An investigation of the relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and financial performance of companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) in South Africa
- Authors: Soko, Leon Lenny Kudzaishe
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7078 , vital:21215
- Description: The purpose of this study is to investigate whether there is an association between CSR and financial performance in South African companies which are listed on the FTSE/JSE SRI Index. Specifically, whether there is a difference in financial performance of companies that perform CSR activities, and those that do not. If so, which direction does this association have? The selection process of companies used in this study will now be explained step-bystep. The JSE SRI Index results show that there were 80 successful constituents as of February 2015 (JSE, 2015). These 80 companies are listed alphabetically in Appendix A, while the top 100 companies as ranked by Turnover are linked in Appendix B. Of these 100 companies, 67 were constituents of the JSE SRI Index continuously in 2015 and are shown in Appendix C. This leaves 33 companies in the top 100 which are not listed on the JSE SRI Index. Companies that were listed on the JSE SRI Index were assumed to be ‘good’ companies as the listing requirements included the performance of numerous CSR activities such as Employee development, environmental sustainability practices and stakeholder engagement. The financial performance of these 67 companies was compared to the financial performance of the 33 companies that were not listed on the JSE SRI Index which were included in the population sample of one hundred companies. Financial performance was measured using the ratios: Return on Assets and Return on Equity. The data analysis process used in this study was as follows: 1. The ratios for each company were obtained from the iNET (BFA) database, and annual and integrated reports for the period 2011 - 2015 (Appendix D;E;F). 2. The ratios for Non-SRI and SRI companies were then compared for each of the three ratios using a T-Test. The purpose of the T-Test was to show whether there is a difference in the ratios between SRI and Non-SRI companies on a year to year basis. The direction of the difference was shown by whether the SRI ratio was higher than or lower than the Non-SRI ratio. The results of this study do not seem to support any of the CSR theories, as the study concluded that there is no significant difference between the financial performance of companies that perform CSR activities and those that do not. This means that investing in CSR activities does not have a significant effect on the financial performance of a company.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Soko, Leon Lenny Kudzaishe
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7078 , vital:21215
- Description: The purpose of this study is to investigate whether there is an association between CSR and financial performance in South African companies which are listed on the FTSE/JSE SRI Index. Specifically, whether there is a difference in financial performance of companies that perform CSR activities, and those that do not. If so, which direction does this association have? The selection process of companies used in this study will now be explained step-bystep. The JSE SRI Index results show that there were 80 successful constituents as of February 2015 (JSE, 2015). These 80 companies are listed alphabetically in Appendix A, while the top 100 companies as ranked by Turnover are linked in Appendix B. Of these 100 companies, 67 were constituents of the JSE SRI Index continuously in 2015 and are shown in Appendix C. This leaves 33 companies in the top 100 which are not listed on the JSE SRI Index. Companies that were listed on the JSE SRI Index were assumed to be ‘good’ companies as the listing requirements included the performance of numerous CSR activities such as Employee development, environmental sustainability practices and stakeholder engagement. The financial performance of these 67 companies was compared to the financial performance of the 33 companies that were not listed on the JSE SRI Index which were included in the population sample of one hundred companies. Financial performance was measured using the ratios: Return on Assets and Return on Equity. The data analysis process used in this study was as follows: 1. The ratios for each company were obtained from the iNET (BFA) database, and annual and integrated reports for the period 2011 - 2015 (Appendix D;E;F). 2. The ratios for Non-SRI and SRI companies were then compared for each of the three ratios using a T-Test. The purpose of the T-Test was to show whether there is a difference in the ratios between SRI and Non-SRI companies on a year to year basis. The direction of the difference was shown by whether the SRI ratio was higher than or lower than the Non-SRI ratio. The results of this study do not seem to support any of the CSR theories, as the study concluded that there is no significant difference between the financial performance of companies that perform CSR activities and those that do not. This means that investing in CSR activities does not have a significant effect on the financial performance of a company.
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Analysis of the Corporate Social Investment motives and benefits behind the sponsors’ involvement with Parkrun South Africa
- Authors: Fordyce, Jonathan
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Parkrun (Organization) , Parkrun (SA) , Blue Label Telecoms (Firm) , Dis-Chem (Firm) , Discovery Vitality (Firm) , Investments -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa , Sports sponsorship -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5388 , vital:20919
- Description: This study is a qualitative investigation into the area of Corporate Social Investment (CSI) of non-profit organisations (NPOs). The focus of the study is on the non-profit organisation Parkrun South Africa (Parkrun SA) and its three major sponsors, namely Blue Label Telecoms, Discovery Vitality and Dis-Chem Pharmacies. The research analyses and subsequently posits the various benefits and motivations of the sponsors’ CSI initiative with Parkrun SA. Semi-structured, one-on-one interviews were carried out with the three sponsors to establish these benefits and motivations. The interviewees were selected based on their involvement and influence in establishing and governing their organisations’ CSI initiative with Parkrun SA. The research compared the benefits and motivations, highlighted by the sponsors during the interviews, to the current body of knowledge and literature on CSI. From the interviews it became evident that the benefits and motivations, pertaining to each sponsor, are well aligned to the current literature on CSI benefits and motivations. The benefits and motivations of the three organisations were also deemed very similar. Upon evaluation of the research, it became evident that the most essential motivator for all three sponsoring organisations is commercial. Key to all the sponsoring organisations involvement with Parkrun SA, is the potential return on investment through the various commercial aspects of being associated with such an initiative. Branding was the biggest benefit named by all three sponsoring organisations, however, creating a healthy society emerged as a major benefit too. It can be argued that health has become a major benefit for the sponsors because of the success and exponential growth of Parkrun SA. This growth has captured a large audience and in so doing, created major health benefits for the vast array of participants. Finally, through the data collection and analysis it became clear that the sponsors all view their CSI initiative with Parkrun SA as a major success. It is however, recommended that Parkrun SA start to grow their organisation to match the sustained growth seen in the country. There is a need to expand the organisation in terms of employees and transparent corporate reporting to deal with this growth and keep the sponsors satisfied while also keeping additional sponsors fascinated.
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- Authors: Fordyce, Jonathan
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Parkrun (Organization) , Parkrun (SA) , Blue Label Telecoms (Firm) , Dis-Chem (Firm) , Discovery Vitality (Firm) , Investments -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa , Sports sponsorship -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5388 , vital:20919
- Description: This study is a qualitative investigation into the area of Corporate Social Investment (CSI) of non-profit organisations (NPOs). The focus of the study is on the non-profit organisation Parkrun South Africa (Parkrun SA) and its three major sponsors, namely Blue Label Telecoms, Discovery Vitality and Dis-Chem Pharmacies. The research analyses and subsequently posits the various benefits and motivations of the sponsors’ CSI initiative with Parkrun SA. Semi-structured, one-on-one interviews were carried out with the three sponsors to establish these benefits and motivations. The interviewees were selected based on their involvement and influence in establishing and governing their organisations’ CSI initiative with Parkrun SA. The research compared the benefits and motivations, highlighted by the sponsors during the interviews, to the current body of knowledge and literature on CSI. From the interviews it became evident that the benefits and motivations, pertaining to each sponsor, are well aligned to the current literature on CSI benefits and motivations. The benefits and motivations of the three organisations were also deemed very similar. Upon evaluation of the research, it became evident that the most essential motivator for all three sponsoring organisations is commercial. Key to all the sponsoring organisations involvement with Parkrun SA, is the potential return on investment through the various commercial aspects of being associated with such an initiative. Branding was the biggest benefit named by all three sponsoring organisations, however, creating a healthy society emerged as a major benefit too. It can be argued that health has become a major benefit for the sponsors because of the success and exponential growth of Parkrun SA. This growth has captured a large audience and in so doing, created major health benefits for the vast array of participants. Finally, through the data collection and analysis it became clear that the sponsors all view their CSI initiative with Parkrun SA as a major success. It is however, recommended that Parkrun SA start to grow their organisation to match the sustained growth seen in the country. There is a need to expand the organisation in terms of employees and transparent corporate reporting to deal with this growth and keep the sponsors satisfied while also keeping additional sponsors fascinated.
