An institutional framework for expanding into Africa: a focus on global multinational companies
- Authors: Dipha, Lazola
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: International business enterprises -- Management , Globalization -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/29984 , vital:30804
- Description: Global multinational companies (MNCs) continue to face unique challenges in expanding into African emerging markets (AEMs). The biggest contributor to this is their lack of understanding and unwillingness to embrace the exceptional dynamics that exist in these countries, which has resulted in the majority of them defaulting to execute their own country’s domestic market strategies, resulting in failure to realise sustainable businesses. A misaligned and inappropriate strategy will fail dismally in terms of long-term sustainability of businesses. Urban & Hwindingwi (2016) took a diverse view in evaluating emerging markets, which will also be implemented in this study. They argued that “[they] see these features of emerging markets as symptoms of underlying market structures that share common, important and persistent differences from those in developed economies. Emerging markets reflect those transactional arenas where buyers and sellers are not easily or efficiently able to come together. The institutional voids make a market ‘emerging’ and are a prime source of the higher transaction costs and operating challenges in these markets”. “Market structures are the products of idiosyncratic historical, political, legal, economic and cultural forces within any country. All emerging markets feature insti-tutional voids, however, although the particular combination and severity of these voids varies from market to market”. In the previous years, corporate leaders and investors globally have pinned their hopes on the African growing story of promise becoming a reality. With a youthful, urbanising inhabitants, plentiful natural resources and a rising middle class; it looks like the continent has the correct components required for long-standing growth, possibly outshining the so-called tiger economies of East-Asia a generation ago. According to the McKinsey Global Institute titled Lions on the Move 2010 report; they forecasted consumer spending within the continent to grow by 40% and move GDPs by $1 trillion between 2008 to 2020. However, there are plenty multinationals that have become disheartened in their pursuit of operating in Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Dipha, Lazola
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: International business enterprises -- Management , Globalization -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/29984 , vital:30804
- Description: Global multinational companies (MNCs) continue to face unique challenges in expanding into African emerging markets (AEMs). The biggest contributor to this is their lack of understanding and unwillingness to embrace the exceptional dynamics that exist in these countries, which has resulted in the majority of them defaulting to execute their own country’s domestic market strategies, resulting in failure to realise sustainable businesses. A misaligned and inappropriate strategy will fail dismally in terms of long-term sustainability of businesses. Urban & Hwindingwi (2016) took a diverse view in evaluating emerging markets, which will also be implemented in this study. They argued that “[they] see these features of emerging markets as symptoms of underlying market structures that share common, important and persistent differences from those in developed economies. Emerging markets reflect those transactional arenas where buyers and sellers are not easily or efficiently able to come together. The institutional voids make a market ‘emerging’ and are a prime source of the higher transaction costs and operating challenges in these markets”. “Market structures are the products of idiosyncratic historical, political, legal, economic and cultural forces within any country. All emerging markets feature insti-tutional voids, however, although the particular combination and severity of these voids varies from market to market”. In the previous years, corporate leaders and investors globally have pinned their hopes on the African growing story of promise becoming a reality. With a youthful, urbanising inhabitants, plentiful natural resources and a rising middle class; it looks like the continent has the correct components required for long-standing growth, possibly outshining the so-called tiger economies of East-Asia a generation ago. According to the McKinsey Global Institute titled Lions on the Move 2010 report; they forecasted consumer spending within the continent to grow by 40% and move GDPs by $1 trillion between 2008 to 2020. However, there are plenty multinationals that have become disheartened in their pursuit of operating in Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An integrated talent-management approach for competitive advantage at a selected company
- Authors: Maxongo–Banzana, Ayanda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employees -- Recruiting , Organizational effectiveness Personnel management Career development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31995 , vital:31907
- Description: This study aims to explore the concept of talent management that has received attention since a group of McKinsey Consultant coined the phrase “the War for Talent” in 1997. In the 21 century, businesses are continually confronted with pressure of aligning employee talent with broader organizational strategies. This research explores key interventions and activities in order to get a better understanding of best practices and approaches to managing talent. The specific contribution of this treatise is developing a talentship model to enable integrated approach to managing talent in order to achieve competitive advantage at Company X. Through a single case study approach, this study examines the current talent management approach at Company X, and the author develops an Integrated Talent management model, named “The Max- Banz Talentship House Model” to address key challenges confronting the company from a talent management perspective in order to achieve competitive advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Maxongo–Banzana, Ayanda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employees -- Recruiting , Organizational effectiveness Personnel management Career development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31995 , vital:31907
- Description: This study aims to explore the concept of talent management that has received attention since a group of McKinsey Consultant coined the phrase “the War for Talent” in 1997. In the 21 century, businesses are continually confronted with pressure of aligning employee talent with broader organizational strategies. This research explores key interventions and activities in order to get a better understanding of best practices and approaches to managing talent. The specific contribution of this treatise is developing a talentship model to enable integrated approach to managing talent in order to achieve competitive advantage at Company X. Through a single case study approach, this study examines the current talent management approach at Company X, and the author develops an Integrated Talent management model, named “The Max- Banz Talentship House Model” to address key challenges confronting the company from a talent management perspective in order to achieve competitive advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An investigation into the effectiveness of financial management systems in the public service: a case study of the department of health, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Galada, Unathi Luthando
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Financial management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Performance -- Measurement -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30227 , vital:30904
- Description: The aim of this study is to investigate the effective and efficient of the financial management systems and its translation into good governance in the Department of Health in order to meet all the compliance requirements as contained in legislations. Financial management is a critical element for good governance. It requires a great deal of attention with parallel internal systems and control that support it for optimal performance. To that, the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act 1 of 1999) and National Treasury Regulations require all government departments to ensure accountability on resource allocated yet able to measure value for money in relation to the delivery of goods and services. The Eastern Cape is one of five provinces with at least 60% of its population living in rural parts serviced by small towns. There is a total of 72 small towns in the province. The province has a legacy of endemic rural poverty and is characterized by the historical neglect of rural areas. The Eastern Cape still has many people moving to other provinces and to the two main cities of East London and Port Elizabeth, in search of employment. (ECSECC, 2006). The compliance to all key financial management legislation and policies has been a constant challenge faced by the Department of Health and the province, which has been largely caused by high levels of corruption, poor financial management systems, poor management tools, poor internal resource controls and maladministration practices (Auditor General Report, 2013/14). As a result, several incidents of dissatisfaction by members of the communities has been on the public domain, calling for government to deliver on quality health services throughout the province. The Public Finance Management Act, Act No. 1 of 1999, with regards to government’s utilisation of financial resources outlines the following objectives: Modernise the system of financial management in the public sector; Enable public sector managers to manage, but at the same time be held more accountable; Ensure the timely provision of quality information; and Eliminate the waste and corruption in the use of public assets. The Auditor General, as the supreme audit institution of the Republic, must, in terms of section 4(1) of the Public Audit Act (Act No. 25 of 2004), audit and report on the accounts, financial statements and financial statement of all government entities. Based on the 2014/15 Consolidated General Report issued by the Auditor General, various government entities were found not to have complied with the legislation relating to the payment of suppliers. The Constitution Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996) makes a provision that all the three government spheres to be developmental-oriented in nature with clear accountability and transparency lines towards service delivery. On the same note , The Public Finance Management Act of 1999 (PFMA) is meant “To regulate financial management in the national government and provincial governments; to ensure that all revenue, expenditure, assets and liabilities of those governments are managed efficiently and effectively; to provide for the responsibilities of persons entrusted with financial management in those governments; and to provide for matters connected therewith”. Based on these legislations, the department of health is not isolated from the responsibility as it forms part of the provincial government, which is the provincial sphere. With the above introductory contentions from different authors and researchers, this study will provide more detail on the policy documents namely; PFMA so to establish the nature and extent to which effective and efficient Financial Management System has improved good governance in the Department of Health, Eastern Cape Province.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Galada, Unathi Luthando
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Financial management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Performance -- Measurement -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30227 , vital:30904
