A model for smart factories in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector
- Authors: Mugwagwa, Basil
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Internet of things , Manufacturing processes -- Automation Drug factories Pharmaceutical technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41897 , vital:36607
- Description: Since the turn of the century, the manufacturing industry has metamorphosed from manually driven systems to digitalisation. Product life cycles have shortened and customer demands have become more intense. Globalisation has brought about challenges that drive the need for smart manufacturing. Industry 4.0 has emerged as a response to these demands. The integration of various processes, facilities and systems throughout the value chain and digitalisation of physical systems is promoted in Industry 4.0. Due to increased competitive pressures, organisations are strategically looking at automation to deliver competitive advantage in delivering products at the right cost, quality, time and volumes to the customers. Organisations are therefore looking for manufacturing solutions that are technology driven, such as cyber-physical systems, big data, collaborative robots and the Internet of Things. This allows autonomous communication throughout the value chain between machine-to-machine and human-to-machine. The smart factory, a component of Industry 4.0, is a self-organised, modular, highly flexible and reconfigurable factory that enables the production of customised products at low cost, therefore maximising profitability. Smart manufacturing can bring about competitive advantages for an organisation. Labour concerns have been raised against automation and smart manufacturing, citing potential job losses, workforce redundancy and potential employee lay-offs. This unease, in turn, influences the employees’ attitude towards technology, which could lead either to its acceptance or refusal. The purpose of this research is to enhance the understanding of smart factories in the pharmaceutical industry by conducting a systematic analysis of the factors which influence the attitude of those involved towards a smart factory implementation. This study focuses on the perceptions among employees and management. The research is a quantitative study consisting of a literature review of the key concepts related to Industry 4.0, smart factories and technology-acceptance theories. The empirical study consisted of surveys completed by management and employees of one of the pharmaceutical manufacturers in South Africa. The questionnaire used in this research consists of questions regarding demographic data and questions regarding the perception of change and factors influencing attitudes towards the acceptance of technology, within the pharmaceutical manufacturing company. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data into a more condensed form, which could simplify the identification of patterns in the data. Inferential statistics were used to validate if the conclusions made from the sample data could be inferred to a larger population. Various factors influence perceptions about ease of use and usefulness, which then, in turn, influence attitudes and the intention to use technology. These factors have been examined by numerous authors in the technology acceptance literature. Recommended factors based on the statistical analysis of the questionnaire results were identified. A model, supported by Exploratory Factor Analysis, Correlations and ANOVA Testing identified the following factors as having an influence on the Attitude towards the Positive Impact of Smart Factories, within the pharmaceutical manufacturing company: Training and Development, Individual Characteristics, Trust, Organisational Culture, Resources and Costs and Job Security. The importance of each factor was identified to understand its function how to improve the implementation of smart factories. The research results indicated that the perception of management and employees is different on factors like such as Training, Individual Characteristics, Trust, Resources and Costs, Automation and Support and Parent Company in relation to technology acceptance. There was however no difference in perception between managers and employees on Security, Government Laws and Regulations, Organisational Culture, Peer Support and Organisational Support in relation to technology acceptance. The research study contributed to the identification and understanding of the factors influencing the implementation of smart factories in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mugwagwa, Basil
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Internet of things , Manufacturing processes -- Automation Drug factories Pharmaceutical technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41897 , vital:36607
- Description: Since the turn of the century, the manufacturing industry has metamorphosed from manually driven systems to digitalisation. Product life cycles have shortened and customer demands have become more intense. Globalisation has brought about challenges that drive the need for smart manufacturing. Industry 4.0 has emerged as a response to these demands. The integration of various processes, facilities and systems throughout the value chain and digitalisation of physical systems is promoted in Industry 4.0. Due to increased competitive pressures, organisations are strategically looking at automation to deliver competitive advantage in delivering products at the right cost, quality, time and volumes to the customers. Organisations are therefore looking for manufacturing solutions that are technology driven, such as cyber-physical systems, big data, collaborative robots and the Internet of Things. This allows autonomous communication throughout the value chain between machine-to-machine and human-to-machine. The smart factory, a component of Industry 4.0, is a self-organised, modular, highly flexible and reconfigurable factory that enables the production of customised products at low cost, therefore maximising profitability. Smart manufacturing can bring about competitive advantages for an organisation. Labour concerns have been raised against automation and smart manufacturing, citing potential job losses, workforce redundancy and potential employee lay-offs. This unease, in turn, influences the employees’ attitude towards technology, which could lead either to its acceptance or refusal. The purpose of this research is to enhance the understanding of smart factories in the pharmaceutical industry by conducting a systematic analysis of the factors which influence the attitude of those involved towards a smart factory implementation. This study focuses on the perceptions among employees and management. The research is a quantitative study consisting of a literature review of the key concepts related to Industry 4.0, smart factories and technology-acceptance theories. The empirical study consisted of surveys completed by management and employees of one of the pharmaceutical manufacturers in South Africa. The questionnaire used in this research consists of questions regarding demographic data and questions regarding the perception of change and factors influencing attitudes towards the acceptance of technology, within the pharmaceutical manufacturing company. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data into a more condensed form, which could simplify the identification of patterns in the data. Inferential statistics were used to validate if the conclusions made from the sample data could be inferred to a larger population. Various factors influence perceptions about ease of use and usefulness, which then, in turn, influence attitudes and the intention to use technology. These factors have been examined by numerous authors in the technology acceptance literature. Recommended factors based on the statistical analysis of the questionnaire results were identified. A model, supported by Exploratory Factor Analysis, Correlations and ANOVA Testing identified the following factors as having an influence on the Attitude towards the Positive Impact of Smart Factories, within the pharmaceutical manufacturing company: Training and Development, Individual Characteristics, Trust, Organisational Culture, Resources and Costs and Job Security. The importance of each factor was identified to understand its function how to improve the implementation of smart factories. The research results indicated that the perception of management and employees is different on factors like such as Training, Individual Characteristics, Trust, Resources and Costs, Automation and Support and Parent Company in relation to technology acceptance. There was however no difference in perception between managers and employees on Security, Government Laws and Regulations, Organisational Culture, Peer Support and Organisational Support in relation to technology acceptance. The research study contributed to the identification and understanding of the factors influencing the implementation of smart factories in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A study on technology adoption in agriculture in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Keevy, Christine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Agricultural implements -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48628 , vital:41054
- Description: arrival of the Fourth Industrial Revolution has brought with it a vast array of new technologies that can be applied across many industries and various applications, to help solve many of the social, economic and environmental issues the world faces. However, it also heralds in an unprecedented rate of change. The agricultural industry is expected to be heavily affected by new technology. As they are run by smaller management teams they may need support from organisations to introduce technologies. The study aims to identify drivers and barriers to technology adoption in agriculture through a conceptual model based on the Technology Adoption Model, Diffusion of Innovation Theory, and a Technology-Organisation-Environment Model, along with a thorough industry analysis. The study obtained quantitative data from 59 respondents from the Eastern Cape farming community. The key findings include the identification of Perceived Usefulness and Industry Pressures as the variables with a significant driving influence on the intention to adopt new technologies. However, Perceived Ease of Use, Employee Knowledge and External Support Structures were found to have a negative relationship with the adoption of technology. It has been interpreted that improvements in these areas may enable farmers to adopt technology more easily but that farmers feel sufficient pressure to make them adopt technology despite the complexities and lack of required internal skills or external support. Due to the low number of respondents, it is not possible to infer the findings on the larger population of farmers. The findings can therefore only be used as exploratory findings which need to be verified in focus groups, with farmers, before any action is taken. However, the findings in the study can be used to aid the definition of frameworks for further studies and the development of action plans to support farmers in the adoption of technology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Keevy, Christine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Agricultural implements -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48628 , vital:41054
- Description: arrival of the Fourth Industrial Revolution has brought with it a vast array of new technologies that can be applied across many industries and various applications, to help solve many of the social, economic and environmental issues the world faces. However, it also heralds in an unprecedented rate of change. The agricultural industry is expected to be heavily affected by new technology. As they are run by smaller management teams they may need support from organisations to introduce technologies. The study aims to identify drivers and barriers to technology adoption in agriculture through a conceptual model based on the Technology Adoption Model, Diffusion of Innovation Theory, and a Technology-Organisation-Environment Model, along with a thorough industry analysis. The study obtained quantitative data from 59 respondents from the Eastern Cape farming community. The key findings include the identification of Perceived Usefulness and Industry Pressures as the variables with a significant driving influence on the intention to adopt new technologies. However, Perceived Ease of Use, Employee Knowledge and External Support Structures were found to have a negative relationship with the adoption of technology. It has been interpreted that improvements in these areas may enable farmers to adopt technology more easily but that farmers feel sufficient pressure to make them adopt technology despite the complexities and lack of required internal skills or external support. Due to the low number of respondents, it is not possible to infer the findings on the larger population of farmers. The findings can therefore only be used as exploratory findings which need to be verified in focus groups, with farmers, before any action is taken. However, the findings in the study can be used to aid the definition of frameworks for further studies and the development of action plans to support farmers in the adoption of technology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Africa’s readiness for electric vehicles towards 2025
- Authors: Ghansar, Grant John
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electric vehicles -- Economic aspects , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42152 , vital:36630