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Assessing the organisational maturity level of Rhodes Music Radio with the introduction of social media
- Authors: Gavaza, Mudiwa Artwell
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Rhodes Music Radio , Rhodes Music Radio -- Marketing , Rhodes Music Radio -- Management , Community radio -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Social media -- Marketing -- South Africa -- Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6269 , vital:21076
- Description: This research seeks to evaluate the organisational maturity of Rhodes Music Radio as it relates to its use of social media. The research takes place within the context of Rhodes Music Radio (RMR) which is a community radio station operating in Grahamstown, South Africa. The station serves the Grahamstown community as a whole, with core listenership coming from the Rhodes University population. RMR has its base on the Rhodes University campus. The contribution of this study is the development of a Social Media Maturity Model which was used to assess the organisational maturity of Rhodes Music Radio with respect to its use of social media. As with other media organisations around the world, social media has become a major factor within the normal operations and functions of RMR. There is much research that has been done about the use of social media as a tool for marketing and branding in business. This tends to be the typical focus of research efforts. Though RMR makes use of social media as a marketing tool, media organisations have gone beyond this one dimensional approach in using social media. Social networking online has become a source of news and trends for organisations within the media space. For an organisation like RMR, social media is used in some way by departments such as Communication, Marketing and Branding, Production, Programming, Music, Technical; together with the presenters and producers who are hosting shows on a daily basis. Bearing the above in mind, this study aims to assess the level of maturity that RMR has as an organisation with use of social media. The goal is to find out how integrated and what systems the station has as a whole to make effective use of social media across the various departments which then helps to make a judgement on the station as a whole. This research has its literature base in the knowledge area of change management and operational excellence. Organisational maturity exists within the broad knowledge area of change management. It provides the theoretical basis upon which to gauge the maturity of RMR in relation to its social media use. Operational excellence provides a basis upon which to judge the quality of RMR’s product which speaks to how well integrated and effective the station is with its use of social media. The method of research was an evaluation that used 2 types of data, making use of both document analysis and interviews as sources of information. This information is then analysed using the Social Media Maturity Model developed specifically for this research from similar organisational maturity models used in other industries such as general management and supply chain management. This model assesses the maturity of the station by first assessing the maturity of the various departments that make up the operations of RMR and then comes up with an aggregate maturity level for the whole organisation. The conclusion of this study is that Rhodes Music Radio is quite mature in terms of its social media use but not yet fully networked. According to the model, the station is described as having a “Community” or “Linked” social media use. On the model, this is Stage 3 out of 5 in terms of maturity. Recommendations given to RMR to further increase this maturity level are for staff members more involved in the social media of the station by following the various RMR accounts and engaging with listeners and other staff members on these platforms. RMR staff need to be trained on the importance of social media and how to use it. The station needs to find a way to convert its social media following into listeners of its broadcast programming. Finally, the station needs to finalise and endorse its Social Media Policy.
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- Authors: Gavaza, Mudiwa Artwell
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Rhodes Music Radio , Rhodes Music Radio -- Marketing , Rhodes Music Radio -- Management , Community radio -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Social media -- Marketing -- South Africa -- Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6269 , vital:21076
- Description: This research seeks to evaluate the organisational maturity of Rhodes Music Radio as it relates to its use of social media. The research takes place within the context of Rhodes Music Radio (RMR) which is a community radio station operating in Grahamstown, South Africa. The station serves the Grahamstown community as a whole, with core listenership coming from the Rhodes University population. RMR has its base on the Rhodes University campus. The contribution of this study is the development of a Social Media Maturity Model which was used to assess the organisational maturity of Rhodes Music Radio with respect to its use of social media. As with other media organisations around the world, social media has become a major factor within the normal operations and functions of RMR. There is much research that has been done about the use of social media as a tool for marketing and branding in business. This tends to be the typical focus of research efforts. Though RMR makes use of social media as a marketing tool, media organisations have gone beyond this one dimensional approach in using social media. Social networking online has become a source of news and trends for organisations within the media space. For an organisation like RMR, social media is used in some way by departments such as Communication, Marketing and Branding, Production, Programming, Music, Technical; together with the presenters and producers who are hosting shows on a daily basis. Bearing the above in mind, this study aims to assess the level of maturity that RMR has as an organisation with use of social media. The goal is to find out how integrated and what systems the station has as a whole to make effective use of social media across the various departments which then helps to make a judgement on the station as a whole. This research has its literature base in the knowledge area of change management and operational excellence. Organisational maturity exists within the broad knowledge area of change management. It provides the theoretical basis upon which to gauge the maturity of RMR in relation to its social media use. Operational excellence provides a basis upon which to judge the quality of RMR’s product which speaks to how well integrated and effective the station is with its use of social media. The method of research was an evaluation that used 2 types of data, making use of both document analysis and interviews as sources of information. This information is then analysed using the Social Media Maturity Model developed specifically for this research from similar organisational maturity models used in other industries such as general management and supply chain management. This model assesses the maturity of the station by first assessing the maturity of the various departments that make up the operations of RMR and then comes up with an aggregate maturity level for the whole organisation. The conclusion of this study is that Rhodes Music Radio is quite mature in terms of its social media use but not yet fully networked. According to the model, the station is described as having a “Community” or “Linked” social media use. On the model, this is Stage 3 out of 5 in terms of maturity. Recommendations given to RMR to further increase this maturity level are for staff members more involved in the social media of the station by following the various RMR accounts and engaging with listeners and other staff members on these platforms. RMR staff need to be trained on the importance of social media and how to use it. The station needs to find a way to convert its social media following into listeners of its broadcast programming. Finally, the station needs to finalise and endorse its Social Media Policy.
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Drivers of sustainability disclosure in Liberty Holdings
- Authors: Chembeya, Edina Matamba
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Liberty Holdings Limited (Firm) , Insurance companies -- South Africa -- Management , Risk management -- South Africa -- Case studies , Stakeholder management -- South Africa -- Case studies , Corporate culture -- South Africa -- Case studies , Product management -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5579 , vital:20943
- Description: This research assesses the drivers of sustainability disclosure in Liberty Holdings. The relevance of reporting on sustainability is growing for both listed and non-listed companies in South Africa. However, many companies many companies still coming to terms with reporting process, although others are doing exceptionally well. Liberty Holdings is one of the insurance organisations that has continuously improved their sustainability reporting and disclosure of their sustainability issues, in a sector that previously perceived such concerns as low on their agenda, due to the perception that they had a low impact on the sector. The research findings reveal that the process of sustainability disclosure in Liberty Holdings is driven by several elements that are strategically linked and are aligned to the core strategy of the organisation. The findings also indicate that in order to understand and implement viable sustainability processes, the processes must be embedded in a well-informed sustainability strategy that is aligned with this core strategy.
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- Authors: Chembeya, Edina Matamba
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Liberty Holdings Limited (Firm) , Insurance companies -- South Africa -- Management , Risk management -- South Africa -- Case studies , Stakeholder management -- South Africa -- Case studies , Corporate culture -- South Africa -- Case studies , Product management -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5579 , vital:20943
- Description: This research assesses the drivers of sustainability disclosure in Liberty Holdings. The relevance of reporting on sustainability is growing for both listed and non-listed companies in South Africa. However, many companies many companies still coming to terms with reporting process, although others are doing exceptionally well. Liberty Holdings is one of the insurance organisations that has continuously improved their sustainability reporting and disclosure of their sustainability issues, in a sector that previously perceived such concerns as low on their agenda, due to the perception that they had a low impact on the sector. The research findings reveal that the process of sustainability disclosure in Liberty Holdings is driven by several elements that are strategically linked and are aligned to the core strategy of the organisation. The findings also indicate that in order to understand and implement viable sustainability processes, the processes must be embedded in a well-informed sustainability strategy that is aligned with this core strategy.
