Effects of institutional reform on corporate image and value in a developing country context

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to examine the importance of organizational change involving an implementation of a reform project in a higher learning institution in Qatar. The project was aimed at enhancing the institution's corporate image and value in its effort to be an institution of choice in the country.

Design/methodological/approach

Based on the results of two separate focus group sessions, a survey questionnaire was developed and was then sent to 8,000 respondents. Data from 866 usable questionnaires were analyzed using a rating scale to identify the degree of agreement among the respondents with respect to a number of statements posed to them as well as using an independent‐sample t‐test to determine whether differences exist between male and female students with regards to the statements.

Findings

Results showed that the respondents agreed with all of the statements pertaining to image, value, academic levels, campus life and the reform project carried out by the higher educational institution under study. Academic levels appeared to be extremely important because it is an essential element in building and enriching both the image and the value of the institution and is of particular importance to attract new students. With the enhanced image resulting from the reform project, the institution is moving in the right direction towards becoming an excellent institution which will be sought after by both Qatari and international students.

Practical implications

The implications of this study suggest that the top management needs to consider the identified variables in their effort to boost the image and value of the institution. They should also focus on individual needs in order to implement the changes successfully.

Originality/value

The findings from this study reveal the nature of professional practice in a higher education institution, demonstrates the impact of this work context on practices, and provides concrete strategies for managing organizational change in building and enriching its image and value.

Citation

Mohd Kassim, N., Najdawi, M., Al Azmeh, Z. and Sadiq, H. (2010), "Effects of institutional reform on corporate image and value in a developing country context", Measuring Business Excellence, Vol. 14 No. 2, pp. 32-45. https://doi.org/10.1108/13683041011047849