- Description: Disruption is an ongoing process. Nearly every industry has experienced some form of disruption, and these disruptions bring about a changing of the guard. At the turn of the twentieth century, the automobile of that era was considered to be a toy for the rich. Henry Ford, however, had a vision that changed this equation. He saw the automobile as a way to displace the horse and increase the ability to transport people over larger distances. Vehicles eventually became more affordable to the average person. The global automotive industry is currently ripe for disruption. An understanding and appreciation of Africa’s readiness for the future of electric vehicles will be off significant value to various stakeholders throughout Africa. This research will identify and describe current drivers that should be appreciated for the government, business communities, academic institutions, automotive manufacturer’s policy makers, and society at large to make intelligent decisions about Africa’s readiness for electric vehicles towards 2025 and beyond. This study was aimed at identifying possible futures of Africa’s readiness for electric vehicles towards 2025. Causal Layered Analysis (CLA) and the Six Pillars of Futures were utilised as the preferred methodologies to respond to the research objectives of this study. A detailed literature study was undertaken to evaluate the existing body of knowledge on the research topic. The literature study revealed that several factors need to be addressed, and that there is a robust requirement for a fundamental shift in the ways and methods of planning the future of the automotive industry in Africa and its readiness for the electric vehicle industry towards 2025. Most major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) have already committed to changing their products and fleets to alternative mobility in the near future. As vehicles move toward EVs and self-driving, the future becomes more uncertain; thus, the focus on urban transport and clean mobility is pertinent in Africa due to its anticipated rapid increase in urban share, resulting in a mobility revolution in the coming years. Electric vehicles are therefore imminent, and with Africa being a developing continent, it is imperative that the individual countries are proactive in embracing the new disruption, and in doing so, become the front runners for the future transportation method.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ghansar, Grant John
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electric vehicles -- Economic aspects , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42152 , vital:36630
- Description: Disruption is an ongoing process. Nearly every industry has experienced some form of disruption, and these disruptions bring about a changing of the guard. At the turn of the twentieth century, the automobile of that era was considered to be a toy for the rich. Henry Ford, however, had a vision that changed this equation. He saw the automobile as a way to displace the horse and increase the ability to transport people over larger distances. Vehicles eventually became more affordable to the average person. The global automotive industry is currently ripe for disruption. An understanding and appreciation of Africa’s readiness for the future of electric vehicles will be off significant value to various stakeholders throughout Africa. This research will identify and describe current drivers that should be appreciated for the government, business communities, academic institutions, automotive manufacturer’s policy makers, and society at large to make intelligent decisions about Africa’s readiness for electric vehicles towards 2025 and beyond. This study was aimed at identifying possible futures of Africa’s readiness for electric vehicles towards 2025. Causal Layered Analysis (CLA) and the Six Pillars of Futures were utilised as the preferred methodologies to respond to the research objectives of this study. A detailed literature study was undertaken to evaluate the existing body of knowledge on the research topic. The literature study revealed that several factors need to be addressed, and that there is a robust requirement for a fundamental shift in the ways and methods of planning the future of the automotive industry in Africa and its readiness for the electric vehicle industry towards 2025. Most major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) have already committed to changing their products and fleets to alternative mobility in the near future. As vehicles move toward EVs and self-driving, the future becomes more uncertain; thus, the focus on urban transport and clean mobility is pertinent in Africa due to its anticipated rapid increase in urban share, resulting in a mobility revolution in the coming years. Electric vehicles are therefore imminent, and with Africa being a developing continent, it is imperative that the individual countries are proactive in embracing the new disruption, and in doing so, become the front runners for the future transportation method.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Altruistic love culture and workers well-being: a study in workplace spirituality
- Authors: Simms, Michelle
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Employee assistance programs -- South Africa , Religion in the workplace Altruism Interpersonal relations and culture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43468 , vital:36892
- Description: Business leaders and company analysts identify the fact that the marketplace necessitates flexibility and mobility to triumph over the competitive difficulties which businesses usually encounter. More recently approaches have focused on the role that people perform in bringing about competitive advantage and in particular strategies on how to increase Employee Well-being. Given the need for Employee Well-being in order to achieve desired work-related results, management has become progressively more enthusiastic about methods to improve the well-being of their employees. This research study seeks to make a contribution to this topic by investigating how Employee Well-being can be increased by inculcating an Altruistic Love culture amongst employees. To achieve this objective an Employee Well-Being Model was presented. Spiritual Leadership in the workplace was discussed as the theoretical framework with Altruistic Love as a feature in the intrinsic model of motivation explained further. Six values were defined and according to the theoretical framework were important in order to achieve Employee Well-being. These values were Appreciation, Kindness, Integrity, Compassion, Humility and Forgiveness. The Employee Well-Being Model served as a basis for the compilation of the survey questionnaire to investigate the role of Altruistic Love values in achieving Employee Well-being. The questionnaire was administered in two stages. The first was a printed survey distributed to all workers at a FMCG company called Springbok Discount Meat Centre. The second part was an electronic survey sent out by email, where a link to the online survey could be accessed. The empirical results revealed that Appreciation, Kindness, Integrity and Humility were significantly positively related to Employee Well-being. Compassion was significantly negatively related to Employee Well-being. It can consequently be postulated that there will be a significant improvement of Employee Well-Being in the workplace if Altruistic Love values, defined in the study as Appreciation, Kindness, Integrity and Humility are practised more often by employees including management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Simms, Michelle
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Employee assistance programs -- South Africa , Religion in the workplace Altruism Interpersonal relations and culture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43468 , vital:36892
- Description: Business leaders and company analysts identify the fact that the marketplace necessitates flexibility and mobility to triumph over the competitive difficulties which businesses usually encounter. More recently approaches have focused on the role that people perform in bringing about competitive advantage and in particular strategies on how to increase Employee Well-being. Given the need for Employee Well-being in order to achieve desired work-related results, management has become progressively more enthusiastic about methods to improve the well-being of their employees. This research study seeks to make a contribution to this topic by investigating how Employee Well-being can be increased by inculcating an Altruistic Love culture amongst employees. To achieve this objective an Employee Well-Being Model was presented. Spiritual Leadership in the workplace was discussed as the theoretical framework with Altruistic Love as a feature in the intrinsic model of motivation explained further. Six values were defined and according to the theoretical framework were important in order to achieve Employee Well-being. These values were Appreciation, Kindness, Integrity, Compassion, Humility and Forgiveness. The Employee Well-Being Model served as a basis for the compilation of the survey questionnaire to investigate the role of Altruistic Love values in achieving Employee Well-being. The questionnaire was administered in two stages. The first was a printed survey distributed to all workers at a FMCG company called Springbok Discount Meat Centre. The second part was an electronic survey sent out by email, where a link to the online survey could be accessed. The empirical results revealed that Appreciation, Kindness, Integrity and Humility were significantly positively related to Employee Well-being. Compassion was significantly negatively related to Employee Well-being. It can consequently be postulated that there will be a significant improvement of Employee Well-Being in the workplace if Altruistic Love values, defined in the study as Appreciation, Kindness, Integrity and Humility are practised more often by employees including management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An analysis of barriers to employee adoption of workplace health and safety standards at Eskom, Makhanda (Grahamstown)
- Authors: Makholwane, Nobubele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Eskom (Firm) -- Employees -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Eskom (Firm) -- Management -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Industrial hygiene -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/93898 , vital:30968
- Description: Workplace fatalities and injuries are a concern around the world, with over 2 million deaths because of workplace related activities. This makes safety culture in the workplace crucial to the sustainability of individuals, businesses and the society in general. Safety culture includes everything in the workplace, and is understood as common sense awareness and practice relating to safety. Central to developing a safety culture in an organization, is a good understanding of what safety problems existed in the past; what safety problems exist in the present, and what caused them, as well as what could be done to deal with those causes. The goal of this thesis, therefore, was to understand what barriers potentially exist for Eskom employees in Makhanda (Grahamstown) to understanding and adopting the company’s safety policies and measures. A secondary aim was to explore different strategies for addressing these barriers. In order to get to the goal, it was important to; first, understand which aspects of Eskom’s health and safety standards do employees have difficulty adopting. Second, it was important to investigate the specific barriers to employees’ non-adoption of health and safety standards, by understanding their perceptions of safety issues in the workplace. Third, based on the findings, the study aimed to propose recommendations for improving the adoption of safety policies and measures by employees of Eskom. The key findings of the study include the fact that car accidents are the company’s and employees major concern, but the employees also have many other concerns that they see as needing the company’s attention (e.g. dealing with attacks on employees by customers; focusing on incentives rather than harsh enforcement for violators of safety policies). However, it is also clear that most employees do see safety as their responsibility as well. The two key areas of recommendations are, first, that leadership of Eskom adopt alternative leadership styles that focus more on ethical leadership, rather than transactional leadership that focus on profit margins more than it does on people. Second, it is recommended that Eskom provide incentives for compliance with safety policies; more training and education about safety; encouragement for Eskom to not put so much pressure on employees, who can lead fatigue; rather they should employ more people to do the jobs that the high pressure. To conclude, this research argues that neither do employees not employers think death and injuries are good for anybody. This is why this researcher is hopeful that this will get better, not worse, in terms of having a firm safety culture at Eskom as a workplace environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Makholwane, Nobubele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Eskom (Firm) -- Employees -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Eskom (Firm) -- Management -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Industrial hygiene -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/93898 , vital:30968
- Description: Workplace fatalities and injuries are a concern around the world, with over 2 million deaths because of workplace related activities. This makes safety culture in the workplace crucial to the sustainability of individuals, businesses and the society in general. Safety culture includes everything in the workplace, and is understood as common sense awareness and practice relating to safety. Central to developing a safety culture in an organization, is a good understanding of what safety problems existed in the past; what safety problems exist in the present, and what caused them, as well as what could be done to deal with those causes. The goal of this thesis, therefore, was to understand what barriers potentially exist for Eskom employees in Makhanda (Grahamstown) to understanding and adopting the company’s safety policies and measures. A secondary aim was to explore different strategies for addressing these barriers. In order to get to the goal, it was important to; first, understand which aspects of Eskom’s health and safety standards do employees have difficulty adopting. Second, it was important to investigate the specific barriers to employees’ non-adoption of health and safety standards, by understanding their perceptions of safety issues in the workplace. Third, based on the findings, the study aimed to propose recommendations for improving the adoption of safety policies and measures by employees of Eskom. The key findings of the study include the fact that car accidents are the company’s and employees major concern, but the employees also have many other concerns that they see as needing the company’s attention (e.g. dealing with attacks on employees by customers; focusing on incentives rather than harsh enforcement for violators of safety policies). However, it is also clear that most employees do see safety as their responsibility as well. The two key areas of recommendations are, first, that leadership of Eskom adopt alternative leadership styles that focus more on ethical leadership, rather than transactional leadership that focus on profit margins more than it does on people. Second, it is recommended that Eskom provide incentives for compliance with safety policies; more training and education about safety; encouragement for Eskom to not put so much pressure on employees, who can lead fatigue; rather they should employ more people to do the jobs that the high pressure. To conclude, this research argues that neither do employees not employers think death and injuries are good for anybody. This is why this researcher is hopeful that this will get better, not worse, in terms of having a firm safety culture at Eskom as a workplace environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An analysis of how smart ships are going to impact the manning costs of merchant ships by 2028
