Master of Business Administration

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Alternative Banking Strategies and Organizational Performance of Tier Three Banks in Nairobi, Kenya
(KeMU, 2025-09) Kinyua, Robert Muchiri
The adoption of alternative banking channels has increasingly influenced how commercial banks in Kenya perform. Notably, services like mobile banking, internet banking, and ATMs are central to enhancing banks’ operational efficiency, improving customer interaction, and driving overall institutional performance. Understanding how these alternative strategies impacted various performance indicators, played a vital role in guiding strategic choices and strengthening competitive advantage in Kenya’s banking industry. The study examined the impact of adopting alternative banking strategies and performance of the commercial banks in the country, grounding its analysis in the Resource-Based theory, the Technology Acceptance Model, and the Diffusion of Innovations Theory and Bank-Led Theory, the research examined how the adoption and strategic integration of alternative strategies affected key performance metrics, including financial performance, customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and strategic outcomes. The study utilized a descriptive research approach to evaluate how alternative banking strategies influence performance of tier-three commercial banks operating in Nairobi City. The study focused on all 21 banks in this category, targeting a total population of 2,123 employees spanning senior, middle, and operational levels. Data was gathered using structured questionnaires administered to a purposive sample of 160 staff members across the three management levels. The data analysis was carried out using SPSS Version 26.0, incorporating descriptive, diagnostic, and inferential statistics. Results from the bivariate analysis revealed that mobile banking, agency banking, and internet banking each had a meaningful positive influence on the performance of the banks. When evaluated together in a multivariate context, mobile banking (β = 0.460, p < 0.05), agency banking (β = 0.475, p < 0.05), and internet banking (β = 0.115, p < 0.05) continued to demonstrate statistically significant contributions to enhanced bank performance. In contrast, ATM banking (β = -0.051, p = 0.451) showed no significant effect due to its p-value exceeding the 0.05 threshold. These findings highlight the critical role of digital banking strategies in improving financial outcomes, enhancing customer experiences, and boosting operational efficiency. The study advocates for increased investment in digital infrastructure, greater customer education, and broader use of technology to streamline banking services. Ultimately, the results enrich the current literature on alternative banking and offer practical guidance for banks aiming to enhance performance through digital innovation.
Analysis of Causes and Effects of Occupational Stress on Health Care Workers Performance.A Survey of Tigania East and West Sub-District and District Hospitals
(KeMU, 2010-05) Kainyu, Mugambi Iddah
This study attempted to assess the causes and effect of occupational stress on health care workers performance by taking a case study of Tigania East & Tigania West sub-district and district hospitals. The purpose of the study was to explore the causes and effect of occupational stress on health care workers performance with the aim of identifying strategies for minimizing occupational stress among health care workers. This research adopted descriptive research design and obtained information concerning the current status of stress among health care workers so as to describe "what exists" with respect to work related stress. The first part of the study examined the causes of stress while the second part looked at the effects of such stress on health care workers performance. Both primary and secondary data were used in the research. The sample frame consisted of 96 workers drawn from Mbeu, Mikinduri, Muthara and Miathene sub district and district hospitals. The sample size consisted of 48 workers drawn from the four hospitals. This constituted half of the total number of workers in the four hospitals under study. The 48 study respondents were identified using stratified random sampling method. Questionnaires were issued to the identified respondents who were then required to drop them at a centralized collection point. Out of the 48 questionnaires issued, 4 were not returned whereas 4 were incomplete. Thus, data analysis was based on 40 questionnaires that were fully filled and returned. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 12.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in data analysis. The data analysis sought to answer research questions of the study According to the regression analysis done, job security, tight work deadlines, low chances for career growth, low salary and lack of working tools were identified as key stressors that result to occupational stress among health care workers in the studied hospitals. In regard to effects of occupational stress on health care workers performance, the study revealed that apart from adversely affecting workers performance, occupational stress also resulted to workers interpersonal conflict (violence at work), strikes, and violence at home. The study therefore recommended that the hospital management should come up with intervention measures that are specifically geared towards addressing the 5 major stressors highlighted by the study. These intervention measures will aim at ensuring that workers have enough and appropriate working tools and supplies, less workload and more realistic work deadlines, enhanced chances for career growth and advancement, greater sense of job security and more attractive salaries and benefits.
An Analysis of Challenges to Integrated Marketing Communication: A Case of Banking Industry in Kenya.
