Abstract
M.Com. (Business Management)
Years of service, and training in strategic management, showed shortcomings in
the management of the Randfontein local authority. This apparent problems
had to be addressed and the application of strategic management is a possible
tool in addressing the shortcomings.
PURPOSE
The main purpose of the study is to determine whether the concept of strategic
management is applied in any of the five local authorities on the West Rand. If
the concept of strategic"management is not applied, a reason for this is sought
and would recommendations be made to help with the application of strategic
management in mediumsized local authorities.
METHOD OF STUDY
In this study a comprehensive study to the purpose of a local authority were
done to determine whether a local authority needed to apply the theory of
strategic management. A questionnaire were then compiled, which formed the
basis of a structured interview with the chief executive officer of the relevant
local authorities.
FINDINGS
The study clearly showed that local authorities in the new dispensation were
facing major changes and had to adapt to this changes. The application of
strategic management could help in facing and manage the changes necessary
to survive. Not one of the five medium sized local authorities on the West Rand however apply the theory of strategic management. It was found that politics,
knowledge, culture, communication and a poor information system is hampering the application of strategic management application. If these shortcomings are addressed the strategic management theory can be applied in the local authorities in the study area.