- Authors: Ramonyaluoe, Tshepo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Shipping
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43024 , vital:36725
- Description: The maritime shipping industry is one of the most important industries in global logistics and economics. It facilitates international trade of goods and other commodities, whilst also supporting other sectors like tourism and the oil and gas industry. Despite technological breakthroughs over the years, the maritime shipping industry has not undergone any huge and fundamental changes in the way it conducts business. This is about to drastically change with the advent of the fourth industrial revolution. For the past two decades, the industry has been battling escalating operating costs due to challenges pertaining to diminishing skilled labour, increasing fuel costs and growing environmental concerns. These challenges are fast approaching crisis levels and a solution appears to be on the horizon in the form of smart ships; autonomous and remotely controlled ships that fully embrace the benefits of artificial intelligence, robotics and automation. The main purpose of this research is to determine how smart ships are going to affect the costs of manning a merchant ship by 2028. The study analyses the voyage cost structure of merchant's vessels, and looks at how smart ships are going to impact the costs of crewing a ship. This is a qualitative study that employed futures methodology called Environmental Scanning. This paper has led to conclusions and recommendations that should enable maritime shipping companies and agents to develop strategies that yield increased competitiveness in the age of smart technologies and big data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ramonyaluoe, Tshepo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Shipping
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43024 , vital:36725
- Description: The maritime shipping industry is one of the most important industries in global logistics and economics. It facilitates international trade of goods and other commodities, whilst also supporting other sectors like tourism and the oil and gas industry. Despite technological breakthroughs over the years, the maritime shipping industry has not undergone any huge and fundamental changes in the way it conducts business. This is about to drastically change with the advent of the fourth industrial revolution. For the past two decades, the industry has been battling escalating operating costs due to challenges pertaining to diminishing skilled labour, increasing fuel costs and growing environmental concerns. These challenges are fast approaching crisis levels and a solution appears to be on the horizon in the form of smart ships; autonomous and remotely controlled ships that fully embrace the benefits of artificial intelligence, robotics and automation. The main purpose of this research is to determine how smart ships are going to affect the costs of manning a merchant ship by 2028. The study analyses the voyage cost structure of merchant's vessels, and looks at how smart ships are going to impact the costs of crewing a ship. This is a qualitative study that employed futures methodology called Environmental Scanning. This paper has led to conclusions and recommendations that should enable maritime shipping companies and agents to develop strategies that yield increased competitiveness in the age of smart technologies and big data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An analysis of logistics companies as contributors to efficient supply chain solution to the automotive industry within the Nelson Mandela Bay
- Nyweba, Akhona Gcinashe Andiswa
- Authors: Nyweba, Akhona Gcinashe Andiswa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Business logistics -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Industrial procurement -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Physical distribution of goods -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42957 , vital:36714
- Description: Nelson Mandela Bay region is one of the leading provinces that are contributing positively to the South African economy as the province is privillaged to being the home for giant multinational original equipment manufactureres (OEMs) such as Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA), Isuzu South Africa, Ford South Africa, First Auto Works (FAW), Beijing Automoive Industry Holding Company (BAIC) South Africa, Mercedes and Daimler. To support these automotive companies, logistics companies such as Transnet State Owned Company (SOC) Ltd, DHL South Africa, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) need to ensure that they positively influence the smooth transition of goods. However there are challenges of cost and inefficiences currently faced by the industry. These challenges effectively affect economic growth and the sustainability of the automotive industry. Against this background, this treatise investigates and seeks to address the underlying factors contributing to the ineffectiveness and inefficiency in supply chain for the industry. By establising and understanding how the logistic companies can contribute towards the sustainanbility of the automotive industry in the Nelson Mandela Bay region by driving efficiences in the value chain. The logistics companies are major influencers in the value chain for the industry and by breaking down logistics and supply chains as enablers will be beneficial for the industry. The overall objectives are to reveal and address the automotive industry’s supply chain challenges in order to improve efficiency and effectiveness. This will ultimately contribute to reducing the cost of doing business and improve the competitiveness of the industry. Furthermore to that, the researcher looked at the internal aspects such as resource availability, current infrastracture in the region, interconnection between road, rail and sea. On the external aspects, the researcher looked at the economic stability in the region, unemployment rate, and conduction of customer surveys to analyse how the automotive industry can be helped. These conclusions indicate that the above mentioned factors are contributing to the state of supply chain solutions in the Nelson Mandela Bay region and the recommendations highlighted will make a positive impact in the automotive industry within region. The study was done using the quantitative business research methodology, with an electronic survey as the measuring instrument. The sample consisted of industry players in the automotive industry within the Nelson Mandela Bay region. Future research regarding the topic on hand which is to analyse logistics companies as contributors to efficient supply chain solution to the automotive industry within the Nelson Mandela bay could be futher extended to other geographical arears. Furthermore, the research could be used by other industries to gain advantage on how their value chains can be improved thereby positively inpacting the overall trade and investment of the country and boosting econonomic stability for the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nyweba, Akhona Gcinashe Andiswa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Business logistics -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Industrial procurement -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Physical distribution of goods -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42957 , vital:36714
- Description: Nelson Mandela Bay region is one of the leading provinces that are contributing positively to the South African economy as the province is privillaged to being the home for giant multinational original equipment manufactureres (OEMs) such as Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA), Isuzu South Africa, Ford South Africa, First Auto Works (FAW), Beijing Automoive Industry Holding Company (BAIC) South Africa, Mercedes and Daimler. To support these automotive companies, logistics companies such as Transnet State Owned Company (SOC) Ltd, DHL South Africa, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) need to ensure that they positively influence the smooth transition of goods. However there are challenges of cost and inefficiences currently faced by the industry. These challenges effectively affect economic growth and the sustainability of the automotive industry. Against this background, this treatise investigates and seeks to address the underlying factors contributing to the ineffectiveness and inefficiency in supply chain for the industry. By establising and understanding how the logistic companies can contribute towards the sustainanbility of the automotive industry in the Nelson Mandela Bay region by driving efficiences in the value chain. The logistics companies are major influencers in the value chain for the industry and by breaking down logistics and supply chains as enablers will be beneficial for the industry. The overall objectives are to reveal and address the automotive industry’s supply chain challenges in order to improve efficiency and effectiveness. This will ultimately contribute to reducing the cost of doing business and improve the competitiveness of the industry. Furthermore to that, the researcher looked at the internal aspects such as resource availability, current infrastracture in the region, interconnection between road, rail and sea. On the external aspects, the researcher looked at the economic stability in the region, unemployment rate, and conduction of customer surveys to analyse how the automotive industry can be helped. These conclusions indicate that the above mentioned factors are contributing to the state of supply chain solutions in the Nelson Mandela Bay region and the recommendations highlighted will make a positive impact in the automotive industry within region. The study was done using the quantitative business research methodology, with an electronic survey as the measuring instrument. The sample consisted of industry players in the automotive industry within the Nelson Mandela Bay region. Future research regarding the topic on hand which is to analyse logistics companies as contributors to efficient supply chain solution to the automotive industry within the Nelson Mandela bay could be futher extended to other geographical arears. Furthermore, the research could be used by other industries to gain advantage on how their value chains can be improved thereby positively inpacting the overall trade and investment of the country and boosting econonomic stability for the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of community partnerships with Amadlelo Agri in the Keiskammahoek dairy: A case of Amahlathi Local Municipality
- Authors: Hlobongwana, Vukile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture -- Economic aspects , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40150 , vital:35821
- Description: The study is based on partnerships between a rural agricultural community of South Africa and a private dairy company based in the Eastern Cape Province. The Department of Rural Development took an initiative to revitalise all the schemes inherited from the former homelands. Although profits earned from agriculture tend not to be immediate but rather gradual, the advancement of agriculture stimulates economic activity in other sectors. Amadlelo Agri in partnership with the communities and Government have turned this into a multi- million-rand profitable business. The challenge is how to replicate the model to operate on a large scale. The current setup has its pitfalls, and these include cutting of fences and allowing village animals to graze in the pastures belonging to the Dairy. To ensure that the study was well articulated and to assess and address those challenges, the project utilised a case study inquiry of the Amahlathi local municipality in the specific partnership of Amadlelo Agri and the Keiskammahoek community in shared milk ownership initiative. Primary data was collected using simple mixed methods research approach to 8 community members as the instrument was more aligned to the qualitative nature of the inquiry. Gathered data was organised and cleaned manually for analysis. Following the review and discussion of the findings the main findings that the study observed in the assessment of the benefits of community partnerships or sharedownerships are as follows: female and youths are not participating in such types of programmes; contradiction exists between participants regarding the objectives of the initiative; there is a lack of clarity from the developer side with regards to the type of shared ownership initiative; farmers lack the know-how of appropriately handling funds, strategic planning and marketing skills; partnerships are very influential in the creation of work culture and coordination in the community; resource endowment is a crucial factor hindering small scale farmers; and farmers’ training, development and update is lacking consistency. Recommendations put emphasis on ensuring that training is consistent and rigorous to ensure that the community will gain experience of the value of the project which can motivate and ensure that protection is improved by the same community members due to sense of ownership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Hlobongwana, Vukile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture -- Economic aspects , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40150 , vital:35821
