Attracting and retaining customers in South Adrica's banking sector
- Authors: Anani, Ajibola Plakunle
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- Customer services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Customer relations -- Management , Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8575 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1532 , Banks and banking -- Customer services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Customer relations -- Management , Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The business environment and the economy of the society today are continuously witnessing the impact of globalisation. Telecommunication advancement and transportation has greatly made the impact of globalisation to be felt. Globalisation though argued to have its merits and its demerits have resulted in fierce competition amongst businesses. The banking industry is not isolated from these competitions. Any business wishing to survive and stay profitable in the recent world must be able to compete in the global economy. Hence, for any bank to sustain itself and remain profitable it must be able to withstand the competition in the environment it operates. To be able to compete in the banking industry means delivering better services to customers than competitors. This study presents how the South African banks can satisfy their customers and remain profitable in the face of competition. The South African banking industry consists of local and foreign banks and these banks compete for customers in the environment in which they are located. Increase in different branches by different banks has made the competition even fierce. In other to suggest recommendations for the South African banks to satisfy their customers and become profitable, the researcher identified some problem areas that need to be improved upon. These include customer loyalty, relationship banking and electronic banking. These variables were researched to understand how they affect the banks and the customers and where tested using both a qualitative and a quantitative analysis to ascertain if the customers were satisfied with the banks‟ approach of managing these variables. The results indicated that the customers were satisfied to a lesser extent. Any bank wishing to satisfy its customers and remain profitable in other to compete in the industry needs to satisfy the customer to a large extent. Therefore, recommendations where suggested based on the empirical results to help improve the banking industry‟s ways of attracting and retaining customers. The former will lead to customer satisfaction which again will lead to increased profitability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Anani, Ajibola Plakunle
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- Customer services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Customer relations -- Management , Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8575 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1532 , Banks and banking -- Customer services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Customer relations -- Management , Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The business environment and the economy of the society today are continuously witnessing the impact of globalisation. Telecommunication advancement and transportation has greatly made the impact of globalisation to be felt. Globalisation though argued to have its merits and its demerits have resulted in fierce competition amongst businesses. The banking industry is not isolated from these competitions. Any business wishing to survive and stay profitable in the recent world must be able to compete in the global economy. Hence, for any bank to sustain itself and remain profitable it must be able to withstand the competition in the environment it operates. To be able to compete in the banking industry means delivering better services to customers than competitors. This study presents how the South African banks can satisfy their customers and remain profitable in the face of competition. The South African banking industry consists of local and foreign banks and these banks compete for customers in the environment in which they are located. Increase in different branches by different banks has made the competition even fierce. In other to suggest recommendations for the South African banks to satisfy their customers and become profitable, the researcher identified some problem areas that need to be improved upon. These include customer loyalty, relationship banking and electronic banking. These variables were researched to understand how they affect the banks and the customers and where tested using both a qualitative and a quantitative analysis to ascertain if the customers were satisfied with the banks‟ approach of managing these variables. The results indicated that the customers were satisfied to a lesser extent. Any bank wishing to satisfy its customers and remain profitable in other to compete in the industry needs to satisfy the customer to a large extent. Therefore, recommendations where suggested based on the empirical results to help improve the banking industry‟s ways of attracting and retaining customers. The former will lead to customer satisfaction which again will lead to increased profitability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Strategic management guidelines for construction SMEs in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Appels, Gaynor
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Management , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8663 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1414 , Construction industry -- Management , Strategic planning
- Description: SMEs fulfil an important role in the long-term growth and development of the economy of the country. The development and growth of construction SMEs are important for all countries, as a strong SME base has the capacity to produce a high-quality infrastructure for the country. Construction SMEs also stimulate economic activity in other sectors of the economy. Research has, however, shown that the failure rate of small businesses within the first five years is high in South Africa. Reseatch has also indicated that the lack of long-term planning and the lack of strategic thinking are major contributing factors to the business failure of SMEs. SMEs operating in the construction industry are faced with the same challenges as their counterparts in other sectors of the economy, but in addition to those difficulties, construction SMEs also have to deal with the unique characteristics of the industry that have adverse implications for them. The construction industry has experienced considerable growth and success, in the past decade, particularly as a result of the government's considerable infrastructural spending, especially in the run-up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The growth in the construction industry has, however, not resulted in similar results for Construction SMEs; and