Examining Adopted Conflict Management Approaches On Organizational Development In Machakos Co-Operative Union

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify the adopted conflict management approach on organizational development in coffee cooperatives. The research was conducted in Machakos Co-operative Union in the Lower Eastern part of Kenya. Descriptive research survey was used. The target population was drawn from 1500 employees of Machakos Co-operative Union who took part in the study. The sample size was 305 employees drawn from different levels of management selected through cluster sampling technique. Systematic sampling was used to give each individual a chance to be chosen. Data collection was carried out through the use of Semi-structured questionnaire and interview guide. Both qualitative and quantitative technique was used to analyse data. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics through content analysis and findings were analysed and presented quantitatively and qualitatively in frequency tables, graphs pie charts and percentage while qualitative data was analysed using thematic techniques and data presented in narrative forms. From the study, it was established that different conflict management approaches were employed in Machakos Coffee Cooperative, 22% of the respondents reported that accommodation strategy was used and 23% the Collaboration strategy which led to improved productivity in the organization and enhanced inter personal relations while 54% of the respondents indicated that the contending approach which was mostly used influenced conflict management in the organization. The study recommends that organizations need to embrace the strategy in order to maximize productivity and encourage retention of human resource.