- Description: The aim of this study is to investigate the effective and efficient of the financial management systems and its translation into good governance in the Department of Health in order to meet all the compliance requirements as contained in legislations. Financial management is a critical element for good governance. It requires a great deal of attention with parallel internal systems and control that support it for optimal performance. To that, the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act 1 of 1999) and National Treasury Regulations require all government departments to ensure accountability on resource allocated yet able to measure value for money in relation to the delivery of goods and services. The Eastern Cape is one of five provinces with at least 60% of its population living in rural parts serviced by small towns. There is a total of 72 small towns in the province. The province has a legacy of endemic rural poverty and is characterized by the historical neglect of rural areas. The Eastern Cape still has many people moving to other provinces and to the two main cities of East London and Port Elizabeth, in search of employment. (ECSECC, 2006). The compliance to all key financial management legislation and policies has been a constant challenge faced by the Department of Health and the province, which has been largely caused by high levels of corruption, poor financial management systems, poor management tools, poor internal resource controls and maladministration practices (Auditor General Report, 2013/14). As a result, several incidents of dissatisfaction by members of the communities has been on the public domain, calling for government to deliver on quality health services throughout the province. The Public Finance Management Act, Act No. 1 of 1999, with regards to government’s utilisation of financial resources outlines the following objectives: Modernise the system of financial management in the public sector; Enable public sector managers to manage, but at the same time be held more accountable; Ensure the timely provision of quality information; and Eliminate the waste and corruption in the use of public assets. The Auditor General, as the supreme audit institution of the Republic, must, in terms of section 4(1) of the Public Audit Act (Act No. 25 of 2004), audit and report on the accounts, financial statements and financial statement of all government entities. Based on the 2014/15 Consolidated General Report issued by the Auditor General, various government entities were found not to have complied with the legislation relating to the payment of suppliers. The Constitution Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996) makes a provision that all the three government spheres to be developmental-oriented in nature with clear accountability and transparency lines towards service delivery. On the same note , The Public Finance Management Act of 1999 (PFMA) is meant “To regulate financial management in the national government and provincial governments; to ensure that all revenue, expenditure, assets and liabilities of those governments are managed efficiently and effectively; to provide for the responsibilities of persons entrusted with financial management in those governments; and to provide for matters connected therewith”. Based on these legislations, the department of health is not isolated from the responsibility as it forms part of the provincial government, which is the provincial sphere. With the above introductory contentions from different authors and researchers, this study will provide more detail on the policy documents namely; PFMA so to establish the nature and extent to which effective and efficient Financial Management System has improved good governance in the Department of Health, Eastern Cape Province.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An investigation of the leadership practices and organizational culture at a private Christian school
- Authors: Babu, Bithun
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Church schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Leadership , Corporate culture
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62155 , vital:28133
- Description: The purpose of this study is to investigate the leadership practices and organizational culture at a private Christian school in the Eastern Cape. A preliminary review of leadership literature suggested that traces of servant leadership may be apparent at the organization. Thus servant leadership will form a key focus area for exploration in this study. An analysis of this nature can make one aware of the influence leadership has in shaping the organizational culture of an institution. This in turn can be used to inform the future thinking around leadership efforts with respect to culture formation within an organization. The issue was addressed by consulting various articles to view the issue from different perspectives. The school served as a vehicle to explore the tenets of leadership and organizational culture. The study will take the form of a descriptive quantitative study. It was concluded that leadership plays a significant role in establishing the culture at an organization. However, leadership is not the only factor that shapes the organizational culture of an institution. The beliefs and values of the organization also has a role in shaping the overall culture and identity of an organization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Babu, Bithun
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Church schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Leadership , Corporate culture
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62155 , vital:28133
- Description: The purpose of this study is to investigate the leadership practices and organizational culture at a private Christian school in the Eastern Cape. A preliminary review of leadership literature suggested that traces of servant leadership may be apparent at the organization. Thus servant leadership will form a key focus area for exploration in this study. An analysis of this nature can make one aware of the influence leadership has in shaping the organizational culture of an institution. This in turn can be used to inform the future thinking around leadership efforts with respect to culture formation within an organization. The issue was addressed by consulting various articles to view the issue from different perspectives. The school served as a vehicle to explore the tenets of leadership and organizational culture. The study will take the form of a descriptive quantitative study. It was concluded that leadership plays a significant role in establishing the culture at an organization. However, leadership is not the only factor that shapes the organizational culture of an institution. The beliefs and values of the organization also has a role in shaping the overall culture and identity of an organization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Analysing the role of enterprise and supplier development within Mercedes Benz South Africa in improving their B-BBEE scorecard
- Authors: Silinga, Zukiswa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa , Blacks -- South Africa -- Economic conditions , Employee empowerment -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23208 , vital:30455
- Description: This research is born out of the realisation of the unique challenges that the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policy required from the private sector in South Africa, with Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) being one of the components of the B-BBEE’s economic empowerment strategy. Over the years, the B-BBEE’s role has been one of ensuring that economic empowerment of historically disadvantaged individuals was addressed. The role of the B-BBEE policy is described as the framework that targets the reform of the economy, reduction of poverty and inequality and empowerment of those individuals that were historically disadvantaged (Patel & Graham, 2012, p. 194). The automotive industry is South Africa’s most important and largest sector, making a great contribution to the country’s GDP. It is responsible for the employment of many people in the country, including employment in the component manufacturers and tyre industry. With these linkages throughout the economy, the government has identified the automotive industry as a vital growth sector. Government is certain that this sector will address one of the major challenges for economic growth in South Africa, which is unemployment. In the year 2015, the B-BBEE Act was amended with new compliance requirements and this changed the B-BBEE rating of Mercedes Benz South Africa (MBSA), resulting in a reduction of the company’s rating. The changes to the standard, particularly the ownership component, resulted in challenges for multinational companies such as MBSA, and an opportunity to improve the rating was identified in the ESD component sector. If these new compliance requirements were not addressed by MBSA, a predictable reduction in B-BBEE status would occur, resulting in a loss of business with government and provision of government incentives. The objective of this research study was to analyse the role that ESD plays within MBSA in improving their B-BBEE scorecard, as part of its overall B-BBEE strategy. This study was sculpted on the concept that the role of ESD at MBSA is related to (a) preferential procurement, (b) skills transfer, and (c) mentoring and a detailed literature review was conducted for these variables as well as for ESD. In testing the above research objective, the researcher utilised statistical analysis methods to reach a conclusion with regard to the relationship of ESD to these variables. A positivistic research paradigm (quantitative) was selected in order to test the objective by using hypothesis testing. An empirical study was undertaken by means of a survey with a questionnaire utilised as a data collecting tool and distributed using the supplier database of MBSA. The aim of the questionnaire was to validate the outcomes obtained from the theoretical overview. Out of a sample of 116 respondents employed at the suppliers, only 92 responses were received, thus representing a 79% response rate, which is considered acceptable. The key findings of the study indicated that preferential procurement, skills development and mentoring play a significant role in the promotion of ESD. Preferential procurement indicated a stronger association than the other variables, and thus it was recommended that MBSA place importance on this variable. Based on these findings, recommendations were made to the management of MBSA in an effort to improve the ESD component of the B-BBEE score of the company. As a way of addressing some of the challenges automotive manufacturers face, suggestions for future research were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Silinga, Zukiswa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa , Blacks -- South Africa -- Economic conditions , Employee empowerment -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23208 , vital:30455
- Description: This research is born out of the realisation of the unique challenges that the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policy required from the private sector in South Africa, with Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) being one of the components of the B-BBEE’s economic empowerment strategy. Over the years, the B-BBEE’s role has been one of ensuring that economic empowerment of historically disadvantaged individuals was addressed. The role of the B-BBEE policy is described as the framework that targets the reform of the economy, reduction of poverty and inequality and empowerment of those individuals that were historically disadvantaged (Patel & Graham, 2012, p. 194). The automotive industry is South Africa’s most important and largest sector, making a great contribution to the country’s GDP. It is responsible for the employment of many people in the country, including employment in the component manufacturers and tyre industry. With these linkages throughout the economy, the government has identified the automotive industry as a vital growth sector. Government is certain that this sector will address one of the major challenges for economic growth in South Africa, which is unemployment. In the year 2015, the B-BBEE Act was amended with new compliance requirements and this changed the B-BBEE rating of Mercedes Benz South Africa (MBSA), resulting in a reduction of the company’s rating. The changes to the standard, particularly the ownership component, resulted in challenges for multinational companies such as MBSA, and an opportunity to improve the rating was identified in the ESD component sector. If these new compliance requirements were not addressed by MBSA, a predictable reduction in B-BBEE status would occur, resulting in a loss of business with government and provision of government incentives. The objective of this research study was to analyse the role that ESD plays within MBSA in improving their B-BBEE scorecard, as part of its overall B-BBEE strategy. This study was sculpted on the concept that the role of ESD at MBSA is related to (a) preferential procurement, (b) skills transfer, and (c) mentoring and a detailed literature review was conducted for these variables as well as for ESD. In testing the above research objective, the researcher utilised statistical analysis methods to reach a conclusion with regard to the relationship of ESD to these variables. A positivistic research paradigm (quantitative) was selected in order to test the objective by using hypothesis testing. An empirical study was undertaken by means of a survey with a questionnaire utilised as a data collecting tool and distributed using the supplier database of MBSA. The aim of the questionnaire was to validate the outcomes obtained from the theoretical overview. Out of a sample of 116 respondents employed at the suppliers, only 92 responses were received, thus representing a 79% response rate, which is considered acceptable. The key findings of the study indicated that preferential procurement, skills development and mentoring play a significant role in the promotion of ESD. Preferential procurement indicated a stronger association than the other variables, and thus it was recommended that MBSA place importance on this variable. Based on these findings, recommendations were made to the management of MBSA in an effort to improve the ESD component of the B-BBEE score of the company. As a way of addressing some of the challenges automotive manufacturers face, suggestions for future research were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Assessing process safety action in selected South African oil companies
- Mashiloane, Mosebetsi Stanley
- Authors: Mashiloane, Mosebetsi Stanley
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Industrial safety -- South Africa -- Management , Manufacturing processes -- South Africa -- Safety measures Petroleum industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22596 , vital:30017