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Evaluating the impact of responsible investing strategies on fund performance
- Authors: Ntuli, Thulani
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7067 , vital:21214
- Description: Several studies have been undertaken to evaluate performance of responsible investments, that is, funds that integrate ethical as well as environmental, social and governance considerations in the investment process (ESG). Particularly to address the question whether it is possible for investors to do well while doing good. Modern Portfolio Theory predicts sub-optimal performance for funds constructed on any basis other than risk-reward optimisation. These studies usually compare performance of responsible investments with conventional funds or an unrestricted benchmark portfolio. The findings have been contradictory and on the main inconclusive. Underlying this contradiction is the treatment of responsible investments funds as a homogenous group of funds and not acknowledging their heterogeneity owing to methods and strategies used to construct them. This study seeks to address this gap in the literature by investigating the impact of responsible investment strategies on fund performance. The performance of nine South African responsible investment funds constructed and manged using different responsible investing strategies are analysed over a five-year period from 01 October 2010 to 31 October 2015. Their performance is benchmarked against the JSE ALL Share Index (ALSI) and the FTES/JSE SRI index. Specifically, the average monthly returns, variability and Sharpe ratio of the constituent fund is used to compare performance. Moreover, the CAPM based Jensen alpha is used to determine any significant under or overperformance of respective funds relative to the benchmarks. The study found to be no difference in average monthly returns and risk relative to the two benchmark indices for all respective strategies. However, funds constructed using the negative screening strategy generally underperform. These funds overall deliver a statistically significant lower alpha. It is concluded that this RI investing strategy is not suitable for investors concerned about a trade-off between fund performance and ESG performance.
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- Authors: Ntuli, Thulani
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7067 , vital:21214
- Description: Several studies have been undertaken to evaluate performance of responsible investments, that is, funds that integrate ethical as well as environmental, social and governance considerations in the investment process (ESG). Particularly to address the question whether it is possible for investors to do well while doing good. Modern Portfolio Theory predicts sub-optimal performance for funds constructed on any basis other than risk-reward optimisation. These studies usually compare performance of responsible investments with conventional funds or an unrestricted benchmark portfolio. The findings have been contradictory and on the main inconclusive. Underlying this contradiction is the treatment of responsible investments funds as a homogenous group of funds and not acknowledging their heterogeneity owing to methods and strategies used to construct them. This study seeks to address this gap in the literature by investigating the impact of responsible investment strategies on fund performance. The performance of nine South African responsible investment funds constructed and manged using different responsible investing strategies are analysed over a five-year period from 01 October 2010 to 31 October 2015. Their performance is benchmarked against the JSE ALL Share Index (ALSI) and the FTES/JSE SRI index. Specifically, the average monthly returns, variability and Sharpe ratio of the constituent fund is used to compare performance. Moreover, the CAPM based Jensen alpha is used to determine any significant under or overperformance of respective funds relative to the benchmarks. The study found to be no difference in average monthly returns and risk relative to the two benchmark indices for all respective strategies. However, funds constructed using the negative screening strategy generally underperform. These funds overall deliver a statistically significant lower alpha. It is concluded that this RI investing strategy is not suitable for investors concerned about a trade-off between fund performance and ESG performance.
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Evaluating the share performance of socially responsible investment on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange
- Authors: Cormack, Bradley Alexander
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Investments -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa , Johannesburg Stock Exchange , Social responsibility of business -- Standards , Social responsiblity of business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/36251 , vital:24532
- Description: Socially responsible investing (SRI) integrates environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues into the investment decision-making process. Growing ESG concerns and the uncovering of corporate scandals have catalysed the substantial growth in SRI portfolios worldwide. Notwithstanding its increasing popularity, barriers to further SRI growth have been identified. Traditional investing practices suggest that theoretically, SRI may underperform conventional investment strategies. However, despite the vast amount of literature on SRI, empirical studies have yielded a mixture of results regarding fund performance. The JSE SRI Index was launched in 2004 to promote transparent business practices. It was discontinued at the end of 2015 succeeded by a new Responsible Investment Index established by the JSE in association with FTSE Russell. The aim of the research was to evaluate the share performance of the JSE SRI Index from 2004-2015. Additionally, the indices were categorised by environmental impact to further analyse disparity among share returns. The study was also divided into two sub-periods, 2004-2009 and 2010-2015, with the latter following the endorsement of integrated reporting by the King III Code as a listing requirement in 2010. A single-factor Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) was used to assess differences in risk-adjusted returns. Engle-Granger and Johansen tests were employed to explore the possibility of a cointegrating relationship between the indices. No significant difference between returns was observed for 2004-2009, with the SRI Index exhibiting statistically significant inferior risk-adjusted returns for the latter half of the study. Overall, a significant difference between share returns was found, with CAPM results suggesting that the JSE SRI Index underperformed the All Share Index by -2.33% per annum throughout the time span of the study. Engle-Granger and Johansen test results indicated the existence of a cointegrating relationship over the first half of the study. However, there was no cointegration between the two indices for 2004-2015, which may be attributed to no significant relationship found for the latter years. Results support the notion that investors pay the price to invest ethically on the JSE. Inferior risk-adjusted returns associated with SRI may be a major barrier to its development in South African markets.
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- Authors: Cormack, Bradley Alexander
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Investments -- Moral and ethical aspects -- South Africa , Johannesburg Stock Exchange , Social responsibility of business -- Standards , Social responsiblity of business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/36251 , vital:24532
- Description: Socially responsible investing (SRI) integrates environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues into the investment decision-making process. Growing ESG concerns and the uncovering of corporate scandals have catalysed the substantial growth in SRI portfolios worldwide. Notwithstanding its increasing popularity, barriers to further SRI growth have been identified. Traditional investing practices suggest that theoretically, SRI may underperform conventional investment strategies. However, despite the vast amount of literature on SRI, empirical studies have yielded a mixture of results regarding fund performance. The JSE SRI Index was launched in 2004 to promote transparent business practices. It was discontinued at the end of 2015 succeeded by a new Responsible Investment Index established by the JSE in association with FTSE Russell. The aim of the research was to evaluate the share performance of the JSE SRI Index from 2004-2015. Additionally, the indices were categorised by environmental impact to further analyse disparity among share returns. The study was also divided into two sub-periods, 2004-2009 and 2010-2015, with the latter following the endorsement of integrated reporting by the King III Code as a listing requirement in 2010. A single-factor Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) was used to assess differences in risk-adjusted returns. Engle-Granger and Johansen tests were employed to explore the possibility of a cointegrating relationship between the indices. No significant difference between returns was observed for 2004-2009, with the SRI Index exhibiting statistically significant inferior risk-adjusted returns for the latter half of the study. Overall, a significant difference between share returns was found, with CAPM results suggesting that the JSE SRI Index underperformed the All Share Index by -2.33% per annum throughout the time span of the study. Engle-Granger and Johansen test results indicated the existence of a cointegrating relationship over the first half of the study. However, there was no cointegration between the two indices for 2004-2015, which may be attributed to no significant relationship found for the latter years. Results support the notion that investors pay the price to invest ethically on the JSE. Inferior risk-adjusted returns associated with SRI may be a major barrier to its development in South African markets.
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Exploring the relationship between job satisfaction (as measured by the JDI) and sales executive performance at a private South African Motor Retail Group
- Authors: McNaughton, Peter
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Case studies , Employee attitude surveys -- South Africa , Kelston Motor Group (South Africa) -- Employees -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4466 , vital:20675
- Description: This study explores the relationship of job satisfaction as measured on the Job Descriptive Index with sales performance per individual, aimed at investigating the relationship between job satisfaction and a sales executive’s performance. The Kelston Motor group was nominated as the organisation which the study would be conducted on. The approach to this study was to provide a sound academic base followed by a quantitative analysis. The Job Descriptive Index (JDI) questionnaire was used to determine the sales executives’ current satisfaction levels and these where compared to the sales average gross profit incomes averaged out over a 6-month period. A sample of 34 sales executives employed by the Kelston Motor group were sent the JDI questionnaire. These individuals were selected based on the length of time they have worked for the organisation. Each sales executive was given a pseudonym to ensure anonymity. The various sales executives average monthly gross profit earnings over a 6-month period were linked to these pseudonyms. This information was then linked to each respondent’s questionnaire before sending the questionnaire via email. The results of this study show that job satisfaction played a fairly insignificant role on sales executives performance. It was, however, found that job satisfaction had a direct effect on activities such as staff turnover and absenteeism which does have a direct impact on sales executives performance.
