Voices that Shape Strategy: A Qualitative Case Study of Participatory Management at a Public University

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to evaluate the strategic planning process of a state university in light of stakeholder opinions, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the current situation, as well as opportunities and threats. The research seeks to analyze the extent to which the university’s strategic objectives align with stakeholder expectations and to reveal the impacts of strategic planning on institutional development, quality assurance, and participatory management.
Design/methodology/approach – The study adopted a qualitative research approach and employed content analysis. Data were collected from five stakeholder groups: academic staff, administrative staff, students, local governments, and public institutions. Responses to open-ended questions were evaluated using thematic analysis; the data were categorized under themes such as “Education and Teaching,” “Scientific Activities,” “Administrative and Support Services,” “Societal Contribution and Collaboration,” and “Sports and Cultural Activities.” The resulting themes were compared with the university’s strategic goals and objectives to assess alignment.
Results – The findings indicate that stakeholders prioritize education quality, scientific productivity, administrative process efficiency, and societal contribution in the university’s development. Participants emphasized the need to strengthen academic support mechanisms, incentivize R&D projects, address infrastructure deficiencies, and expand social spaces. The university’s strengths include a qualified academic staff and a student-centered management approach, while its weaknesses encompass limited recognition, constrained research outputs, and infrastructure issues in peripheral campuses.
Discussion – The results demonstrate that strategic planning in higher education institutions is not merely an administrative requirement but a fundamental tool for institutional learning, participatory governance, and sustainable quality. A stakeholder-based strategic planning approach plays a significant role in enhancing institutional commitment and competitiveness, thereby supporting universities in achieving their long-term objectives.