Assessing the business success of co-operatives in the East London municipal area of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Nhawu, Mucharambeyi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- South Africa -- East London , Success in business -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7086 , vital:21226
- Description: South Africa is faced with much poverty, joblessness and an economy that is not sustainable. Unemployment is on the rise in South Africa with the Eastern Cape having the largest number of unemployed people. Co-operatives can be used as a tool to combat poverty and for job creation, but the problem is that co-operatives are still an unknown entity in South Africa. Co-operatives are only known by a few and those few are still sceptical and not willing to form co-operatives. The already established businesses are also not forthcoming nor showing any willingness to do businesses with co-operatives. The less they do business with them, the less the co-operatives flourish. The present study investigates to what extent co-operatives can be a solution to decrease poverty and unemployment. The primary objective of this study was to make a contribution to the development and success of co-operatives by investigating the performance of co-operatives in the in the important business functions of financial management, general management, human resources management, marketing management and operations management. The study also investigated which of these business functions were the most important determinants of business success in these co-operatives. A sample of 50 co-operatives in the East London area of the Eastern Cape was selected and three members per co-operative were requested to answer the questionnaire. The expected number of respondents was therefore 150. However, only 65 usable questionnaires (response rate of 43.3%) were returned. The SEDA Small Business Assessment Tool was used to measure the co-operatives’ performance in these business functions. The empirical results revealed that the strongest correlates of business success in these co-operatives were financial management (r = 0.57, p < 0.05) followed by human resources management (r = 0.49, p < 0.05) and operations management (r = 0.40, p < 0.05). The results also show that, while the co-operatives do have some form of financial management strategies in place, they do not address some of the major financial management concepts that are really essential in a sound financial management policy. The co-operatives generally do not follow any formal financial costing system at all. The results however indicated that the co-operatives expressed high confidence in their financial, general and human resource management practices and low confidence in their marketing and operations management practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Nhawu, Mucharambeyi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- South Africa -- East London , Success in business -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7086 , vital:21226
- Description: South Africa is faced with much poverty, joblessness and an economy that is not sustainable. Unemployment is on the rise in South Africa with the Eastern Cape having the largest number of unemployed people. Co-operatives can be used as a tool to combat poverty and for job creation, but the problem is that co-operatives are still an unknown entity in South Africa. Co-operatives are only known by a few and those few are still sceptical and not willing to form co-operatives. The already established businesses are also not forthcoming nor showing any willingness to do businesses with co-operatives. The less they do business with them, the less the co-operatives flourish. The present study investigates to what extent co-operatives can be a solution to decrease poverty and unemployment. The primary objective of this study was to make a contribution to the development and success of co-operatives by investigating the performance of co-operatives in the in the important business functions of financial management, general management, human resources management, marketing management and operations management. The study also investigated which of these business functions were the most important determinants of business success in these co-operatives. A sample of 50 co-operatives in the East London area of the Eastern Cape was selected and three members per co-operative were requested to answer the questionnaire. The expected number of respondents was therefore 150. However, only 65 usable questionnaires (response rate of 43.3%) were returned. The SEDA Small Business Assessment Tool was used to measure the co-operatives’ performance in these business functions. The empirical results revealed that the strongest correlates of business success in these co-operatives were financial management (r = 0.57, p < 0.05) followed by human resources management (r = 0.49, p < 0.05) and operations management (r = 0.40, p < 0.05). The results also show that, while the co-operatives do have some form of financial management strategies in place, they do not address some of the major financial management concepts that are really essential in a sound financial management policy. The co-operatives generally do not follow any formal financial costing system at all. The results however indicated that the co-operatives expressed high confidence in their financial, general and human resource management practices and low confidence in their marketing and operations management practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Determining guidelines for effectively leading culturally diverse teams at Volkswagen South Africa
- Authors: Nkholise, Martha
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Diversity in the workplace -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Multiculturalism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8732 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010077 , Diversity in the workplace -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Multiculturalism
- Description: South Africa is a society of diverse cultures, and the workplace is one of the few places that serve as a melting pot for these varied cultures. If managed well, cultural diversity has numerous benefits that can help an organisation gain a competitive advantage. However, failure to manage it can pose challenges that can have serious consequences for an organisation. The purpose of this study was to analyse the leadership of cultural diversity at Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) and identify leadership guidelines to both enhance team performance and reduce the challenges faced by the organisation as a result of this cultural diversity. For the purpose of this study, a culturally diverse team was defined as a team of diverse individuals from different cultures or societies working together to achieve organisational success. The research was conducted by the use of questionnaire using a sample of 200 employees of the VWSA Paint Shop. The sample represents 42 percent of the total population of the Paint Shop. The study discusses the relationship of four leadership styles (Classical Leadership, Transactional Leadership, Transformational Leadership, and Visionary Leadership) with Cultural Diversity. Whilst strong cases were made for Transformational and Transactional Leadership style being the most suitable styles for leading culturally diverse teams, the researcher concluded that no single leadership style would be ideal for effectively leading culturally diverse teams at VWSA. The appropriate leadership style will instead be a hybrid of all leadership styles, thus being a leadership approach that works as a sort of “best practices” of various leadership styles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Nkholise, Martha
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Diversity in the workplace -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Multiculturalism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8732 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010077 , Diversity in the workplace -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Multiculturalism
- Description: South Africa is a society of diverse cultures, and the workplace is one of the few places that serve as a melting pot for these varied cultures. If managed well, cultural diversity has numerous benefits that can help an organisation gain a competitive advantage. However, failure to manage it can pose challenges that can have serious consequences for an organisation. The purpose of this study was to analyse the leadership of cultural diversity at Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) and identify leadership guidelines to both enhance team performance and reduce the challenges faced by the organisation as a result of this cultural diversity. For the purpose of this study, a culturally diverse team was defined as a team of diverse individuals from different cultures or societies working together to achieve organisational success. The research was conducted by the use of questionnaire using a sample of 200 employees of the VWSA Paint Shop. The sample represents 42 percent of the total population of the Paint Shop. The study discusses the relationship of four leadership styles (Classical Leadership, Transactional Leadership, Transformational Leadership, and Visionary Leadership) with Cultural Diversity. Whilst strong cases were made for Transformational and Transactional Leadership style being the most suitable styles for leading culturally diverse teams, the researcher concluded that no single leadership style would be ideal for effectively leading culturally diverse teams at VWSA. The appropriate leadership style will instead be a hybrid of all leadership styles, thus being a leadership approach that works as a sort of “best practices” of various leadership styles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Influence of local economic development strategic leaders on the formulation of the integrated development plan, Makana Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Nonxuba, Mnweba McNair
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Local Economic Development (Programme) , Community development -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Grahamstown (South Africa) -- Economic conditions -- 21st century , South Africa -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:832 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013176
- Description: The influence of local economic development strategic leaders on how Integrated Development Plans (IDP) are developed is critical to gain insights into strategic planning directed towards economically developing municipalities. Concisely, the aim of this qualitative study was to gain a multiple understanding of how LED strategic leaders, namely managers of the LED directorate and sub-directorates at Makana local municipality influenced the IDP formulation. The fact that these LED strategic leaders, ‘make consequential or strategic decisions’ suggests that their decisions have an influence on the IDP formulation. Thus, the key research question in this study was: How do LED strategic leaders at Makana local municipality influence the formulation of the IDP at this municipality? This qualitative research used purposive sampling of incidents upheld by LED Strategic leaders. A total of ten in-depth and semi-structured interviews were conducted with four LED strategic leaders regarding incidents of their perceived influence on the formulation of the Integrated Development Plan at Makana. The interviews were in-depth in order to gain a rich understanding of their perspectives of reality. As the number of LED strategic leaders was already very small, all the four leaders at Makana participated in this study. Interview data was transcribed and analyzed using open coding and constant comparison. Member check was conducted to enhance confirmability of the findings of this study. Findings indicate that LED strategic leaders perceived their influence on the formulation of the IDP Makana municipality in four varied ways. Predominantly, LED strategic leaders commonly perceived that they had influence in setting evidence-driven direction, and searching for fitness of activities and issues with LED strategy. Thereafter, the other ways in which these LED strategic leaders perceived how they influenced the IDP formulation involve the facilitation of clarity and local relevance of LED mandates, and finally the integration of multiple economic voices of stakeholders. This demonstrates that LED strategic leaders at Makana emphasize proactively managing strategy process rather than content in terms of identifying key opportunities and major economic drivers in the local milieu. Instead, they perceived their influence as characterized by enhancing compliance with bringing the process of municipal strategy formulation closer to stakeholders. Implications of these findings are highlighted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Nonxuba, Mnweba McNair