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- Authors: McNaughton, Peter
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Case studies , Employee attitude surveys -- South Africa , Kelston Motor Group (South Africa) -- Employees -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4466 , vital:20675
- Description: This study explores the relationship of job satisfaction as measured on the Job Descriptive Index with sales performance per individual, aimed at investigating the relationship between job satisfaction and a sales executive’s performance. The Kelston Motor group was nominated as the organisation which the study would be conducted on. The approach to this study was to provide a sound academic base followed by a quantitative analysis. The Job Descriptive Index (JDI) questionnaire was used to determine the sales executives’ current satisfaction levels and these where compared to the sales average gross profit incomes averaged out over a 6-month period. A sample of 34 sales executives employed by the Kelston Motor group were sent the JDI questionnaire. These individuals were selected based on the length of time they have worked for the organisation. Each sales executive was given a pseudonym to ensure anonymity. The various sales executives average monthly gross profit earnings over a 6-month period were linked to these pseudonyms. This information was then linked to each respondent’s questionnaire before sending the questionnaire via email. The results of this study show that job satisfaction played a fairly insignificant role on sales executives performance. It was, however, found that job satisfaction had a direct effect on activities such as staff turnover and absenteeism which does have a direct impact on sales executives performance.
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Factors affecting the implementation of the Water Services Provision (WSP) strategy at Amathole District Municipality (ADM)
- Authors: Snombo, Kanyisa
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5533 , vital:20939
- Description: Amathole District Municipality (ADM) in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa changed its water service provision strategy in 2012 from decentralized to a centralized strategy as a way of trying to improve its water service delivery. Since this change, no study has been done to explore how the centralized water service strategy has so far been implemented at ADM. The aim of this exploratory qualitative study was to describe how ADM implemented its centralized water strategy and also assess the extent of alignment of strategy execution using Higgins’ (2005) 8 “S” model. Purposively, a total of five senior managers were identified and interviewed in East London as they were intimately involved in the daily operation of the water service provision over the years. Data gathered through audio recorded, in-depth and semi-structured interviews with each of the senior managers and also documented reports on Water Service Provision (WSP) were analyzed using thematic analysis into meaningful patterns reflecting each of the components of Higgins’ (2005) 8 “S” model. Findings of this qualitative study reveal that senior managers had different but complementary views of what strategy they were implementing at ADM. More importantly, the implementation of centralized water services provision model by ADM was characterized by deep and persistent vacancies of key technical but also managerial positions in the new structure. Furthermore while human and financial resources were inadequate to match with the depth and variety of changes necessary to have the requisite number of staff, ADM implemented the centralized water service strategy with poor skills mix which negatively impacted on quality of water service. While ADM had ten espoused shared values, none of these were commonly and widely shared by employees in their day-to-day world of work. Instead, employee’s behavior at ADM was practically shaped by the emergent values of cooperation, and employee care and recognition. Thus there was misalignment between espoused and practiced shared values. Furthermore there was also recurrent and deep misalignment between structure, staff, resources and water quality systems which compounded the difficulties experienced by ADM in pursuit of centralized water service provision. While the use of outsourced mechanical and electrical services was a remedy to staff shortages and the lack of skills mix, it ultimately further aggravated the financial challenges of ADM by draining more of the already limited financial resources. Recommendations for improving the implementation of centralized water service strategy and areas for further research are suggested.
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- Authors: Snombo, Kanyisa
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/5533 , vital:20939
- Description: Amathole District Municipality (ADM) in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa changed its water service provision strategy in 2012 from decentralized to a centralized strategy as a way of trying to improve its water service delivery. Since this change, no study has been done to explore how the centralized water service strategy has so far been implemented at ADM. The aim of this exploratory qualitative study was to describe how ADM implemented its centralized water strategy and also assess the extent of alignment of strategy execution using Higgins’ (2005) 8 “S” model. Purposively, a total of five senior managers were identified and interviewed in East London as they were intimately involved in the daily operation of the water service provision over the years. Data gathered through audio recorded, in-depth and semi-structured interviews with each of the senior managers and also documented reports on Water Service Provision (WSP) were analyzed using thematic analysis into meaningful patterns reflecting each of the components of Higgins’ (2005) 8 “S” model. Findings of this qualitative study reveal that senior managers had different but complementary views of what strategy they were implementing at ADM. More importantly, the implementation of centralized water services provision model by ADM was characterized by deep and persistent vacancies of key technical but also managerial positions in the new structure. Furthermore while human and financial resources were inadequate to match with the depth and variety of changes necessary to have the requisite number of staff, ADM implemented the centralized water service strategy with poor skills mix which negatively impacted on quality of water service. While ADM had ten espoused shared values, none of these were commonly and widely shared by employees in their day-to-day world of work. Instead, employee’s behavior at ADM was practically shaped by the emergent values of cooperation, and employee care and recognition. Thus there was misalignment between espoused and practiced shared values. Furthermore there was also recurrent and deep misalignment between structure, staff, resources and water quality systems which compounded the difficulties experienced by ADM in pursuit of centralized water service provision. While the use of outsourced mechanical and electrical services was a remedy to staff shortages and the lack of skills mix, it ultimately further aggravated the financial challenges of ADM by draining more of the already limited financial resources. Recommendations for improving the implementation of centralized water service strategy and areas for further research are suggested.
- Full Text:
Middle management communication in the midst of a crisis
- Authors: Mbolekwano, Veliswa A
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/52477 , vital:26194
- Description: Crisis communication by organisational top leadership to external stakeholders has been explored in literature, while internal crisis communication dynamics by middle managers with their employees within the organisation has been under studied. This paper pursues an understanding of crisis communication dynamics between middle management and their subordinates by investigating how the Middle Managers/Team Leaders of Makana Brick Manufacturing Firm (MBMF) communicated with their employees in the midst of the Eskom load shedding crisis in 2014. The investigation is not limited only to how they handled or made sense of the crisis, but also examines the effect and efficiency of their daily communication on both employees (subordinates) and operations in pursuing this end. As a foundation and background, the study broadly explores the literature on Crisis Leadership, Crisis and Crisis Communication, which are critical topics to understanding the communication role of the middle managers who were the primary subject of this research. The research was conducted through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews. Nine Team Leaders were interviewed. The data collected was transcribed verbatim and analysed through open coding. In the literature of crisis management, the concept of crisis communication has been extensively examined as a function of crisis management, primarily with regards to the crisis communication strategy, encompassing the actual verbal and nonverbal responses an organisation uses to address a crisis. The findings are generally congruent with the crisis communication literature, and reinforce the importance of efficient internal communication in building a culture of transparency between management and employees, as espoused in the literature reviewed, which in addition presents an invaluable opportunity for employees across all levels to engage in and be informed of the organisation’s priorities and therefore has the potential to dictate the success or failure of any major change or crisis situation. As such, it can be argued that there is a need for the same analytical rigour that is given to external crisis communication to be given to financial or operational measures (Barrett, 2002). For both external and internal stakeholders, human compassion, concern and empathy; faith in legitimate and appropriate actions taken by the chosen organisation spokesperson; and honesty, candidness and openness in communication (Seeger 2006, p. 242) are universal. The quality and the quantity of communication, essentially, affect the level of trust and involvement of employees (Thomas, Zolin & Hartman, 2009), which is particularly relevant in times of crisis (Mazzei & Ravazzani, 2015 p. 322). Trust must be developed with staff through clear, honest communication and transparent actions. These encompass being fair, open in communication and intentions, showing consistency, fulfilling promises and being honest about what middle managers can and cannot communicate to their employees (Farrel & Schlesinger, 2013, p. 125). In this study, face to face communication proved to be the most preferred communication channel because of its rewarding advantages such as direct feedback, two-way communication, relationship building and project collaboration.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mbolekwano, Veliswa A
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/52477 , vital:26194
- Description: Crisis communication by organisational top leadership to external stakeholders has been explored in literature, while internal crisis communication dynamics by middle managers with their employees within the organisation has been under studied. This paper pursues an understanding of crisis communication dynamics between middle management and their subordinates by investigating how the Middle Managers/Team Leaders of Makana Brick Manufacturing Firm (MBMF) communicated with their employees in the midst of the Eskom load shedding crisis in 2014. The investigation is not limited only to how they handled or made sense of the crisis, but also examines the effect and efficiency of their daily communication on both employees (subordinates) and operations in pursuing this end. As a foundation and background, the study broadly explores the literature on Crisis Leadership, Crisis and Crisis Communication, which are critical topics to understanding the communication role of the middle managers who were the primary subject of this research. The research was conducted through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews. Nine Team Leaders were interviewed. The data collected was transcribed verbatim and analysed through open coding. In the literature of crisis management, the concept of crisis communication has been extensively examined as a function of crisis management, primarily with regards to the crisis communication strategy, encompassing the actual verbal and nonverbal responses an organisation uses to address a crisis. The findings are generally congruent with the crisis communication literature, and reinforce the importance of efficient internal communication in building a culture of transparency between management and employees, as espoused in the literature reviewed, which in addition presents an invaluable opportunity for employees across all levels to engage in and be informed of the organisation’s priorities and therefore has the potential to dictate the success or failure of any major change or crisis situation. As such, it can be argued that there is a need for the same analytical rigour that is given to external crisis communication to be given to financial or operational measures (Barrett, 2002). For both external and internal stakeholders, human compassion, concern and empathy; faith in legitimate and appropriate actions taken by the chosen organisation spokesperson; and honesty, candidness and openness in communication (Seeger 2006, p. 242) are universal. The quality and the quantity of communication, essentially, affect the level of trust and involvement of employees (Thomas, Zolin & Hartman, 2009), which is particularly relevant in times of crisis (Mazzei & Ravazzani, 2015 p. 322). Trust must be developed with staff through clear, honest communication and transparent actions. These encompass being fair, open in communication and intentions, showing consistency, fulfilling promises and being honest about what middle managers can and cannot communicate to their employees (Farrel & Schlesinger, 2013, p. 125). In this study, face to face communication proved to be the most preferred communication channel because of its rewarding advantages such as direct feedback, two-way communication, relationship building and project collaboration.
