Managing rightsizing in higher education institution: A qualitative thematic investigation

Abstract

This study aims to explore the rightsizing practices of higher education institution administrators. This study utilised the qualitative research methodology within the constructivist paradigm to explore Malaysian higher education institution administrator’s perceptions and experiences on rightsizing practice. Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with observations and document analysis were conducted. This study found four principal rightsizing objectives within the context of higher education institution administrators: i) changing policies; ii) organisation scanning; iii) human resource planning, and; iv) human resource optimisation. Managing shrinkage via rightsizing also includes recognising the rightsizing process, strategies, and barriers. It is essential to understand the implication of rightsizing exercise, especially in the public sector, to prevent organisations from making “wrong-sizing” decisions. Constant evaluation of the rightsizing efforts should also be done to ensure that the organisation operates in a lean and mean manner.