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Local Economic Development (Programme) , Community development -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Grahamstown , Grahamstown (South Africa) -- Economic conditions -- 21st century , South Africa -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:832 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013176
- Description: The influence of local economic development strategic leaders on how Integrated Development Plans (IDP) are developed is critical to gain insights into strategic planning directed towards economically developing municipalities. Concisely, the aim of this qualitative study was to gain a multiple understanding of how LED strategic leaders, namely managers of the LED directorate and sub-directorates at Makana local municipality influenced the IDP formulation. The fact that these LED strategic leaders, ‘make consequential or strategic decisions’ suggests that their decisions have an influence on the IDP formulation. Thus, the key research question in this study was: How do LED strategic leaders at Makana local municipality influence the formulation of the IDP at this municipality? This qualitative research used purposive sampling of incidents upheld by LED Strategic leaders. A total of ten in-depth and semi-structured interviews were conducted with four LED strategic leaders regarding incidents of their perceived influence on the formulation of the Integrated Development Plan at Makana. The interviews were in-depth in order to gain a rich understanding of their perspectives of reality. As the number of LED strategic leaders was already very small, all the four leaders at Makana participated in this study. Interview data was transcribed and analyzed using open coding and constant comparison. Member check was conducted to enhance confirmability of the findings of this study. Findings indicate that LED strategic leaders perceived their influence on the formulation of the IDP Makana municipality in four varied ways. Predominantly, LED strategic leaders commonly perceived that they had influence in setting evidence-driven direction, and searching for fitness of activities and issues with LED strategy. Thereafter, the other ways in which these LED strategic leaders perceived how they influenced the IDP formulation involve the facilitation of clarity and local relevance of LED mandates, and finally the integration of multiple economic voices of stakeholders. This demonstrates that LED strategic leaders at Makana emphasize proactively managing strategy process rather than content in terms of identifying key opportunities and major economic drivers in the local milieu. Instead, they perceived their influence as characterized by enhancing compliance with bringing the process of municipal strategy formulation closer to stakeholders. Implications of these findings are highlighted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Assessing the personal development of employees in a municipal environment
- Authors: Ntile, Zukiswa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Performance standards , Employee retention , Employees -- Recruiting , Employees -- Training of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8875 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020420
- Description: Skills transfer to Municipal employees is lacking due to management delays in acknowledging and understanding its importance to the affected employees. These result in poor work performance and services delivery to the communities. In the research design the Job Performance in any organisation is expected to be releasing good results or outcomes. Employees expect to be recognised in their work they perform. The employers’ responsibility is to ensure that the employee’s interests are taken care of reasonably. Scarce skill is a very important aspect in the career of specialised skilled employees and expectations are very high in this kind of environment. Globally the scarce skill is one of the aspects that is encouraged that organisations should take cognisance of. When staff is recruited and works for the Municipality it is vital that they are retained and capacitated through trainings. The employees that have worked for the Municipality a longer period should or must at least transfer those skills for the preparation of the succession planning and continuity in the organisation. The data was collected in a form of a questionnaire where respondents indicated their responses based on the questions formulated to measure their job performance, scarce skills, retention of staff, recruitment and selection, on-the-job training for skills transfer and training in relevant field. The data collected was analysed and presented in the form of tables and percentages. The study has revealed that the clear strategies recommended are essential in the personal development of employees through training, recognition inthe institution by way of remuneration or awards and ensuring to retain staff for a longer period for succession planning in a municipal environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Ntile, Zukiswa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Performance standards , Employee retention , Employees -- Recruiting , Employees -- Training of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8875 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020420
- Description: Skills transfer to Municipal employees is lacking due to management delays in acknowledging and understanding its importance to the affected employees. These result in poor work performance and services delivery to the communities. In the research design the Job Performance in any organisation is expected to be releasing good results or outcomes. Employees expect to be recognised in their work they perform. The employers’ responsibility is to ensure that the employee’s interests are taken care of reasonably. Scarce skill is a very important aspect in the career of specialised skilled employees and expectations are very high in this kind of environment. Globally the scarce skill is one of the aspects that is encouraged that organisations should take cognisance of. When staff is recruited and works for the Municipality it is vital that they are retained and capacitated through trainings. The employees that have worked for the Municipality a longer period should or must at least transfer those skills for the preparation of the succession planning and continuity in the organisation. The data was collected in a form of a questionnaire where respondents indicated their responses based on the questions formulated to measure their job performance, scarce skills, retention of staff, recruitment and selection, on-the-job training for skills transfer and training in relevant field. The data collected was analysed and presented in the form of tables and percentages. The study has revealed that the clear strategies recommended are essential in the personal development of employees through training, recognition inthe institution by way of remuneration or awards and ensuring to retain staff for a longer period for succession planning in a municipal environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Managing the processing of bills in the parliament of the Republic of South Africa
- Authors: Radebe, Bhekisizwe Abram
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: South Africa. Parliament -- Rules and practice Legislation -- South Africa Parliamentary practice -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10350 , vital:26655
- Description: The aim of this study was to gain an understanding of the legislative process in the South African Parliament, especially the processing of bills. The study was confined to bills processed by the Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry which is within, and what is known as the Economic Cluster of portfolio committees of Parliament. The main problem was to determine whether the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa is efficiently and effectively managing the processing of the bills tabled before it. A sub-problem was to determine how it can be assured that the bills passed by Parliament are of the highest standard. A second sub-problem was to try to find a balance between private bills and those introduced by the various ministries. A third sub-problem was to determine the influence of the lobby groups have on the rocessing and passing of bills in the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa. The research methodology includes a literature review, a questionnaire survey, face-to-face interviews with parliament management and a comparative study. After analysing the data collected, conclusions were drawn and recommendations made. Although the research was not comprehensive, the results should assist the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa to improve the processing of bills, thereby improving the legislative process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Radebe, Bhekisizwe Abram
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: South Africa. Parliament -- Rules and practice Legislation -- South Africa Parliamentary practice -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10350 , vital:26655
- Description: The aim of this study was to gain an understanding of the legislative process in the South African Parliament, especially the processing of bills. The study was confined to bills processed by the Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry which is within, and what is known as the Economic Cluster of portfolio committees of Parliament. The main problem was to determine whether the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa is efficiently and effectively managing the processing of the bills tabled before it. A sub-problem was to determine how it can be assured that the bills passed by Parliament are of the highest standard. A second sub-problem was to try to find a balance between private bills and those introduced by the various ministries. A third sub-problem was to determine the influence of the lobby groups have on the rocessing and passing of bills in the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa. The research methodology includes a literature review, a questionnaire survey, face-to-face interviews with parliament management and a comparative study. After analysing the data collected, conclusions were drawn and recommendations made. Although the research was not comprehensive, the results should assist the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa to improve the processing of bills, thereby improving the legislative process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Measuring brand loyalty in the medical device industry of South Africa : a study across the public and private health-care system
- Authors: Rozani, Veliswa Celestine
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Brand loyalty , Organizational behavior , Medical supplies -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8914 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021070
