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    Effects of Technological Integration on Performance of Hotel Industry in Kenya.
    (Academic Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences Research,, 2025-09) Mukiri, Judy Francis; Munga, Jane; Muema, Wilson
    Kenya's hotel industry faces significant challenges including intense competition, rising operational costs, inconsistent service quality, and evolving guest expectations for digital services. Many hotels have been slow to adopt comprehensive technological solutions, creating a gap between potential benefits of technology integration and actual performance improvements realized. This study investigated the effect of technological integration on the performance of Kenya's hotel industry. The research was grounded in the Technology Acceptance Model, which explains technology adoption through perceived usefulness and ease of use factors. A descriptive research design was employed targeting eight Accor hotels in Kenya. The study population comprised 168 individuals including frontline staff, customer care representatives, and managers. Using stratified random sampling and Yamane's formula, a sample size of 118 participants was selected. Data collection utilized structured questionnaires, achieving an excellent response rate of 81.4% with 96 completed responses. Quantitative data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 27.0, employing descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The regression analysis revealed compelling findings demonstrating a strong positive relationship between technological integration and hotel performance (R = 0.806). Technology integration explained 72.5% of performance variance (R2 = 0.725), with the regression coefficient (β = 0.735) indicating substantial performance enhancement per unit technology improvement. Statistical significance was confirmed through ANOVA results (F = 112.891, p < 0.001) and coefficient testing (t = 10.626, p < 0.001). The study therefore concluded that technological integration serves as a primary driver of hotel success in Kenya's hospitality sector. The study hence recommended that hotels should prioritize comprehensive technology investment, focus on guest service technologies, invest in human capital development, foster industry collaboration, and implement robust performance monitoring systems to achieve sustained competitive advantage.
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    The Relationship between Innovativeness and Performance of Smes in Nairobi County, Kenya
    (EPRA International Journal of Economics, Business and Management Studies, 2024-08) Woto, Caroline Wanjiru; Muema, Wilson; Mutiria, Eric
    SMEs fuel Kenya's economic growth and development and boost Kenya's GDP by creating employment, However, they face several challenges that might impede their growth and longevity. These include limited financial resources, fierce market rivalry, and inadequate management skills These problems reduce profits and competitive advantage for many SMEs. These enterprises are driven by survival or necessity Previous study shows that 60% of Kenyan small enterprises fail during the first six months (RoK, 2020) and more than 60% fail annually (Ngugi, 2020). Consequently, SMEs have embraced various SME innovativeness for instance digital marketing to improve performance of their businesses. The general objective was to examine the relationship between innovativeness and the Performance of SMEs in Nairobi County. Therefore, the specific objectives that guided the study was to examine the relationship between innovativeness and the Performance of SMEs in Nairobi County. Chi-square analysis was done to find out the relationship between innovativeness and SME performance. Binary logistic regression analysis was done to gain greater insights on the relationship between the variables. According to the results, there is a strong statistical relationship between innovativeness and SME performance in Nairobi. This led to the rejection of null hypothesis. It was recommended that SME managers and owners use SWOT analysis to develop effective strategies for SME innovativeness. From the research findings and conclusion, the researcher recommends Small and Medium Enterprises to embrace the innovativeness so as to strengthen business performance. Further studies can also be conducted in other locations and incorporate other independent variables.
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    Influence of Competitive Strategy on Service Delivery of Petroleum Firms In Nairobi County, Kenya
    (EPRA International Journal of Economics, Business and Management Studies (EBMS), 2025-07) Hassan, Nasro Abdihakim; Kihara, Peter; Muema, Wilson
    Petroleum firms in Kenya operate within a competitive, volatile environment shaped by price fluctuations, infrastructural gaps, and regulatory changes. This study investigated the effect of competitive strategy on service delivery among petroleum firms in Nairobi County. Using a descriptive cross-sectional survey design, the study integrated both qualitative and quantitative methods. From a target population of 324 service stations, 125 managers were selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed with SPSS version 28, employing descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Results revealed a positive and statistically significant relationship between competitive strategy and service delivery (β = 0.717, p = 0.000). Key strategic drivers included service innovation, technology adoption, and employee satisfaction. The study concluded that firms prioritizing competitive strategies experience improved service quality and responsiveness. It recommends continuous investment in technological advancement, customer-focused initiatives, and strategic partnerships to enhance service performance in the petroleum sector.
