Strategic change management and business continuity in telecom companies

Abstract

The study presents findings of the effect of Strategic Change Management on Business continuity in telecom companies; a case study of MTN Uganda. The objectives of the study included; to examine the effect of strategic change planning on business continuity at MTN Uganda, to examine the effect of strategic change implementation on business continuity at MTN Uganda and to examine the effect of strategic change monitoring on business continuity at MTN Uganda. The study employed a cross sectional study research design. A total of 205 respondents participated in the study. They included Top management, heads of departments, Finance and administration, Human resource management, airtime department, internet department and mobile money/Mo-cash departments. In collecting data, the researcher used both secondary and primary sources. The researcher used both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Data collection methods used included questionnaires and interviews. The study findings revealed that strategic change planning, strategic change implementation and strategic change monitoring have an effect on business continuity at MTN. Basing on study findings, it was concluded that proper formulation of strategic plans clearly aligned with the company objectives is vital for business continuity. In addition, staff members’ commitment to implementing a new strategy and adequate information sharing while implementing a strategy leads to business continuity. It was further concluded that preparation of periodic reports, top management involvement in monitoring and providing regular feedback on the progress being made on the company’s strategic plans ensure business continuity. The researcher recommended that MTN should realign its strategic change plans with company objectives. MTN should always involve its stakeholders such as employees, customers and UCC while implementing a new strategy. MTN should regularly conduct ad hoc monitoring and prepare periodic reports