- Description: Brands are major role-players in the organisational business strategy; and they are recognised as one of the most valuable assets a company can possess. The entry of low-cost competitors has redefined the entire competitive landscape of the health-care industry through their ability to transform their value chain, in order to drastically reduce prices. With the fierce rivalry amongst the competitors, and a quest for companies to achieve competitive advantage, companies must design their strategies better than their competitors. For a company to be successful in such an environment, customer-brand loyalty is a critical issue. The main objective of this study was to measure brand loyalty in the medical-devices industry of South Africa, and to establish the key influencing factors of brand loyalty in this industry. The measurement of brand loyalty in the medical devices industry is founded on a conceptual brand-loyalty framework for the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry developed by Moolla (2012). The 12 brand loyalty factors identified by Moolla are: customer satisfaction; switching costs or risk aversion; brand trust; involvement; repeat purchases; relationship proneness; commitment; perceived value; brand relevance; brand affect; brand performance and culture. The empirical study was conducted among 250 medical practitioners across the private sector and public sector health-care system of South Africa. The methodology adopted in the study included the sampling procedure, the data collection, the questionnaire development and the statistical techniques used to analyse the results. The results were analysed with regard to: Factor analysis; Cronbach’s Alpha coefficients, mean values and inferential statistics. The results were presented in a conceptual framework, in order to measure brand loyalty in the medical devices industry of South Africa. The results of this study concluded that the brand loyalty influences, as identified by Moolla, are important for measuring brand loyalty in the medical devices industry. The empirical results focused on the demographic profile of the respondents, the validity of the questionnaire, the reliability of the results obtained, as well as the importance of the research variables. The analysis enabled certain conclusions to be drawn relating to the significant factors of brand loyalty in the medical devices industry in South Africa. A comparison was conducted relating to age group, gender profile, the health-care sector and the medical specialization – to determine whether there were any significant differences in the influence of the brand-loyalty factors identified. The chapter concluded with a conceptual framework for the medical-devices industry adapted from Moolla (2012) framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Rozani, Veliswa Celestine
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Brand loyalty , Organizational behavior , Medical supplies -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8914 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021070
- Description: Brands are major role-players in the organisational business strategy; and they are recognised as one of the most valuable assets a company can possess. The entry of low-cost competitors has redefined the entire competitive landscape of the health-care industry through their ability to transform their value chain, in order to drastically reduce prices. With the fierce rivalry amongst the competitors, and a quest for companies to achieve competitive advantage, companies must design their strategies better than their competitors. For a company to be successful in such an environment, customer-brand loyalty is a critical issue. The main objective of this study was to measure brand loyalty in the medical-devices industry of South Africa, and to establish the key influencing factors of brand loyalty in this industry. The measurement of brand loyalty in the medical devices industry is founded on a conceptual brand-loyalty framework for the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry developed by Moolla (2012). The 12 brand loyalty factors identified by Moolla are: customer satisfaction; switching costs or risk aversion; brand trust; involvement; repeat purchases; relationship proneness; commitment; perceived value; brand relevance; brand affect; brand performance and culture. The empirical study was conducted among 250 medical practitioners across the private sector and public sector health-care system of South Africa. The methodology adopted in the study included the sampling procedure, the data collection, the questionnaire development and the statistical techniques used to analyse the results. The results were analysed with regard to: Factor analysis; Cronbach’s Alpha coefficients, mean values and inferential statistics. The results were presented in a conceptual framework, in order to measure brand loyalty in the medical devices industry of South Africa. The results of this study concluded that the brand loyalty influences, as identified by Moolla, are important for measuring brand loyalty in the medical devices industry. The empirical results focused on the demographic profile of the respondents, the validity of the questionnaire, the reliability of the results obtained, as well as the importance of the research variables. The analysis enabled certain conclusions to be drawn relating to the significant factors of brand loyalty in the medical devices industry in South Africa. A comparison was conducted relating to age group, gender profile, the health-care sector and the medical specialization – to determine whether there were any significant differences in the influence of the brand-loyalty factors identified. The chapter concluded with a conceptual framework for the medical-devices industry adapted from Moolla (2012) framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Analysis of the performance management system in the detective service of the Motherwell cluster in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Saki, Nomachule Theodor
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8876 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020582
- Description: Performance management was implemented in the public service, including the South African Police Service, in 2001. The aim of implementing performance management in the public service was to improve the performance of all public servants. It was envisaged that the initiative for implementing performance management in the public service would entrench a culture of accountability, leading to improved service delivery. The effective utilisation of performance agreements, as a tool to align individual and organisational performance in the Motherwell Cluster Detective Service, was considered in this research. The contents of the individual detectives’ performance agreements and job descriptions in the Motherwell Cluster were analysed and compared with the contents of the SAPS Detective Service strategic objectives and performance indicators, as reflected in the SAPS Annual Performance Plan for 2012/2013. Interviews were conducted with Detective Service employees in the Motherwell Cluster, to determine whether the employees received training on the implementation of the Performance Enhancement Process, as the SAPS Performance Management and Development System. Research findings revealed that the contents of the respective individual detectives’ performance agreements and job descriptions were not aligned to the contents of the SAPS Detective Service strategic objectives and performance indicators. In areas where alignment was found, such alignment was so minimal that there was no meaningful correlation between an individual detective’s performance and organisational performance. The suggested recommendations are based on the findings of this study, which should be taken seriously if there is a desire to improve service delivery by the Detective Service. Apprehension, conviction, and sentencing of an offender can cause potential offenders to refrain from committing criminal acts for fear of apprehension and punishment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Saki, Nomachule Theodor
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8876 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020582
- Description: Performance management was implemented in the public service, including the South African Police Service, in 2001. The aim of implementing performance management in the public service was to improve the performance of all public servants. It was envisaged that the initiative for implementing performance management in the public service would entrench a culture of accountability, leading to improved service delivery. The effective utilisation of performance agreements, as a tool to align individual and organisational performance in the Motherwell Cluster Detective Service, was considered in this research. The contents of the individual detectives’ performance agreements and job descriptions in the Motherwell Cluster were analysed and compared with the contents of the SAPS Detective Service strategic objectives and performance indicators, as reflected in the SAPS Annual Performance Plan for 2012/2013. Interviews were conducted with Detective Service employees in the Motherwell Cluster, to determine whether the employees received training on the implementation of the Performance Enhancement Process, as the SAPS Performance Management and Development System. Research findings revealed that the contents of the respective individual detectives’ performance agreements and job descriptions were not aligned to the contents of the SAPS Detective Service strategic objectives and performance indicators. In areas where alignment was found, such alignment was so minimal that there was no meaningful correlation between an individual detective’s performance and organisational performance. The suggested recommendations are based on the findings of this study, which should be taken seriously if there is a desire to improve service delivery by the Detective Service. Apprehension, conviction, and sentencing of an offender can cause potential offenders to refrain from committing criminal acts for fear of apprehension and punishment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Exlporing deviant consumer behaviour in grocery retailers in the Nelson Mandela Bay municipality
- Authors: Shauza, Babalwa Millennium
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Consumer behavior -- South Africa , Consumers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Food -- Quality -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8747 , vital:26426
- Description: Grocery retailers are faced with many challenges. Among them are competition, employee theft and deviant consumer behaviour (DCB). Deviant consumer behaviour violates generally accepted norms of consumer behaviour in retail settings. There has been a lot of research conducted on DCB and different terms and phases have been used to describe the behaviour, ie “dysfunctional customer behaviour”, (Daunt and Harris, 2012), “aberrant consumer behaviour” (Fullerton and Punj, 1993) and “consumer misbehaviour” (Fullerton and Punj, 1997). However, the research conducted on how the behaviour affects retailers, particularly grocery retailers has been limited. The primary objective of this study was to examine how DCB affects grocery retailers in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. More specifically, the relationship between DCB (dependent variable) and independent variables - impact on profits (RPROF), impact on inventory (INV), impact on grocer security (SECU), impact on employees (EMPL), impact on customers (CUST) and measures to minimize or stop DCB (STOP) was established. Questionnaires were used as a measuring instrument. Out of the 100 questionnaires distributed, 70 were usable. The empirical results showed that there is a significant relationship between DCB and the independent variables. Recommendations on how best the stores can deal with DCB were made and measures to minimize or stop DCB were presented. Recommendations for future studies were also presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Shauza, Babalwa Millennium
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Consumer behavior -- South Africa , Consumers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Food -- Quality -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8747 , vital:26426
- Description: Grocery retailers are faced with many challenges. Among them are competition, employee theft and deviant consumer behaviour (DCB). Deviant consumer behaviour violates generally accepted norms of consumer behaviour in retail settings. There has been a lot of research conducted on DCB and different terms and phases have been used to describe the behaviour, ie “dysfunctional customer behaviour”, (Daunt and Harris, 2012), “aberrant consumer behaviour” (Fullerton and Punj, 1993) and “consumer misbehaviour” (Fullerton and Punj, 1997). However, the research conducted on how the behaviour affects retailers, particularly grocery retailers has been limited. The primary objective of this study was to examine how DCB affects grocery retailers in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. More specifically, the relationship between DCB (dependent variable) and independent variables - impact on profits (RPROF), impact on inventory (INV), impact on grocer security (SECU), impact on employees (EMPL), impact on customers (CUST) and measures to minimize or stop DCB (STOP) was established. Questionnaires were used as a measuring instrument. Out of the 100 questionnaires distributed, 70 were usable. The empirical results showed that there is a significant relationship between DCB and the independent variables. Recommendations on how best the stores can deal with DCB were made and measures to minimize or stop DCB were presented. Recommendations for future studies were also presented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An analysis of the barriers that inhibit sustainable implementation of LEAN