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Motives behind the implementation of renewable energy sources in South African businesses
- Authors: Smith, Brendon Michael
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7667 , vital:21283
- Description: There are numerous advantages and disadvantages for companies to implement renewable energy in South Africa. The motives (drivers or challenges) behind the decision to implement renewable energy resources or not is what this research will be addressing. Economic and environmental motives were the major motives behind implementing renewable energy sources in literature. The main objective for this research was to identify and describe the motives and challenges of implementing renewable energy sources in SA businesses, aligning these with sustainability pillars. The data collection method that was used in this research was documentation analysis and questionnaires. The companies that were chosen for this research were sampled from Kwa-Zulu Natal. Results showed that economic motives were the main decisions for companies implementing renewable energy or not, although there were also significant environmental and social motives that businesses need to consider. This research has provided an understanding of the motives that can have a positive or negative impact on companies who want to install renewable energy for their business.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Smith, Brendon Michael
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/7667 , vital:21283
- Description: There are numerous advantages and disadvantages for companies to implement renewable energy in South Africa. The motives (drivers or challenges) behind the decision to implement renewable energy resources or not is what this research will be addressing. Economic and environmental motives were the major motives behind implementing renewable energy sources in literature. The main objective for this research was to identify and describe the motives and challenges of implementing renewable energy sources in SA businesses, aligning these with sustainability pillars. The data collection method that was used in this research was documentation analysis and questionnaires. The companies that were chosen for this research were sampled from Kwa-Zulu Natal. Results showed that economic motives were the main decisions for companies implementing renewable energy or not, although there were also significant environmental and social motives that businesses need to consider. This research has provided an understanding of the motives that can have a positive or negative impact on companies who want to install renewable energy for their business.
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Sustainable tourism opportunities for Mauritius
- Authors: Ternel, Maeva
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6118 , vital:21046
- Description: Sustainable Tourism (ST) integrates governance, economic, socio-cultural and environmental dimensions of tourism in tourism development and management. Growing Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) concerns suggest that traditionally, tourism tends to corrupt the very resources it needs to thrive, and thus its sustainability over the long haul has become of general concern. However, despite the vast and extensive literature dedicated to ST, including preeminent journals providing both a theoretical base and reliable empirical evidence to the subject, the concept of sustainability in tourism remains somehow at its embryonic stage, especially in the case of a small island developing state (SIDS). The research occurred within the context of the destination (Mauritius), with however, a focus on five sizeable Mauritian hotel groups. With tourism being one of the pillars of the Mauritian economy, this research intended to explore the different repercussions of such an industry. The aim of the research was to determine to what extent tourism’s operations and development, was appropriately managed in Mauritius by assessing the country’s current tourism situation relating to sustainability and identifying priority areas for intervention. This, was done using different tools, including the United Nations World Tourism Organisation's framework, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council's guidelines and the Sustainable Tourism Attitude Scale. The contribution this research intended to make was to suggest sustainable tourism opportunities and make recommendations for the tourism sector and its stakeholders for the island of Mauritius. Overall, the research concluded that despite the increased importance of ST, the need for Managed Tourism (MT) and the formulation of general principles and guidelines, tourism governance; poverty reduction; and the sustainability of the natural and cultural environment were identified as areas of particular need and should be considered with high priority for intervention/action.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ternel, Maeva
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6118 , vital:21046
- Description: Sustainable Tourism (ST) integrates governance, economic, socio-cultural and environmental dimensions of tourism in tourism development and management. Growing Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) concerns suggest that traditionally, tourism tends to corrupt the very resources it needs to thrive, and thus its sustainability over the long haul has become of general concern. However, despite the vast and extensive literature dedicated to ST, including preeminent journals providing both a theoretical base and reliable empirical evidence to the subject, the concept of sustainability in tourism remains somehow at its embryonic stage, especially in the case of a small island developing state (SIDS). The research occurred within the context of the destination (Mauritius), with however, a focus on five sizeable Mauritian hotel groups. With tourism being one of the pillars of the Mauritian economy, this research intended to explore the different repercussions of such an industry. The aim of the research was to determine to what extent tourism’s operations and development, was appropriately managed in Mauritius by assessing the country’s current tourism situation relating to sustainability and identifying priority areas for intervention. This, was done using different tools, including the United Nations World Tourism Organisation's framework, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council's guidelines and the Sustainable Tourism Attitude Scale. The contribution this research intended to make was to suggest sustainable tourism opportunities and make recommendations for the tourism sector and its stakeholders for the island of Mauritius. Overall, the research concluded that despite the increased importance of ST, the need for Managed Tourism (MT) and the formulation of general principles and guidelines, tourism governance; poverty reduction; and the sustainability of the natural and cultural environment were identified as areas of particular need and should be considered with high priority for intervention/action.
- Full Text:
A study of factors enhancing truck driver retention at Tanker Services, Imperial Logistics, South Africa
- Authors: Goss, Cayley Amy
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:868 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021250
- Description: The aim of this qualitative study was to gain an understanding of the factors that enhance truck driver retention at Tanker Services, Imperial Logistics, South Africa. The specific objectives of the study were to (1) explore factors which influence the retention of truck drivers from the perspectives of immediate supervisors of these drivers at Tanker Services Branches in Durban, Johannesburg, and Cape Town; (2) to identify the means Tanker Services adopts in meeting factors influential to truck driver retention; and (3) to provide recommendations on how to successfully retain truck drivers in this logistics organisation in South Africa. The research methodology of this study involved interviewing ten immediate managers of truck drivers at Tanker Services, Imperial Logistics. Specifically, data was collected through the use of individual, in-depth and semi-structured interviews to investigate the most influential factors affecting truck driver retention. The results of this research outline factors important to the truck drivers at Tanker Services from the perspectives of their immediate supervisors - most of whom were previously truck drivers themselves. The findings of this research identified the general factors that affect Tanker Services Truck drivers as follows: formal and informal rewards, competitive compensation, a work environment of quality equipment, high safety standards and recreational facilities. Furthermore, interpersonal relations and company reputation were found most influential to truck drivers in this South African logistics context.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Goss, Cayley Amy
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:868 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021250
- Description: The aim of this qualitative study was to gain an understanding of the factors that enhance truck driver retention at Tanker Services, Imperial Logistics, South Africa. The specific objectives of the study were to (1) explore factors which influence the retention of truck drivers from the perspectives of immediate supervisors of these drivers at Tanker Services Branches in Durban, Johannesburg, and Cape Town; (2) to identify the means Tanker Services adopts in meeting factors influential to truck driver retention; and (3) to provide recommendations on how to successfully retain truck drivers in this logistics organisation in South Africa. The research methodology of this study involved interviewing ten immediate managers of truck drivers at Tanker Services, Imperial Logistics. Specifically, data was collected through the use of individual, in-depth and semi-structured interviews to investigate the most influential factors affecting truck driver retention. The results of this research outline factors important to the truck drivers at Tanker Services from the perspectives of their immediate supervisors - most of whom were previously truck drivers themselves. The findings of this research identified the general factors that affect Tanker Services Truck drivers as follows: formal and informal rewards, competitive compensation, a work environment of quality equipment, high safety standards and recreational facilities. Furthermore, interpersonal relations and company reputation were found most influential to truck drivers in this South African logistics context.
