A model to align strategy formulation and implementation in higher education institutions in Brazil

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to create ways of improving the alignment of strategy formulation and implementation in Brazil’s higher education institutions (HEIs).

Design/methodology/approach

Evolution of scenarios and models through a 12-step process to assist strategy formulation and implementation for managerial/social activity in Brazil’s HEIs. Simple set theory was used as a backbone to assist scenario building. Two models were created. First, focused on an autopoietic model relating to Brazil’s HEIs. The second embedded the autopoietic model in a limited number of forces in Brazil that influence the HEIs but lie beyond their control. The process was corroborated by survey methods using respondents from Brazil and elsewhere.

Findings

In total, 22 respondents from within and outside Brazil confirmed the content of the scenarios while a small sample from within Brazil’s HEIs confirmed their usefulness in assisting strategy formulation and implementation.

Practical implications

Further experience in using the autopoietic model is needed to widen its corroboration beyond experience in this study.

Originality/value

Confirmation of a 12-step scenario-based process for strategy formulation and implementation and corroboration of its usefulness through a limited sample of respondents.

Citation

Heinzen, D.A.d.M., Loveridge, D. and Marinho, S.V. (2020), "A model to align strategy formulation and implementation in higher education institutions in Brazil", Foresight, Vol. 22 No. 1, pp. 68-94. https://doi.org/10.1108/FS-09-2018-0082