- Description: The study is based on partnerships between a rural agricultural community of South Africa and a private dairy company based in the Eastern Cape Province. The Department of Rural Development took an initiative to revitalise all the schemes inherited from the former homelands. Although profits earned from agriculture tend not to be immediate but rather gradual, the advancement of agriculture stimulates economic activity in other sectors. Amadlelo Agri in partnership with the communities and Government have turned this into a multi- million-rand profitable business. The challenge is how to replicate the model to operate on a large scale. The current setup has its pitfalls, and these include cutting of fences and allowing village animals to graze in the pastures belonging to the Dairy. To ensure that the study was well articulated and to assess and address those challenges, the project utilised a case study inquiry of the Amahlathi local municipality in the specific partnership of Amadlelo Agri and the Keiskammahoek community in shared milk ownership initiative. Primary data was collected using simple mixed methods research approach to 8 community members as the instrument was more aligned to the qualitative nature of the inquiry. Gathered data was organised and cleaned manually for analysis. Following the review and discussion of the findings the main findings that the study observed in the assessment of the benefits of community partnerships or sharedownerships are as follows: female and youths are not participating in such types of programmes; contradiction exists between participants regarding the objectives of the initiative; there is a lack of clarity from the developer side with regards to the type of shared ownership initiative; farmers lack the know-how of appropriately handling funds, strategic planning and marketing skills; partnerships are very influential in the creation of work culture and coordination in the community; resource endowment is a crucial factor hindering small scale farmers; and farmers’ training, development and update is lacking consistency. Recommendations put emphasis on ensuring that training is consistent and rigorous to ensure that the community will gain experience of the value of the project which can motivate and ensure that protection is improved by the same community members due to sense of ownership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An evaluation of loyalty programmes
- Authors: Thaver, Aneshree Terrilla
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Customer loyalty programs -- South Africa , Customer clubs -- Evaluation Customer relations -- Evaluation Customer services -- Management Consumer satisfaction -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43856 , vital:37062
- Description: A Loyalty Programme, is the term most commonly used to summarise various Customer Relationship Management programmes instituted by companies, to endear and encourage loyalty from customers. In order to better understand the component of loyalty within the context of Loyalty Programmes, a dimensional approach has been suggested. The dimensional approach is based firstly, on behavioural loyalty theories, which focus on purchase patterns to qualify/quantify loyalty. Secondly, it included attitudinal loyalty measures to account for customer’s actions and feelings to aid in both the conceptualisation and measurement of loyalty. The need to understand and evaluate the effects of programmes specifically designed to promote loyalty from customers has prompted a surge in academic research, which has led to great debate over the effectiveness of these programmes. Previous empirical research has provided divergent findings and many polarised views abound. This is due in part to the lack of consistent research methodologies, concepts and measurements of previous studies, which has made the comparison of Loyalty Programmes increasingly difficult. However, despite these challenges, there remains substantial evidence in support of the overall effectiveness of Loyalty Programmes. The aim of this research has been to focus on developing a model to evaluate the components of Loyalty Programmes based on attitudinal and behavioural loyalty dimensions, with the view of recommending components that should be included in the design of Loyalty Programmes. An in-depth literature review was conducted and the two dimensions of loyalty (attitudinal and behavioural) were examined. Additionally, the following Theories were explored Social Exchange Theory, Equity Theory and the Theory of Planned Behaviour, to examine the interchange between participants of Loyalty Programmes. The review of literature further laid the foundation for the conceptual model that proposed purchase behaviour, trust, communication, personalisation, flexibility, rewards and methods of participation as components which influenced Loyalty Programmes. A multi-method study, with 1090 respondents, was conducted and a proposed conceptual model was compiled. An analysis was conducted through various descriptive and inferential statistical tests as well as Exploratory Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis. The results of the study identified the following factors Attitudinal loyalty (Attitudinal – Communication, Attitudinal – Flexibility, Attitudinal – General, Attitudinal – Rewards (Personal and Monetary) and Attitudinal – Trust) and Behavioural loyalty (Behavioural – Communication, Behavioural – Flexibility, Behavioural – General, Behavioural – Personalisation, Behavioural – Purchasing Behaviour, Behavioural – Rewards and Behavioural – Trust) to be of influence with regard to the effectiveness of Loyalty Programmes. The study concludes with managerial recommendations for the improvement in the design of Loyalty Programmes to enhance Attitudinal and Behavioural loyalty from participants. The recommendations from this study are based on the three strongest factor relationships identified through Pearson Product Moment Correlations. They are (a) Attitude – General and Behavioural – General (0.723), (b) Attitude – Communication and Behavioural – Communication (0.691) and (c) Attitude – Trust and Behavioural – Trust (0.595). Hence it is suggested that communication surrounding Loyalty Programmes needs to embrace new technologies and adopt a multichannel and multi-directional strategy to be more responsive to customers. Furthermore, trust was found to be influential in Loyalty Programme participation and how managers used the shared personal data, impacted customer willingness to participate in Loyalty Programmes. This study found that overall purchasing behaviour is poorly influenced by Loyalty Card/Programmes, as discounts and promotions did not sway shopper purchasing behaviour and that the most preferred rewards were monetary, free shipping and brand partnerships. In summary, consideration should be given to the type, flexibility and expiration of rewards offered. Further, a regular review of personalisation strategies, customer expectations and participation methods are recommended to bridge the mismatch between idle membership and active participation in Loyalty Programmes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Thaver, Aneshree Terrilla
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Customer loyalty programs -- South Africa , Customer clubs -- Evaluation Customer relations -- Evaluation Customer services -- Management Consumer satisfaction -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43856 , vital:37062
- Description: A Loyalty Programme, is the term most commonly used to summarise various Customer Relationship Management programmes instituted by companies, to endear and encourage loyalty from customers. In order to better understand the component of loyalty within the context of Loyalty Programmes, a dimensional approach has been suggested. The dimensional approach is based firstly, on behavioural loyalty theories, which focus on purchase patterns to qualify/quantify loyalty. Secondly, it included attitudinal loyalty measures to account for customer’s actions and feelings to aid in both the conceptualisation and measurement of loyalty. The need to understand and evaluate the effects of programmes specifically designed to promote loyalty from customers has prompted a surge in academic research, which has led to great debate over the effectiveness of these programmes. Previous empirical research has provided divergent findings and many polarised views abound. This is due in part to the lack of consistent research methodologies, concepts and measurements of previous studies, which has made the comparison of Loyalty Programmes increasingly difficult. However, despite these challenges, there remains substantial evidence in support of the overall effectiveness of Loyalty Programmes. The aim of this research has been to focus on developing a model to evaluate the components of Loyalty Programmes based on attitudinal and behavioural loyalty dimensions, with the view of recommending components that should be included in the design of Loyalty Programmes. An in-depth literature review was conducted and the two dimensions of loyalty (attitudinal and behavioural) were examined. Additionally, the following Theories were explored Social Exchange Theory, Equity Theory and the Theory of Planned Behaviour, to examine the interchange between participants of Loyalty Programmes. The review of literature further laid the foundation for the conceptual model that proposed purchase behaviour, trust, communication, personalisation, flexibility, rewards and methods of participation as components which influenced Loyalty Programmes. A multi-method study, with 1090 respondents, was conducted and a proposed conceptual model was compiled. An analysis was conducted through various descriptive and inferential statistical tests as well as Exploratory Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis. The results of the study identified the following factors Attitudinal loyalty (Attitudinal – Communication, Attitudinal – Flexibility, Attitudinal – General, Attitudinal – Rewards (Personal and Monetary) and Attitudinal – Trust) and Behavioural loyalty (Behavioural – Communication, Behavioural – Flexibility, Behavioural – General, Behavioural – Personalisation, Behavioural – Purchasing Behaviour, Behavioural – Rewards and Behavioural – Trust) to be of influence with regard to the effectiveness of Loyalty Programmes. The study concludes with managerial recommendations for the improvement in the design of Loyalty Programmes to enhance Attitudinal and Behavioural loyalty from participants. The recommendations from this study are based on the three strongest factor relationships identified through Pearson Product Moment Correlations. They are (a) Attitude – General and Behavioural – General (0.723), (b) Attitude – Communication and Behavioural – Communication (0.691) and (c) Attitude – Trust and Behavioural – Trust (0.595). Hence it is suggested that communication surrounding Loyalty Programmes needs to embrace new technologies and adopt a multichannel and multi-directional strategy to be more responsive to customers. Furthermore, trust was found to be influential in Loyalty Programme participation and how managers used the shared personal data, impacted customer willingness to participate in Loyalty Programmes. This study found that overall purchasing behaviour is poorly influenced by Loyalty Card/Programmes, as discounts and promotions did not sway shopper purchasing behaviour and that the most preferred rewards were monetary, free shipping and brand partnerships. In summary, consideration should be given to the type, flexibility and expiration of rewards offered. Further, a regular review of personalisation strategies, customer expectations and participation methods are recommended to bridge the mismatch between idle membership and active participation in Loyalty Programmes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An evaluation of social team building intervention on MBA group formation
- Authors: Westraadt, Johan Ewald
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Team learning approach in education , Business Administration -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45679 , vital:38926
- Description: Teamwork and the ability to work effectively in a team is a critical skill in a technologically complex workplace where no individual can possess all the knowledge and skills. MBA programmes, therefore, require students to work in collaborative learning groups in order to not only share their knowledge and skills, but also to develop the needed team-based competencies. However, collaborative learning groups are prone to many pitfalls that could result in intra-group conflict and inefficiencies such as social loafing, where the group performance is less than the sum of the output of the individual members when working alone. Team development interventions (TDI) aim to improve team-based competencies of a team. One type of TDI that is often employed is social team building. It typically consists of a one-day extra-mural excursion involving some non-work-related tasks performed by teams to improve interpersonal relationships. The MBA groups are pre-allocated at the start of the academic programme and team building interventions are therefore needed to facilitate group formation. The main research question in this study deals with the effectiveness of these social team building TDI’s to promote group formation. The literature of teams and the factors that influence team effectivity were reviewed. Input-Process-Output models relate the factors that drive team performance. Three team viability measures critical to a teams’ performance were identified namely, group cohesion, group communication and goal-setting. There is strong empirical evidence that these factors contribute positively to the performance of the team. The influence of team building interventions on each of these factors were discussed. There is empirical evidence for the impact of team building interventions on these affective outcomes. However, empirical evidence for the link to objective performance measures is still lacking