- Full Text:
A study of the influence of employee empowerment on organizational citizenship behaviours of teachers within Grahamstown independent senior schools
- Authors: Johnston, Dean Allan
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:869 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021314
- Description: This research investigates the influence of empowerment on organisational citizenship behaviours (OCB) of teachers within Independent Senior schools in Grahamstown. Teachers, as a schools driving force, contribute immensely to the education of its students as well as determine the success and effectiveness of the school as an educational institution. The nature of a teacher’s work, and indirectly the principal’s job of managing these teachers, is complex and difficult to define as there are only certain behaviours which can be contractually obliged from teachers. Further behaviours which are beneficial to the organisation, such as OCB, need to be induced via incentives or encouraged via certain behavioural management initiatives, such as increased levels of empowerment. It is important for schools to encourage their teachers to participate in such beneficial behaviours as not all behaviours can be dictated or managed through contractual limitations. Previous studies and literature reviewed suggest that OCB is an important variable that significantly influences a schools performance. Such studies and literature suggest that empowerment could induce greater levels of OCB. The concepts of OCB and empowerment are defined and discussed and a 58 item Questionnaire is formulated based on the two concepts, drawn mainly from Short and Rinehart (1992) and Bogler and Somech (2004). The Questionnaire is divided into two parts, firstly OCB and secondly empowerment. Each section of the Questionnaire is divided into the relevant categories and dimensions as prescribed by past literature. The first part determines the behaviours which the participants believe form part of a teachers ‘in-role’ behaviour, therefore also determines which behaviours the participants believe are ‘extra-role’ or OCB. The second part determines the participant’s perception of their empowerment in their own workplace. This research makes use of an online Questionnaire. The data is collected and described using averages, modes and medians. This data is organised in a manner which further allows for a Pearson correlation analysis test to be run. This test is used to establish the correlation relationship between the two variables in this research and the statistical significance of this relationship is analysed by observing the respective p-value. The conclusion is drawn that there exists four statistically significant positively correlated relationships between the empowerment dimension (decision making, status, self-efficacy and impact) and OCB. However there exists a weak positively correlated non-statistically significant relationship between empowerment and OCB. This suggests that empowerment as a whole does not greatly influence higher levels of OCB, however the four individual dimensions of empowerment do have a positive influence.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Johnston, Dean Allan
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:869 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021314
- Description: This research investigates the influence of empowerment on organisational citizenship behaviours (OCB) of teachers within Independent Senior schools in Grahamstown. Teachers, as a schools driving force, contribute immensely to the education of its students as well as determine the success and effectiveness of the school as an educational institution. The nature of a teacher’s work, and indirectly the principal’s job of managing these teachers, is complex and difficult to define as there are only certain behaviours which can be contractually obliged from teachers. Further behaviours which are beneficial to the organisation, such as OCB, need to be induced via incentives or encouraged via certain behavioural management initiatives, such as increased levels of empowerment. It is important for schools to encourage their teachers to participate in such beneficial behaviours as not all behaviours can be dictated or managed through contractual limitations. Previous studies and literature reviewed suggest that OCB is an important variable that significantly influences a schools performance. Such studies and literature suggest that empowerment could induce greater levels of OCB. The concepts of OCB and empowerment are defined and discussed and a 58 item Questionnaire is formulated based on the two concepts, drawn mainly from Short and Rinehart (1992) and Bogler and Somech (2004). The Questionnaire is divided into two parts, firstly OCB and secondly empowerment. Each section of the Questionnaire is divided into the relevant categories and dimensions as prescribed by past literature. The first part determines the behaviours which the participants believe form part of a teachers ‘in-role’ behaviour, therefore also determines which behaviours the participants believe are ‘extra-role’ or OCB. The second part determines the participant’s perception of their empowerment in their own workplace. This research makes use of an online Questionnaire. The data is collected and described using averages, modes and medians. This data is organised in a manner which further allows for a Pearson correlation analysis test to be run. This test is used to establish the correlation relationship between the two variables in this research and the statistical significance of this relationship is analysed by observing the respective p-value. The conclusion is drawn that there exists four statistically significant positively correlated relationships between the empowerment dimension (decision making, status, self-efficacy and impact) and OCB. However there exists a weak positively correlated non-statistically significant relationship between empowerment and OCB. This suggests that empowerment as a whole does not greatly influence higher levels of OCB, however the four individual dimensions of empowerment do have a positive influence.
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A survey of employee preferences in the design of a performance management system
- Authors: Keshave, Hiten
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:863 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021180
- Description: This thesis begins with an introduction to performance management and the intended aim and objective of the research. Thereafter literature findings relative to performance management and performance management systems are discussed. In the review of literature, three processes that could be implemented in a performance management system were highlighted, namely; (1) the planning process, (2) the monitoring and development process, and (3) an annual summative and feedback process. Performance management functions deemed important to employees during each process of the performance management system were identified and discussed. Subsequent to the literature review, the research methodology was described and involved the implementation of quantitative research within a post-positivist paradigm in the form of a close-ended survey questionnaire. Analysis of the data involved a gap analysis and needs analysis. The gap analysis study was based on the opinion of management respondents in comparison to the opinion of non-management respondents. Results of the gap analysis were determined based on the calculation of an importance score for each sub-group. The needs analysis study was based on the overall opinion of all respondents, and results were determined based on the calculation of an overall importance score. In light of the literature review that was conducted to inform the questionnaire design, the survey results supported the literature review of each discussed performance management function with no evident contradictions. The results of the gap analysis and needs analysis were satisfactorily met for each performance management function. On the basis of these findings, it was assumed that all the performance management functions identified in the literature are important and could be implemented in the design of a performance management system. The results highlighted the importance of a performance plan and development plan to underpin the performance management system.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Keshave, Hiten
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:863 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021180
- Description: This thesis begins with an introduction to performance management and the intended aim and objective of the research. Thereafter literature findings relative to performance management and performance management systems are discussed. In the review of literature, three processes that could be implemented in a performance management system were highlighted, namely; (1) the planning process, (2) the monitoring and development process, and (3) an annual summative and feedback process. Performance management functions deemed important to employees during each process of the performance management system were identified and discussed. Subsequent to the literature review, the research methodology was described and involved the implementation of quantitative research within a post-positivist paradigm in the form of a close-ended survey questionnaire. Analysis of the data involved a gap analysis and needs analysis. The gap analysis study was based on the opinion of management respondents in comparison to the opinion of non-management respondents. Results of the gap analysis were determined based on the calculation of an importance score for each sub-group. The needs analysis study was based on the overall opinion of all respondents, and results were determined based on the calculation of an overall importance score. In light of the literature review that was conducted to inform the questionnaire design, the survey results supported the literature review of each discussed performance management function with no evident contradictions. The results of the gap analysis and needs analysis were satisfactorily met for each performance management function. On the basis of these findings, it was assumed that all the performance management functions identified in the literature are important and could be implemented in the design of a performance management system. The results highlighted the importance of a performance plan and development plan to underpin the performance management system.
