
No full textThe study focused on evaluating the project planning and performance of the Twigire Mumikino Project implemented by VSO in Nyamasheke District, Rwanda. The specific objectives included assessing the effect of project scope planning, human resources planning, budget planning, communication planning on project performance. The research employed a descriptive/quantitative approach, utilizing data collected from 102 employees involved in the Twigire Mumikino Project. The study utilized questionnaires and interviews for primary data collection and accessed secondary information from relevant reports. Descriptive statistics, correlation coefficient, and multiple linear regression analysis were applied for data analysis. The results stated that project planning represented by project communication planning, project scope planning, project human resource planning, project budget planning has contributed R = .921a for performance of Twigire mumikino project implemented by VSO in Nyamasheke District, Rwanda as explained by r2 of 0.849 indicating 84.9% in the model as positive and moderate, as the independent variable moderately explained the dependent variable (i.e., performance of Twigire mumikino project implemented by VSO in Nyamasheke District) and show that the model is a good prediction. Project scope planning presented B which is 0.255 and t = 4.093. This variable's coefficient indicates that for a one-unit increase in project scope planning, the dependent variable (performance of Twigire mumikino project implemented by VSO is expected to increase by 0.255 units. Project Human Resource Planning show B is 0.172 and t = 3.035. The coefficient indicates that a one-unit increase in human resource planning is associated with an increase of 0.172 units in the performance of Twigire mumikino project implemented by VSO. Project Budget Planning presents B is 0.293 and t = 2.825. Similar to the previous variable, a one-unit increase in budget planning is associated with a 0.293 unit increase in the performance of Twigire mumikino project implemented by VSO. Project Communication Planning Shows B which is 0.265 and t = 2.707. A one-unit increase in communication planning is associated with a 0.265 unit increase in the performance of Twigire mumikino project implemented by VSO. However, Project Scope Planning, Project Human Resource Planning, Project Budget Planning, and Project Communication Planning all exhibit p-values less than 0.05, indicating statistical significance. The study supported all alternative hypotheses, emphasizing the substantial influence of project scope planning, human resources planning, budget planning, and communication planning on the performance of the Twigire Mumikino Project. This indicates the importance of prioritizing and enhancing the planning phase for improved project outcomes. To improve Twigire Mumikino project performance of VSO in Nyamasheke District, Rwanda should prioritize comprehensive project planning, particularly enhancing project scope planning, optimizing human resource planning, prioritizing budget planning, strengthening communication strategies, and implementing continuous monitoring and evaluation. These measures will ensure efficient resource allocation, stakeholder engagement, and alignment with project goals, ultimately enhancing overall project success
Stakeholder Engagement and Successful Implementation of Social Economic Development Project: A Case of Jyambere Project
No full textThe paper examined the stakeholder engagement in the successful implementation of social and economic development projects, with a particular focus on the Jyambere project in Rwanda's Gatsibo district. The research design for this study is a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative methods. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of stakeholder engagement and its influence on project outcomes. The quantitative data provided statistical analysis of stakeholder perceptions and project success indicators, while the qualitative data in-depth insights into stakeholders and experiences and perspectives. The sample size of this study was 180 respondents. They were composed of project staff, non-government patterns, government officials and projects beneficiaries. The data analysis involves descriptive and inferential statistical methods for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data. The findings of the research indicated that approximately 93.0% of the variance in Project Success is explained by the combined influence of Communication, Interest, and Participation. This is a substantial proportion of the variance, indicating that these independent variables collectively have a significant impact on Project Success. The correlation coefficient of 0.827 suggests that approximately 82.7% of the variance in project success is associated with stakeholder participation. In conclusion, active stakeholder engagement, tailored to project context, is crucial for achieving goals. Understanding stakeholder motivations and conducting assessments aids effective engagement. This research exemplified by the Jyambere Project highlights communication's pivotal role. Tailored approaches and clear channels are key for project success, emphasizing the need for comprehensive communication strategies to ensure accurate and timely information dissemination.
Keyterms: Stakeholder Engagement, Successful Implementation, Social Economic Development Project, Jyambere Project, Rwanda
Effect of Product Prototyping on the Purchase Intention of BJ50 Among 3-Wheeler Tuk-Tuk Users in Laikipia County, Kenya
No full textThis study examined the effect of product prototyping on the purchase intention of the BJ50 tuk-tuk among three-wheeler tuk-tuk users in Laikipia County, Kenya. Utilizing a descriptive research design, the study collected quantitative data through a structured questionnaire conducted with a census of 149 tuk-tuk operators. Guided by the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) model, the research investigated how customer feedback involvement, feature-based prototyping, and rapid prototyping influence purchase intention. Descriptive and inferential analyses reveal that active customer involvement in the prototyping process, including the integration of their feedback, significantly enhances purchase intention. A correlation coefficient (R) of 0.288 and regression model results (p = 0.001) confirm a statistically significant relationship, with product prototyping explaining 8.3% of the variance in purchase intention. The study concludes that prototyping fosters a customer-centered approach, aligning product features with user needs, building trust, and ultimately driving purchase decisions. It recommends investing in advanced prototyping technologies, iterative refinement based on customer feedback, and leveraging social media to create an engaged community around the product. These strategies can enhance product-market alignment and increase purchase intent.
Keywords: Product prototyping, Purchase intention, BJ50 tuk-tuk, Customer engagement, Design thinkin
Evaluation of Prediabetes Dietary Care Strategies, Glycemic Monitoring and Patient Glycemic Outcomes: Insights from Healthcare Providers
No full textPrediabetes is a condition which precedes Type 2 Diabetes. Effective strategy used in its management as well as correct glucose monitoring are key in ensuring optimum care among patients. These ensure better outcomes of care and reduced health complications. The study aimed to evaluate the dietary prescription strategies used by different healthcare providers as well as explore the use of blood sugar monitoring devices and the patient outcomes as reported by the healthcare providers. The study employed a cross-sectional design conducted in healthcare facilities across Ainamoi Subcounty, Kenya. Structured questionnaires were administered to 150 healthcare providers, collecting data on their sociodemographic characteristics, approaches to diabetes care, access to blood sugar monitoring devices as well as patient care outcomes. Data was analyzed using SPSS Version 20, utilizing descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. The findings revealed that 16.7% of participants were nutritionists, 19.3% medical officers, 20% clinical officers, 36.7% nurses, and 7.3% community health promoters. Gender and education level were significantly associated with the healthcare cadre (p<0.001), and access to glucometers varied significantly by cadre (p=0.004). More than 60% of healthcare providers across all cadres reported patient progression to Type 2 diabetes. The study concluded that all healthcare cadres play a critical role in prediabetes care and individualization of care as well as the use of low carbohydrate diet may help normalize plasma glucose levels among prediabetes patients. Blood sugar monitoring should therefore be emphasized, including adoption of advanced methods like continuous glucose monitoring. The study recommended targeted training for healthcare providers across all cadres on standardized care strategies, improved access to blood sugar monitoring tools, and the integration of technology to support patient management.
Keywords: Glucometer, glycemic outcomes, strategy of care, diabetic diets, continuous glucose monitors.