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Westraadt, Johan Ewald
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Team learning approach in education , Business Administration -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45679 , vital:38926
- Description: Teamwork and the ability to work effectively in a team is a critical skill in a technologically complex workplace where no individual can possess all the knowledge and skills. MBA programmes, therefore, require students to work in collaborative learning groups in order to not only share their knowledge and skills, but also to develop the needed team-based competencies. However, collaborative learning groups are prone to many pitfalls that could result in intra-group conflict and inefficiencies such as social loafing, where the group performance is less than the sum of the output of the individual members when working alone. Team development interventions (TDI) aim to improve team-based competencies of a team. One type of TDI that is often employed is social team building. It typically consists of a one-day extra-mural excursion involving some non-work-related tasks performed by teams to improve interpersonal relationships. The MBA groups are pre-allocated at the start of the academic programme and team building interventions are therefore needed to facilitate group formation. The main research question in this study deals with the effectiveness of these social team building TDI’s to promote group formation. The literature of teams and the factors that influence team effectivity were reviewed. Input-Process-Output models relate the factors that drive team performance. Three team viability measures critical to a teams’ performance were identified namely, group cohesion, group communication and goal-setting. There is strong empirical evidence that these factors contribute positively to the performance of the team. The influence of team building interventions on each of these factors were discussed. There is empirical evidence for the impact of team building interventions on these affective outcomes. However, empirical evidence for the link to objective performance measures is still lacking
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An exploratory case study of accelerator programmes in the Republic of South Africa
- Authors: Mametse, Mmankitseng Lerato
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/92639 , vital:30737
- Description: South Africa is facing a challenge of poverty, unemployment and low growth. Government has identified the small and medium-sized business (SME) sector as one of the ways through which to combat these challenges. Government has also set up programmes and agencies to support SMEs in their search for funding and other kinds of support. South Africa, however, has one of the highest rates of SME failures in the world, with the majority not surviving beyond three years. Alternative interventions are therefore required to support South Africa’s SMEs to become sustainable companies beyond three years and to contribute positively to economic growth, poverty alleviation and job creation. This paper explores one kind of intervention that has been used internationally and that is increasingly being adopted in South Africa. Accelerator programmes, aimed at supporting start-ups to get to the next level of their development, have been growing in numbers around the world, trying to replicate the success of the original accelerator programme – the Y Combinator – which was responsible for the success of household names such as Airbnb and Dropbox. Accelerator programmes help start-up companies define and build their initial products, identify promising customer segments, and secure resources, including capital and employees. By making these necessary resources available to start-ups, it may be possible to ensure that fewer start-ups fail and more SMEs remain sustainable into the future. Several accelerator programmes have been founded in South Africa, all with a similar aim: to accelerate the development of start-ups that have the potential to grow exponentially given access to the right resources. This paper examines how South African accelerator programmes work in terms of the key resources made available to the start-ups that participate in their programmes. An increasing number of academic papers have been written on accelerator programmes internationally, but little information is available for the South African context. This research study investigated the phenomenon of accelerator programmes in South Africa through the lens of Resource-based Theory. The theory posits that, in order to gain a sustained competitive advantage, companies need to utilise their resources (including physical, human and organisational) in a manner that is effective and efficient, both internally and externally. The research answers the following questions: How do accelerator programmes work in South Africa? What value (in terms of resources offered) do they claim to bring to start-ups that go through their accelerator programmes? An exploratory case study method was selected to understand the phenomenon of accelerator programmes in South Africa. Purposeful sampling was used in the selection of accelerator programmes, as it allows for the selection of information-rich cases. The research findings indicate that accelerator programmes in South Africa follow the structure of providing start-ups, over a period between three months and one year, with resources that will assist them to be successful into the future. The investigation finds that human and financial resources are some of the most valuable resources that accelerator programmes provide to start-ups to help progress these start-ups to their next level of development. The most important resource is mentorship from knowledgeable industry players who are themselves entrepreneurs. Access to networks to gain access to the market, as well as funding, is also made available by accelerator programmes. This investigation provides a glimpse of the accelerator programme phenomenon in South Africa and highlights the important role that mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, and access to markets and funding, play in the development of start-ups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mametse, Mmankitseng Lerato
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/92639 , vital:30737
- Description: South Africa is facing a challenge of poverty, unemployment and low growth. Government has identified the small and medium-sized business (SME) sector as one of the ways through which to combat these challenges. Government has also set up programmes and agencies to support SMEs in their search for funding and other kinds of support. South Africa, however, has one of the highest rates of SME failures in the world, with the majority not surviving beyond three years. Alternative interventions are therefore required to support South Africa’s SMEs to become sustainable companies beyond three years and to contribute positively to economic growth, poverty alleviation and job creation. This paper explores one kind of intervention that has been used internationally and that is increasingly being adopted in South Africa. Accelerator programmes, aimed at supporting start-ups to get to the next level of their development, have been growing in numbers around the world, trying to replicate the success of the original accelerator programme – the Y Combinator – which was responsible for the success of household names such as Airbnb and Dropbox. Accelerator programmes help start-up companies define and build their initial products, identify promising customer segments, and secure resources, including capital and employees. By making these necessary resources available to start-ups, it may be possible to ensure that fewer start-ups fail and more SMEs remain sustainable into the future. Several accelerator programmes have been founded in South Africa, all with a similar aim: to accelerate the development of start-ups that have the potential to grow exponentially given access to the right resources. This paper examines how South African accelerator programmes work in terms of the key resources made available to the start-ups that participate in their programmes. An increasing number of academic papers have been written on accelerator programmes internationally, but little information is available for the South African context. This research study investigated the phenomenon of accelerator programmes in South Africa through the lens of Resource-based Theory. The theory posits that, in order to gain a sustained competitive advantage, companies need to utilise their resources (including physical, human and organisational) in a manner that is effective and efficient, both internally and externally. The research answers the following questions: How do accelerator programmes work in South Africa? What value (in terms of resources offered) do they claim to bring to start-ups that go through their accelerator programmes? An exploratory case study method was selected to understand the phenomenon of accelerator programmes in South Africa. Purposeful sampling was used in the selection of accelerator programmes, as it allows for the selection of information-rich cases. The research findings indicate that accelerator programmes in South Africa follow the structure of providing start-ups, over a period between three months and one year, with resources that will assist them to be successful into the future. The investigation finds that human and financial resources are some of the most valuable resources that accelerator programmes provide to start-ups to help progress these start-ups to their next level of development. The most important resource is mentorship from knowledgeable industry players who are themselves entrepreneurs. Access to networks to gain access to the market, as well as funding, is also made available by accelerator programmes. This investigation provides a glimpse of the accelerator programme phenomenon in South Africa and highlights the important role that mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, and access to markets and funding, play in the development of start-ups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An exploratory view of e-governance as a driver of operational efficiency in the Amathole District Municipality
- Authors: Masiza, Luthando
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Internet in public administration , Internet in public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies Information technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Electronic government information -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42639 , vital:36676
- Description: This study is an exploration on how e-governance can be utilised as a means to attain operational efficiency. The study analyses matters around benefits and challenges, needs and sustainability. It specifically focussed on exploring means through which e-governance could be used as a leverage towards operational efficiency. The study was conducted in the context of the Amathole District Municipality from the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. It made use of mixed research methods, blending qualitative methods with quantitative methods. The primary data used in this study was collected from managers who are employees of the Municipality. Analysis of responses was more inclined towards interpretivist paradigm. Analysis made use of the study used thematic analysis and codes. The analysis provided in this study clearly outlined the link between operational efficiency and service delivery as facilitated by e-governance. While there were a few respondents who could not differentiate between e-governance and e-government, most were able to clearly differentiate the two. Outstanding benefits of e-governance were identified as being cost-saving, enhanced communication and improved decisions among several others. The study also revealed several factors inhibiting the acceleration of e-governance. Outstanding among these challenges include, technological illiteracy, cyber-crime and online trust. The ultimate recommendation was that citizens, businesses and the government must separately and collectively develop strategies, enhancing e-governance through harnessing the internet technology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Masiza, Luthando
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Internet in public administration , Internet in public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies Information technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Electronic government information -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42639 , vital:36676
- Description: This study is an exploration on how e-governance can be utilised as a means to attain operational efficiency. The study analyses matters around benefits and challenges, needs and sustainability. It specifically focussed on exploring means through which e-governance could be used as a leverage towards operational efficiency. The study was conducted in the context of the Amathole District Municipality from the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. It made use of mixed research methods, blending qualitative methods with quantitative methods. The primary data used in this study was collected from managers who are employees of the Municipality. Analysis of responses was more inclined towards interpretivist paradigm. Analysis made use of the study used thematic analysis and codes. The analysis provided in this study clearly outlined the link between operational efficiency and service delivery as facilitated by e-governance. While there were a few respondents who could not differentiate between e-governance and e-government, most were able to clearly differentiate the two. Outstanding benefits of e-governance were identified as being cost-saving, enhanced communication and improved decisions among several others. The study also revealed several factors inhibiting the acceleration of e-governance. Outstanding among these challenges include, technological illiteracy, cyber-crime and online trust. The ultimate recommendation was that citizens, businesses and the government must separately and collectively develop strategies, enhancing e-governance through harnessing the internet technology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Analysis of strategies for an effective Supply Chain Management Policy Framework in the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