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An investigation of absenteeism amongst blue-collar workers: a mixed methods approach
- Authors: Kroon, Kim
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:866 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021248
- Description: Absenteeism affects organisations in many different ways, therefore it is essential to investigate absenteeism with the aim of minimising absence levels. The focus of the research was to investigate absenteeism amongst blue-collar workers at a Global Logistics Supplier. The objectives of this research were to identify the main types of absenteeism, to compare the views of blue-collar workers and management on the causes attributed to absenteeism, to describe how absenteeism has been measured and managed, and to make recommendations to the company on ways to minimize absenteeism based on the findings. Quantitative data in the form of monthly absenteeism statistics relating to each leave type, was examined for trends relating to absenteeism levels amongst blue-collar workers at the company. Semi-structured interviews were then carried out with management and blue-collar workers to examine the causes of absenteeism and its management. The results showed that there was a discrepancy between the views of management and blue-collar workers at the company on the perceived causes of absenteeism. On the other hand, both management and the blue-collar workers identified Monday and Friday as the most prevalent days on which employees are absent from the workplace. This finding suggests that more research should be conducted on this trend in blue-collar workers. In exploring how absenteeism is dealt with, management within the company stated that discipline was the most effective way of keeping absenteeism levels low amongst employees. The limitations and delimitations of the research were recognised and further research ideas were given. It was also recommended that managers and supervisors address the workplace issues and identify when a worker’s performance and interpersonal relationships are strained in order to effectively minimise absenteeism. It is also recommended they implement a wellness programme.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kroon, Kim
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:866 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021248
- Description: Absenteeism affects organisations in many different ways, therefore it is essential to investigate absenteeism with the aim of minimising absence levels. The focus of the research was to investigate absenteeism amongst blue-collar workers at a Global Logistics Supplier. The objectives of this research were to identify the main types of absenteeism, to compare the views of blue-collar workers and management on the causes attributed to absenteeism, to describe how absenteeism has been measured and managed, and to make recommendations to the company on ways to minimize absenteeism based on the findings. Quantitative data in the form of monthly absenteeism statistics relating to each leave type, was examined for trends relating to absenteeism levels amongst blue-collar workers at the company. Semi-structured interviews were then carried out with management and blue-collar workers to examine the causes of absenteeism and its management. The results showed that there was a discrepancy between the views of management and blue-collar workers at the company on the perceived causes of absenteeism. On the other hand, both management and the blue-collar workers identified Monday and Friday as the most prevalent days on which employees are absent from the workplace. This finding suggests that more research should be conducted on this trend in blue-collar workers. In exploring how absenteeism is dealt with, management within the company stated that discipline was the most effective way of keeping absenteeism levels low amongst employees. The limitations and delimitations of the research were recognised and further research ideas were given. It was also recommended that managers and supervisors address the workplace issues and identify when a worker’s performance and interpersonal relationships are strained in order to effectively minimise absenteeism. It is also recommended they implement a wellness programme.
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An investigation of green marketing opportunities at BOS Ice Tea
- Authors: Ciesielski, Adrian Adam
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:864 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021246
- Description: The research addresses the marketing activities of BOS Ice Tea, a South African company, and whether they are reflective and grounded within their marketing activities. By analysing public data and interviewing the founding partners, Richard Bowsher and Grant Rushmere, the findings where compared against the marketing paradigms of Ottoman (1999) and the green marketing practices of Gittell et al. (2012). It was determined that the company engages in green activities, but does not communicate them clearly. Further, where the company did promote organic rooibos and sustainability, their actions were not reflective of these behaviours from an academic point of view. Thus, there was the potential for green washing. The research concludes with suggestions for a 4P’s green marketing framework, and comments on areas that need clarity.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ciesielski, Adrian Adam
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:864 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021246
- Description: The research addresses the marketing activities of BOS Ice Tea, a South African company, and whether they are reflective and grounded within their marketing activities. By analysing public data and interviewing the founding partners, Richard Bowsher and Grant Rushmere, the findings where compared against the marketing paradigms of Ottoman (1999) and the green marketing practices of Gittell et al. (2012). It was determined that the company engages in green activities, but does not communicate them clearly. Further, where the company did promote organic rooibos and sustainability, their actions were not reflective of these behaviours from an academic point of view. Thus, there was the potential for green washing. The research concludes with suggestions for a 4P’s green marketing framework, and comments on areas that need clarity.
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An investigation of servant leadership within Rhodes University sports clubs
- Authors: Stiebel, Jessica Lee
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:872 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021317
- Description: This research investigates the level of servant leadership within Rhodes University sport clubs. The goals of this research are to assess the perception the club members have of their chairperson and to key identify areas of development. The sport clubs at Rhodes University are partially run by chairpersons who are voted into the position by his or her peers of a sports club. The chairpersons work alongside Rhodes University employees who are a part of the Sports Administration team to oversee the running, scheduling and finances of the club. The sports clubs are representative of Rhodes University and it is the chairperson’s responsibility to ensure the club is lead and run effectively. Robert Greenleaf coined the term servant leader in the 1970s (Greenleaf, 1997). The servant leader is a leader who is driven by his or her followers, as leadership involves a leader serving his or her followers first and foremost (Greenleaf, 1977). The leader takes on a role that is supportive and contributes to their personal as well as their professional achievements (Smith, Montagno and Kuzmenko, 2004). A questionnaire consisting of 27 questions was drafted, of which were four demographic questions. A 5-point Likert Scale was used in order for the participants to respond to the questions. The questionnaire was drawn from a number of questionnaires available in literature on leadership and adapted to suit Rhodes University sports clubs. The questionnaire was distributed personally by the researcher, as well as through an online questionnaire. There were a total of 153 candidates who participated in the study. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. The majority of the respondents had the perceptions that their chairperson displayed characteristics of a servant leader. Majority of the participants were in agreement of the questions asked in the questionnaire, which focused on many servant leadership qualities. The results will be handed over to the Head of Sports Administration in order for them to get an idea of their leaders’ characteristics and areas where they can improve upon.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Stiebel, Jessica Lee
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:872 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021317
- Description: This research investigates the level of servant leadership within Rhodes University sport clubs. The goals of this research are to assess the perception the club members have of their chairperson and to key identify areas of development. The sport clubs at Rhodes University are partially run by chairpersons who are voted into the position by his or her peers of a sports club. The chairpersons work alongside Rhodes University employees who are a part of the Sports Administration team to oversee the running, scheduling and finances of the club. The sports clubs are representative of Rhodes University and it is the chairperson’s responsibility to ensure the club is lead and run effectively. Robert Greenleaf coined the term servant leader in the 1970s (Greenleaf, 1997). The servant leader is a leader who is driven by his or her followers, as leadership involves a leader serving his or her followers first and foremost (Greenleaf, 1977). The leader takes on a role that is supportive and contributes to their personal as well as their professional achievements (Smith, Montagno and Kuzmenko, 2004). A questionnaire consisting of 27 questions was drafted, of which were four demographic questions. A 5-point Likert Scale was used in order for the participants to respond to the questions. The questionnaire was drawn from a number of questionnaires available in literature on leadership and adapted to suit Rhodes University sports clubs. The questionnaire was distributed personally by the researcher, as well as through an online questionnaire. There were a total of 153 candidates who participated in the study. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. The majority of the respondents had the perceptions that their chairperson displayed characteristics of a servant leader. Majority of the participants were in agreement of the questions asked in the questionnaire, which focused on many servant leadership qualities. The results will be handed over to the Head of Sports Administration in order for them to get an idea of their leaders’ characteristics and areas where they can improve upon.