(2011-05) KaruriI, Joseph
The emergence and the development of integrated marketing communication (IMC) has been determined by a number of evolutionary trends in various areas of marketing — the increased fragmentation and segmentation of markets, relationship marketing and direct marketing and information technology on the development of new communication technologies and database applications and communication - increased fragmentation of media audiences, multiplicity and saturation of media channels. The new paradigm of IMC can represents a strategic answer to commercial bank. This was a descriptive survey study aimed at establishing challenges to integrated marketing communications in the banking industry in Kenya. The population of interest of this study was the forty six commercial banks operating in Kenya with their Head offices in Nairobi. The researcher used structured questionnaires as the main data collection instrument. A content analysis and descriptive analysis were employed for data analysis. The content analysis was used to analyze the respondents' views about various challenges to integrated marketing communication among commercial banks in Kenya. The data was then coded to enable the responses to be grouped into various categories. Descriptive statistics such as means, median mode and standard deviation were also used to help in data analysis. Tables and other graphical presentations as appropriate were used to present the data collected for ease of understanding and analysis. Various marketing communication strategies that affects the adoption of integrated marketing communication include ; promotion through advertising, tool of marketing communication, promotion through personal selling, strategic planning of promotion, financial analysis of promotion, sales promotion and promotion through public relations. The study also found that there were of internet marketing strategies in the banking sector which were; product strategies; coordination; framework and relation marketing. The effect of internet technology on the adoption of integrated marketing communication in the banking sector was rated to great extent. On the advancement in the internet technology that affects respondent banks integrated marketing communication they were; internet being slow, vulnerability of internet with risk. The study found that most of the respondent rated integration and coordination of complex information flows between the organizational intranet and the internet as very highly affecting and integration and coordination of communication modes. Integration and coordination of various types of information was rated as highly affecting. From the discussion and conclusion the study recommend that in order for banking industry to implement integrated marketing communication it must address the various challenges that affects the adoption of integrated marketing communication.
An Analysis of Determinants of Internationalization: A Case Study of Selected Kenyan Pharmaceutical and Medical Equipment Firms
(KeMU, 2018-09) Mbiadjeu, Paloma Ngassam
Business activities that are organized and carried out across borders to pursue an organization`s stated aims and objectives is referred to as international business. The aim of any organization (national or international) is to maximize their profit and minimize their costs; this is achieved through effective and efficient allocation of its resources in its operations. Selected pharmaceutical and medical equipment present in Kenya were investigated to analyze the determinants of their internationalization. The study`s objectives were to establish the extent to which organization`s attributes, decision maker`s abilities, market features and regulatory support influenced the internationalization of selected Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms. This study further provided empirical review, conceptual and operational framework. A descriptive research design was used in the study; this design main objective was to clearly describe the persons involved and acquire accurate information from the current situation. Due to this topic being important in the field of international business, this research had for general objective to analyze the determinants that influence the internationalization of selected Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms. It specifically looked at determinants such as: organization`s attributes, decision maker`s abilities, market features and regulatory support. A census was used to gain access to information from the population members in order to determine their status and how they relate to one or more variables. The study`s sample size consisted 75 respondents out of the targeted 75 respondents. The study used questionnaire method in form of structured questions to collect data from the field. Data was presented and summarized in forms of tables and questionnaires was collected and analyzed so as to acquire relevant data. This study’s results showed that organization`s attributes, decision maker`s abilities and market features influenced the internationalization of selected Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms. The study recommended that Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms should concentrate their efforts on building their decision makers abilities, organization`s attributes and taking advantage of host country market features in achieving internationalization. The study found that organization attributes, with its measures: number of employees, number of years in business operations and product appeal significantly affect the internationalization of selected Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms, these firms must build up their competencies and strategies in a way to enable them acquire certain features overtime. From the study, decision maker’s abilities and host country market features were also seen as a statistically significant predictor of internationalization of selected Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms. These abilities and foreign market features help the organization achieve success both financially and non-financially. Finally, policy makers (host and home country regulators) were seen as a statistically insignificant predictor of the internationalization of selected Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms, therefore policy makers should concentrate on building on the competencies and capabilities of organizations whilst formulating and implementing export policies and programs to help increase export volumes.
An Analysis of Effect of Agency Banking on Profitability of Banks In Kenya: A Case of Kenya Commercial Bank
(KeMU, 2022-03) Okayo, Paul
Agency banking is touted as being the solution to the wide spread poverty in most developed countries. The goal of this study was to ascertain how agent banking affected Kenya's commercial banks' profitability. The specific objectives were to determine the effect of agency convenience, agency costs, agency access and agency regulations on commercial banks’ profitability. Using a descriptive approach, the study targeted commercial banks based on the Nairobi CBD. A sample population of 30 out of 111 agents was arrived at. Questionnaires were used to collect the study's data and analysed using qualitative and quantitative data with the aid of SPSS. Tables and figures were used in presenting of the analysed data. This study concluded that cost, convenience, access as well as regulations have a positive effect on the profitability of the banks. The findings will help government, financial institutions, students and scholars alike to improve the life of the population at large.