- Authors: Balman, Vuyani Brian
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial procurement -- Management Business logistics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36299 , vital:33918
- Description: After the 1994 general elections, the government realised the importance of efficient and effective financial management and public sector procurement for the rebuilding of South Africa. This was done by embarking on a major review of its financial and supply chain management systems. The financial and supply chain management systems operate in an ever-changing environment, and that requires that these systems are fit for purpose. Supply Chain Management is one of the cornerstones for the performance of any organisation or company. Section 217 (3) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa requires organs of state irrespective of whether they are at National, Provincial or Local government level to apply a procurement system which is fair, equitable, transparent, competitive and cost-effective when contracting for goods and services. The Constitution also attempts to protect and advance persons disadvantaged by unfair discrimination. Supply Chain Management has met an ever-increasing interest over the past decade. This interest comes from within the industry due to the huge amounts involved in procurement and the supply chain value creation. Every society strives to be in a state where every need is available and every citizen has what he/she requires to be able to leave a fulfilled life. In order to meet the needs of societies, member of the society carry out economic activities. The public procurement practice and systems have been acclaimed, based on empirical evidence, as the best means of guaranteeing the provision of public goods to the Citizens and public expenditure management.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Balman, Vuyani Brian
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Industrial procurement -- Management Business logistics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36299 , vital:33918
- Description: After the 1994 general elections, the government realised the importance of efficient and effective financial management and public sector procurement for the rebuilding of South Africa. This was done by embarking on a major review of its financial and supply chain management systems. The financial and supply chain management systems operate in an ever-changing environment, and that requires that these systems are fit for purpose. Supply Chain Management is one of the cornerstones for the performance of any organisation or company. Section 217 (3) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa requires organs of state irrespective of whether they are at National, Provincial or Local government level to apply a procurement system which is fair, equitable, transparent, competitive and cost-effective when contracting for goods and services. The Constitution also attempts to protect and advance persons disadvantaged by unfair discrimination. Supply Chain Management has met an ever-increasing interest over the past decade. This interest comes from within the industry due to the huge amounts involved in procurement and the supply chain value creation. Every society strives to be in a state where every need is available and every citizen has what he/she requires to be able to leave a fulfilled life. In order to meet the needs of societies, member of the society carry out economic activities. The public procurement practice and systems have been acclaimed, based on empirical evidence, as the best means of guaranteeing the provision of public goods to the Citizens and public expenditure management.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
Assessing the local government turnaround strategy (2009) and implementation strategy (2010) focusing on municipal service delivery in rural municipalities. Case study: Ngqushwa Local Municipality
- Authors: Brown, Joelene
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Human services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37731 , vital:34232
- Description: Analysing the root causes of the challenges experienced by local municipalities in service delivery. A single case study research approach was utilised and the study was qualitative in nature. The research focussed on the challenges of rural local municipalities rendering municipal services to their communities and the root causes of these challenges. It furthermore assess whether the Local Government Turnaround Strategy can make a positive impact on service delivery, specifically within rural municipalities such as the Ngqushwa Local Municipality. The case study made use of an in depth literature review based on secondary sources as well as a semi structured interview with the Municipal Manager of the Ngqushwa Local Municipality. In the event that the root causes hampering service delivery can be solved, specifically in rural municipal areas, it will not only assist municipalities to comply with their constitutional duties, but will also assist with various socio-economic problems which exist within communities specifically in rural areas. The researcher experienced reluctance by the relevant employees of municipalities to part take in the research effort and to make themselves available for interviews. Large backlogs exist in relation to service delivery of municipalities specifically in rural areas. The research effort provided relevant information in relation to the root causes of the challenges which are experienced by local municipalities and what problems must be solved in order for municipalities to effectively and efficiently render service to communities in a sustainable manner.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Brown, Joelene
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Human services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/37731 , vital:34232
- Description: Analysing the root causes of the challenges experienced by local municipalities in service delivery. A single case study research approach was utilised and the study was qualitative in nature. The research focussed on the challenges of rural local municipalities rendering municipal services to their communities and the root causes of these challenges. It furthermore assess whether the Local Government Turnaround Strategy can make a positive impact on service delivery, specifically within rural municipalities such as the Ngqushwa Local Municipality. The case study made use of an in depth literature review based on secondary sources as well as a semi structured interview with the Municipal Manager of the Ngqushwa Local Municipality. In the event that the root causes hampering service delivery can be solved, specifically in rural municipal areas, it will not only assist municipalities to comply with their constitutional duties, but will also assist with various socio-economic problems which exist within communities specifically in rural areas. The researcher experienced reluctance by the relevant employees of municipalities to part take in the research effort and to make themselves available for interviews. Large backlogs exist in relation to service delivery of municipalities specifically in rural areas. The research effort provided relevant information in relation to the root causes of the challenges which are experienced by local municipalities and what problems must be solved in order for municipalities to effectively and efficiently render service to communities in a sustainable manner.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Assessing the performance of the ‘Aquaculture Operation Phakisa Strategy’ implementation from a stakeholder perspective
- Authors: Halley, Keagan Desmond
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Marine resources -- Government policy -- South Africa , Fishery management -- South Africa , Aquaculture -- South Africa , Aquaculture industry -- South Africa , Operation Phakisa (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/93867 , vital:30964
- Description: The global demand in aquatic products has seen a number of fisheries depleted worldwide through increase fishing pressure and over exploitation. South Africa in itself has 52 fisheries that are being exploited, of which 48% of these fisheries are of concern, either depleted or heavily depleted. Countries around world have now taken on the responsibility to reduce the reliance on capture fisheries and move towards a more sustainable form of ensuring fish supply. A stabilisation of fisheries stock worldwide has seen the rise of aquaculture as alternative activity that would contribute to reducing pressure on the global fisheries stocks while feeding the demand for fish protein. Aquaculture has since almost equaled the capture based fish supply, contributing to 44.1% of the world’s total fisheries products in 2014 (FAO, 2016). Over the last few years the South African government has focused on developing the aquaculture sector through the development of strategies and policies. The most recent strategy launched in 2014 was Operation Phakisa: Unlocking the Economic Potential of South Africa’s Oceans. The approach of Operation Phakisa looked at accelerating the delivery of government development priorities pertaining to the oceans economy, through development of plans and collaboration of delivery through all stakeholders (public and private stakeholders). Operation Phakisa methodology included bringing key stakeholders within academia, private and public sector, as well as civil society organisations to work together and develop strategies with clear targets that would drive the growth of their specific sectors. The year 2017 marked the midway point of the five year strategy implementation time frame, and an opportunity to assess the performance of the strategy implementation. In order to assess performance of the strategy implementation, the strategy implementation framework developed by Okumus (2003) was identified. Okumus (2003) identifies 11 implementation factors and categorizes these into four categories in the strategy implementation process, based on their role and characteristics, namely: Strategic Content (development of strategy), Strategic Context (internal and external context), Operational Process (operational planning, resource allocation, people, communication, and control) and Outcome (results of implementations process) (Okumus, 2003). The research involved the reviewing of documentation based on the strategy implementation as well as facilitated semi-structure interviews with two stakeholder groups. This was to gain an understanding from the stakeholders’ perspective, on whether the Aquaculture Operation Phakisa Strategy (AOPS) is implemented according to Okumus (2003) Strategy Implementation Framework. Two stakeholder groups were interviewed, namely the officials implementing the strategy, and the aquaculture farmers being affected by the strategy implementation. The research found that eight of out of 11 factors from Okumus (2003) Strategy Implementation Framework were identified as being gaps within the implementation of the AOPS. These gaps were identified across all four main categories for strategy implementation (Strategic content, strategic context, operational process and outcomes). They included; strategy development, organisation structure, organisational culture, leadership, resource allocation, people, communication and outcomes. Furthermore, the researcher found that the perception from the officials differed to that of the aquaculture farmers, with the officials observing a more negative perception towards factors pertaining to organisational structure, organisational culture, leadership, resources allocated, people, communication and outcomes. This negative perception was experience towards the DAFF, Branch Fisheries Management as a whole, rather than within the officials own Chief Directorate (CD:AED), responsible for implementing the strategy. The research assisted with understanding the challenges affecting the implementation of the AOPS as well as unpacked strategy implementation in literature. This aided with developing recommendation to assist with enhancing strategy implementation performance of the AOPS. The following recommendation were provided: Change management within DAFF, Branch Fisheries Management; Identify responsible structures and personnel in DAFF, Branch Fisheries Management; Developing communication platforms within DAFF, Branch Fisheries Management; Review of outcomes of AOPS; and Ensure commitment from all at DAFF, Branch Fisheries Management (leadership). The research paper presents a simple method of assessing the strategy implementation process through the use of a strategy implementation framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Halley, Keagan Desmond
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Marine resources -- Government policy -- South Africa , Fishery management -- South Africa , Aquaculture -- South Africa , Aquaculture industry -- South Africa , Operation Phakisa (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/93867 , vital:30964