- Authors: Sidinile, Ayanda
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Production management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8934 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021192
- Description: With global advances in technology, many organizations are finding it difficult and quite challenging to do business as usual. Japanese companies are on top of the world economy, while many Western companies are struggling to find ways to compete with them (Womack, et al., 1990). The Japanese secret weapon “Lean Production” is no longer a secret; more and more western companies are now learning and adopting Lean techniques to remain relevant and competitive. Lean management is a consistent philosophy and a set of practices that must be maintained over time in order to see the gains (Losonci & Demeter, 2013). Lean is not a quick fix to reduce costs, but a continuous improvement journey that will transform an organization into a cost efficient value-driven system. Lean is still a fairly new phenomenon in South Africa, particularly in the Eastern Cape. The road towards the lean implementation is viewed by many as a challenging and yet rewarding journey. South African organizations are following the trend of implementing lean in order to eliminate waste, improve quality, speed, customer satisfaction and thereby increasing profits. It is however still a long journey towards achieving total perfection. The main challenge facing South African organizations is the ability to sustain the lean improvements over a longer period. This study will focus on identifying and analyzing the main barriers that inhibit many successful organizations from sustaining lean improvement efforts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Sidinile, Ayanda
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Production management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8934 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021192
- Description: With global advances in technology, many organizations are finding it difficult and quite challenging to do business as usual. Japanese companies are on top of the world economy, while many Western companies are struggling to find ways to compete with them (Womack, et al., 1990). The Japanese secret weapon “Lean Production” is no longer a secret; more and more western companies are now learning and adopting Lean techniques to remain relevant and competitive. Lean management is a consistent philosophy and a set of practices that must be maintained over time in order to see the gains (Losonci & Demeter, 2013). Lean is not a quick fix to reduce costs, but a continuous improvement journey that will transform an organization into a cost efficient value-driven system. Lean is still a fairly new phenomenon in South Africa, particularly in the Eastern Cape. The road towards the lean implementation is viewed by many as a challenging and yet rewarding journey. South African organizations are following the trend of implementing lean in order to eliminate waste, improve quality, speed, customer satisfaction and thereby increasing profits. It is however still a long journey towards achieving total perfection. The main challenge facing South African organizations is the ability to sustain the lean improvements over a longer period. This study will focus on identifying and analyzing the main barriers that inhibit many successful organizations from sustaining lean improvement efforts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Manager's perceptions of performance appraisal implemented at Kansanshi Mine, Zambia
- Authors: Silimi, Maimbo Mark
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Employees -- Rating of -- Zambia , Personnel management , Mineral industries -- Employees , Job satisfaction , Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:831 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013037
- Description: As managers with direct contact with workers on the floor, line managers are responsible for implementation of the performance appraisal system at Kansanshi Mining plc. Commonly, implementation of performance appraisal is affected by how line managers interact with their subordinates before, during and after an appraisal interview. Notably, no study has been conducted at Kansanshi mine to understand how line managers conduct performance appraisals since their introduction. This qualitative study aims to build an understanding of how line managers at Kansanshi conduct performance appraisal interviews and what enablers and barriers they face in this process. In pursuit of the research aim, line managers from all the ten departments of the mine were considered as eligible for the study. Using stratified random sampling, ten of the 30 line managers from all ten departments across the mine site were selected. A total of fifteen semi-structured, in-depth, face-to-face interviews were conducted with ten line managers to gather data. These individual interviews were conducted on the mine site in the interviewees' offices as well as other convenient places such as the Kansanshi main boardroom. On average, each interview took between 45 to 60 minutes. All these interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and thereafter analyzed using open coding and constant comparison technique to induce themes. Findings of the study show a variety of barriers and enablers of line managers in their conduct of performance appraisal interviews at Kansanshi mine in Zambia. All ten line managers unanimously highlighted that (a) lack of clear job descriptions and set of individual targets as well as (b) lack of adequate refresher training on how to conduct performance appraisals affected how they conducted performance appraisals. Eight of the ten line managers highlighted that (c) perceived subjectivity of the system while seven of the ten highlighted that (d) predominant production focus and priority were barriers to them in how they conducted performance appraisals. On the other hand, ten line managers highlighted that (a) top management commitment to the implementation of a performance appraisal system, seven highlighted that (b) employees' hope for rewards and five line managers highlighted that (c) spring for career development and progression were perceived as enablers in their implementation of performance appraisals. This research is of value as it highlights how the conduct of performance is not only impacted by organizational support and other complementary organizational systems but also how the barriers to the conduct of performance appraisals affect both the appraisee and the appraiser.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Silimi, Maimbo Mark
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Employees -- Rating of -- Zambia , Personnel management , Mineral industries -- Employees , Job satisfaction , Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:831 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013037
- Description: As managers with direct contact with workers on the floor, line managers are responsible for implementation of the performance appraisal system at Kansanshi Mining plc. Commonly, implementation of performance appraisal is affected by how line managers interact with their subordinates before, during and after an appraisal interview. Notably, no study has been conducted at Kansanshi mine to understand how line managers conduct performance appraisals since their introduction. This qualitative study aims to build an understanding of how line managers at Kansanshi conduct performance appraisal interviews and what enablers and barriers they face in this process. In pursuit of the research aim, line managers from all the ten departments of the mine were considered as eligible for the study. Using stratified random sampling, ten of the 30 line managers from all ten departments across the mine site were selected. A total of fifteen semi-structured, in-depth, face-to-face interviews were conducted with ten line managers to gather data. These individual interviews were conducted on the mine site in the interviewees' offices as well as other convenient places such as the Kansanshi main boardroom. On average, each interview took between 45 to 60 minutes. All these interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and thereafter analyzed using open coding and constant comparison technique to induce themes. Findings of the study show a variety of barriers and enablers of line managers in their conduct of performance appraisal interviews at Kansanshi mine in Zambia. All ten line managers unanimously highlighted that (a) lack of clear job descriptions and set of individual targets as well as (b) lack of adequate refresher training on how to conduct performance appraisals affected how they conducted performance appraisals. Eight of the ten line managers highlighted that (c) perceived subjectivity of the system while seven of the ten highlighted that (d) predominant production focus and priority were barriers to them in how they conducted performance appraisals. On the other hand, ten line managers highlighted that (a) top management commitment to the implementation of a performance appraisal system, seven highlighted that (b) employees' hope for rewards and five line managers highlighted that (c) spring for career development and progression were perceived as enablers in their implementation of performance appraisals. This research is of value as it highlights how the conduct of performance is not only impacted by organizational support and other complementary organizational systems but also how the barriers to the conduct of performance appraisals affect both the appraisee and the appraiser.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Antecedents to sustainability of small consulting engineering businesses within the Amathole district municipality
- Authors: Silinga, Nyaniso Sandisiwe
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Small business -- Environmental aspects , Sustainable development , Social responsibility of business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5184 , vital:20819
- Description: The South African consulting engineering industry faces a challenge of relevance, particularly in the wake of government infrastructure investment through the planned National Development Plan and other current infrastructure plans. This challenge is even more so for small consulting engineering businesses within the industry who experienced a decline in earnings by ten percent in the first six months of 2013 as compared to the last six months of 2012 (Consulting Engineers South Africa, 2013:38). Government, as a job creator, has a duty to ensure that the conditions that these businesses operate in are favourable to them in order for the businesses to remain sustainable. Factors that contribute to the sustainability of small consulting engineering businesses need to be identified. Amathole District Municipality (ADM) situated in the Eastern Cape Province and which is the second largest province in South Africa but the second poorest (Eastern Cape Socio Economic Council (ECSECC), 2011:15 cited in Mtshibe, 2013:1) is one of those job creators. According to the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) (2013:38), the district, which comprises of seven local municipalities, is the 3rd largest economy in the province after the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality and Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, contributing twelve percent to the provincial economy. Figures published in the Division of Revenue Bill, 2014 (RSA, 2014:236) indicate infrastructure development allocations totalling R1.34 billion budgeted to the ADM for the next three years. This translates to job opportunities for the consulting engineering industry of this region. However, the latest ADM SMME procurement data reveals that in the past five years, only a small percentage of tenders awarded were to small consulting engineering businesses with a majority going to medium to large well-established enterprises (ADM, 2014). These results pose a serious challenge for policy makers who have a duty to ensure that work opportunities do not disadvantage emerging small businesses. The main objective of this study was to gain an understanding of the antecedents that impact on the sustainability of small consulting engineering businesses within the Amathole District Municipality. This was done by identifying antecedents to sustainability of small consulting engineering businesses through a detailed literature review. This literature review identified the competitive environment, regulatory environment and policy environment (independent variables) as being antecedents to sustainability of small consulting engineering businesses (dependant variable). In testing the above research objective, the researcher used statistical analysis methods to reach a conclusion with regard to these antecedents. The positivistic research paradigm (quantitative method) was selected in testing this research objective through the use of hypothesis testing. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires distributed to 100 small consulting engineering businesses using the databases of both the Amathole District Municipality and Consulting Engineers South Africa (CESA). Out of the selected sample of 100 small consulting engineering businesses, only 81 responses were received, thus representing an eighty-one percent response rate which is considered adequate. The collected data was then analysed using inferential and confirmatory statistical analysis methods. The analysis was presented in the form of graphs and tables. The results of the empirical survey identified rival competitor influence, the competitive environment and policy environment as being antecedents to sustainability of small consulting engineering businesses within the Amathole District Municipality. Based on these findings, recommendations were made to the management of the Amathole District Municipality in an endeavour to make the environment within which small consulting engineering businesses operate more favourable for the businesses to be sustainable. Suggestions for future research were also made as a way to help in addressing some of the challenges that are faced by the engineering industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Silinga, Nyaniso Sandisiwe
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Small business -- Environmental aspects , Sustainable development , Social responsibility of business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5184 , vital:20819
- Description: The South African consulting engineering industry faces a challenge of relevance, particularly in the wake of government infrastructure investment through the planned National Development Plan and other current infrastructure plans. This challenge is even more so for small consulting engineering businesses within the industry who experienced a decline in earnings by ten percent in the first six months of 2013 as compared to the last six months of 2012 (Consulting Engineers South Africa, 2013:38). Government, as a job creator, has a duty to ensure that the conditions that these businesses operate in are favourable to them in order for the businesses to remain sustainable. Factors that contribute to the sustainability of small consulting engineering businesses need to be identified. Amathole District Municipality (ADM) situated in the Eastern Cape Province and which is the second largest province in South Africa but the second poorest (Eastern Cape Socio Economic Council (ECSECC), 2011:15 cited in Mtshibe, 2013:1) is one of those job creators. According to the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) (2013:38), the district, which comprises of seven local municipalities, is the 3rd largest economy in the province after the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality and Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, contributing twelve percent to the provincial economy. Figures published in the Division of Revenue Bill, 2014 (RSA, 2014:236) indicate infrastructure development allocations totalling R1.34 billion budgeted to the ADM for the next three years. This translates to job opportunities for the consulting engineering industry of this region. However, the latest ADM SMME procurement data reveals that in the past five years, only a small percentage of tenders awarded were to small consulting engineering businesses with a majority going to medium to large well-established enterprises (ADM, 2014). These results pose a serious challenge for policy makers who have a duty to ensure that work opportunities do not disadvantage emerging small businesses. The main objective of this study was to gain an understanding of the antecedents that impact on the sustainability of small consulting engineering businesses within the Amathole District Municipality. This was done by identifying antecedents to sustainability of small consulting engineering businesses through a detailed literature review. This literature review identified the competitive environment, regulatory environment and policy environment (independent variables) as being antecedents to sustainability of small consulting engineering businesses (dependant variable). In testing the above research objective, the researcher used statistical analysis methods to reach a conclusion with regard to these antecedents. The positivistic research paradigm (quantitative method) was selected in testing this research objective through the use of hypothesis testing. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires distributed to 100 small consulting engineering businesses using the databases of both the Amathole District Municipality and Consulting Engineers South Africa (CESA). Out of the selected sample of 100 small consulting engineering businesses, only 81 responses were received, thus representing an eighty-one percent response rate which is considered adequate. The collected data was then analysed using inferential and confirmatory statistical analysis methods. The analysis was presented in the form of graphs and tables. The results of the empirical survey identified rival competitor influence, the competitive environment and policy environment as being antecedents to sustainability of small consulting engineering businesses within the Amathole District Municipality. Based on these findings, recommendations were made to the management of the Amathole District Municipality in an endeavour to make the environment within which small consulting engineering businesses operate more favourable for the businesses to be sustainable. Suggestions for future research were also made as a way to help in addressing some of the challenges that are faced by the engineering industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Exploring e-governance effectiveness in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Sithole-Somfula, Busiswa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Corporate governance -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Metropolitan government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8929 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021178
- Description: E-governance is a comprehensive and well-thought out notion as it brings forth a change in the way governments communicate to citizens and to each other. Since the RSA government relies on regular consultations with the citizens in order to improve service delivery, e-governance approaches inspires citizens to be active agent of local democracy by means of providing information and participation on issues that matters the most to the society. The effectiveness of e-governance takes into account four systemic intentions which are as follows: Increased government accountability; Increased government transparency; Increased government efficiency and; Increased citizen’s trust In order for the RSA government, more particularly at the local level, to ensure quality of life to the citizens, the modernisation of government services and operations is very important. E-governance can now be considered as a source or tool for sharing ideas and initiatives that deliver a mutual enrichment. In other words, the citizens are the determining factor and actors for the rules and the role of the local bureaucrats as well as for the corresponding ICT tools persist to be developed. This treatise undertakes a strategic view and an evaluation of e- governance in local municipalities as the means of improving and transforming the delivery of services and access to information for citizens. Consequently this paper affords an exploratory analysis between e-governance and the six core elements of technology (i.e. e-strategy, e-skills development, e-services, IT governance and ICT infrastructure and e-leadership) believed to contribute positively in the effectiveness of e-governance. Finally, recommendations are made as a result of analysing the literature study and empirical study to ensure the implementation of the key initiatives of e-governance that can add value to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Sithole-Somfula, Busiswa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Corporate governance -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Metropolitan government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8929 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021178
- Description: E-governance is a comprehensive and well-thought out notion as it brings forth a change in the way governments communicate to citizens and to each other. Since the RSA government relies on regular consultations with the citizens in order to improve service delivery, e-governance approaches inspires citizens to be active agent of local democracy by means of providing information and participation on issues that matters the most to the society. The effectiveness of e-governance takes into account four systemic intentions which are as follows: Increased government accountability; Increased government transparency; Increased government efficiency and; Increased citizen’s trust In order for the RSA government, more particularly at the local level, to ensure quality of life to the citizens, the modernisation of government services and operations is very important. E-governance can now be considered as a source or tool for sharing ideas and initiatives that deliver a mutual enrichment. In other words, the citizens are the determining factor and actors for the rules and the role of the local bureaucrats as well as for the corresponding ICT tools persist to be developed. This treatise undertakes a strategic view and an evaluation of e- governance in local municipalities as the means of improving and transforming the delivery of services and access to information for citizens. Consequently this paper affords an exploratory analysis between e-governance and the six core elements of technology (i.e. e-strategy, e-skills development, e-services, IT governance and ICT infrastructure and e-leadership) believed to contribute positively in the effectiveness of e-governance. Finally, recommendations are made as a result of analysing the literature study and empirical study to ensure the implementation of the key initiatives of e-governance that can add value to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Evaluating recruitment practices at the auditor general of South Africa
- Authors: Snyders, Curtis
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Employees -- Recruiting -- South Africa , Employee selection -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8932 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021189
- Description: This research study evaluated recruitment practices at the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA). The AGSA recruit highly skilled talented individuals in a country with a problem with a shortage of skills. Recruitment at the organisation is therefore an important function and key to the success of the AGSA. There is no clear indication that the AGSA, when filling vacancies, should recruit from its internal resources or recruit externally. This research looked to establish an ideal ratio between the recruitment from internal and external employees. To achieve the objectives, a literature review was conducted to determine the various combinations of recruitment. The literature was divided into talent management, internal and external recruitment, as well as succession management. The research took the form of a case study, looking at recruitment practices within the AGSA. A questionnaire was developed to gather information from employees in the AGSA, around their assessment of recruitment and their opinion on internal and external recruitment. The questionnaire was distributed online and various levels of employees within the organisation participated in responding to the questionnaire. The most recent recruitment reports were presented and analysed. Information was gathered from literature on recruitment and the AGSA employee’s by means of an online questionnaire. Recommendations were made to the AGSA taking into consideration the current practices within the organisation and the research undertaken for this dissertation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Snyders, Curtis