research has shown that most of them have not developed into more established entities. In fact, in the Eastern Cape, 91 per cent of all registered contractors fall within the lowest level of the Construction Industry Development Board's classification system. Many construction SMEs perform poorly, but among them there are those that have the potential to grow and develop into larger more established entities. Research has shown that contractor development programmes aimed at assisting the growth and development of construction companies have been successful in increasing participation in the industry, but not in ensuring that small enterprises grow into self-sustainable established enterprises. In contrast, the research has shown that SMEs that practice strategic management perform better, and that there are many advantages for SMEs in applying strategic management principles. This study, therefore, investigates how strategic management can be applied to address the problems faced by construction SMEs, and to exploire techniques and tools of strategic management that can make a significant contribution to their growth and development.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Appels, Gaynor
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Management , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8663 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1414 , Construction industry -- Management , Strategic planning
- Description: SMEs fulfil an important role in the long-term growth and development of the economy of the country. The development and growth of construction SMEs are important for all countries, as a strong SME base has the capacity to produce a high-quality infrastructure for the country. Construction SMEs also stimulate economic activity in other sectors of the economy. Research has, however, shown that the failure rate of small businesses within the first five years is high in South Africa. Reseatch has also indicated that the lack of long-term planning and the lack of strategic thinking are major contributing factors to the business failure of SMEs. SMEs operating in the construction industry are faced with the same challenges as their counterparts in other sectors of the economy, but in addition to those difficulties, construction SMEs also have to deal with the unique characteristics of the industry that have adverse implications for them. The construction industry has experienced considerable growth and success, in the past decade, particularly as a result of the government's considerable infrastructural spending, especially in the run-up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The growth in the construction industry has, however, not resulted in similar results for Construction SMEs; and research has shown that most of them have not developed into more established entities. In fact, in the Eastern Cape, 91 per cent of all registered contractors fall within the lowest level of the Construction Industry Development Board's classification system. Many construction SMEs perform poorly, but among them there are those that have the potential to grow and develop into larger more established entities. Research has shown that contractor development programmes aimed at assisting the growth and development of construction companies have been successful in increasing participation in the industry, but not in ensuring that small enterprises grow into self-sustainable established enterprises. In contrast, the research has shown that SMEs that practice strategic management perform better, and that there are many advantages for SMEs in applying strategic management principles. This study, therefore, investigates how strategic management can be applied to address the problems faced by construction SMEs, and to exploire techniques and tools of strategic management that can make a significant contribution to their growth and development.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2010
Investigating factors that negatively influence lean implementation in the Eastern Cape automotive industry
- Authors: Camagu, Sibo
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Production management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial efficiency , Automobile industry and trade
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8655 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1360 , Lean manufacturing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Production management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial efficiency , Automobile industry and trade
- Description: In this intensely competitive environment of the global economy, the survival of even the most established manufacturers depends on their ability to continuously improve quality whilst reducing costs. The resulting productivity of producing more with less is the only key to market leadership and sustainable competitive advantage. Changing production methods from mass-production to Lean Manufacturing has become the essential practise for successful manufacturers (Rogers and Sim, 2009). The purpose of this study is to investigate what factors negate the adoption and implementation of Lean Manufacturing as a means to gain competitive advantage. The focus was on companies that have participated in the AIDC Tirisano cluster programme. The study investigated what effect Organisational Culture, Leadership Behaviours, Employee Involvement and Strategy Integration have on Lean Manufacturing adoption and implementation. This study applied the mixed methodologies of qualitative and quantitative approaches using methodological triangulation. A cross sectional analytical survey approach in a descriptive case study was undertaken. The findings from the questions and the interviews from the respondents who participated in the survey indicated that the practices in some companies enable the successful adoption and implementation of Lean Manufacturing whilst in some others the practices will negatively affect the adoption and implementation. The study concludes by stating that South African automotive component manufacturers are under immense pressure to improve quality and reduce costs. Initiatives like Lean Manufacturing should be undertaken in order to bring about these improvements. But this improvement comes about by changing the current way of doing things. Companies need to undertake a total approach when implementing Lean as part of the business strategy and this must be driven by management as leaders and a team culture that involves all employees needs to be present.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Camagu, Sibo
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Production management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial efficiency , Automobile industry and trade
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8655 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1360 , Lean manufacturing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Production management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial efficiency , Automobile industry and trade