An Analysis of Factors Determining Water Supply in Kenya.A Case Study of Nanyuki Water and Sewerage Company
(KeMU, 2016-02) Mbogori, Norah
Water supply is one of the most important thing in human life and all the living creatures. It is for this reason that this research sought to analyze factors determining water supply encountered by communities living in and around Nanyuki as a result of water disconnections by water providers. This study sought to analysis factors determining water supply in Laikipia County, Kenya with focus of NA WASCO. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; lifestyle, location of water offices, consumer income and consumer decisions roles as regard to water service provider in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive research design and target population will comprise consumers whose accounts are active and include a total of 13764 domestic consumers, 804 commercial and 17 industrial consumers total of 14585 based in Nanyuki Town. Multi-stage sampling technique was used where the researcher first divided the target population into clusters and then a simple random sampling technique wasused. From this population, a sample size was drawn of 187 domestic consumers, 13 commercial and 2 industrial consumers totaling to 201 respondents who get water from NAWASCO in Nanyuki town. Quantitative data was analyzed using frequencies and percentages as while as qualitative data which was analyzed using content analysis. The findings were presented using frequency tables, graphs and pie charts. The finding of the study will be significant both to water consumers and water providers in many aspects, where the consumer will benefit from regular and reliable water supply services and water management institutions will also benefit from increased revenue collections from the consumers. The study concludes that consumer lifestyle, consumer location, consumer income and consumer decision have a huge implication on water supply. Multiple linear regression was run to predict the dependent variable; water supply from the independent variables consumer lifestyle, consumer location, and consumer income and consumer decision. The findings indicated that consumer lifestyle, consumer location, consumer income and consumer decision were significantly different from zero. Thus the four variables statistically significantly added to the prediction of water supply in water and sewerage companies. The study recommends that there is need to set up the right institutional framework, development of a consumer based orientation for example through better data coverage more details on consumer behavior and its effects on water supply and there is need for water and sewerage companies to educate the people on reducing the wasteful results of water consumption.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Employees: Work Engagement in Private Universities: A Survey of Kenya Methodist University Administrative and Academic Staff
(KeMU, 2015-06) Ataga, Rodah Asigo
ABSTRACT Employee engagement is the binding of an individual to his or her roles at work whereby employees express themselves cognitively, materially, and expressively while performing their work roles in work engagement. It is a very essential driver for an organization to attain a competitive advantage. Employees who are engaged in their work and committed to their organizations give companies crucial competitive advantages including higher productivity and •1ower employee turnover. This study examined factors influencing employees' work engagement in private .universities; case study of Kenya Methodist University (KeMU). Work engagement entails the active use of emotions in addition to the simple use of cognition while completing work tasks. The study was guided by five specific objectives including testing the level of work vigour, work absorption, work dedication, social demographic factors and organizational support. Five null hypotheses were tested on the acceptability or rejection of five independent variables on the dependent variable. The research methodology used descriptive approach to achieve the research objectives. The research utilized primary data collected through administration of questionnaires. The target population was 561 which were made up of 332 academic staff and 229 administrative staff with a 30% sample size determined. Each stratum was established to select the sample size of 100 academic staff and 69 administrative staff totaling to 169 questionnaires. A total of 112 questionnaires were returned but 92 questionnaires were duly filled and used for data analysis. Multiple liner regression analysis was used to link the relationship between independent variables and dependent variables and to test hypothesis. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square with aid of SPSS was used to analyze the data. From the hypothesis tests, it can be observed that three independent variables had significant association with Employees' Work Engagement: that is, Work Dedication, Work absorption and Organisation Support. Work dedication has a significant influence on employees' work engagement because majority of respondent (89.2%) were inspired by their job. The results also indicated that there was a significant relationship between work absorption and employees work engagement by 89.2% of respondents claiming that they rarely detach themselves from their work. 100% of employees were comfortable with the working environment but majority ( 41 % ) of the employees felt that management sometimes empowers them to do the work. These results revealed that there was no strong evidence to show that social demographic attributes of the employees in KEMU had significant association with Employees' Work Engagement. The research makes various recommendations including organization creating structures to facilitate access to resources, have a working environment with higher levels of job autonomy, low task complexity, supervisory support, and the internal locus of control, and ensure employees maintain high energy levels and mental resilience are willing to exert effort and to persist in difficult times.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Entrepreneurial Orientation of Social Enterprises in Meru County
(KeMU, 2015-05) Karwanda, Kanyiri Adel
Although entrepreneurship has been studied for thousands of years, social entrepreneurship which considers the practice in which an entrepreneur sets out to solve some social problem by way of combining business management skills with social sector acumen to yield a sustainable enterprise that produces both financial and social returns is quite a challenging area. The main objective of this study was to analyse entrepreneurial orientation among the managers of SACCOs in North Imenti, Meru County. As there are limited studies about Entrepreneurial Orientation in Kenya, this study was expected to contribute significantly to the development of this field. This study was anchored on existing theories in Entrepreneurship namely Psychological Entrepreneurship Theories, Sociological Entrepreneurship Theory, Schumpeter's' Innovation Theory, Entrepreneurial Orientation at the firm Level and Entrepreneurial Orientation at the individual Level based on which the. conceptual framework was derived. A descriptive research design was adopted in conducting this study. Primary data was collected using closed - ended questionnaires. Multiple Logistic Regression analysis was used to analyse data; show the relationship between independent variables (Innovation, Risk-taking, Autonomy, Proactiveness and Aggressiveness) and the dependent variable (Entrepreneurial Orientation); and to test the hypotheses, the researcher used 95% confidence level. Secondary data was collected from higher learning institutional journals. This study ensured all ethical considerations such as confidentiality were highly maintained The total population in the survey was 35 respondents which comprised of managers, in charge of the SACCO's. This research employed census survey, which means all the 35 managers from the 35 SACCOs in Imenti North were respondents for the study. Census survey was appropriate because the total population was small and easily accessible. One of the greatest advantages of a census survey is that all employees have the same opportunity to participate. A census survey tends to enhance feelings of security surrounding the accuracy of the results. Finally, census survey is easier to administer because it includes all persons. Descriptive statistics was used in analysis of data in SPSS (version 20) using Multiple Logistic Regression model to link the relationship between independent variables and dependent variable and to test the hypothesis at 95% confidence level. Descriptive data is summarised and presented in form of frequency tables and percentages. The findings revealed that Innovation, Risk-taking, Autonomy and Proactiveness were the only factors which had significant influence on the entrepreneurial orientation of the managers whereas competitive aggressiveness had insignificant influence. Therefore entrepreneurial acumen and business management skills be classified as the strongest predictors of survival of firms. Hence, the ability to adjust one's business model to adapt to changed economic circumstances is an important characteristic of entrepreneurial conduct that ultimately dictates survival in increasingly competitive economic environments. Therefore, management should understand the importance of these dimensions of the EO which refers to the top management's strategy in relation to innovativeness, proactiveness and risk-taking for the sustainability of the SACCO's as forms of social enterprises.