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    Geographical Diversification Strategy and Performance of Family-Owned Businesses in Nairobi, Kenya
    (EPRA International Journal of Economics, Business and Management Studies, 2025-08) Ngare, Lydia Wangu; Kirigia, Paul; Muema, Wilson
    Family businesses have an important role in the development of economies of emerging countries like Kenya. However, despite the numerous efforts to improve the performance of family-owned businesses in Kenya, they continue to face significant challenges that threaten their sustainability. This study aimed at determining the influence of geographical diversification strategy on the performance of family-owned businesses in Nairobi County. It was anchored on the Ansoff Matrix, adopted positivist philosophy and used ex post facto research design. The target population was top and middle managers from 226 family-owned businesses in Nairobi County. The sample size consisted of 399 respondents. Data was collected by structured questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The findings established that geographical diversification strategy had a statistically significant (β=0.616, p < .001) relationship with the performance of family-owned businesses. It was concluded that geographical diversification emerges as a vital strategy for enhancing the performance of family-owned businesses. The study recommended that family business owners in Kenya should expand into diverse regions to reduce risks and boost performance. Future studies should explore the influence of geographical diversification on small versus large family businesses in Nairobi County, Kenya.
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    Open Innovation Strategy and Performance of Family-Owned Businesses in Nairobi, Kenya
    (EPRA International Journal of Economics, Business and Management Studies, 2025-08) Ngare, Lydia Wangu; Muema, Wilson; Kirigia, Paul
    Family-owned businesses are a vital component of Kenya’s economy, with Nairobi County serving as a key hub for their operations. Despite their economic significance, many face persistent performance challenges. Only 33% survive into the second generation, and a mere 15% reach the third. This decline is largely attributed to lack of open innovation, which limits competitiveness and responsiveness to market changes. The objective of the study was to determine the influence of open innovation strategy on the performance of family-owned businesses in Nairobi County, Kenya. The theoretical foundation of the study was the Strategic Choice Theory, adopted positivist philosophy and used ex post facto research design. The target population was top and middle managers from 226 family-owned businesses in Nairobi County. The sample size consisted of 399 respondents. Data was collected by structured questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The findings show that open innovation significantly influences performance of family-owned businesses (β = 0.613, p < .001). It was concluded that open innovation is a transformative strategy for family-owned businesses seeking sustained performance and growth. The study recommended that financial institutions and development agencies should prioritize funding models that incentivize open innovation, enabling family firms to collaborate externally and enhance performance. Such innovation initiatives will empower smaller businesses to remain competitive and resilient in rapidly evolving markets.
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    Investment in Technology Enhanced Learning and Financial Sustainability of Universities in Kenya
    (International Journal of Economics, Business and Management Studies (EBMS), 2025-07) Murugu, Humphrey Mwenda; Muema, Wilson; Omanwa, Clemence
    Public and private higher education institutions in Kenya have increasingly faced challenges of financial unsustainability in recent years. Achieving financial sustainability requires institutions to secure regular and reliable internally generated funds to support their operations. In the context of dwindling government funding, escalating operational costs, rising debts, and deteriorating infrastructure, universities are under mounting pressure to identify and implement alternative income-generating strategies while preserving academic quality and institutional viability.This study evaluated the influence of financial resource mobilization strategies on the financial sustainability of universities in Kenya. Specifically, the research examined the impact of investment in technology-enhanced learning on financial sustainability. The study was supported and anchored on Resource Dependency Theory. Using Yamane formula ,a sample of 64 universities comprising of 34 public and 30 private Universities was drawn from a population of 76 chartered universities in Kenya as of December 31, 2022. Stratified sampling ensured proportional representation. Primary data was collected from 290 senior university officers through structured, self-administered questionnaires. Instrument reliability was confirmed with a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient exceeding 0.9, surpassing the 0.7 threshold. Secondary data were obtained from university reports and audited financial statements covering the period 2018–2022.Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics, with hypothesis testing conducted using binary logistic regression at a 95% confidence level (α = 0.05). Chi-square analysis was used to determine the association between technology enhanced learning and financial sustainability in the Kenyan Universities The study found a significant association between technology enhanced learning and financial sustainability in the Kenyan Universities at the 5% level (P < 0.05).As shown by the Nagelkerke R Square percentages, Investment in Technology enhanced learning account for 71.2% of the variation, confirming its importance as a key driver of financial sustainability.From the findings of multivariate regression analysis, it was clear that Investment in Technology enhanced learning is significantly associated with financial sustainability (P = 0.002). If significant investment in technology enhanced learning is in place universities in Kenya are 6.343 times more likely to achieve financial sustainability (OR = 6.343) compared to those that do not invest in technology enhanced learning
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    Influence of Organizational Resources on Performance of Financial Services Associations in Makueni and Kitui Counties of Kenya
    (INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS), 2023-11) Kioko, Jacinta Mwende; Mbithi, Mary; Muema, Wilson
    Many organizations talk of strategic formulation whereby they develop strategies and put them into practice. However, many organizations fail to actualize these strategies due to a lack of proper implementation strategy. Many firms face challenges in strategic implementation due to a lack of resources. This study sought to examine the influence of organizational resources on the performance of financial services associations (FSAs) in Makueni and Kitui Counties of Kenya. This study followed a cross-section survey method to collect primary data by using questionnaires that were administered online and through the drop- and-pick method. The study found that FSAs in Kitui and Makueni counties utilized internal resources more in strategy implementation. Practices on resource allocation included technology, financial resources, and human resources. The study revealed an Exp(B) of 0.107 which was associated with a p-value of 0.001. The study concluded that the use of internal resources over external resources significantly increased the odds of high performance of FSAs in Kitui and Makueni counties. The study recommends Financial Service Associations (FSAs) in Kitui and Makueni counties utilize internal resources, including management expertise and financial strength, to capitalize on opportunities for improved performance. Additionally, FSAs should diversify revenue streams by introducing new products, prioritizing hiring and retaining skilled employees, investing in robust information security, adopting cutting-edge technology, and strategically allocating resources to optimize performance and cope with emerging demands during strategy implementation. The study emphasizes the importance of leveraging internal capabilities and proactive resource management for the success of FSAs.