- Description: In this intensely competitive environment of the global economy, the survival of even the most established manufacturers depends on their ability to continuously improve quality whilst reducing costs. The resulting productivity of producing more with less is the only key to market leadership and sustainable competitive advantage. Changing production methods from mass-production to Lean Manufacturing has become the essential practise for successful manufacturers (Rogers and Sim, 2009). The purpose of this study is to investigate what factors negate the adoption and implementation of Lean Manufacturing as a means to gain competitive advantage. The focus was on companies that have participated in the AIDC Tirisano cluster programme. The study investigated what effect Organisational Culture, Leadership Behaviours, Employee Involvement and Strategy Integration have on Lean Manufacturing adoption and implementation. This study applied the mixed methodologies of qualitative and quantitative approaches using methodological triangulation. A cross sectional analytical survey approach in a descriptive case study was undertaken. The findings from the questions and the interviews from the respondents who participated in the survey indicated that the practices in some companies enable the successful adoption and implementation of Lean Manufacturing whilst in some others the practices will negatively affect the adoption and implementation. The study concludes by stating that South African automotive component manufacturers are under immense pressure to improve quality and reduce costs. Initiatives like Lean Manufacturing should be undertaken in order to bring about these improvements. But this improvement comes about by changing the current way of doing things. Companies need to undertake a total approach when implementing Lean as part of the business strategy and this must be driven by management as leaders and a team culture that involves all employees needs to be present.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
The feasibility of the Uitenhage provincial hospital private initiative
- Authors: Cherry, Jacqueline Helen
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Public health administration -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Health care reform -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Feasibility studies -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Hospital care
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8619 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1508 , Public health administration -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Health care reform -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Feasibility studies -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Hospital care
- Description: The South African Health Care environment is in state of reform. Government strategy and change in legislation have been the catalyst for the development of new business models in South Africa. This report deals with the feasibility of a proposed model which is to be implemented by the Eastern Cape Department of Health at the Provincial Hospital in Uitenhage. The fundamental challenge in South Africa is the shortage of resources to support the health care industry from a public perspective. The point of departure for this research was to understand the complexity of this industry and investigate models that have evolved in South Africa and internationally. The literature research covers funding mechanisms from both a public and private perspective and takes into account the role the government plays in providing equitable health care for all. The literature provided the foundation to develop the model which is to be piloted at the hospital in Uitenhage. In terms of the research objective, a single case study methodology approach was conducted. Triangulation technique was used to gain insight from different perspectives and to test the model for validity. The core of this research focuses on the viability of the proposed model and the integration of this into the government health reform plan. The research revealed that in comparison to the existing PPP models in South Africa, this model is feasible. As a result of the analysis and the development of the proposed model, the research is concluded by offering suggestions for further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Cherry, Jacqueline Helen
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Public health administration -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Health care reform -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Feasibility studies -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Hospital care
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8619 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1508 , Public health administration -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Health care reform -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Feasibility studies -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Hospital care
- Description: The South African Health Care environment is in state of reform. Government strategy and change in legislation have been the catalyst for the development of new business models in South Africa. This report deals with the feasibility of a proposed model which is to be implemented by the Eastern Cape Department of Health at the Provincial Hospital in Uitenhage. The fundamental challenge in South Africa is the shortage of resources to support the health care industry from a public perspective. The point of departure for this research was to understand the complexity of this industry and investigate models that have evolved in South Africa and internationally. The literature research covers funding mechanisms from both a public and private perspective and takes into account the role the government plays in providing equitable health care for all. The literature provided the foundation to develop the model which is to be piloted at the hospital in Uitenhage. In terms of the research objective, a single case study methodology approach was conducted. Triangulation technique was used to gain insight from different perspectives and to test the model for validity. The core of this research focuses on the viability of the proposed model and the integration of this into the government health reform plan. The research revealed that in comparison to the existing PPP models in South Africa, this model is feasible. As a result of the analysis and the development of the proposed model, the research is concluded by offering suggestions for further research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
The impact of economic downturn on black economic empowerment and banks
- Authors: Daniels, Sinclair Lonwabo
