Group Size and Performance of Funded Youth Groups' Enterprises in Nakuru Municipality, Nakuru Country; Kenya

Abstract

Group size is a fundamental attribute of groups that influences various group processes which in turn affects group performance. Not much attention in research has been focused on this phenomenon. This study, therefore, investigated the influence of group size on performance of youth group enterprises in Nakuru Municipality. Understanding the influence of group size is important in that it can be used to design appropriate guidelines for group funding. The study used survey research design. The population of study comprised of youth group members and leaders of the 20 groups in Nakuru Municipality which received enterprise funds in 2007. A random sample of 165 was selected from the 20 youth groups whose records were available. Data was collected through interview schedule and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Data was then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Qualitative data from Focus Group Discussions was analyzed thematically. The results indicate that group size has a negative correlation with groups' enterprise performance. This relationship is, however, dependent on group tasks/activities. The study concluded that a small group size (11-20) enhances performance. Currently the funding guidelines do not give any limit to the maximum number a group should have. This study, therefore, recommends that a maximum number of group members a group should have should be set at not more than 20.