- Description: The study was triggered by the number of process safety incidents that are taking place in South African oil companies. The impact of these process safety incidents has resulted in multiple fatalities, revenue loss, fires and explosions in the past. The problem is so immense that the process safety actions, coming from the process safety studies to prevent and mitigate these incidents have been ignored, not attended to, not implemented or not understood by the oil industries for the past 15-20 years. Hence the process safety incidents are still happening and the oil industry has not learnt from previous incidents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mashiloane, Mosebetsi Stanley
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Industrial safety -- South Africa -- Management , Manufacturing processes -- South Africa -- Safety measures Petroleum industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22596 , vital:30017
- Description: The study was triggered by the number of process safety incidents that are taking place in South African oil companies. The impact of these process safety incidents has resulted in multiple fatalities, revenue loss, fires and explosions in the past. The problem is so immense that the process safety actions, coming from the process safety studies to prevent and mitigate these incidents have been ignored, not attended to, not implemented or not understood by the oil industries for the past 15-20 years. Hence the process safety incidents are still happening and the oil industry has not learnt from previous incidents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Assessing the impact of the Employment Equity Act on the employee satisfaction in the manufacturing sector
- Authors: Gina, Mondli
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa , Employee motivation -- South Africa Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa South Africa -- Employment Equity Act, 1998 , Manufacturing industries -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30150 , vital:30845
- Description: It has been observed that the workplace environment affects the performance and job satisfaction of employees. Employees are more than the most important asset for an organisation, they play an essential role in current operational performance and future competitive advantage. Employees spend a major part of their life in the organisation within which they work. Managing the diversity of human capital in an organisations is key towards organisational sustainability in the manufacturing sector. The main objective of this study was to determine the degree of employees’ job satisfaction towards the implementation of Employment Equity Act in the manufacturing sector. One of the most important and broad-based challenges currently facing organisations in various sectors is adapting to people who are different. The term used for describing this challenge is workforce diversity. Workforce diversity means that organisations are becoming a more heterogeneous mix of people in terms gender, age, race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. The main aim of the Employment Equity Act is the creation of a diverse workforce within South African organisations. If the organisation wants to remain competitive in the environment that its operating, it requires an effective management of diversity. The South African manufacturing sector is facing a major challenge regarding the attainment of workforce diversity in terms of implementing Employment Equity Act legislation, hence this study was an exploratory field study with the aim of understanding what impact the implementation of Employment Equity has on the employee job satisfaction in manufacturing sector. The study further investigated whether variables such as, workplace diversity, organisation culture, change management, leadership style and employee engagement do affect employee job satisfaction. A detailed questionnaire was distributed to a convenience sample of employees who are working in the manufacturing organisations. The data collected from this study was analysed by the statistician consultant provided by the Nelson Mandela University. In this iv study, the collected data was analysed using the latest Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) which reflects the data as graphical representations. The results of the study revealed that over 60% of organisations in the manufacturing sector, and represented in the study are creating a ‘great place to work’ and their employees are satisfied with their jobs. Although, overall results of the study illustrate that employees in the manufacturing sector are satisfied with their organisations and which results in job satisfaction, an interesting finding was discovered in the study and which might have implications for manufacturing organisations in the way change management processes are carried out. The study findings revealed that the level of involvement as perceived by respondents was limited to adequate information and not necessarily total participation in the decision process. The study recommends that change management processes should include the participation of all employees in the organisation. Conclusions and recommendations were drawn from the literature and the findings of the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Gina, Mondli
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa , Employee motivation -- South Africa Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa South Africa -- Employment Equity Act, 1998 , Manufacturing industries -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30150 , vital:30845
- Description: It has been observed that the workplace environment affects the performance and job satisfaction of employees. Employees are more than the most important asset for an organisation, they play an essential role in current operational performance and future competitive advantage. Employees spend a major part of their life in the organisation within which they work. Managing the diversity of human capital in an organisations is key towards organisational sustainability in the manufacturing sector. The main objective of this study was to determine the degree of employees’ job satisfaction towards the implementation of Employment Equity Act in the manufacturing sector. One of the most important and broad-based challenges currently facing organisations in various sectors is adapting to people who are different. The term used for describing this challenge is workforce diversity. Workforce diversity means that organisations are becoming a more heterogeneous mix of people in terms gender, age, race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. The main aim of the Employment Equity Act is the creation of a diverse workforce within South African organisations. If the organisation wants to remain competitive in the environment that its operating, it requires an effective management of diversity. The South African manufacturing sector is facing a major challenge regarding the attainment of workforce diversity in terms of implementing Employment Equity Act legislation, hence this study was an exploratory field study with the aim of understanding what impact the implementation of Employment Equity has on the employee job satisfaction in manufacturing sector. The study further investigated whether variables such as, workplace diversity, organisation culture, change management, leadership style and employee engagement do affect employee job satisfaction. A detailed questionnaire was distributed to a convenience sample of employees who are working in the manufacturing organisations. The data collected from this study was analysed by the statistician consultant provided by the Nelson Mandela University. In this iv study, the collected data was analysed using the latest Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) which reflects the data as graphical representations. The results of the study revealed that over 60% of organisations in the manufacturing sector, and represented in the study are creating a ‘great place to work’ and their employees are satisfied with their jobs. Although, overall results of the study illustrate that employees in the manufacturing sector are satisfied with their organisations and which results in job satisfaction, an interesting finding was discovered in the study and which might have implications for manufacturing organisations in the way change management processes are carried out. The study findings revealed that the level of involvement as perceived by respondents was limited to adequate information and not necessarily total participation in the decision process. The study recommends that change management processes should include the participation of all employees in the organisation. Conclusions and recommendations were drawn from the literature and the findings of the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Barriers and drivers to the implementation of renewable energy technologies in South Africa’s aquaculture industry
- Authors: Van Wyk, Nicholas Kelly
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources South Africa , Aquaculture Environmental aspects South Africa , Sustainable aquaculture Economic aspects South Africa , Renewable energy sources Economic aspects South Africa , Renewable energy sources Environmental aspects South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61969 , vital:28090
- Description: South Africa is plagued by socio-economic issues of poverty, inequality and high rates of unemployment. The government of South Africa has as such launched an ambitious plan known as operation PHAKISA which will complement the National Development Plan in addressing the countries aforementioned shortcomings. In the operations first phase, the focus is on growing South Africa’s ocean economy. Within the ocean economy, the growth of aquaculture has been identified as an industry with the potential to create jobs and aid in economic growth of South Africa. Aquaculture, the farming of any aquatic organisms, has been the fastest growing food production sector for the past 50 years. While natural capture fisheries have stagnated in production capacity, aquaculture has grown exponentially in order to feed a global population which is fast approaching nine billion people. However, South Africa’s aquaculture production lags significantly behind other third world countries. The sustainability of aquaculture has frequently been called into question due to the possibility of various detrimental environmental effects it may cause. To further complicate the matter, Climate Change is today an overarching threat to life as we know it, and must be taken into account if we plan to keep growing our populations and economies. As such, if South Africa wants to grow its aquaculture sector, it must be done so in a sustainable manner. This research thus sought to investigate one aspect which may increase the sustainability of aquaculture in South Africa, that being the implementation of renewable energy in the sector. Renewable energy has been identified by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change as key to mitigating the effects of climate change. In order to aid Renewable Energy (RE) implementation in South Africa’s aquaculture sector, this research aimed to identify the barriers and the drivers to implementing renewable energy within aquaculture. To do this, a literature review was conducted to identify possible barriers and drivers to renewable energy implementation. These were then drafted into an online questionnaire and sent via Email to all the aquaculture organisations in South Africa that could be contacted (n = 195). Respondents were asked to rank the proposed barriers and drivers to renewable energy according to their perceived importance on a Likert Scale. A total of 18 responses could be analysed with descriptive statistics. Further, three structured interviews were conducted with members of South African aquaculture organisations who had implemented some form of Renewable Energy Technology (RET). These interviews provided in-depth insights into the importance of the various proposed barriers and drivers. The results revealed the most important barriers to RE implementation were: High Initial investments, Utility monopoly of production, Lack of RE experts on a governmental level, Lack of incentives/subsidies from government, Lack of legal framework for Independent Power Producers and Power Purchase Agreements, and Diseconomy of scale respectively. The most important drivers to RE implementation were ranked as: Long term cost benefits, Reduction in cost of RETs, Innovation / advancement of RETS, Incentives or subsidies to implement renewable energy, Adequate legal framework and legislation for Power Purchase Agreement and Preference for environmentally-friendly electricity generation. Importantly, it was found that barriers and drivers are dependent on the type of RE being implemented. A Photo Voltaic (Solar Power) system will not necessarily experience the same barriers or drivers that a Wave Energy Converter system would. In order to drive investment in RE and remove the barriers that may be preventing its implementation in aquaculture, policy will have to be adapted. Particularly in terms of legislation around Power Purchase Agreements. Further, by providing subsidies for RE implementation, it is possible to sustainably grow South Africa’s aquaculture industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Van Wyk, Nicholas Kelly
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources South Africa , Aquaculture Environmental aspects South Africa , Sustainable aquaculture Economic aspects South Africa , Renewable energy sources Economic aspects South Africa , Renewable energy sources Environmental aspects South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61969 , vital:28090