- Description: The global demand in aquatic products has seen a number of fisheries depleted worldwide through increase fishing pressure and over exploitation. South Africa in itself has 52 fisheries that are being exploited, of which 48% of these fisheries are of concern, either depleted or heavily depleted. Countries around world have now taken on the responsibility to reduce the reliance on capture fisheries and move towards a more sustainable form of ensuring fish supply. A stabilisation of fisheries stock worldwide has seen the rise of aquaculture as alternative activity that would contribute to reducing pressure on the global fisheries stocks while feeding the demand for fish protein. Aquaculture has since almost equaled the capture based fish supply, contributing to 44.1% of the world’s total fisheries products in 2014 (FAO, 2016). Over the last few years the South African government has focused on developing the aquaculture sector through the development of strategies and policies. The most recent strategy launched in 2014 was Operation Phakisa: Unlocking the Economic Potential of South Africa’s Oceans. The approach of Operation Phakisa looked at accelerating the delivery of government development priorities pertaining to the oceans economy, through development of plans and collaboration of delivery through all stakeholders (public and private stakeholders). Operation Phakisa methodology included bringing key stakeholders within academia, private and public sector, as well as civil society organisations to work together and develop strategies with clear targets that would drive the growth of their specific sectors. The year 2017 marked the midway point of the five year strategy implementation time frame, and an opportunity to assess the performance of the strategy implementation. In order to assess performance of the strategy implementation, the strategy implementation framework developed by Okumus (2003) was identified. Okumus (2003) identifies 11 implementation factors and categorizes these into four categories in the strategy implementation process, based on their role and characteristics, namely: Strategic Content (development of strategy), Strategic Context (internal and external context), Operational Process (operational planning, resource allocation, people, communication, and control) and Outcome (results of implementations process) (Okumus, 2003). The research involved the reviewing of documentation based on the strategy implementation as well as facilitated semi-structure interviews with two stakeholder groups. This was to gain an understanding from the stakeholders’ perspective, on whether the Aquaculture Operation Phakisa Strategy (AOPS) is implemented according to Okumus (2003) Strategy Implementation Framework. Two stakeholder groups were interviewed, namely the officials implementing the strategy, and the aquaculture farmers being affected by the strategy implementation. The research found that eight of out of 11 factors from Okumus (2003) Strategy Implementation Framework were identified as being gaps within the implementation of the AOPS. These gaps were identified across all four main categories for strategy implementation (Strategic content, strategic context, operational process and outcomes). They included; strategy development, organisation structure, organisational culture, leadership, resource allocation, people, communication and outcomes. Furthermore, the researcher found that the perception from the officials differed to that of the aquaculture farmers, with the officials observing a more negative perception towards factors pertaining to organisational structure, organisational culture, leadership, resources allocated, people, communication and outcomes. This negative perception was experience towards the DAFF, Branch Fisheries Management as a whole, rather than within the officials own Chief Directorate (CD:AED), responsible for implementing the strategy. The research assisted with understanding the challenges affecting the implementation of the AOPS as well as unpacked strategy implementation in literature. This aided with developing recommendation to assist with enhancing strategy implementation performance of the AOPS. The following recommendation were provided: Change management within DAFF, Branch Fisheries Management; Identify responsible structures and personnel in DAFF, Branch Fisheries Management; Developing communication platforms within DAFF, Branch Fisheries Management; Review of outcomes of AOPS; and Ensure commitment from all at DAFF, Branch Fisheries Management (leadership). The research paper presents a simple method of assessing the strategy implementation process through the use of a strategy implementation framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Assessing the readiness for the implementation of municipal standard chart of accounts (mSCOA)
- Authors: Kwetana, Bulumko
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Municipal finance -- South Africa , Municipal finance -- Accounting -- South Africa Accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40489 , vital:36170
- Description: The research project was undertaken to explore the readiness for the implementation of the municipal standard chart of accounts (mSCOA) in Eastern Cape municipalities. The Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) and other reporting guidelines emphasise on enhancing the quality of information to improve the relevance of financial reporting. They also make emphasis on the importance of preparing regular, accurate and complete financial and performance reports that are supported and evidenced by reliable information. In South Africa, the reporting system of the municipalities has been decentralised, and various municipalities use different financial reporting systems. The recently introduced mSCOA provides a uniform and standardised financial transaction classification framework. Essentially this means that mSCOA prescribes the method (the how) and format (the look) that municipalities and their entities should use to record and classify all expenditure (capital and operating), revenue, assets, liabilities, equity, policy outcomes and legislative reporting. The literature review explores the existing information for correlation with the implementation of mSCOA and recommendations are made to the National Treasury to ensure an approach and conversion plan that would be relevant and practical in the current municipal environment and address all challenges and concerns identified within a reasonable time frame. Overall, the municipalities were not ready for the overall mSCOA implementation as depicted by the challenges municipalities are facing. However, the results of the study showed that stakeholders play a huge role in facilitating the transition to mSCOA and can also create an enabling environment for change. Management should ensure more training mechanisms are in place to ensure all employees are well- versed with the management information systems that they use daily. Management should encourage enterprise risk management principles to be part of the culture of the municipalities on every project. The importance of the research for the public sector resides in recognition of the need for a better understanding of mSCOA as a wide public-sector reform so that significant risks and challenges related to mSCOA implementation are well anticipated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Kwetana, Bulumko
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Municipal finance -- South Africa , Municipal finance -- Accounting -- South Africa Accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40489 , vital:36170
- Description: The research project was undertaken to explore the readiness for the implementation of the municipal standard chart of accounts (mSCOA) in Eastern Cape municipalities. The Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) and other reporting guidelines emphasise on enhancing the quality of information to improve the relevance of financial reporting. They also make emphasis on the importance of preparing regular, accurate and complete financial and performance reports that are supported and evidenced by reliable information. In South Africa, the reporting system of the municipalities has been decentralised, and various municipalities use different financial reporting systems. The recently introduced mSCOA provides a uniform and standardised financial transaction classification framework. Essentially this means that mSCOA prescribes the method (the how) and format (the look) that municipalities and their entities should use to record and classify all expenditure (capital and operating), revenue, assets, liabilities, equity, policy outcomes and legislative reporting. The literature review explores the existing information for correlation with the implementation of mSCOA and recommendations are made to the National Treasury to ensure an approach and conversion plan that would be relevant and practical in the current municipal environment and address all challenges and concerns identified within a reasonable time frame. Overall, the municipalities were not ready for the overall mSCOA implementation as depicted by the challenges municipalities are facing. However, the results of the study showed that stakeholders play a huge role in facilitating the transition to mSCOA and can also create an enabling environment for change. Management should ensure more training mechanisms are in place to ensure all employees are well- versed with the management information systems that they use daily. Management should encourage enterprise risk management principles to be part of the culture of the municipalities on every project. The importance of the research for the public sector resides in recognition of the need for a better understanding of mSCOA as a wide public-sector reform so that significant risks and challenges related to mSCOA implementation are well anticipated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Avoiding business failure in south africa
- Authors: Court, Nadine viargaret
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Business failures -- Prevention -- South Africa , Business failures Success in business Business enterprises -- Management -- South Africa Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38024 , vital:34284
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop a comprehensive framework to forecast that a business is entering a distressed situation and to identify the warning signs to look out for before it is too late to turn the business around in order to maintain a sustainable future. The possible solution lies in what business owners and management can do, and look out for, to avoid business failure. The intended contribution of the study was to design a framework for most businesses, especially SMMEs, to follow to avoid business failure. Therefore, it can be seen from this study that it is critical for business owners and management to be innovative in their business to achieve competitive advantage and, as such, remain sustainable. Stakeholder relationships are critical to achieving a competitive advantage. Financial Analysis, Technology Management, Innovation, Organisational Design and Risk Management are interrelated and are very inter-dependent when seeking to avoid business failure. However, innovation and technology management have a significant influence on business failure and, as such, are critical to the success of the business.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Court, Nadine viargaret
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Business failures -- Prevention -- South Africa , Business failures Success in business Business enterprises -- Management -- South Africa Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38024 , vital:34284
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop a comprehensive framework to forecast that a business is entering a distressed situation and to identify the warning signs to look out for before it is too late to turn the business around in order to maintain a sustainable future. The possible solution lies in what business owners and management can do, and look out for, to avoid business failure. The intended contribution of the study was to design a framework for most businesses, especially SMMEs, to follow to avoid business failure. Therefore, it can be seen from this study that it is critical for business owners and management to be innovative in their business to achieve competitive advantage and, as such, remain sustainable. Stakeholder relationships are critical to achieving a competitive advantage. Financial Analysis, Technology Management, Innovation, Organisational Design and Risk Management are interrelated and are very inter-dependent when seeking to avoid business failure. However, innovation and technology management have a significant influence on business failure and, as such, are critical to the success of the business.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Blockchain potential and disruptors for South Africa towards 2030
- Authors: Muntean, George
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electronic funds transfers -- Security measures , Blockchains (Databases) Finance -- Technological innovations Technological innovations -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41603 , vital:36544
- Description: Blockchain (also called distributed ledger technology), the technology that underpins cryptocurrencies, is resulting in a new era of openness, decentralisation and global inclusion (World Economic Forum, 2017). Blockchain technology is set to complement another emerging field or group of technologies which are collectively defined as the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This revolution is characterised by a “range of new technologies that are blending the physical, digital and biological worlds, impacting all disciplines, economies and industries, and even challenging ideas about what it means to be human” (World Economic Forum, 2017). Certain features of Blockchain technology namely; decentralisation, implied anonymity, transparency and immutability presents people with a technology that may well transform business models and indeed entire industries in the world and in South Africa. Some of these industries are explored further in this research, delving into ideas of how Blockchains may add value to them. This research effort approaches Blockchain technology from a future studies perspective, and assesses whether South Africa is ready to embrace the technology. The research also explores what South African stakeholders can do to be better prepared for expected disruptors and opportunities that the technology will bring. South Africa is seen as a developing nation in the global context and can well benefit from strategic use of emerging technologies such as Blockchain. This research effort will implement Inayatullah’s (2008) six pillars methodology, incorporating the various tools and methodologies within each pillar, in an effort to describe and present possible future scenarios for Blockchains in South Africa. This insight will be used to provide well thought out strategic recommendations for South Africa to prepare for adoption of Blockchain technologies, which could ultimately provide a competitive advantage for the country in the global marketplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Muntean, George