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Growth of Micro and Small Enterprises Dealing in Information Communication Technologies
(KeMU, 2011-04) Kiretai, James
This study was carried out to analyze the factors influencing the growth of MSEs dealing in ICT in selected businesses in Nyeri Town. Understanding the factors that influence the growth of MSEs dealing in ICT would inspire the players in the sector to come up with methods of boosting their growth and thus reap the maximum benefits that accrue. The general objective of the study was to analyze the factors that influence the growth of MSEs dealing in ICT with special reference to such businesses in Nyeri Town of Kenya. In the research the Survey design was used. The sampling frame included all MSEs dealing in ICT in Nyeri town. There is still not much of a common body of well-founded knowledge about the causes, effects or processes of growth. Moreover, although several determinants of firm growth have been suggested, researchers have been unable to achieve a consensus regarding the factors leading to firm growth. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to carry out an analysis of the factors that influence growth of MSEs dealing in ICT in Nyeri town after which the results were then generalized to cover the whole country. Moreover, there are several conceptual and empirical challenges in the study of firm's growth (Delmar, 2007). Firm growth in general refers to increase in size. The most frequently used measure for growth has been change in the firm's turnover. Another typical measure for growth has been increase in the number of employees. In order to create a conducive and enabling business environment for growth, there is need to carry out a detailed examination of the factors that influence growth of ICT related micro and small enterprises. Data was hence collected from such selected businesses in Nyeri town through the use of questionnaires using the drop and pick method. Data collected was then analyzed and quantitatively interpreted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Pie charts and tables were then used to present data in an easy way to interpret. In this way, the outcome of the study would try to help the micro and small enterprises dealing in ICT to start and stay afloat. The findings of the study would be useful to the government in formulating regulations concerning the sector. Further, the government would, on the basis of the findings of the study determine ways of spurring growth in the sector by removing the impediments to the growth. On the other hand the outcome of the study would help to bridge the information gap that exists on the factors influencing the growth of MSEs dealing in JCT and provide ways by which the challenges could be surmounted. This would go a long way in catalyzing the growth of ICT sector and entrepreneurship in Kenya.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Implementation of Anticorruption Strategies by Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission in Kenya
(KeMU, 2022-10) Kireri, Jeremiah
Corruption has had major worldwide monetary, social and political repercussions, resulting to drained economies and breakdown of administrative and operational frameworks, dwindling public trust, bringing about scorn for the standard of law, mutilating the allotment of assets, and subverting rivalry in the commercial center. This study was set out to analyze factors influencing implementation of anti-corruption strategies at Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. It was conducted in EACC headquarters at integrity centre in Nairobi. The objectives of the study were: to determine the relationship of financial factors, human capital, managerial competencies and implementation of anti-corruption strategies. This study was guided by two theories namely: the Noble‘s strategic implementation model and the white collar crime theories. This study used a case study exploration design. Employees of Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission in key departments were targeted. A sample of 85 was used. Stratified random sampling was used. The questionnaire was self-administered. The validity and reliability of the instrument were confirmed by pr-testing. SPSS was used to evaluate the data using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. It was discovered throughout the research that anti-corruption measures were being implemented ineffectively. The analysis revealed that the EACC's inability to adopt anti-corruption tactics was due to a lack of resources. There was lack of integrity at EACC. Results showed that EACC had a good institutional framework a fair stakeholder support in the implementation of anti-corruption strategies. All the independent variables were significant. Regression analysis showed that stakeholder support was the most affecting variable. The study concluded that there is inadequate resource allocation, lack of integrity and insufficient stakeholder support are responsible for poor implementation of anti-corruption strategies at EACC. The study recommended that national assembly of Kenya should allocate more financial resources to EACC to enhance the capacity of the agency. The study also recommended that the agency should align its framework with the latest recommendations of The International Organization Convention on Corruption. EACC should also adopt a stakeholder engagement plan to enable greater public participation and civil society engagement in fighting corruption.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Implementation of Procurement Strategy among Regulatory Parastatals in Nairobi County
(KeMU, 2020-11) Tubman, Ochola David
Today’s organizational environment has become very competitive, increasingly uncertain and fast changing and hence, organizations need to plan and be flexible enough to accommodate the ever-changing environment. Due to that constant change, organizations need to adapt so as to strategically exploit emerging opportunities to ensure survival and success. Procurement strategy implementation is a process of implementing policies, programs and action plans that allows a firm to utilize its resources to take advantage of opportunities in the competitive environment. The implementation of procurement strategy in the regulatory parastatals depends on various factors which include; funds, organization structure, interests of members and communication. The main purpose of this study was to determine the factors influencing implementation of procurement strategies among regulatory parastatals in Nairobi County, Kenya. Specifically, the study focused on the extent to which managerial competence affect procurement strategy implementation; the extent to which resource allocation affects procurement strategies implementation; the extent to which organizational structure affects procurement strategies implementation; and analyzed the extent to which information communication technology affect procurement strategies implementation in regulatory parastatals in Nairobi County, Kenya. This study will be significant to the management regulatory parastatals in Nairobi County. The study will assist them formulate and design appropriate mechanisms to