- Description: South Africa is plagued by socio-economic issues of poverty, inequality and high rates of unemployment. The government of South Africa has as such launched an ambitious plan known as operation PHAKISA which will complement the National Development Plan in addressing the countries aforementioned shortcomings. In the operations first phase, the focus is on growing South Africa’s ocean economy. Within the ocean economy, the growth of aquaculture has been identified as an industry with the potential to create jobs and aid in economic growth of South Africa. Aquaculture, the farming of any aquatic organisms, has been the fastest growing food production sector for the past 50 years. While natural capture fisheries have stagnated in production capacity, aquaculture has grown exponentially in order to feed a global population which is fast approaching nine billion people. However, South Africa’s aquaculture production lags significantly behind other third world countries. The sustainability of aquaculture has frequently been called into question due to the possibility of various detrimental environmental effects it may cause. To further complicate the matter, Climate Change is today an overarching threat to life as we know it, and must be taken into account if we plan to keep growing our populations and economies. As such, if South Africa wants to grow its aquaculture sector, it must be done so in a sustainable manner. This research thus sought to investigate one aspect which may increase the sustainability of aquaculture in South Africa, that being the implementation of renewable energy in the sector. Renewable energy has been identified by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change as key to mitigating the effects of climate change. In order to aid Renewable Energy (RE) implementation in South Africa’s aquaculture sector, this research aimed to identify the barriers and the drivers to implementing renewable energy within aquaculture. To do this, a literature review was conducted to identify possible barriers and drivers to renewable energy implementation. These were then drafted into an online questionnaire and sent via Email to all the aquaculture organisations in South Africa that could be contacted (n = 195). Respondents were asked to rank the proposed barriers and drivers to renewable energy according to their perceived importance on a Likert Scale. A total of 18 responses could be analysed with descriptive statistics. Further, three structured interviews were conducted with members of South African aquaculture organisations who had implemented some form of Renewable Energy Technology (RET). These interviews provided in-depth insights into the importance of the various proposed barriers and drivers. The results revealed the most important barriers to RE implementation were: High Initial investments, Utility monopoly of production, Lack of RE experts on a governmental level, Lack of incentives/subsidies from government, Lack of legal framework for Independent Power Producers and Power Purchase Agreements, and Diseconomy of scale respectively. The most important drivers to RE implementation were ranked as: Long term cost benefits, Reduction in cost of RETs, Innovation / advancement of RETS, Incentives or subsidies to implement renewable energy, Adequate legal framework and legislation for Power Purchase Agreement and Preference for environmentally-friendly electricity generation. Importantly, it was found that barriers and drivers are dependent on the type of RE being implemented. A Photo Voltaic (Solar Power) system will not necessarily experience the same barriers or drivers that a Wave Energy Converter system would. In order to drive investment in RE and remove the barriers that may be preventing its implementation in aquaculture, policy will have to be adapted. Particularly in terms of legislation around Power Purchase Agreements. Further, by providing subsidies for RE implementation, it is possible to sustainably grow South Africa’s aquaculture industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Characteristics and key-success factors of future sought-after retirement villages in George, South Africa
- Authors: Earle, Isak Sameul
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Retirement communities -- South Africa -- George , Retirees -- Housing -- South Africa -- George Retirement -- South Africa -- George -- Planning Retirees -- South Africa -- George -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22038 , vital:29815
- Description: This study is about obtaining information about international and national trends and features of sought-after retirement villages by means of a literature review (secondary research) as well as by means of a survey amongst estate agents and retirees currently residing in George (primary research). The primary research objective was to develop a Retirement Village Features Model (a set of features, development guidelines, conditions and requirements) for a sought-after retirement village in George, derived from scientific knowledge, resultant from findings and conclusions from primary and secondary research conducted by the researcher. The literature review revealed that worldwide, the population continues to get older and that the number of retirees requiring retirement homes is growing and supply is not keeping pace with the ever-growing demand. It also revealed 16 characteristics of retirement villages that were used as a basis for designing the questionnaire namely the expectation and the importance of: living amongst peers for social interaction, safety and security facilities, an easy-care lifestyle, economic investment security, recreational leisure facilities, beautiful designed buildings and homes, location, privacy, effective management of the development, well nurtured gardens, paved pedestrian walkways, wheelchair friendly designs, low maintenance housing designs, offering facilities for successful ageing, green energy design houses and facilities and the importance of not selling to potential buyers under the age of 50. Although the expectation of each of the 16 characteristics of a sought-after retirement village was high for most participants, the level of importance of each characteristic varied quite a lot. This might be a good indication that participants would like to have all the characteristics present in the development but are sceptical about costs that might be incurred to the homeowner having those characteristics present in the village. The participants in the study also indicated various desired characteristics of a future sought after retirement village that forms part of the Model which conforms to literature findings. These include: emergency assistance button in houses and emergency response services, a clubhouse with catering and braai facilities, WI-FI services in all areas, a pet-friendly environment with park for domestic animals and access to Frail Care and Assisted Living facilities. Participants in the survey also indicated their preference for housing in future sought-after retirement villages namely; 52.17% preferred a two bedroom privately owned home, 33.04% preferred a three bedroom privately owned house, 7.83% preferred renting a one or two-bedroom house and 6.96% prefer a one bedroom privately owned house. 71.31% of participants who responded regarded assisted living services and frail care services and facilities as very important or of utmost importance. This paper was aimed at capturing the essence of how retirees feel about their homes and lifestyle environments. By incorporating the findings and recommendations contained in this study into their development plans for future retirement villages, development companies will have a competitive advantage over their rivals in this industry. It is recommended that future research regarding retirement villages should include other regions in South Africa to improve the model. It is also recommended that further research can be done on how expected facilities in retirement villages can become self- sufficient and subsequently alleviating the maintenance costs for homeowners and hence rendering more value to the homeowner.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Earle, Isak Sameul
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Retirement communities -- South Africa -- George , Retirees -- Housing -- South Africa -- George Retirement -- South Africa -- George -- Planning Retirees -- South Africa -- George -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22038 , vital:29815
- Description: This study is about obtaining information about international and national trends and features of sought-after retirement villages by means of a literature review (secondary research) as well as by means of a survey amongst estate agents and retirees currently residing in George (primary research). The primary research objective was to develop a Retirement Village Features Model (a set of features, development guidelines, conditions and requirements) for a sought-after retirement village in George, derived from scientific knowledge, resultant from findings and conclusions from primary and secondary research conducted by the researcher. The literature review revealed that worldwide, the population continues to get older and that the number of retirees requiring retirement homes is growing and supply is not keeping pace with the ever-growing demand. It also revealed 16 characteristics of retirement villages that were used as a basis for designing the questionnaire namely the expectation and the importance of: living amongst peers for social interaction, safety and security facilities, an easy-care lifestyle, economic investment security, recreational leisure facilities, beautiful designed buildings and homes, location, privacy, effective management of the development, well nurtured gardens, paved pedestrian walkways, wheelchair friendly designs, low maintenance housing designs, offering facilities for successful ageing, green energy design houses and facilities and the importance of not selling to potential buyers under the age of 50. Although the expectation of each of the 16 characteristics of a sought-after retirement village was high for most participants, the level of importance of each characteristic varied quite a lot. This might be a good indication that participants would like to have all the characteristics present in the development but are sceptical about costs that might be incurred to the homeowner having those characteristics present in the village. The participants in the study also indicated various desired characteristics of a future sought after retirement village that forms part of the Model which conforms to literature findings. These include: emergency assistance button in houses and emergency response services, a clubhouse with catering and braai facilities, WI-FI services in all areas, a pet-friendly environment with park for domestic animals and access to Frail Care and Assisted Living facilities. Participants in the survey also indicated their preference for housing in future sought-after retirement villages namely; 52.17% preferred a two bedroom privately owned home, 33.04% preferred a three bedroom privately owned house, 7.83% preferred renting a one or two-bedroom house and 6.96% prefer a one bedroom privately owned house. 71.31% of participants who responded regarded assisted living services and frail care services and facilities as very important or of utmost importance. This paper was aimed at capturing the essence of how retirees feel about their homes and lifestyle environments. By incorporating the findings and recommendations contained in this study into their development plans for future retirement villages, development companies will have a competitive advantage over their rivals in this industry. It is recommended that future research regarding retirement villages should include other regions in South Africa to improve the model. It is also recommended that further research can be done on how expected facilities in retirement villages can become self- sufficient and subsequently alleviating the maintenance costs for homeowners and hence rendering more value to the homeowner.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Critical success factors of a route-to-market strategy in the South African beverage industry
- Mackenzie, Robert Duncan Mcintyre
- Authors: Mackenzie, Robert Duncan Mcintyre
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Delivery of goods -- South Africa -- Management , Beverage industry -- South Africa , Marketing -- South Africa -- Management , Sales management -- South Africa , Customer services -- South Africa -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22552 , vital:30005