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An investigation of the barriers and drivers to CDM renewable energy investment at the Metro, Kouga and Jeffreys Bay windfarms
- Authors: Staples, Daryl Nolan
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:871 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021316
- Description: This research is presented in three sections. Section 1 presents the research report in an academic journal article format. Section 2 provides a comprehensive literature review and Section 3 describes the research methodology and methods employed during the research. Climate change is the most urgent challenge facing planet earth today. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) fifth assessment report (AR5) clearly states, “Human influence on the climate system is clear, and recent anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases are the highest in history. Recent climate changes have had widespread impacts on human and natural systems” (IPCC, 2014:2). The Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21) published the 10th annual edition of the Renewables 2015 Global Status Report, which illustrates the importance of a zero emissions energy sector (REN21, 2015). Despite the world’s average annual 1,5% increase in energy consumption in recent years, and average 3% growth in Gross Domestic Product, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in 2014 were unchanged from 2013 levels (REN21, 2015). The report findings state, “For the first time in four decades, the world economy grew without a parallel rise in CO2 emissions” (REN21, 2015:17). Renewable energy and improved energy efficiency is key to limiting global warming and avoiding dangerous impacts from climate change (REN21, 2015). With a view to the successful outcome of the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) in December 2015, renewable energy could contribute significantly in mitigating climate change and supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 7, on Sustainable Energy for All (SAIREC, 2015). South Africa has been rated the 15th most attractive destination for investment in the renewable energy sector and could become a renewable energy leader in the African continent, according to the Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness Index of EY (Ernest and Young) (EY, 2015). And more...
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- Authors: Staples, Daryl Nolan
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:871 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021316
- Description: This research is presented in three sections. Section 1 presents the research report in an academic journal article format. Section 2 provides a comprehensive literature review and Section 3 describes the research methodology and methods employed during the research. Climate change is the most urgent challenge facing planet earth today. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) fifth assessment report (AR5) clearly states, “Human influence on the climate system is clear, and recent anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases are the highest in history. Recent climate changes have had widespread impacts on human and natural systems” (IPCC, 2014:2). The Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21) published the 10th annual edition of the Renewables 2015 Global Status Report, which illustrates the importance of a zero emissions energy sector (REN21, 2015). Despite the world’s average annual 1,5% increase in energy consumption in recent years, and average 3% growth in Gross Domestic Product, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in 2014 were unchanged from 2013 levels (REN21, 2015). The report findings state, “For the first time in four decades, the world economy grew without a parallel rise in CO2 emissions” (REN21, 2015:17). Renewable energy and improved energy efficiency is key to limiting global warming and avoiding dangerous impacts from climate change (REN21, 2015). With a view to the successful outcome of the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) in December 2015, renewable energy could contribute significantly in mitigating climate change and supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 7, on Sustainable Energy for All (SAIREC, 2015). South Africa has been rated the 15th most attractive destination for investment in the renewable energy sector and could become a renewable energy leader in the African continent, according to the Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness Index of EY (Ernest and Young) (EY, 2015). And more...
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Developing a lean and green manufacturing plan for the newspaper printing industry - considering the Rising Sun Printers
- Authors: Maharaj, Avish
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:867 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021249
- Description: This research is focused on lean and green manufacturing using a printing company in South Africa as a case study focusing on their printing division. The reason for addressing the printing division of the company was to develop a lean and green manufacturing plan to address the concerns of resource utilisation and waste disposal in the printing division. The research looked at the concept of lean and green individually as well as together and by analysing the relationship between the two concepts. The outcome was that environmental “green” waste is embedded in the seven types of lean waste which is overproduction, waiting, transport, inappropriate processing, unnecessary inventory, unnecessary motion and waste due to defects (Moreira, Alves and Sousa, 2010 cited in Pampanelli, Found and Bernardes, 2014). It was found that the company under consideration had not been familiar with these concepts but learnt and understood the value it could bring to the company. The research concludes with the plan using the 5S tool to reduce the seven types of waste linked to lean and green manufacturing.
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- Authors: Maharaj, Avish
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:867 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021249
- Description: This research is focused on lean and green manufacturing using a printing company in South Africa as a case study focusing on their printing division. The reason for addressing the printing division of the company was to develop a lean and green manufacturing plan to address the concerns of resource utilisation and waste disposal in the printing division. The research looked at the concept of lean and green individually as well as together and by analysing the relationship between the two concepts. The outcome was that environmental “green” waste is embedded in the seven types of lean waste which is overproduction, waiting, transport, inappropriate processing, unnecessary inventory, unnecessary motion and waste due to defects (Moreira, Alves and Sousa, 2010 cited in Pampanelli, Found and Bernardes, 2014). It was found that the company under consideration had not been familiar with these concepts but learnt and understood the value it could bring to the company. The research concludes with the plan using the 5S tool to reduce the seven types of waste linked to lean and green manufacturing.
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The development of a recommended digital marketing strategy for Pan Macmillan, South Africa
- Authors: Conradie, Tessa Jane
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:865 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021247
- Description: This research attempts to create a recommended digital marketing strategy for Pan Macmillan, South Africa. As a result of the advance of technology and the increase of connectivity, digital marketing is becoming a highly important tool with regards to competitive advantage, differentiation and the overall marketing of a company and its product or service (Barwise and Farley, 2005, p. 68). Digital marketing is, in South Africa specifically, a relatively new concept (Sandmann, 2014, p. 1). If South African companies are able to efficiently utilise the gap in the market, they will ensure a significant competitive advantage (Sandmann, 2013, p. 1). In order to accomplish this successfully a digital marketing strategy must be created and adopted to ensure a full understanding of the requirements of effective digital marketing. This research focusses on understanding digital marketing requirements in relation to a South African book publisher and how those requirements can be met by the publisher through the development of a digital marketing strategy. The literature has been reviewed and previous research indicates that an established framework is needed to guide the development of a digital marketing strategy. The framework used in this research is the RACE framework (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2013, p. 14) which is used in conjunction to the SOSTAC planning system (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2014, p. 11) and the 7 steps to digital marketing strategy creation (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2014, p. 2). The literature suggests that a combination of the established traditional marketing strategy of a company and current digital marketing practices and tools is the most practical with regards to the development of a successful digital marketing strategy, implementation and evaluation. In order to understand the current marketing strategy and practices of Pan Macmillan, interviews with the Marketing Manager of the company were conducted as well as an analysis of marketing documents relating to Pan Macmillan’s current marketing actions. Results of the interviews and documentation analysis showed that Pan Macmillan had many elements digital marketing but no decisive digital marketing strategy. Using the selected frameworks and information gathered on the company’s marketing practices, digital marketing goals were established and a digital marketing strategy was created. The goals of the research were reached as a recommended digital marketing strategy was developed for Pan Macmillan based on the assessment made, using RACE, SOSTAC and the 7 steps to digital marketing creation, of the company’s current practices, challenges and opportunities with regards to digital marketing.
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- Authors: Conradie, Tessa Jane
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:865 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021247
- Description: This research attempts to create a recommended digital marketing strategy for Pan Macmillan, South Africa. As a result of the advance of technology and the increase of connectivity, digital marketing is becoming a highly important tool with regards to competitive advantage, differentiation and the overall marketing of a company and its product or service (Barwise and Farley, 2005, p. 68). Digital marketing is, in South Africa specifically, a relatively new concept (Sandmann, 2014, p. 1). If South African companies are able to efficiently utilise the gap in the market, they will ensure a significant competitive advantage (Sandmann, 2013, p. 1). In order to accomplish this successfully a digital marketing strategy must be created and adopted to ensure a full understanding of the requirements of effective digital marketing. This research focusses on understanding digital marketing requirements in relation to a South African book publisher and how those requirements can be met by the publisher through the development of a digital marketing strategy. The literature has been reviewed and previous research indicates that an established framework is needed to guide the development of a digital marketing strategy. The framework used in this research is the RACE framework (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2013, p. 14) which is used in conjunction to the SOSTAC planning system (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2014, p. 11) and the 7 steps to digital marketing strategy creation (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2014, p. 2). The literature suggests that a combination of the established traditional marketing strategy of a company and current digital marketing practices and tools is the most practical with regards to the development of a successful digital marketing strategy, implementation and evaluation. In order to understand the current marketing strategy and practices of Pan Macmillan, interviews with the Marketing Manager of the company were conducted as well as an analysis of marketing documents relating to Pan Macmillan’s current marketing actions. Results of the interviews and documentation analysis showed that Pan Macmillan had many elements digital marketing but no decisive digital marketing strategy. Using the selected frameworks and information gathered on the company’s marketing practices, digital marketing goals were established and a digital marketing strategy was created. The goals of the research were reached as a recommended digital marketing strategy was developed for Pan Macmillan based on the assessment made, using RACE, SOSTAC and the 7 steps to digital marketing creation, of the company’s current practices, challenges and opportunities with regards to digital marketing.
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