WEAK SIGNALS MANAGEMENT AS A STRATEGIC TOOL FOR ENHANCING ORGANIZATIONAL AGILITY IN NIGERIAN MANUFACTURING FIRMS
Keywords:
weak signals, weak signal management, weak signal detection and interpretation, early warning signs, early detection, environmental scanning, strategic decision making, organizational responsiveness, organizational culture and leadership support, strategic foresight, weak signal interpretation and sense-making, organizational responsiveness, strategic agility.Abstract
This study seeks to explore weak signals management: problems and plausible solutions. The study identified some categories of weak signals, real time response problems, and probable strategies to managing weak signals as well as the managerial implications. It was discovered that weak signals can be transformed into meaningful knowledge and the cost of ignoring weak signals can be very high and as such, strategies ought to be instituted to detect and effectively manage weak signals to forestall operational impediments. It was thus concluded that weak signals management is key to ensuring success in today’s turbulently dynamic, unpredictable and competitive business world. Findings revealed that if weak signals are not well managed, it can impede survival and growth of firms and pose a threat to organizational performance. The study advocates amongst others, that managers must therefore be sensitive and responsive to the weak signals and recommends early detection of weak signals, identification of strategic opportunities and/or threats. They should continually monitor emerging trends, issues and tipping points knowing that weak signals are a vital intelligence tool to help an organization survive and thrive in a fiercely competitive and dynamic business environment.
