A comparative enquiry analysing the approaches of England Netball and England Basketball toward 'strategic management' and 'management of change,' with investigative emphasis placed upon the government initiative- modernisation

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to compare and analyse the approaches of England Netball and England Basketball toward 'strategic management' and 'management of change'. Investigative emphasis is placed upon the more recent modernisation programme, in an effort to compare the National Governing Bodies through a national programme. The intent of the literature review is to present the comparison through the critique of current research and underpinning theory surrounding the governing bodies, strategic management and the management of change. It almost acts as a larger discussion, whereas the 'discussion' section within this paper is left strictly to the results of the quafitative research conducted. A qualitative methodology, adopting an interpretivist epistemology was employed. The data-collection typology utilised was semi-structured interviews. The method selected permitted the process to be flexible, therefore allowing the author to develop themes and issues of critical significance to the research topic. The analysed material indicated that simplicity is the key to modernisation. On the whole it is welcomed, particularly by England Netball. England Basketball in their current state are focusing on a re-bir1h as opposed to a strict modernisation programme. However essential elements of modernisation remains part of their focus. Strategically both organisations are in search of more commercial means of operation in order to build on self-sufficiency and reduce their individual reliance on exchequer funding. Change as a concept is abundantly reflected upon more as a philosophy of revolution versus evolution, with evolution being subsumed within organisational operation. It is about continuous improvement and progression as opposed to a mindset of high drama. However, whether this is accepted or not, the research demonstrates and concludes that there are key levers to facilitating successful change or evolution.