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Employees -- Recruiting -- South Africa , Employee selection -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8932 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021189
- Description: This research study evaluated recruitment practices at the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA). The AGSA recruit highly skilled talented individuals in a country with a problem with a shortage of skills. Recruitment at the organisation is therefore an important function and key to the success of the AGSA. There is no clear indication that the AGSA, when filling vacancies, should recruit from its internal resources or recruit externally. This research looked to establish an ideal ratio between the recruitment from internal and external employees. To achieve the objectives, a literature review was conducted to determine the various combinations of recruitment. The literature was divided into talent management, internal and external recruitment, as well as succession management. The research took the form of a case study, looking at recruitment practices within the AGSA. A questionnaire was developed to gather information from employees in the AGSA, around their assessment of recruitment and their opinion on internal and external recruitment. The questionnaire was distributed online and various levels of employees within the organisation participated in responding to the questionnaire. The most recent recruitment reports were presented and analysed. Information was gathered from literature on recruitment and the AGSA employee’s by means of an online questionnaire. Recommendations were made to the AGSA taking into consideration the current practices within the organisation and the research undertaken for this dissertation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The impact of the marketing communications mix on the purchase decisions for pharmaceuticals in South African Public Health Sector
- Authors: Sogoni, Vuyo Monwabisi Vula
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Pharmaceutical industry -- South Africa -- Marketing , Communication in marketing , Direct marketing , Sales promotion
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8908 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021030
- Description: A significant amount of pharmaceutical marketing literature is available. Most of this marketing has doctors, physicians and specialists as main target audience due to the fact that, historically, these medical professionals were the main pharmaceutical purchase decision makers. Pharmaceutical marketing literature has, historically, also been biased towards the private health sector for obvious reasons as the private health sector constitutes the minority of the pharmaceutical market but with a significantly enormous purchasing power than the public healthcare market, constituting the biggest pharmaceutical market in numbers. It is not surprising therefore that majority of pharmaceutical marketing models have been tailor made for the private healthcare market as the growing number of pharmaceutical companies compete for a piece of the small but extremely profitable private healthcare market. South Africa is no exception as it reflects exactly the same pharmaceutical landscape as described above. For growth purposes, pharmaceutical companies have been showing a continued interest in the public healthcare market in Africa as the vast numbers of the African population present an opportunity for pharmaceutical sales. The inspiration of this research study emanated from the realisation that, in order for pharmaceutical companies to take advantage of the looming African opportunity, there is very little literature on pharmaceutical marketing in the public health sector of which majority of the African market constitutes. This study therefore investigates the impact of marketing communication mix elements on pharmaceutical purchasing decisions for pharmaceuticals in the public health sector in South Africa. Personal selling, public relations and promotions are the marketing communications mix elements being investigated in this study as they are the most commonly utilised in the pharmaceutical industry. Therefore, the study aims to develop an understanding on which of the chosen marketing communications mix elements has the most influence on the pharmaceutical purchasing decisions in the context of the public health sector in South Africa. The study also aims to explore the causal effects of such influences in the public health sector in South Africa. The findings will be valuable to pharmaceutical marketers that are trying to tap in the public health sector market as it is different from the private health sector. The study employs more qualitative approach. A small sample was utilised from the public health sector in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. Semi structured interviews were used to collect data which was analysed using grounded theory data analysis methodology. Empirical results revealed that personal selling influences pharmaceutical purchasing decision the most and promotions the least. Mitigating factors were uncovered to assist in optimising the marketing communication efforts for marketers in this sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Sogoni, Vuyo Monwabisi Vula
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Pharmaceutical industry -- South Africa -- Marketing , Communication in marketing , Direct marketing , Sales promotion
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8908 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021030
- Description: A significant amount of pharmaceutical marketing literature is available. Most of this marketing has doctors, physicians and specialists as main target audience due to the fact that, historically, these medical professionals were the main pharmaceutical purchase decision makers. Pharmaceutical marketing literature has, historically, also been biased towards the private health sector for obvious reasons as the private health sector constitutes the minority of the pharmaceutical market but with a significantly enormous purchasing power than the public healthcare market, constituting the biggest pharmaceutical market in numbers. It is not surprising therefore that majority of pharmaceutical marketing models have been tailor made for the private healthcare market as the growing number of pharmaceutical companies compete for a piece of the small but extremely profitable private healthcare market. South Africa is no exception as it reflects exactly the same pharmaceutical landscape as described above. For growth purposes, pharmaceutical companies have been showing a continued interest in the public healthcare market in Africa as the vast numbers of the African population present an opportunity for pharmaceutical sales. The inspiration of this research study emanated from the realisation that, in order for pharmaceutical companies to take advantage of the looming African opportunity, there is very little literature on pharmaceutical marketing in the public health sector of which majority of the African market constitutes. This study therefore investigates the impact of marketing communication mix elements on pharmaceutical purchasing decisions for pharmaceuticals in the public health sector in South Africa. Personal selling, public relations and promotions are the marketing communications mix elements being investigated in this study as they are the most commonly utilised in the pharmaceutical industry. Therefore, the study aims to develop an understanding on which of the chosen marketing communications mix elements has the most influence on the pharmaceutical purchasing decisions in the context of the public health sector in South Africa. The study also aims to explore the causal effects of such influences in the public health sector in South Africa. The findings will be valuable to pharmaceutical marketers that are trying to tap in the public health sector market as it is different from the private health sector. The study employs more qualitative approach. A small sample was utilised from the public health sector in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. Semi structured interviews were used to collect data which was analysed using grounded theory data analysis methodology. Empirical results revealed that personal selling influences pharmaceutical purchasing decision the most and promotions the least. Mitigating factors were uncovered to assist in optimising the marketing communication efforts for marketers in this sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Towards sustainable municipalities : an evaluation of sustainability integration in Elundini Local Municipality strategy
- Authors: Sokutu, Nonkuselo
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainability -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Environmental impact analysis -- South Africa -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:830 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013018
- Description: This research study evaluated and assessed the extent to which strategic management processes integrated economic, environmental and social sustainability elements in the fiveyear strategy (2012) of Elundini Local Municipality (ELM). The study focused on three areas of strategic management, that is, environmental analysis, strategic direction and strategy formulation. The study also looked at possible reasons for sustainability integration in ELM strategy or lack thereof and also recommended possible solutions. The literature reviewed revealed that there was adequate basis for municipalities to integrate sustainable development in their strategies even though sustainability was noted as an evolving, complex and changing phenomenon. Local Agenda 21 principles, national legislative & policy framework, regulations and other relevant guidelines were found to be adequate for municipalities to develop credible sustainability strategies. The objectives of the study were achieved by data collected through the review of existing literature; the review of ELM Five Year Strategy (2012-2017); and SIAT-based questionnaires that were filled in by ELM employees. The results of the study showed that economic and social sustainability activities were identified most in the ELM strategy compared to environmental sustainability. The study then mainly recommended the review of the current strategy in order to improve all areas of strategy formulation; introduction of Economic, Social and Environmental sustainability – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (ESEs-SWOT) for internal analysis as an improvement of SWOT analysis; introduction of Sustainability Integration and Strategic Management Framework (SISMF) as an improvement to existing framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Sokutu, Nonkuselo
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainability -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable development -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Environmental impact analysis -- South Africa -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:830 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013018
- Description: This research study evaluated and assessed the extent to which strategic management processes integrated economic, environmental and social sustainability elements in the fiveyear strategy (2012) of Elundini Local Municipality (ELM). The study focused on three areas of strategic management, that is, environmental analysis, strategic direction and strategy formulation. The study also looked at possible reasons for sustainability integration in ELM strategy or lack thereof and also recommended possible solutions. The literature reviewed revealed that there was adequate basis for municipalities to integrate sustainable development in their strategies even though sustainability was noted as an evolving, complex and changing phenomenon. Local Agenda 21 principles, national legislative & policy framework, regulations and other relevant guidelines were found to be adequate for municipalities to develop credible sustainability strategies. The objectives of the study were achieved by data collected through the review of existing literature; the review of ELM Five Year Strategy (2012-2017); and SIAT-based questionnaires that were filled in by ELM employees. The results of the study showed that economic and social sustainability activities were identified most in the ELM strategy compared to environmental sustainability. The study then mainly recommended the review of the current strategy in order to improve all areas of strategy formulation; introduction of Economic, Social and Environmental sustainability – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (ESEs-SWOT) for internal analysis as an improvement of SWOT analysis; introduction of Sustainability Integration and Strategic Management Framework (SISMF) as an improvement to existing framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The evolution of the function and role of finance within the current South African business envionment