identify and overcome challenges in implementing procurement strategies so as to achieve the set goals, objectives and remain relevant in the ever-changing environment and position the regulatory parastatals strategically for success in the future. This study adopted descriptive research design and targeted 103employees of regulatory parastatals in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was carried out through a census; questionnaires were used in data collection. Quantitative approaches were used for data analysis whereby Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23.0) was used to run descriptive and inferential statistics. The result indicated that, collectively Information communication technology has the highest positive influence on procurement strategy implementation, followed by resource allocation managerial competence, and organization structure. The findings suggested that, management in executive agencies should pay more attention on stakeholders and organizational culture if they have to benefit from those factors. The study concluded that, predictors individually and collectively influence execution of strategies. The findings are expected to be of value to the management and decision makers to form a basis for improving implementation of procurement strategy. Furthermore, studies can be done to other variables which influence implementation of procurement strategy but were not considered in this study or the same variables to different populations, locations and other sectors of economy in Kenya.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Implementation of Procurement Strategy among Regulatory Parastatals in Nairobi County
(Kenya Methodist University, 2020-01-15) Ochola, David Tubman
Today’s organizational environment has become very competitive, increasingly uncertain and fast changing and hence, organizations need to plan and be flexible enough to accommodate the ever-changing environment. Due to that constant change, organizations need to adapt so as to strategically exploit emerging opportunities to ensure survival and success. Procurement strategy implementation is a process of implementing policies, programs and action plans that allows a firm to utilize its resources to take advantage of opportunities in the competitive environment. The implementation of procurement strategy in the regulatory parastatals depends on various factors which include; funds, organization structure, interests of members and communication. The main purpose of this study was to determine the factors influencing implementation of procurement strategies among regulatory parastatals in Nairobi County, Kenya. Specifically, the study focused on the extent to which managerial competence affect procurement strategy implementation; the extent to which resource allocation affects procurement strategies implementation; the extent to which organizational structure affects procurement strategies implementation; and analyzed the extent to which information communication technology affect procurement strategies implementation in regulatory parastatals in Nairobi County, Kenya. This study will be significant to the management regulatory parastatals in Nairobi County. The study will assist them formulate and design appropriate mechanisms to identify and overcome challenges in implementing procurement strategies so as to achieve the set goals, objectives and remain relevant in the ever-changing environment and position the regulatory parastatals strategically for success in the future. This study adopted descriptive research design and targeted 103employees of regulatory parastatals in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was carried out through a census; questionnaires were used in data collection. Quantitative approaches were used for data analysis whereby Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23.0) was used to run descriptive and inferential statistics. The result indicated that, collectively Information communication technology has the highest positive influence on procurement strategy implementation, followed by resource allocation managerial competence, and organization structure. The findings suggested that, management in executive agencies should pay more attention on stakeholders and organizational culture if they have to benefit from those factors. The study concluded that, predictors individually and collectively influence execution of strategies. The findings are expected to be of value to the management and decision makers to form a basis for improving implementation of procurement strategy. Furthermore, studies can be done to other variables which influence implementation of procurement strategy but were not considered in this study or the same variables to different populations, locations and other sectors of economy in Kenya.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Small Scale Manufacturing Businesses Growth in Meru Town, Kenya
(KeMU, 2013-06) Karume, Kirira David
The research analyzed factors influencing growth of small scale manufacturing businesses in Meru town. Over years Small businesses in Kenya have experienced many constraints that have inhibited realization of their full potential. A number of them are stagnating, retrogressing and eventually closing down after a few years of operation. Very few manage to graduate to medium or large businesses.. Also gave recommendations on the way forward. The target population was 132 small scale manufacturing businesses and a sample population of 70 small manufacturing businesses was taken. A descriptive survey research design was employed to collect data. The primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire contained a list of closed and open ended questions to take care of all the responses which could not fit in the given categories. The data was edited, coded, classified and tabulated. The findings were analyzed and presented in the form of frequency tables, numerical values and percentages generated through Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) (Version 17) computer software. Multiple regression analysis was used to find out whether all the independent variables together predict the dependent variable. From analyzed data, the Government of Kenya could use the information to develop appropriate policy on the sector to enhance its growth and contribution to the growth of Kenyan economy and development. From the study the small scale manufacturing business owners will be able to realize their potential and contribute to their welfare and poverty eradication in Kenya. The study objectives were to investigate whether technology, economic factors, managerial training and level of competition influenced growth of small scale manufacturing businesses in Meru town. The findings show gender of respondents in which majority are male with marital status of the respondents showing that majority are married. Majority of the respondents are in the age blanket of 25-35, have attained secondary school education, had not been employed before starting their business and started their business because they had the required technical skills. Majority of the respondents got the capital to start their business from their own savings and never attended any seminar. Majority of the respondents never attended trade fairs and never attended business management trainings. Majority of the respondents agreed with the statement that having business management skills affects Small business growth. Most of the respondents were sole owners and that enterprises number of employees stayed constant. Majority of enterprise had Ksh 50,000 or fewer turnovers and believe that poor economy is the cause of their businesses decline in performance while majority are aware of modern technology. Most of the respondents sell their products locally within the town of Meru and their main problem was lack of adequate funds while majority agreed with the statement that availability of close substitute goods affects the growth of their businesses. The co-efficient critical value of Business Management Skills is p <0.05 which results in rejecting the null hypothesis, while the co-efficient critical value of Technology Application is 0.184 which results in accepting the null hypothesis; and the co-efficient critical value of Economic Factors is 0.355 which results in accepting the null hypothesis. While the co-efficient critical value of Competition is 0.530 which results 111 accepting the null hypothesis.