- Description: Effective distribution has become a big challenge in the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, especially beverage manufacturers. This study has covered an analysis of the varying Route-to-Market strategies for primary and secondary distributors, and this data was used to provide a foundation for formulating a beverage industry Route-to-Market model based on identified critical success factors. It offers insight into the implementation process in the varying markets, highlighting the importance of tailoring the Route-to-Market model to specific markets, and the importance of keeping the processes customer focused. The objective of this study was to identify the critical success factors of Route-to-Market in the beverage industry of South Africa, specifically investigating the financial viability of the selected distribution method, the knowledge and talent management of the employees and customers, the impact and effect of product availability, the level and importance of service excellence, and analysing the significance of strategic planning. This was followed by a qualitative explanatory case study methodology and research design, using multiple embedded units of analysis, in the form of semi-structured interviews and provided a valuable insight into success factors of Route-to-Market in the beverage industry of South Africa. The overall conclusion is that an effective Route-to-Market model, which has a well-established customer base at its centre, will significantly improve the satisfaction of customers in terms of quality and respect for services rendered. It is recommended that a company should review its Route-to-Market strategies regularly as to ensure the model is as relevant as possible.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mackenzie, Robert Duncan Mcintyre
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Delivery of goods -- South Africa -- Management , Beverage industry -- South Africa , Marketing -- South Africa -- Management , Sales management -- South Africa , Customer services -- South Africa -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22552 , vital:30005
- Description: Effective distribution has become a big challenge in the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, especially beverage manufacturers. This study has covered an analysis of the varying Route-to-Market strategies for primary and secondary distributors, and this data was used to provide a foundation for formulating a beverage industry Route-to-Market model based on identified critical success factors. It offers insight into the implementation process in the varying markets, highlighting the importance of tailoring the Route-to-Market model to specific markets, and the importance of keeping the processes customer focused. The objective of this study was to identify the critical success factors of Route-to-Market in the beverage industry of South Africa, specifically investigating the financial viability of the selected distribution method, the knowledge and talent management of the employees and customers, the impact and effect of product availability, the level and importance of service excellence, and analysing the significance of strategic planning. This was followed by a qualitative explanatory case study methodology and research design, using multiple embedded units of analysis, in the form of semi-structured interviews and provided a valuable insight into success factors of Route-to-Market in the beverage industry of South Africa. The overall conclusion is that an effective Route-to-Market model, which has a well-established customer base at its centre, will significantly improve the satisfaction of customers in terms of quality and respect for services rendered. It is recommended that a company should review its Route-to-Market strategies regularly as to ensure the model is as relevant as possible.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Determinants of household water consumption: a study on sociodemographical and psychological factors associated with intention to conserve water
- Authors: Kana, Gcobani
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Water conservation -- South Africa , Water-supply -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30683 , vital:31013
- Description: South Africa is a water scarce country characterised by a rainfall below the global average and has for a long time ignored the importance of treating water as a scarce commodity. Therefore, the water scarcity challenge necessitates implementation of effective water demand management strategies to stimulate behaviour changes by South African water consumers (Coetzee, Nell, & Bezuidenhout, 2016). Due to the current (2017) severe drought experienced by the City of Cape Town Municipality of the Western Cape Province in South Africa, policy makers are forced to consider water demand management strategies that are centred on behaviour change in the efforts to curtail present urban water demand while also securing future water supplies. Studies have shown that residential users are the biggest consumers of water, particularly in the larger metropolitan areas. As a result, it is crucial for policy makers to conduct research and deepen their understanding of the social and behavioural aspects of household water use (Khalid, Ahmed, & Ashraf, 2016). The aim of the current study is to identify key determinants of household water use and the objective is to assist water authorities and policy makers to improve water demand management strategies through identification of those behavioural and psycho-social factors that could be targeted by water demand management campaigns. This study is framed by the Theory of the Planned Behaviour (TPB) model and is specifically looking at investigating the role of socio-demographic, psycho-social and attitudinal factors associated with household water demand. Self-reported data from an online survey was collected from 113 respondents residing within the boundaries of the City of Cape Town (CCT) municipality. Results revealed that household culture and past behaviour (habits) were significant predictors of every day intentions to save water around the house and garden while subjective norms were associated with intentions to install water efficient appliances. The emergence of household water culture as a significant determinant of household water use suggest that policy makers should focus on water demand management campaigns that consider household water use as a collective behaviour that is influenced by behaviour of others.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Kana, Gcobani
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Water conservation -- South Africa , Water-supply -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30683 , vital:31013
- Description: South Africa is a water scarce country characterised by a rainfall below the global average and has for a long time ignored the importance of treating water as a scarce commodity. Therefore, the water scarcity challenge necessitates implementation of effective water demand management strategies to stimulate behaviour changes by South African water consumers (Coetzee, Nell, & Bezuidenhout, 2016). Due to the current (2017) severe drought experienced by the City of Cape Town Municipality of the Western Cape Province in South Africa, policy makers are forced to consider water demand management strategies that are centred on behaviour change in the efforts to curtail present urban water demand while also securing future water supplies. Studies have shown that residential users are the biggest consumers of water, particularly in the larger metropolitan areas. As a result, it is crucial for policy makers to conduct research and deepen their understanding of the social and behavioural aspects of household water use (Khalid, Ahmed, & Ashraf, 2016). The aim of the current study is to identify key determinants of household water use and the objective is to assist water authorities and policy makers to improve water demand management strategies through identification of those behavioural and psycho-social factors that could be targeted by water demand management campaigns. This study is framed by the Theory of the Planned Behaviour (TPB) model and is specifically looking at investigating the role of socio-demographic, psycho-social and attitudinal factors associated with household water demand. Self-reported data from an online survey was collected from 113 respondents residing within the boundaries of the City of Cape Town (CCT) municipality. Results revealed that household culture and past behaviour (habits) were significant predictors of every day intentions to save water around the house and garden while subjective norms were associated with intentions to install water efficient appliances. The emergence of household water culture as a significant determinant of household water use suggest that policy makers should focus on water demand management campaigns that consider household water use as a collective behaviour that is influenced by behaviour of others.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Determinants of service delivery success at local government: the case of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Mlotywa, Nosiphiwo Grace
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Evaluation , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Civil service -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32215 , vital:31988
- Description: The aim of the study was to identify the determinants of service delivery in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). This was necessitated by the continuous service delivery protests at the local government level. Numerous reports highlight that service delivery is still a challenge in numerous municipalities around South Africa. A questionnaire was administered to 60 respondents who were randomly sampled at various municipality offices in the BCMM. Based on the study findings, it was found that service delivery was greatly influenced by effective performance management systems, ethical organisational culture, human resource capacity, and committed leadership. Therefore, it is recommendation that the municipality prioritises training and development, leadership and organisational, culture and Human Resource Capacity. These were found to be very important in helping employees to achieve job satisfaction, which may lead to better service delivery in the end. Furthermore, the municipality should look into strengthening its consultative processes to involve the public in the decision-making processes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mlotywa, Nosiphiwo Grace
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Evaluation , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Civil service -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32215 , vital:31988
- Description: The aim of the study was to identify the determinants of service delivery in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). This was necessitated by the continuous service delivery protests at the local government level. Numerous reports highlight that service delivery is still a challenge in numerous municipalities around South Africa. A questionnaire was administered to 60 respondents who were randomly sampled at various municipality offices in the BCMM. Based on the study findings, it was found that service delivery was greatly influenced by effective performance management systems, ethical organisational culture, human resource capacity, and committed leadership. Therefore, it is recommendation that the municipality prioritises training and development, leadership and organisational, culture and Human Resource Capacity. These were found to be very important in helping employees to achieve job satisfaction, which may lead to better service delivery in the end. Furthermore, the municipality should look into strengthening its consultative processes to involve the public in the decision-making processes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Developing an integrated model to improve effectiveness of asset maintenance management systems for FMCG organisations in South Africa
- Authors: Njezula, Azola
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Maintenance -- Management , Plant maintenance -- South Africa -- Management Total productive maintenance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22868 , vital:30113
- Description: Maintenance has traditionally been viewed by organisations as negatively affecting profitability and productivity. It is also often viewed as fixing things when they are broken, non-value adding, unpredictable, and never a positive contributor to a company’s overall effectiveness. For this reason organisations are constantly seeking proactive maintenance strategies that will turn around this traditional view of maintenance. These strategies will also help organisations gain competitive advantage, and improve productivity and profitability. In the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry, maintenance is under increasing pressure from the regulatory bodies in terms of safety and quality regulations that are getting stringent. The pressure for FMCG organisations is to produce products that are cleaner, safer, and greener, with minimal or no consumer complaints. There is also a need for environmental sustainability, reduction in waste, and effective usage of energy, water, and materials. The maintenance team is instrumental in these reductions and in ensuring regulatory compliance. As legislated by the South African government authorities, it is compulsory for FMCG organisations to comply with regulations. These regulations are designed to safeguard consumer health and safety. The focus of the regulations is throughout the value chain of the business for transparent record keeping. The current study investigated how to improve the effectiveness of maintenance management systems for FMCG organisations. The effectiveness was compared to best maintenance management practices that literature provides. The name of the company used for the research will not be disclosed for confidentiality reasons, and it will be called ‘Selected FMCG’ for the purpose of the study. The company is a chocolate making factory based in East London. This study aims to identify the problems facing the maintenance management system within the factory. The best practices that literature provides for maintenance were used to develop an effective asset maintenance management system for Selected FMCG.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Njezula, Azola