- Sonjica, Siphokazi Nondumiso
- Authors: Sonjica, Siphokazi Nondumiso
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- Finance , Industrial management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8925 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021144
- Description: The objective of this study was to determine the extent to which the finance function has evolved from being mere transactional – into one being more value-adding and business-partnering. The main focus of this study is on the role of finance as a business partner. Its main function is to add value to the business and the operations, and to offer the required support, in order for management to be able to make the right decisions. In this role, finance is regarded as part of the management team – and not just an external support function providing number ‘crunching’ – but a member that provides valuable input in the processes that the business follows. They become an in-house consultant for the business, thereby providing technical knowledge, which is aligned to the manner in which the business conducts its operations. The activities that are to be done by finance in this role comprise the following: Alignment of the functions of finance with those of the business, and what is thereby required; Providing information to the business on a timely basis; Providing information that assists and is relevant in the decision-making process of the business; Having a balance between providing governance support, as well as ensuring adequate control of the assets of the organisation. Reducing non-value adding activities that can be outsourced, such as standard reports, which can be developed and housed within a linked IT system. In order to be able to perform these activities effectively, there needs to be adequate support from the organisation’s IT environment, where standard templates can be developed, which are linked, and which lead to the availability of time for the analysis of the data. The resources also needs to have the required soft skills – of which communication and the ability to influence are important aspect – as there would be times when the people in operations would need to align their business decisions to the right finance decision – without becoming an obstruction to the business. A survey was carried out involving the accountants, whose role was to support the business in the South African environment, and which provided information on the following research questions: (i) Are finance professionals moving towards becoming business partners and away from transactional back-office work? (ii) What are the main reasons for the lack of transformation of the finance function? (iii) Is the size of the organisation a factor in its transformation? (iv) Does the fact that a company is a multinational or a South African organisation have any impact on the transition? The results of the survey were used to draw a conclusion on the extent of the change in the role of finance. The research concluded that there had been some change in the role that finance was performing in regard to the business. However, there were still areas where more could be done to move the change along, and to arrive at a position where finance becomes a full business partner.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Sonjica, Siphokazi Nondumiso
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- Finance , Industrial management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8925 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021144
- Description: The objective of this study was to determine the extent to which the finance function has evolved from being mere transactional – into one being more value-adding and business-partnering. The main focus of this study is on the role of finance as a business partner. Its main function is to add value to the business and the operations, and to offer the required support, in order for management to be able to make the right decisions. In this role, finance is regarded as part of the management team – and not just an external support function providing number ‘crunching’ – but a member that provides valuable input in the processes that the business follows. They become an in-house consultant for the business, thereby providing technical knowledge, which is aligned to the manner in which the business conducts its operations. The activities that are to be done by finance in this role comprise the following: Alignment of the functions of finance with those of the business, and what is thereby required; Providing information to the business on a timely basis; Providing information that assists and is relevant in the decision-making process of the business; Having a balance between providing governance support, as well as ensuring adequate control of the assets of the organisation. Reducing non-value adding activities that can be outsourced, such as standard reports, which can be developed and housed within a linked IT system. In order to be able to perform these activities effectively, there needs to be adequate support from the organisation’s IT environment, where standard templates can be developed, which are linked, and which lead to the availability of time for the analysis of the data. The resources also needs to have the required soft skills – of which communication and the ability to influence are important aspect – as there would be times when the people in operations would need to align their business decisions to the right finance decision – without becoming an obstruction to the business. A survey was carried out involving the accountants, whose role was to support the business in the South African environment, and which provided information on the following research questions: (i) Are finance professionals moving towards becoming business partners and away from transactional back-office work? (ii) What are the main reasons for the lack of transformation of the finance function? (iii) Is the size of the organisation a factor in its transformation? (iv) Does the fact that a company is a multinational or a South African organisation have any impact on the transition? The results of the survey were used to draw a conclusion on the extent of the change in the role of finance. The research concluded that there had been some change in the role that finance was performing in regard to the business. However, there were still areas where more could be done to move the change along, and to arrive at a position where finance becomes a full business partner.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Factors influencing cultural diversity at a multinational company
- Authors: Swart, Victor
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Diversity in the workplace , Multiculturalism , International business enterprises -- Cross-cultural studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8790 , vital:26430
- Description: Cultural diversity in the workplace is the presence of multiple cultures or groups within the work environment. This diversity in culture can be as a result of a difference in origin or nationality, difference in society, difference in religion or a difference in tradition. A multinational company (MNC), also referred to as a transnational company is an organisation that is registered and operates in multiple countries but is managed from the home country. Today’s ever increasing rate of globalization and the expansion of organisations into countries other than their own has created workplaces where cultural diversity is the norm and where workplaces are no longer characterized by a single or monoculture. This study explores the cultural diversity of an Argentinian multinational company, My Multinational Company (MMC), operating in Argentina and South Africa. MMC is a market leader in the production, procurement and export of citrus products. There is a plethora of information on cultural diversity which identifies various factors which influence cultural diversity. The purpose of this study is therefore to enhance the current understanding of cultural diversity within a multinational company by identifying the factors which influence cultural diversity in a multinational company. The approach to this study is quantitative in nature and the paradigm to be followed is positivistic, based on an empirical study and questionnaire. The empirical study assesses previous work relating to cultural diversity and identifies the factors which influence cultural diversity. The questionnaire was developed from the literature and distributed to MMC employees in Argentina and South Africa in order to determine their similarities and differences. The results of the empirical study identified areas of improvement for MMC. Recommendations were then made based on the literature review and the analysis of the empirical results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Swart, Victor
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Diversity in the workplace , Multiculturalism , International business enterprises -- Cross-cultural studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8790 , vital:26430
- Description: Cultural diversity in the workplace is the presence of multiple cultures or groups within the work environment. This diversity in culture can be as a result of a difference in origin or nationality, difference in society, difference in religion or a difference in tradition. A multinational company (MNC), also referred to as a transnational company is an organisation that is registered and operates in multiple countries but is managed from the home country. Today’s ever increasing rate of globalization and the expansion of organisations into countries other than their own has created workplaces where cultural diversity is the norm and where workplaces are no longer characterized by a single or monoculture. This study explores the cultural diversity of an Argentinian multinational company, My Multinational Company (MMC), operating in Argentina and South Africa. MMC is a market leader in the production, procurement and export of citrus products. There is a plethora of information on cultural diversity which identifies various factors which influence cultural diversity. The purpose of this study is therefore to enhance the current understanding of cultural diversity within a multinational company by identifying the factors which influence cultural diversity in a multinational company. The approach to this study is quantitative in nature and the paradigm to be followed is positivistic, based on an empirical study and questionnaire. The empirical study assesses previous work relating to cultural diversity and identifies the factors which influence cultural diversity. The questionnaire was developed from the literature and distributed to MMC employees in Argentina and South Africa in order to determine their similarities and differences. The results of the empirical study identified areas of improvement for MMC. Recommendations were then made based on the literature review and the analysis of the empirical results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Balancing legislative and contractual obligations with government policy objectives and the commercial and economic sustainability of the Amathole Forestry Company (Pty.) LTD: a community benefit model designed for implementation by Amathole Forestry Company (Pty) Ltd
- Authors: Swift, Davron
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality , Economic development -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality -- Citizen participation , Forests and forestry -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3185 , vital:20409