An Analysis of Factors Influencing the Brand Choice of A Bank among Small and Medium Enterprises Based in Nairobi.
(2011-05) Mayende, John Kennedy
In today's financial services marketplace characterized by the emergence of deposit taking microfinance institutions and savings and credit organizations, banks need to set up effective ways to stay ahead on competition. Depending on the key market segment, banks have increasingly offered new products, varied the product pricing in some occasions and invested in branding. The purpose of this thesis was to investigate the factors that influence medium enterprises perceive in the brand choice of bank for obtaining financial services. The study contains literature review which includes the relevant theory and empirical review or studies done by other scholars that this research is based on. To fulfill the purpose, this research was investigative in nature thus applied a descriptive research design. The target population was small and medium enterprises located within the Ngara shopping centre in Nairobi and accessing financial services from banks. Data was collected from a sample of 72 respondents out of the target population. Both primary and secondary data were used. The obtained data was carefully analyzed using descriptive analysis and inferential statistics. The study found that the most influencing factors for brand choice of a bank by SME are related to awareness, associations and attitude towards the brand of the bank. A personal relationship with the bank is the most important part according to the findings in this research. However, it is notable that the bank sector of today is moving further away from a personal relationship with customers. The number of electronic touch points has increased in Kenya over the last decade to the extent that deposit transactions can be made through automated teller machines. The study also revealed that Internet banking is on the rise. This presents the risk that customers may feel less connection and loyalty to the bank as the personal relationship disappears. Banks should make customers feel something about doing business with them . The study recommends that commercial banks should embrace personal relationship with the customers as it is an important part that will help them in creating their brand awareness, improve association and increase the customer attitude towards their product. The study also recommends that commercial banks in Kenya should alter the perceptions and create consumer preference for a particular bank, calls for similar branding strategy employed in traditional packaged goods. The established regression equation was Y = 1.961 + 0.493 Xi + 0.314 X2 + 0.267 X3 ± 0.453 X4 + 0.374 X5. This shows that there is a positive relationship between brand choice of a bank and brand awareness, brand association, brand loyalty, activity and brand attitude. From the regression analysis the study found that there was a strong correlation between the study variable as shown by correlation coefficient (R) of 0.891.
An Analysis of Factors Influencing the Psychological Contract and Employee Performance in the Public Service.
(2011-05) Gathambo, Antony
The purpose of the study was to get the effects of psychological contract on employee performance in the public service. The psychological contract is developed between the employee and the organization over an extended period of time. It starts with the experiences the candidate has when applying for the job, develops during the recruitment and selection process, and continues to be formed during induction and settling-in period. The psychological contract is constantly being revised and adjusted throughout the period of employment. The research adopted a descriptive research design and the target population size was 366 it included senior level, middle, level management, finance officer and other level. A sample size of 30% was drawn from the population; a systematic sampling technique was used to select the respondents. This study was a descriptive survey aimed at establishing the effect of psychological contract on the performance of employees in the Ministries of Finance Kenya. The study used both secondary data from other sources and primary data collected using questionnaires to carry out the study. Data collected was purely quantitative in nature. Descriptive statistical tools helped the researcher to describe the data and determine the extent used. Data analysis used SPSS and Microsoft Excel, percentages, tabulations, means and other central tendencies. Tables were used to summarize responses for further analysis and facilitated comparison. The study found out that psychological contract affects employee performance in their institution to a great extent. The factors of psychological contract that affect employee performance include; communication, Job security, Attitude and Rewards. It was revealed that job security and rewards affect employee performance to a very great extent. The study also revealed that attitude least affected employee performance. This study therefore recommends institutions management should that psychological contract is embraced by both employee and employer.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Usage of Mobile Phone Banking Services among Women Entrepreneurs
(KeMU, 2015-07) Muuthia, Winfred Kagwiria
Since the launch of M-Pesa by Safaricom service provider, Mobile banking became a reality in Kenya. The service enables subscribers to use their mobile phones to carry out transactions such as pay for goods and services, pay bills, send to and receive money from friends and family, withdraw cash for their use, top up their own airtime account or top up someone else's account and manage their own accounts. M-Pesa too paved the way for other network service providers to offer mobile- banking services such as Airtel money, Yu cash and orange money which also offer the same services as M-Pesa. However, there is laxity among women entrepreneurs in the adoption of mobile banking services in that they prefer cash transactions to e-cash payments in their day to day transactions. Against the backdrop of this laxity, the following factors were analyzed: social cultural practices, security, ease of accessibility, low .costs of transactions and finally the support from the network service providers. The study applied the Theory of Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to help predict factors affecting the usage of mobile banking services among women banana traders. The research survey was carried out around three major banana trading centers in Meru central within Meru County. This banana trading centers were selected from an array of many but preferred due to their proximity and accessibility. They were Kariene, Miruriri and Mwichiune. It was assumed also that the women banana traders at these centers were likely to be using mobile phone banking services. The research design was a descriptive survey that was conducted through administration of questionnaires. Primary data was collected using closed ended questionnaires. The total population of the research survey was 200 respondents which comprised women banana traders in the three banana trading spots. Convenient sampling was used to select respondents from the three banana trading spots. An estimated 25% of the total population was selected at each banana trading spot to arrive at the sample size of 50 respondents around banana market spots in Meru central. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze data aided by SPSS (version 20) using Multiple Logistic Regression model to link the relationship between the independent and dependent variables and to test the hypothesis at 5% significance level. Analyzes of the data revealed that social cultural practices of the money transfer technology enshrined in family ties, remittances and informal groups plus its accessibility, cost; support and security factors are related to behavioral intention to use and actual usage of the mobile banking services by the women banana traders. The research findings helped add to the scanty literature on usage of mobile phone banking services and recommended that further research be undertaken to investigate the impact of the actual usage of the mobile phone banking services on the growth and success of the business.
Analysis of Factors that Affect Employee Training in Local Authorities
(KeMU, 2009-02) Lydia, Nkirote Mwiti
ABSTRACT This research project aimed at analysis of factors that affect employee training in Local authorities. It was a case study that involved employees of all cadres in Meru Municipal Council. The research project was developed after observation that employees in Local authorities were not adequately equipped with skills, abilities and knowledge for effective service delivery. Assessing the present situation of Local authorities in terms of service delivery, it is obvious that urgent steps are required to upgrade employee skills in order to improve performance is critical. The Local authorities have over the years not responded to this urgent need to improve the quality of their workforce. The local authorities have over the years not responded to this urgent need to improve the quality of their workforce .The research intended to analyse the factors and offer appropriate recommendation. Descriptive research design was employed, which involves an indepth analysis of the factors. Questionnaires were distributed to all employees of the sampled group. Data was then analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences(SPSS). Data was analysed to establish the factors that affect employee training. From the study it was established that several factors are responsible for the state of training in LAs which include, the quality of the workforce, poor Human Resource Practices, Low budgetary allocations to training and employee attitude to training.The respondents expressed dissatisfaction with their jobs which they said offered them no room for personal growth, skill advancement, and career development. Employees are not guided on matters concerning future plans for personal development and training, promotion and upward mobility prospects. From the above it is clear that HRM practices are professionally employed in LAs. There is need for a strategy for systematic HRD programmes especially in the area of training, recruitment, and retention of employees. This will promote the need for annual budgetary Provision to support HRM activities especially training. A deliberate effort is required to reinstate the funding for LAs training programmes which according to this research have dwindled to almost zero over the years. The findings and recommendations of this study will significantly contribute to advancement of service delivery in LAs through improved performance of employees after effective training. Fundamentally, the research findings have availed information key towards implementation of Kenya's Economic Blueprint Vision 2030 and accomplishment e Millennium development goals by 2012.
An Analysis of Factors that Influence Accessibility of Devolved Funds by Micro and Small Enterprises in Kenya
(KeMU, 2011-06) Wachira, Florence W
Concentration of power and resources at the center has led to a skewed development pattern in many countries. Awiti (2008) defines devolution as the delegation of authority to formally constituted government bodies to discharge specified/residual functions. As a principle of organizational theory devolution is premised on the fact that by nature, society is structured in concentric circles; the individual - the family - neighbors - voluntary organizations and associations - local authorities - constituencies and superior state bodies. The respective inner circle has the priority for securing and improving the welfare of the individual than the larger and more complex outer circles by encouraging self-responsibility. In the Kenyan context devolution has been understood as an agenda to redesign government where power and resources are shared equitably. It involves delegation of political and legislative power to semi-autonomous regional or sub national entities. Legal political and fiscal powers are also devolved to the subordinate entity yet at the same time the center maintains control over how these powers are used. The specific objectives of the study are to determine how accessibility to information about devolved funds affects their utilization by MSEs, assess the impact of entrepreneurial training and affordability on accessibility to funds as well as assessing how the management structures and legal frame work influence the level to which they are accessible. The purpose of the study is to make an analysis of the factors influencing the accessibility of devolved funds by the owners of Micro and Small Enterprises in order to meet the financial needs of their businesses. The target population was 151 hardware operators in Nyeri Municipality. Data- was collected from selected hardware outlets selected through simple random sampling. The main data collection instruments were questionnaires administered to the hardware owners as well as secondary data obtained from policy documents from program managers and bank credit managers. The data collected was analyzed and interpreted quantitatively using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) while presentation of data was in descriptive statistics such as tables, percentage bar graphs and measures of central tendency. The study revealed that affordability of funds played the greatest role in influencing accessibility of devolved funds by MSEs. The legal framework, access to information and level of entrepreneurial training influenced accessibility of funds in that order while approval procedures had the least impact. The key recommendations of the study were that the government should reduce the barriers to finance so as to increase access to funds by MSEs. Use of ICT for accessing information should be enhanced while individualized rather than group-based approaches of extending funds should be enhanced. The findings of the study were aimed at guiding the policy makers, MSE owners and scholars in this area, on establishing the determining forces in accessibility of devolved funds.