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    Effect of Achievement Culture on the Performance of Universities in Kenya
    (Journal of Strategic Management,, 2022) Chege, Susan Wairimu; Gichunge, Evangeline; Muema, Wilson
    The recent increase in competition and insufficient government financing, as well as the government's increased focus on technical, vocational education training, have had a significant negative impact on higher education's service delivery and performance. This study set out to find out how Kenyan universities perform in relation to their adoption of an accomplishment culture. The study used a descriptive research approach, and its target population included 444 senior university employees from all 74 accredited universities in Kenya. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The relationship between achievement culture and universities’ performance was significant. Vision, missions, goals, core values, and philosophies significantly affected public universities’ performance. Therefore, universities adopted realistic and achievable strategic statements and communicated adequately among staff. The study recommends that managers must support the achievement culture to accomplish the goals set by an organization successfully. Therefore, employees need to be supported by managers by all means alongside training needs and learning opportunities, creativity, and innovation.
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    Analysis of Adhocracy Culture Implementation Approach and Performance of Universities in Kenya
    (Journal of Strategic Management,, 2022) Chege, Susan Wairimu; Gichunge, Evangeline; Muema, Wilson
    The recent increase in competition and insufficient government financing, as well as the government's increased focus on technical, vocational education training, have had a significant negative impact on higher education's service delivery and performance. The study sought to determine the effect of role culture implementation approach on university performance in Kenya. The study used a descriptive research approach, and its target population included 444 senior university employees from all 74 accredited universities in Kenya. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Adhocracy culture insignificantly influenced universities’ performance by -13.3% (R square value of -0.133). The correlation value of (r=-.097, p<0.05) showed the negative relationship between adhocracy culture and universities’ performance. The chi-square value of χ2 (5) = 0.038, p=0.049 proved there was an insignificant relationship between adhocracy culture and universities’ performance. Adhocracy culture was insignificantly associated with placement and research output performance, university ranking, student placement by KUCCPS, and graduation rate. Organization managers must have a good understanding of the adhocracy culture that exists in universities and the impact it generates on typical performance. This is very important while making imperative decisions.
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    Influence of Value-Based Pricing on Growth of Small and Medium Enterprises in Imenti North Sub-County, Kenya
    (Journal of Marketing and Communication, 2024-07) Mwito, Romano Mugambi; Rintari, Nancy; Muema, Wilson
    SMEs should supply goods and services to clients in both wholesale and retail perspectives, to earn profits. Nevertheless, Kenyan SMEs have been facing poor market access. The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of value-based pricing on growth of small and medium enterprises in Imenti North Sub-County, Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive research design whereby quantitative data was collected using close-ended questionnaires. The target population was 25 SMEs, with 58 managers and 234 officers in marketing, procurement, and finance who were the respondents. Notably, the study adopted a simple random method to identify the sample size from the population to get 30% of the 25 SMEs resulting in 8 SMEs from which the respondents was drawn. Further, the study collected quantitative data in form of a closed-ended questionnaire from 13 marketing managers, 9 procurement managers, 9 finance managers, 39 marketing officers,19 procurement officers, and 13 finance officers making a total of 102 respondents. Further, the study conducted a pilot study at Fairlymatt supermarket and Happy Foods farms limited in Imenti South Sub-County. SPSS software was used for analysis process to provide descriptive and inferential analysis. The results from the questionnaire indicated that 40(49%) participants strongly agreed and 19(23%) agreed that customers had become loyal due to considerations given on every complaint they made (mean- 4.24). However, 26(32%) strongly disagreed and 17(21%) disagreed that there were clear communication systems that allowed information to swiftly reach the top management in less time (mean-2.66). Additionally, the correlation of value-based pricing r=0.628 at α < 0.000 and 99% significance level. The study concluded that there was a short turnaround time taken by SMEs to address the various pricing complaints from the clients. That notwithstanding, most value-based pricing decisions made by the senior management did not have a window for discussion with junior staff. The recommendations on value-based pricing are that there should be a policy framework established to expose staff to processes used to determine various prices.