- Description: The fundamental objective of this research is to design and propose an appropriate community benefit model that can be implemented by a forestry company in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. De Beer, Rutsch and Eliffe (1998) describe community benefits as a collection of social and economic opportunities through which people are able to improve the quality of their lives or the lives of others. This study proposes a model that can be implemented in a manner that is mutually beneficial to the forestry company concerned and its community stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Swift, Davron
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality , Economic development -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality -- Citizen participation , Forests and forestry -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3185 , vital:20409
- Description: The fundamental objective of this research is to design and propose an appropriate community benefit model that can be implemented by a forestry company in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. De Beer, Rutsch and Eliffe (1998) describe community benefits as a collection of social and economic opportunities through which people are able to improve the quality of their lives or the lives of others. This study proposes a model that can be implemented in a manner that is mutually beneficial to the forestry company concerned and its community stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Developing of a supply chain framework for civil engineering SMME's within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Timotheus, Francois
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Business logistics -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Small business -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11242 , vital:26901
- Description: A lot of SMME development initiatives have been subsidised from the funds accumulated from taxpayers. In the promotion of sustainability and growth of SMMEs within developing countries particularly within the BRICS, South Africa is lagging despite its efforts over the past 17 years. According to STATS SA, SA’s unemployment rate for 2011 was between 24-36% and economic growth was 3.1%, the Eastern Cape Province is the poorest province within SA and therefore residence within the province is looking at start-up businesses to better their economic situation. The NMBM economic growth and employment is driven largely by its Integrated Development Plan (IDP) 2013/2014. Aims and objectives:To develop a supply chain management policy that addresses the challenges faced by infrastructure officials, supply chain management practitioners and ward councillors with regards to SMME engagement; and, Investigating the strengths, weaknesses and effectiveness of the current supply chain management policy employed within Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality with regards to SMME engagement. Research methodology: A questionnaire was used in this study to conduct quantitative research; the questionnaire was also used as a data collection tool. Valuable information was gathered from SMMEs residing in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipal area who operate in the civil engineering field. These SMMEs formed the core research sample. Results: The findings suggest that the current supply chain management (SCM) policy of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) does not adequately address the challenges encountered by SMMEs. This suggests the SCM policy is inadequate and the policy must be amended to address its short falls:There is a need for a contractor development programme in the NMBM to assist the Potentially Emerging (PE) contractors within its boundaries;The NMBM is regulating the SMME market for competitiveness to some extent with its SCM policy;Even though the market is being regulated for competitiveness, it is not regulated with regards to new entries into the market; There is a need for the NMBM to provide business development services to SMME’s within its boundaries; The majority of SMME’s believed that there is no gender discrimination within the banking sector;The NMBM is an efficient government institution when it comes to settling their debt in a timely manner;The NMBM must appoint a committee to address the problems faced by SMME’s within its boundaries;South Africa’s National Credit Act (NCA) prevents SMME’s from acquiring an uncontrollable amount of debt. Conclusion: SMME’s within the NMBM enjoy a healthy credit record; these SMME’s also pay their suppliers in a timely fashion. Employees of these SMME’s are adequately compensated for their services. Some SMME’s service the equipment regularly and some do not. Some SMME’s are able to cover their overheads from the projects they undertake and some are not. SMME’s residing in the NMBM have experienced a growth in their business over the last financial year, even though they have not received substantial work over this period. The quality of the end product produced by some SMME’s meets the standard required by the NMBM. Recommendations: To address the development needs of the SMME’s the SCM policy needs to be amended to provide business development services and off-the-job training. To address the access to finance needs of the SMME’s the SCM policy needs to be amended to assist SMME’s in acquiring start-up capital, getting a reduced interest rate and creating work opportunities through micro-financing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Timotheus, Francois
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Business logistics -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Small business -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11242 , vital:26901
- Description: A lot of SMME development initiatives have been subsidised from the funds accumulated from taxpayers. In the promotion of sustainability and growth of SMMEs within developing countries particularly within the BRICS, South Africa is lagging despite its efforts over the past 17 years. According to STATS SA, SA’s unemployment rate for 2011 was between 24-36% and economic growth was 3.1%, the Eastern Cape Province is the poorest province within SA and therefore residence within the province is looking at start-up businesses to better their economic situation. The NMBM economic growth and employment is driven largely by its Integrated Development Plan (IDP) 2013/2014. Aims and objectives:To develop a supply chain management policy that addresses the challenges faced by infrastructure officials, supply chain management practitioners and ward councillors with regards to SMME engagement; and, Investigating the strengths, weaknesses and effectiveness of the current supply chain management policy employed within Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality with regards to SMME engagement. Research methodology: A questionnaire was used in this study to conduct quantitative research; the questionnaire was also used as a data collection tool. Valuable information was gathered from SMMEs residing in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipal area who operate in the civil engineering field. These SMMEs formed the core research sample. Results: The findings suggest that the current supply chain management (SCM) policy of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) does not adequately address the challenges encountered by SMMEs. This suggests the SCM policy is inadequate and the policy must be amended to address its short falls:There is a need for a contractor development programme in the NMBM to assist the Potentially Emerging (PE) contractors within its boundaries;The NMBM is regulating the SMME market for competitiveness to some extent with its SCM policy;Even though the market is being regulated for competitiveness, it is not regulated with regards to new entries into the market; There is a need for the NMBM to provide business development services to SMME’s within its boundaries; The majority of SMME’s believed that there is no gender discrimination within the banking sector;The NMBM is an efficient government institution when it comes to settling their debt in a timely manner;The NMBM must appoint a committee to address the problems faced by SMME’s within its boundaries;South Africa’s National Credit Act (NCA) prevents SMME’s from acquiring an uncontrollable amount of debt. Conclusion: SMME’s within the NMBM enjoy a healthy credit record; these SMME’s also pay their suppliers in a timely fashion. Employees of these SMME’s are adequately compensated for their services. Some SMME’s service the equipment regularly and some do not. Some SMME’s are able to cover their overheads from the projects they undertake and some are not. SMME’s residing in the NMBM have experienced a growth in their business over the last financial year, even though they have not received substantial work over this period. The quality of the end product produced by some SMME’s meets the standard required by the NMBM. Recommendations: To address the development needs of the SMME’s the SCM policy needs to be amended to provide business development services and off-the-job training. To address the access to finance needs of the SMME’s the SCM policy needs to be amended to assist SMME’s in acquiring start-up capital, getting a reduced interest rate and creating work opportunities through micro-financing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Evaluating the effectiveness of the performance management and development system in the Eastern Cape Liquor Board
- Authors: Tini, Linda Lindelwa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8937 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021216
- Description: Research studies have reported that many organisations implement a performance management and development system. However, it is often not as effective as it is intended. Against this background, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the performance management and development in the Eastern Cape Liquor Board (ECLB). The study emphasised the importance of an organisational culture that supports management of performance in order for the system to be effective. The study further highlighted that alignment between the performance of individuals and the organisation is critical as all efforts have to focus on the achievement of the organisational vision. The study also emphasised the importance of a process of determining key performance areas that is transparent and involves participation by all employees. The study further argued that the development and rewarding of employees for performance is crucial in ensuring an effective performance management system. The target population for this study consisted of ECLB employees including the district offices. The findings suggested that when the performance management and development system is not implemented in its entirety it cannot be effective. Furthermore, the findings revealed that ECLB implements some of the elements of the system correctly whilst other areas still require more attention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Tini, Linda Lindelwa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8937 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021216
- Description: Research studies have reported that many organisations implement a performance management and development system. However, it is often not as effective as it is intended. Against this background, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the performance management and development in the Eastern Cape Liquor Board (ECLB). The study emphasised the importance of an organisational culture that supports management of performance in order for the system to be effective. The study further highlighted that alignment between the performance of individuals and the organisation is critical as all efforts have to focus on the achievement of the organisational vision. The study also emphasised the importance of a process of determining key performance areas that is transparent and involves participation by all employees. The study further argued that the development and rewarding of employees for performance is crucial in ensuring an effective performance management system. The target population for this study consisted of ECLB employees including the district offices. The findings suggested that when the performance management and development system is not implemented in its entirety it cannot be effective. Furthermore, the findings revealed that ECLB implements some of the elements of the system correctly whilst other areas still require more attention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014