How strategy influence organizational performance: an empirical investigation of an academy support centre

Strategy Implementation is the process that turns strategies and plans into actions in order to accomplish strategic objectives and goals. It involves organization of the firm’s resources and motivation of the staff with a view of attaining its objectives. Organizational performance is the organization’s ability to attain its goals by using resources in an efficient and effective manner. The objective of the study was to assess the influence of strategy implementation on performance of Cisco Academy Support Center in Kenya. The study adopted a case study as it sought to analyse data based on responses from a few top management members who were interviewed using interview guides. Data obtained from the interview guides administered to the top managers was analyzed qualitatively to derive findings, conclusions and recommendations. The results indicated that successful strategy implementation practices are vital and pivotal to the success of the company. These practices inform the company direction and ensure that the focus is directed. Good implementation practices lead to achievement of goals and the ASC is able to respond better to the internal and external environment. Further results indicated that employees and managers were fully involved in the process of implementing strategy. The study found that to ensure long-term successful strategy implementation there has to be ownership by all employees, the relevant resources have to be provided for and communication has to be done effectively within the organization. The strategic objectives that are set need to be realistic and aligned with the institution priorities. Collaboration with different departments needs to be enhanced to leverage off common interests where both can benefit from aspects flowing from strategy implementation. There has to be proper budgetary support from the institution and employees need to be equipped with project management skills. The study recommends that the ASC creates a higher level of involvement of employees in any further strategy development and review to avoid hands off approach and lack of ownership on the part of the employees who are the implementers. The ASC must also ensure a high level of sensitization among employees and where practical programmes for capacity building to improve skill and motivate the willingness to participate by all employees. Further study is recommended on the effectiveness of the strategic management plans being implemented and their effect on performance of ASC’s.