Assesment of Institutional Factors Affecting Employee Performance in Selected Universities in Kenya.

Abstract

Employee performance is one of the most essential and critical aspects in an organisation. The current trend of intense competition in businesses that result from factors such as globalization, increasing consumer awareness and technological advancements affect the overall organization performance. Employee performance is beyond just the satisfaction gained from employment arrangement and simple allegiance to the employer. This study therefore sought to interrogate the issues facing the performance of employees among selected universities in Kenya. The specific objectives were to establish the effect of motivation on the performance of employees among selected universities in Kenya, to determine the effect of organizational culture and employee training on the performance of employees among selected universities in Kenya. The study was anchored on the hierarchy of needs theory, scientific management theory, learning organization theory and Herzberg two factor theory. The study adopted explanatory and cross-sectional research design which sought to establish causal relationship between variables. The data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires. The study population comprised of 135 from which a sample of 57 employees were selected. Validity of the questionnaire was established through literature review and seeking opinion from professionals and experts in the field of investigation. Reliability of the questionnaire was determined using Cronbach’s alpha co-efficient of 0.7 and the questionnaire was found to be internally consistent based on the 0.762 which met threshold of Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.7. The data was analyzed and presented in form of tables, charts and graphs for easy understanding of the results. The major findings of the study established that motivation, organization culture and employee training have a positive and significant effect on employee performance. The study concluded that the organization should treat the key motivating factors with a caring manner in order to motivate the employees for improved performance. The culture of work efficiency, employees’ development, recognition and rewarding hard work to be given priority and also equipping employees with more skills and knowledge of their areas of specialization alongside with refreshing of their skills through refresher courses. The study recommended motivation, organizational culture and employee training to be keenly observed by the universities’ management as they influence employee performance and contributes immensely to the overall organization performance. Annual reviews of employee development should be done to ensure that organization is committed towards its employees in terms of employee training needs. The study recommends that organization should allocate funds that are geared towards improving employees' welfare and as a result employee performance improves.