Analysis of Financial Determinants of Dividend Payout among Construction and Allied Companies Listed in Nairobi Securities Exchange, Kenya
(KeMU, 2022-08) Ghyslain, Makira Appolon
Despite the potential benefit listed firms stand to accrue from paying dividends, including improvement in stock prices and increasing investor demand raising the stock value, an evaluation of dividend payouts by listed construction and allied companies at the Nairobi Security Exchange over a 10-year period reveals dismal payout trends, in comparison with other 5 listed companies. This brings to question; what factors determine dividend payout among listed construction companies. While existing research in the Kenya academia have looked into the factors that influence dividend payments, none have concentrated on construction firms registered on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, warranting the present study. The goal of this investigation was thus to look at the factors that influence dividend payout among construction organizations quoted on Nairobi Security Exchange. The study specifically sought to determine the influence of the profit level, leverage, liquidity and firm size regarding the distribution of dividends among constructing and related businesses quoted on the stock exchange at Nairobi Security Exchange. The study used a descriptive design and was based on signaling theory, pecking order theory, and the bird in the hand theory. A census was undertaken of all five construction and related enterprises that are listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange. A secondary data collecting schedule was used to obtain secondary data. The investigation used panel data for a 10-year period from 2011 to 2020. The study performed both descriptive analysis including means and standard deviations and inferential analysis including Pearson correlation and simple linear regression models. Results indicate that profitability (β = .417, p = .029<.05), leverage (β = .523, p = .043<.05), liquidity (β = .431, p = .035<.05) and firm size (β = .661, p = .019<.05) significantly influence dividend payout among construction and allied companies listed at Nairobi Security Exchange. The investigation thus concludes that dividend payout for constructing and allied firms quoted at Nairobi Security Exchange is significantly determined by the profit level, liquidity, leverage and firm size do not. According to the report, building and related firms listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange must try to raise their earnings in place to enable dividends payment arrangements; ensure that they have the capacity to fulfill both anticipated and unanticipated cash demands; and work towards growth for operational efficiency.
Analysis of Marketing Factors Influencing Banks’ Customer Loyalty: A Survey of Commercial Banks in Nairobi, Kenya
(KeMU, 2021-09) Kibui Priscilla, Nyawira
Customer loyalty is commonly cited as a requirement for providing effective service. Customers compare perceptions to expectations when judging a company's product and service quality. It may be tough to keep a customer in the banking business because it is so competitive and identical. Several banks have encountered problems that have caused consumers to switch to other banks and financial institutions. Therefore, this1study1aimed1to establish1the1factors1that1influence1customer1loyalty1on1commercial1banks in Nairobi, Kenya. Specifically, the study focused on influence of brand perception, price regimes, service quality and product variety influences customer1loyalty1on1commercial1banks in Nairobi, Kenya. The theory of Disconfirmation served as the foundation for this study. This study was hinged on expectancy disconfirmation theory, value-percept disparity theory and adverse selection theory. The study took the form of a descriptive survey. In Nairobi CBD's Tier11,1Tier12,1and1Tier131bank1branches, the target population was 1199327 bank customers (retail and corporate). Stratified and simple random selection was used to select 384 persons for the study. A self-administered semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Prior to administering the questionnaire, the respondents' permission was asked. After that, the researcher1organized1the1data,1coded,1revised,1and1tabulated it to guarantee accuracy1and1completeness1before1saving1it1in1the appropriate format. For all quantitative variables, descriptive1statistics1were1produced1using1frequencies, percentages, mean score, and1standard1deviation, and the data was presented in tables. The qualitative data from the open-ended questions was processed and presented in prose using conceptual content analysis. Regression and correlation analysis were used to perform inferential data analysis. To determine the relationships between the independent and dependent variables, regression analysis was used. The Statistical Program for Social Studies (SPSS) version 28 was used to generate the statistical data output. The analysis' findings were presented in the form of a narrative, bar graphs, pie charts, and other visual aids. According to the study, bank employees1are1always1willing1to1help, and the bank's services are dependable. According to1the1study,1the bank has competitive1loan interest rates. According to the report, the bank was also thought to be powerful and stable. The consumer is most satisfied with the bank's large selection of products. The study found that product1diversity1had1the biggest impact on customer1loyalty1at1Nairobi1commercial banks, followed1by1service1quality, price regimes, and brand perception, with brand perception having the least impact. Banks should focus on product quality, according to the report, in order to keep the1loyalty1of their quality-seeking clients. According to the survey, banks may boost their consumer image by participating in a variety of CSR projects that allow them to assist people seeking new opportunities.