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Maintenance -- Management , Plant maintenance -- South Africa -- Management Total productive maintenance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22868 , vital:30113
- Description: Maintenance has traditionally been viewed by organisations as negatively affecting profitability and productivity. It is also often viewed as fixing things when they are broken, non-value adding, unpredictable, and never a positive contributor to a company’s overall effectiveness. For this reason organisations are constantly seeking proactive maintenance strategies that will turn around this traditional view of maintenance. These strategies will also help organisations gain competitive advantage, and improve productivity and profitability. In the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry, maintenance is under increasing pressure from the regulatory bodies in terms of safety and quality regulations that are getting stringent. The pressure for FMCG organisations is to produce products that are cleaner, safer, and greener, with minimal or no consumer complaints. There is also a need for environmental sustainability, reduction in waste, and effective usage of energy, water, and materials. The maintenance team is instrumental in these reductions and in ensuring regulatory compliance. As legislated by the South African government authorities, it is compulsory for FMCG organisations to comply with regulations. These regulations are designed to safeguard consumer health and safety. The focus of the regulations is throughout the value chain of the business for transparent record keeping. The current study investigated how to improve the effectiveness of maintenance management systems for FMCG organisations. The effectiveness was compared to best maintenance management practices that literature provides. The name of the company used for the research will not be disclosed for confidentiality reasons, and it will be called ‘Selected FMCG’ for the purpose of the study. The company is a chocolate making factory based in East London. This study aims to identify the problems facing the maintenance management system within the factory. The best practices that literature provides for maintenance were used to develop an effective asset maintenance management system for Selected FMCG.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
E-waste management in the Nelson Mandela Bay households, awareness and their participation in the disposal of electronic and electrical waste
- Authors: Stowman, Grant Michael
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electronic waste -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Electronic waste -- Economic aspects Environmental education -- Research Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35245 , vital:33666
- Description: Over the years there has been an exceptional growth in electrical and electronic products. Technology improved consumer products have become a vital part of mankind’s daily living experiences and development. This has made a significant difference in the standard of living for many people (Okorhi et al., 2015). The same phenomenon has also made a major contribution to science and agricultural activities. However, the by-products belonging to electrical and electronic appliances and the dismantling processes have created huge challenges. The contents of these devices have brought along a visible threat to people and the environment. E-waste contains a multitude of elements which contain certain toxic substances. Exposure to these hazardous substances can be dangerous to humans and the environment (Rajput,2013). The inappropriate handling comes in the form of legal or illegal dumping, crude recycling, improper treatment and using incorrect disposalmethods. On the other hand, e-waste devices have the potential to augment lifestyles by recycling and reusing endof- life devices or extracting elements such as lead, gold, silver etc. (UNEP, 2007). E-waste has been growing rapidly world-wide and has become one of the fastest growing waste streams. This phenomenon has been fuelled by consumers purchasing multiple electrical and electronic products. The high obsolescence rates of these products lead to the dumping of these devices for newer products. The increasing market penetration through technology also receives a boost from social changes such as globalisation and urbanisation (Babu et al., 2007). The main aim of this study is to ascertain the relevance of e-waste management and its consequences in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole. World-wide, many countries have or are busy putting together policies and legislation to combat e-waste. South Africa has certain policies and legislation in place regarding hazardous substances. However, the policies and legislation are not specific enough when it comes to the collection, recycling and disposal of e-waste (Dittke, 2007). Against this background, the aim of this study was to investigate certain factors that influence households, when it comes to the management of household e-waste. These factors include the awareness and the participation of households in the management and disposal of electronic and electrical waste in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole. A theoretical framework was developed to address the above-mentioned challenges. Three suburbs in the NMBM were purposely selected to conduct this study. These suburbs fell into the lower, middle and high-income areas. The study used the quantitative research method and data was gathered by using questionnaires. A systematic random sampling method was applied to distribute the questionnaires. The data was analysed, and certain conclusions were made. Firstly, there is a wide range of e-waste being indiscriminately disposed of by householders. Secondly, findings indicated a low level of awareness regarding the environmental and harmful effects of e-waste when it comes to humans. Thirdly, the study also revealed that NMBM has no household e-waste management strategy in place. The study recommends the need for meaningful environmental education to uplift community awareness pertaining to e-waste management. Lastly, the NMBM needs to formulate by-laws and guidance policies when it comes to household e-waste disposal. These recommendations will help to preserve our world for future generations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Stowman, Grant Michael
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electronic waste -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Electronic waste -- Economic aspects Environmental education -- Research Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35245 , vital:33666
- Description: Over the years there has been an exceptional growth in electrical and electronic products. Technology improved consumer products have become a vital part of mankind’s daily living experiences and development. This has made a significant difference in the standard of living for many people (Okorhi et al., 2015). The same phenomenon has also made a major contribution to science and agricultural activities. However, the by-products belonging to electrical and electronic appliances and the dismantling processes have created huge challenges. The contents of these devices have brought along a visible threat to people and the environment. E-waste contains a multitude of elements which contain certain toxic substances. Exposure to these hazardous substances can be dangerous to humans and the environment (Rajput,2013). The inappropriate handling comes in the form of legal or illegal dumping, crude recycling, improper treatment and using incorrect disposalmethods. On the other hand, e-waste devices have the potential to augment lifestyles by recycling and reusing endof- life devices or extracting elements such as lead, gold, silver etc. (UNEP, 2007). E-waste has been growing rapidly world-wide and has become one of the fastest growing waste streams. This phenomenon has been fuelled by consumers purchasing multiple electrical and electronic products. The high obsolescence rates of these products lead to the dumping of these devices for newer products. The increasing market penetration through technology also receives a boost from social changes such as globalisation and urbanisation (Babu et al., 2007). The main aim of this study is to ascertain the relevance of e-waste management and its consequences in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole. World-wide, many countries have or are busy putting together policies and legislation to combat e-waste. South Africa has certain policies and legislation in place regarding hazardous substances. However, the policies and legislation are not specific enough when it comes to the collection, recycling and disposal of e-waste (Dittke, 2007). Against this background, the aim of this study was to investigate certain factors that influence households, when it comes to the management of household e-waste. These factors include the awareness and the participation of households in the management and disposal of electronic and electrical waste in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole. A theoretical framework was developed to address the above-mentioned challenges. Three suburbs in the NMBM were purposely selected to conduct this study. These suburbs fell into the lower, middle and high-income areas. The study used the quantitative research method and data was gathered by using questionnaires. A systematic random sampling method was applied to distribute the questionnaires. The data was analysed, and certain conclusions were made. Firstly, there is a wide range of e-waste being indiscriminately disposed of by householders. Secondly, findings indicated a low level of awareness regarding the environmental and harmful effects of e-waste when it comes to humans. Thirdly, the study also revealed that NMBM has no household e-waste management strategy in place. The study recommends the need for meaningful environmental education to uplift community awareness pertaining to e-waste management. Lastly, the NMBM needs to formulate by-laws and guidance policies when it comes to household e-waste disposal. These recommendations will help to preserve our world for future generations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Enhancing employee engagement within exponential organisations
- Authors: Stander, Rizel
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employee motivation , Employees -- Attitudes Organizational change Reengineering (Management)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35278 , vital:33690
- Description: Mayo (2016, p. 88) states that many researchers agree that investing in employee engagement has guaranteed great returns; the question for organisations are whether these returns will be linear or exponential for them. A new breed of company emerged called the “exponential organisation” which leverage accelerating technologies to achieve an unheard-of business model that shows exponential growth. However, this technology is still created, maintained and reinvented by employees. Therefore, the premise is that highly engaged employees are one of the key factors that fuel exponential organisations, and this was under investigation in this research study. Employee engagement has been extensively researched yet only a few organisations can claim the majority of their employees are highly engaged. The topic of employee engagement within exponential organisations, however, has barely been covered by scholars or practitioners. Subsequently, given that it is a new organisational phenomenon, little academic or practitioner’s research could be found. For this reason, the main purpose of this study was to find key drivers of employee engagement within exponential organisations to develop a theoretical framework and hypotheses which could be statistically tested. The outcomes could assist in enhancing employee engagement within exponential organisations, thereby achieving greater business success. An online survey questionnaire was used to gather empirical data within a financial technology exponential organisation. The sample consisted of 40 fulltime employees working in Australia, China and South Africa of which most were between the ages of 35 to 44 years old and have been with the organisation for less than two years. The results showed that organisational management and employee autonomy were found to have a direct positive relationship with the concept of employee engagement and is found to be key drivers of employee engagement within exponential organisations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Stander, Rizel
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employee motivation , Employees -- Attitudes Organizational change Reengineering (Management)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35278 , vital:33690
