Influence Of Strategic Management Practices on Public Service Delivery in Meru County Government, Kenya

Abstract

Strategic management practices refer to deliberate and systematic actions undertaken by organizations to set objectives, formulate strategies, allocate resources, and make informed decisions to achieve their goals. These practices involve analyzing both internal and external environments, identifying strategic priorities, and implementing structured plans that guide an organization toward improved performance. Within the Meru County Government, strategic management practices are essential in enhancing efficiency, accountability, and quality of service delivery. The purpose of this study was to examine the role of strategic management practices in influencing service delivery in the Meru County Government. The study was guided by four specific objectives: to explore the relationship between performance measurement and service delivery; to determine the effect of resource allocation on service delivery; to assess the role of employee training in improving service outcomes; and to evaluate the contribution of strategic planning to enhanced service delivery. The study adopted a descriptive research design and collected quantitative data from a target population of 150 staff members drawn from the Finance, Supply Chain, and Administration departments of the Meru County Government. A census approach was employed, thereby including all 150 staff members in the study. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires after obtaining a research permit from Kenya Methodist University. Respondents were informed about the study’s purpose and gave consent prior to participation. Data collected were coded, analyzed, and presented using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that strategic planning and employee training play a significant role in improving service delivery within the county government. Performance measurement systems were found to be well-utilized, while resource allocation had an indirect but important effect. The study concluded that integrating planning, performance evaluation, training, and resource management enhances service outcomes. It recommends strengthening performance measurement through digital tools, aligning resources with strategic priorities, institutionalizing continuous staff training, and engaging stakeholders in regular strategic reviews.