An analysis of the restructuring process and operational effectiveness in the Central region of the North West Department of Education

Abstract

This study sought to empirically investigate operational effectiveness in the central region of the North West Department of Education following the extensive restructuring exercise initiated in 1999. It further sought to determine the impact on schools, and the level of support offered by the corporate centre to the region as it implemented the restructuring blueprint The literature survey covers theories of organisational restructuring as well as the research findings on this aspect in the private and public sectors in both developed and developing countries. The data was collected using the survey method. The subjects of the empirical investigation were 71 randomly selected managers in different management categories at all levels within the region. A pre-tested questionnaire was employed to analyse post restructuring operational effectiveness on four criteria Corporate support during restructuring and managerial response to the challenges posed by restructuring were also assessed. The empirical investigation found that restructuring had no positive impact on the effectiveness of operational units in the region. It was further found that the levels of support schools received was adversely affected by lack of a proper post-restructuring monitoring and support plan from the corporate centre. Implementation of the department's strategic priorities was also found to be ineffective as a result. The study recommends that for restructuring exercises to be successful, support from the corporate centre is crucial, and that restructuring organisations should undertake regular impact assessments of the process. Finally, it is recommended that people, not technical procedures, get priority if the restructuring effort is to have any chance of success at all.