- Description: Mayo (2016, p. 88) states that many researchers agree that investing in employee engagement has guaranteed great returns; the question for organisations are whether these returns will be linear or exponential for them. A new breed of company emerged called the “exponential organisation” which leverage accelerating technologies to achieve an unheard-of business model that shows exponential growth. However, this technology is still created, maintained and reinvented by employees. Therefore, the premise is that highly engaged employees are one of the key factors that fuel exponential organisations, and this was under investigation in this research study. Employee engagement has been extensively researched yet only a few organisations can claim the majority of their employees are highly engaged. The topic of employee engagement within exponential organisations, however, has barely been covered by scholars or practitioners. Subsequently, given that it is a new organisational phenomenon, little academic or practitioner’s research could be found. For this reason, the main purpose of this study was to find key drivers of employee engagement within exponential organisations to develop a theoretical framework and hypotheses which could be statistically tested. The outcomes could assist in enhancing employee engagement within exponential organisations, thereby achieving greater business success. An online survey questionnaire was used to gather empirical data within a financial technology exponential organisation. The sample consisted of 40 fulltime employees working in Australia, China and South Africa of which most were between the ages of 35 to 44 years old and have been with the organisation for less than two years. The results showed that organisational management and employee autonomy were found to have a direct positive relationship with the concept of employee engagement and is found to be key drivers of employee engagement within exponential organisations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Escalating debt in municipalities: a case study of financial sustainability in the Amahlathi Municipality
- Authors: Mashiyi, Buntu
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Municipal finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance Debt
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22651 , vital:30045
- Description: Municipalities have recently been in the media for the wrong reasons with certain allegations being levelled against these institutions. The allegations range from lack of service delivery, corruption and lack of good governance. This has resulted in communities showing frustrations through protests that result in the destruction of the existing infrastructure and, in some areas, boycotts towards payments of rates and services. The study seeks to establish the reasons that lead to ratepayers and communities not paying for rates and services. In the process of establishing the above, it seeks to come up with suggestions and solutions that can be implemented by municipalities to ensure that the ‘going concern’ is addressed. To achieve the above purpose a literature review was conducted on available sources of information looking at financial sustainability, the role of municipalities, powers and functions of municipalities and how these institutions are funded. The study also looked at literature regarding the strategies to increase revenue and improve debt collection. The study used Amahlathi Local Municipality as a case study where a sample was selected from the population. Questionnaires were developed and distributed to the sample and responses were received to the tune of 203 respondents. Questionnaires were both qualitative and quantitative as they had both open-ended and closed questions. Quantitative questionnaires were distributed to the community and the qualitative questionnaires were distributed for expert opinion. Analysis was done against the research questions to establish if there were any links to the literature and the findings of the study. The study found that communities are fed up with unsustainable or a lack of service delivery that the municipality is providing. This has been linked to some information gaps between the councillors and the community in terms of municipal programmes. More needs to be done in terms of ensuring that ward meetings are held on a regular basis so as to improve communication. There is also an observation of a ‘culture of non-payment’ emanating from political canvassing during voting periods which negatively affects the cash flows of the municipality and that public representatives need to champion debt collection endeavours.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mashiyi, Buntu
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Municipal finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance Debt
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22651 , vital:30045
- Description: Municipalities have recently been in the media for the wrong reasons with certain allegations being levelled against these institutions. The allegations range from lack of service delivery, corruption and lack of good governance. This has resulted in communities showing frustrations through protests that result in the destruction of the existing infrastructure and, in some areas, boycotts towards payments of rates and services. The study seeks to establish the reasons that lead to ratepayers and communities not paying for rates and services. In the process of establishing the above, it seeks to come up with suggestions and solutions that can be implemented by municipalities to ensure that the ‘going concern’ is addressed. To achieve the above purpose a literature review was conducted on available sources of information looking at financial sustainability, the role of municipalities, powers and functions of municipalities and how these institutions are funded. The study also looked at literature regarding the strategies to increase revenue and improve debt collection. The study used Amahlathi Local Municipality as a case study where a sample was selected from the population. Questionnaires were developed and distributed to the sample and responses were received to the tune of 203 respondents. Questionnaires were both qualitative and quantitative as they had both open-ended and closed questions. Quantitative questionnaires were distributed to the community and the qualitative questionnaires were distributed for expert opinion. Analysis was done against the research questions to establish if there were any links to the literature and the findings of the study. The study found that communities are fed up with unsustainable or a lack of service delivery that the municipality is providing. This has been linked to some information gaps between the councillors and the community in terms of municipal programmes. More needs to be done in terms of ensuring that ward meetings are held on a regular basis so as to improve communication. There is also an observation of a ‘culture of non-payment’ emanating from political canvassing during voting periods which negatively affects the cash flows of the municipality and that public representatives need to champion debt collection endeavours.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Espoused and actual employee value proposition (EVP) at the SPAR Group - Eastern Cape (SPAR EC)
- Authors: Prins, Alveno
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Personnel management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Supermarkets -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23001 , vital:30291
- Description: Globally there is a shortage of talent with organisations facing the challenge of attracting, engaging and retaining top talent. It has therefore become a priority for any organisation to ensure, that the offer made to attract talent, extends beyond a salary. The Employee Value Proposition (EVP) is a strategic tool that could be used to ensure that the offer made to employees is indeed an offer of value, considering both extrinsic and intrinsic attributes; therefore, ensuring the attraction, engagement and retention of talent. All organisations have an EVP, whether documented or not; however, the effectiveness thereof should be questioned. This was the aim of this study, namely, to assess whether a gap exists between the espoused and actual employee value proposition at the SPAR Group – Eastern Cape (SPAR EC). The study used an existing questionnaire to collect data from a sample of 150 respondents. The questionnaire was adapted to align to the company and industry studied and aimed to answer the following questions: To what extent did employees expect to find, both intrinsic and extrinsic EVP characteristics in the company? How important were these intrinsic and extrinsic EVP characteristics to attract employees to the organisation? In addition, to what extent did employees experience the expected intrinsic and extrinsic EVP characteristics in the organisation? These questions formed the essence of the study, using expectation, importance and experience as categories to distinguish the perceptions of respondents. The data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results indicated that a gap does indeed exist between the espoused and actual EVP at SPAR EC. EVP attributes associated with people and their advancement, such as personal and career development opportunities, recognition provided to employees for exceptional performance, work-life balance and the level of involvement and empowerment of employees, were experienced to a lower extent in the organisation, when compared to the respondents’ level of expectation and how important they deem these attributes. It was therefore recommended that SPAR EC focus on these attributes, as employees determine for themselves the extent to which they experience “value” in organisations. Employees who view their organisations' EVP to be of less value are likely to withdraw, by either not contributing or by resigning from the organisation altogether (Heger, 2007).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Prins, Alveno
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Personnel management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Supermarkets -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23001 , vital:30291
- Description: Globally there is a shortage of talent with organisations facing the challenge of attracting, engaging and retaining top talent. It has therefore become a priority for any organisation to ensure, that the offer made to attract talent, extends beyond a salary. The Employee Value Proposition (EVP) is a strategic tool that could be used to ensure that the offer made to employees is indeed an offer of value, considering both extrinsic and intrinsic attributes; therefore, ensuring the attraction, engagement and retention of talent. All organisations have an EVP, whether documented or not; however, the effectiveness thereof should be questioned. This was the aim of this study, namely, to assess whether a gap exists between the espoused and actual employee value proposition at the SPAR Group – Eastern Cape (SPAR EC). The study used an existing questionnaire to collect data from a sample of 150 respondents. The questionnaire was adapted to align to the company and industry studied and aimed to answer the following questions: To what extent did employees expect to find, both intrinsic and extrinsic EVP characteristics in the company? How important were these intrinsic and extrinsic EVP characteristics to attract employees to the organisation? In addition, to what extent did employees experience the expected intrinsic and extrinsic EVP characteristics in the organisation? These questions formed the essence of the study, using expectation, importance and experience as categories to distinguish the perceptions of respondents. The data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results indicated that a gap does indeed exist between the espoused and actual EVP at SPAR EC. EVP attributes associated with people and their advancement, such as personal and career development opportunities, recognition provided to employees for exceptional performance, work-life balance and the level of involvement and empowerment of employees, were experienced to a lower extent in the organisation, when compared to the respondents’ level of expectation and how important they deem these attributes. It was therefore recommended that SPAR EC focus on these attributes, as employees determine for themselves the extent to which they experience “value” in organisations. Employees who view their organisations' EVP to be of less value are likely to withdraw, by either not contributing or by resigning from the organisation altogether (Heger, 2007).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Establishing opportunities for using big data analysis at the Herald
- Authors: Joshua, Nadeem
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Big data , Business intelligence -- Data processing Data mining
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30529 , vital:30957
- Description: A few years ago, merely mentioning the term ‘big data’ within industry circles, would more than likely have received a quirky and confused look; however, the term big data has gained huge popularity in recent years among IT professionals and academics. The big data phenomenon has exploded in popularity worldwide, and continues to grow exponentially with each passing day. It has been good news for many industries, as industries are going ablaze with the huge volume, variety and velocity of data. As technology advances it is lifting and removing so many boundaries, and answering questions that are not currently being asked. Therefore, it is that big data is taking the world by storm, and it is safe to say that big data has gone mainstream with countless benefits being developed within industries. The opportunity for employing big data strategies are many, according to McKinsey and Company, and the growth in big data will spark a new wave of ‘innovation, competition and productivity’ within businesses (McKinsey & Company, 2011). Taking advantage of these opportunities will be challenging for companies, creating the need for new skills, tools and ways of thinking. Implementing big data would help in creating new innovative business models, as executives are challenged to make their organisations resilient and agile in today’s challenging business environment. This research paper aimed to unpack the understanding of big data, the challenges, and the value to an organisation and provide a guideline or framework to implement a big data strategy. Furthermore, this research examines the opportunities and the potential value that organisations would obtain from implementing big data, as well as the challenges that could hinder implementation. Due to the rapid growth and size of data, decision-makers need to be able to gain valuable insights from such varied and rapidly changing data that will help organisations make far better, intelligent and data-driven decisions which may help in improving operations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Joshua, Nadeem