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electronic funds transfers -- Security measures , Blockchains (Databases) Finance -- Technological innovations Technological innovations -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41603 , vital:36544
- Description: Blockchain (also called distributed ledger technology), the technology that underpins cryptocurrencies, is resulting in a new era of openness, decentralisation and global inclusion (World Economic Forum, 2017). Blockchain technology is set to complement another emerging field or group of technologies which are collectively defined as the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This revolution is characterised by a “range of new technologies that are blending the physical, digital and biological worlds, impacting all disciplines, economies and industries, and even challenging ideas about what it means to be human” (World Economic Forum, 2017). Certain features of Blockchain technology namely; decentralisation, implied anonymity, transparency and immutability presents people with a technology that may well transform business models and indeed entire industries in the world and in South Africa. Some of these industries are explored further in this research, delving into ideas of how Blockchains may add value to them. This research effort approaches Blockchain technology from a future studies perspective, and assesses whether South Africa is ready to embrace the technology. The research also explores what South African stakeholders can do to be better prepared for expected disruptors and opportunities that the technology will bring. South Africa is seen as a developing nation in the global context and can well benefit from strategic use of emerging technologies such as Blockchain. This research effort will implement Inayatullah’s (2008) six pillars methodology, incorporating the various tools and methodologies within each pillar, in an effort to describe and present possible future scenarios for Blockchains in South Africa. This insight will be used to provide well thought out strategic recommendations for South Africa to prepare for adoption of Blockchain technologies, which could ultimately provide a competitive advantage for the country in the global marketplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Community perception of air pollution: health and environmental impact of manganese operations at PE port
- Authors: Mtati, Vuyani
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Air -- Pollution -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Manganese -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Manufacturing industries Environmental health Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41919 , vital:36609
- Description: The Mining industry in South Africa is viewed as the backbone of the country’s economy; however, while benefiting from this engine of economic development, its impact on the environment and health has been of major concern to different stakeholders. The majority of people acknowledge the role of mining in the economy and the country. Others put more emphasis on public health and the environment. Furthermore, manganese plays an important role in the economic growth and development within the Eastern Cape Province. Responding to recent public concern over manganese dust emissions, Port of Port Elizabeth manager, Rajesh Dana, outlined a five-point manganese management plan formulated by Transnet. Mr. Dana stated the following: “We do not dispute the fact that our manganese operation in the Port of Port Elizabeth creates an inconvenience to port tenants and residents. However, as a responsible corporate citizen we have superior operational and compliance controls in place to mitigate these negative impacts.” Some of the concerns raised by community members are that the manganese ore dust has long term negative effects on the health of this city’s residents, the marine life, as well as the properties within, roughly, a 5km (own opinion estimate) radius of the tanks. Port Elizabeth (Nelson Mandela Bay) has the potential to become a tourism and economic hub within this radius and beyond, and by removing this hazard it will allow for a green environment to be established that gives all the citizens as well as tourists, a place to take part in a healthy lifestyle. Some believe that the city, specifically the CBD area, has the potential to be world renowned for green innovations but having a major hazard in the way, which can be moved to, and better controlled at, Coega IDZ, is not only damaging to the health of its citizens but also the economy of the city. Air pollution affects both physical and human environments. Often, communities that are in close proximity to pollution sources are more vulnerable and experience its greatest effect. As a result, many residents complain of negative health related impacts caused by air pollution which is attributed to industries located close to these communities. About two million deaths annually are attributed to urban air pollution worldwide, which is an indication that air pollution remains an enormous health risk to people. Due to the health impacts on humans, air pollution has also been negatively categorised based on perceptions around the world. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of environmental pollution and public health on the South End, Humewood and Humerail occupants and their perceptions of air quality effects and health risks from the Transnet manganese operation in Port Elizabeth. The present study can be described as a quantitative descriptive survey that uncovered serious levels of pollution in the said areas that had dire health consequences for the people involved. The findings of the study indicate that residents live with the constant dust of a variety of chemical pollutants released both by normal Port operations and by periodic incidents caused by other polluters. They experience chronic respiratory symptoms, burning eyes, hearing deficiency and skin irritations. The study revealed that environmental pollution consequences affecting residents are inversely related to distance from the Port. The results obtained in this study are evidence that environmental pollution, especially manganese in the area, is a definite risk to the health of people living within the surrounding area. Although indicating the need to carry out a comprehensive study, the results call for immediate action to engage community members in order for them to understand the risks associated with the Port operations and prevent continued public over-exposure to environmental pollution.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mtati, Vuyani
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Air -- Pollution -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Manganese -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Manufacturing industries Environmental health Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41919 , vital:36609
- Description: The Mining industry in South Africa is viewed as the backbone of the country’s economy; however, while benefiting from this engine of economic development, its impact on the environment and health has been of major concern to different stakeholders. The majority of people acknowledge the role of mining in the economy and the country. Others put more emphasis on public health and the environment. Furthermore, manganese plays an important role in the economic growth and development within the Eastern Cape Province. Responding to recent public concern over manganese dust emissions, Port of Port Elizabeth manager, Rajesh Dana, outlined a five-point manganese management plan formulated by Transnet. Mr. Dana stated the following: “We do not dispute the fact that our manganese operation in the Port of Port Elizabeth creates an inconvenience to port tenants and residents. However, as a responsible corporate citizen we have superior operational and compliance controls in place to mitigate these negative impacts.” Some of the concerns raised by community members are that the manganese ore dust has long term negative effects on the health of this city’s residents, the marine life, as well as the properties within, roughly, a 5km (own opinion estimate) radius of the tanks. Port Elizabeth (Nelson Mandela Bay) has the potential to become a tourism and economic hub within this radius and beyond, and by removing this hazard it will allow for a green environment to be established that gives all the citizens as well as tourists, a place to take part in a healthy lifestyle. Some believe that the city, specifically the CBD area, has the potential to be world renowned for green innovations but having a major hazard in the way, which can be moved to, and better controlled at, Coega IDZ, is not only damaging to the health of its citizens but also the economy of the city. Air pollution affects both physical and human environments. Often, communities that are in close proximity to pollution sources are more vulnerable and experience its greatest effect. As a result, many residents complain of negative health related impacts caused by air pollution which is attributed to industries located close to these communities. About two million deaths annually are attributed to urban air pollution worldwide, which is an indication that air pollution remains an enormous health risk to people. Due to the health impacts on humans, air pollution has also been negatively categorised based on perceptions around the world. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of environmental pollution and public health on the South End, Humewood and Humerail occupants and their perceptions of air quality effects and health risks from the Transnet manganese operation in Port Elizabeth. The present study can be described as a quantitative descriptive survey that uncovered serious levels of pollution in the said areas that had dire health consequences for the people involved. The findings of the study indicate that residents live with the constant dust of a variety of chemical pollutants released both by normal Port operations and by periodic incidents caused by other polluters. They experience chronic respiratory symptoms, burning eyes, hearing deficiency and skin irritations. The study revealed that environmental pollution consequences affecting residents are inversely related to distance from the Port. The results obtained in this study are evidence that environmental pollution, especially manganese in the area, is a definite risk to the health of people living within the surrounding area. Although indicating the need to carry out a comprehensive study, the results call for immediate action to engage community members in order for them to understand the risks associated with the Port operations and prevent continued public over-exposure to environmental pollution.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Companies creating shared value through their business models
- Authors: Ncemane, Bonakele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Business planning , Strategic planning Social responsibility of business Capitalism -- Moral and ethical aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42935 , vital:36712
- Description: The subject of this treatise was the construct “Creating Shared Value”. The purpose was to explore the business models companies use to create shared value. The study was based on the life insurance industry. The study employed a qualitative paradigm and four Cases were content analysed. It was found that business models used by the insurance industry increase quality of life and thereby increasing social value; further these business models increases economic value for business through the reduction of insurance costs . This mutual and simultaneous creation of economic value and social value is the underlying principle of the Shared Value Construct. Secondly it was found that business models used by the life insurance companies selected for the study manifested hybrid business models with features of both inclusive and social business models components. Practical implications – Policy makers should consider providing universal coverage based on the emerging hybrid business model as an alternative to National Health Insurance business model that is aimed at compulsory membership of citizens to a medical aids. These model enhance early detection of disease’s which promotes better health management and prevention, literature review correlated this with better productivity, less insurance claims and general wellbeing of the citizens.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ncemane, Bonakele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Business planning , Strategic planning Social responsibility of business Capitalism -- Moral and ethical aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42935 , vital:36712
- Description: The subject of this treatise was the construct “Creating Shared Value”. The purpose was to explore the business models companies use to create shared value. The study was based on the life insurance industry. The study employed a qualitative paradigm and four Cases were content analysed. It was found that business models used by the insurance industry increase quality of life and thereby increasing social value; further these business models increases economic value for business through the reduction of insurance costs . This mutual and simultaneous creation of economic value and social value is the underlying principle of the Shared Value Construct. Secondly it was found that business models used by the life insurance companies selected for the study manifested hybrid business models with features of both inclusive and social business models components. Practical implications – Policy makers should consider providing universal coverage based on the emerging hybrid business model as an alternative to National Health Insurance business model that is aimed at compulsory membership of citizens to a medical aids. These model enhance early detection of disease’s which promotes better health management and prevention, literature review correlated this with better productivity, less insurance claims and general wellbeing of the citizens.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019