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Big data , Business intelligence -- Data processing Data mining
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30529 , vital:30957
- Description: A few years ago, merely mentioning the term ‘big data’ within industry circles, would more than likely have received a quirky and confused look; however, the term big data has gained huge popularity in recent years among IT professionals and academics. The big data phenomenon has exploded in popularity worldwide, and continues to grow exponentially with each passing day. It has been good news for many industries, as industries are going ablaze with the huge volume, variety and velocity of data. As technology advances it is lifting and removing so many boundaries, and answering questions that are not currently being asked. Therefore, it is that big data is taking the world by storm, and it is safe to say that big data has gone mainstream with countless benefits being developed within industries. The opportunity for employing big data strategies are many, according to McKinsey and Company, and the growth in big data will spark a new wave of ‘innovation, competition and productivity’ within businesses (McKinsey & Company, 2011). Taking advantage of these opportunities will be challenging for companies, creating the need for new skills, tools and ways of thinking. Implementing big data would help in creating new innovative business models, as executives are challenged to make their organisations resilient and agile in today’s challenging business environment. This research paper aimed to unpack the understanding of big data, the challenges, and the value to an organisation and provide a guideline or framework to implement a big data strategy. Furthermore, this research examines the opportunities and the potential value that organisations would obtain from implementing big data, as well as the challenges that could hinder implementation. Due to the rapid growth and size of data, decision-makers need to be able to gain valuable insights from such varied and rapidly changing data that will help organisations make far better, intelligent and data-driven decisions which may help in improving operations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Evaluating the business improvement strategies, practices and challenges in the platinum mining industry
- Authors: Mulaudzi, Marubini David
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Business planning -- South Africa , Decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32938 , vital:32412
- Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the strategies, practices and challenges relating to business performance and the implementation of business improvement to align production and maintenance strategies to the corporate strategy in Anglo American Platinum, a mining operation in South Africa. A set of questions were used in a qualitative research design through interview questions to collect data from corporate strategic management and the operational management involved in business improvement initiatives in the production and maintenance processes. Globally, mining companies are faced with many challenges, including safety, system integration and standardisation, caring for the environment, cost controlling and reliability of machinery and equipment. The mining industry is both labour and capital-intensive. While the South African labour force has unlimited demands on wages and salaries, most machinery runs at its maximum capacity and requires more capital for the operations to continue production, ensuring value creation for all stakeholders and hence sustainability of the operations. The situation was aggravated when market forces determining the commodity prices became volatile, causing the slump in the commodity prices. As a result, profit margins were eroded by the higher costs of production and higher wages costs. To create a sustainable, cost-effective operation and improve recovery and grades, mining companies such as Anglo American Platinum implemented a business improvement initiative. This study aims to evaluate the strategies, practices and challenges in relation to business improvement at Anglo American Platinum. Observations are that the impact of misalignment between corporate strategy, together with business improvement production and maintenance strategies, contribute minimally to the performance of production at Anglo American Platinum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mulaudzi, Marubini David
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Business planning -- South Africa , Decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32938 , vital:32412
- Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the strategies, practices and challenges relating to business performance and the implementation of business improvement to align production and maintenance strategies to the corporate strategy in Anglo American Platinum, a mining operation in South Africa. A set of questions were used in a qualitative research design through interview questions to collect data from corporate strategic management and the operational management involved in business improvement initiatives in the production and maintenance processes. Globally, mining companies are faced with many challenges, including safety, system integration and standardisation, caring for the environment, cost controlling and reliability of machinery and equipment. The mining industry is both labour and capital-intensive. While the South African labour force has unlimited demands on wages and salaries, most machinery runs at its maximum capacity and requires more capital for the operations to continue production, ensuring value creation for all stakeholders and hence sustainability of the operations. The situation was aggravated when market forces determining the commodity prices became volatile, causing the slump in the commodity prices. As a result, profit margins were eroded by the higher costs of production and higher wages costs. To create a sustainable, cost-effective operation and improve recovery and grades, mining companies such as Anglo American Platinum implemented a business improvement initiative. This study aims to evaluate the strategies, practices and challenges in relation to business improvement at Anglo American Platinum. Observations are that the impact of misalignment between corporate strategy, together with business improvement production and maintenance strategies, contribute minimally to the performance of production at Anglo American Platinum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring an operational strategy for South African electron microscopy facilities
- Authors: Olivier, Ezra Jacobus
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electron microscopy , Production management -- South Africa Strategic planning -- South Africa Performance -- Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34465 , vital:33383
- Description: Electron microscopy is a versatile and widely used technique in the fields of physical and biological sciences. It is a strategic enabling resource needed for innovative science and technology research to occur in the areas of nanotechnology developments. The availability of these resources worldwide are typically seen within dedicated shared electron microscopy research facilities due to the costs and operational support required in acquisition and operation of these instruments. A consequence of this is that these facilities require carefully designed operational management approaches. One of the pertinent questions within the electron microscopy community of South Africa is if electron microscopy core facilities in the country could be judged successful in the execution of their operations. Some concerns related to the skills present at these facilities as well as the management philosophy of these facilities have been raised. This study aims to investigate these factors within an South African context. In the current study, a combination of the quantitative and qualitative research paradigms was used. A survey was conducted amongst South African electron microscopy core facility users to measure their level of satisfaction and needs related to electron microscopy core facilities in South Africa. Furthermore, insights where gathered from experienced managers of electron microscopy core facilities nationally and internationally using a case study based approach. The findings were combined and compared to identify the critical factors needed to optimise the operational approaches of electron microscopy facilities in South Africa and to develop a standardised approach in judging a facility’s performance. The study provided valuable insights as to the level of satisfaction present within the electron microscopy community of South Africa related to the use of electron microscopy core facilities in the country. It also yielded important information regarding the areas where the highest need for improvement lies. The outcome of the study provides a standardized approach to the operations of electron microscopy research facilities in South Africa and their performance evaluation. A possible limitation to the study is the population sample used for the survey. The survey was completed by existing electron microscopy core facility users in South Africa. However, the experiences and needs of less frequent or potential new users of such facilities were not probed. Thus, the developed strategy may lack factors related to growing the field in South Africa if the needs of inexperienced users are not taken into account.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Olivier, Ezra Jacobus
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electron microscopy , Production management -- South Africa Strategic planning -- South Africa Performance -- Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34465 , vital:33383
- Description: Electron microscopy is a versatile and widely used technique in the fields of physical and biological sciences. It is a strategic enabling resource needed for innovative science and technology research to occur in the areas of nanotechnology developments. The availability of these resources worldwide are typically seen within dedicated shared electron microscopy research facilities due to the costs and operational support required in acquisition and operation of these instruments. A consequence of this is that these facilities require carefully designed operational management approaches. One of the pertinent questions within the electron microscopy community of South Africa is if electron microscopy core facilities in the country could be judged successful in the execution of their operations. Some concerns related to the skills present at these facilities as well as the management philosophy of these facilities have been raised. This study aims to investigate these factors within an South African context. In the current study, a combination of the quantitative and qualitative research paradigms was used. A survey was conducted amongst South African electron microscopy core facility users to measure their level of satisfaction and needs related to electron microscopy core facilities in South Africa. Furthermore, insights where gathered from experienced managers of electron microscopy core facilities nationally and internationally using a case study based approach. The findings were combined and compared to identify the critical factors needed to optimise the operational approaches of electron microscopy facilities in South Africa and to develop a standardised approach in judging a facility’s performance. The study provided valuable insights as to the level of satisfaction present within the electron microscopy community of South Africa related to the use of electron microscopy core facilities in the country. It also yielded important information regarding the areas where the highest need for improvement lies. The outcome of the study provides a standardized approach to the operations of electron microscopy research facilities in South Africa and their performance evaluation. A possible limitation to the study is the population sample used for the survey. The survey was completed by existing electron microscopy core facility users in South Africa. However, the experiences and needs of less frequent or potential new users of such facilities were not probed. Thus, the developed strategy may lack factors related to growing the field in South Africa if the needs of inexperienced users are not taken into account.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018