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 21st century , South Africa -- Economic conditions , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa , Blacks -- Employment -- South Africa , Employee empowerment -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8620 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1505 , South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 21st century , South Africa -- Economic conditions , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa , Blacks -- Employment -- South Africa , Employee empowerment -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of this treatise is to ascertain the impact of economic downturn on Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) and Banks. This has been sparked by the huge speculations in the market as to what will happen to BEE and how will the banks cope in general with the impact of this scourge. It is imperative to understand the influence of the 2008+ economic downturn on socio-economic reconstruction and development in South Africa and the black economic empowerment and its funding mechanisms. The treatise has two phases the, namely the theoretical phase and a bit of narrative phase. In the theoretical phase the research study interrogates what the literature review reveals about the economic downturn, BEE as well as performances of different banks across the world. This shows the economic impact that the banks have had to endure during the economic downturn. This resulted in stock markets losing their value. The dividend earners were significantly affected including a sizeable number of BEE companies. The BEE companies are perceived to be too reliant on debt on to finance their deals and this treatise will look at various options of financing a BEE deal and what is deem to the most suited financing structure. The narrative phase involves semi-structured interviews that were conducted in order to ascertain the real impact that South African were faced with and how they have managed to steer clear of the turbulent waters. This also looked at how the BEE consultant views the current occurrences in the market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Daniels, Sinclair Lonwabo
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 21st century , South Africa -- Economic conditions , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa , Blacks -- Employment -- South Africa , Employee empowerment -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8620 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1505 , South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 21st century , South Africa -- Economic conditions , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa , Blacks -- Employment -- South Africa , Employee empowerment -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of this treatise is to ascertain the impact of economic downturn on Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) and Banks. This has been sparked by the huge speculations in the market as to what will happen to BEE and how will the banks cope in general with the impact of this scourge. It is imperative to understand the influence of the 2008+ economic downturn on socio-economic reconstruction and development in South Africa and the black economic empowerment and its funding mechanisms. The treatise has two phases the, namely the theoretical phase and a bit of narrative phase. In the theoretical phase the research study interrogates what the literature review reveals about the economic downturn, BEE as well as performances of different banks across the world. This shows the economic impact that the banks have had to endure during the economic downturn. This resulted in stock markets losing their value. The dividend earners were significantly affected including a sizeable number of BEE companies. The BEE companies are perceived to be too reliant on debt on to finance their deals and this treatise will look at various options of financing a BEE deal and what is deem to the most suited financing structure. The narrative phase involves semi-structured interviews that were conducted in order to ascertain the real impact that South African were faced with and how they have managed to steer clear of the turbulent waters. This also looked at how the BEE consultant views the current occurrences in the market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Factors affecting information technology implementation in the mobile telecommunications industry: a family business case
- Authors: De Jong, Piet
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems -- Technological innovations , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8629 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1486 , Mobile communication systems -- Technological innovations , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa
- Description: This treatise investigates how information technology (I.T.) enables growth in a family business (the firm) in Port Elizabeth. The firm operates in the mobile telecommunications sector. The objective of the study is to gain a deeper understanding on why family businesses adopt information technology in their firm by means of a case study. The firm found its technology (or lack thereof) completely out-dated compared to the competition and customer demands. The future of the firm was in jeopardy. The study starts with a literature review of the following three topics which form part of the scope of the research: 1. Family businesses; 2. Influence of I.T. as a driver of growth in business; and 3. An introduction into the mobile telecommunications industry. Data are collected through structured interviews with family members involved in the business. The data are consequently linked to the theory and provides insight as to what the drivers are for I.T. adoption and the required core competencies or critical success factors of the firm. Although it might seem trivial for a small family business to adopt information technology, the research concludes that I.T. is critical for continuous growth and survival of this family business. Conversely due to a lack of internal skills the firm is heavily reliant upon outside consultants for advice, implementation and support. Recommendations which are of particular interest to family businesses in a similar environment are: • Embrace technology early, utilise I.T. solutions to grow and enhance current competitive advantage, do not see I.T. as a competitive advantage alone (Pavlou & Sawy, 2006); • If information expertise is not present within the company it is advisable to invest in that expertise through recruitment, training, partnership, or outsourcing; • Ensure software meets specification / is effective enough – this can be achieved by frequent releases cycles with small changes instead of infrequent release cycles with many big changes; • Engage the consultants in a partnership by i.e. providing a profit share – this will ensure that the consultants are committed to the cause and will also ensure that their involvement is also in their own best interest; • Choose local consultants who are easily accessible – build relationships and focus on trust; • Create lock-in (Amit & Zott, 2001), provide tools free-ofcharge for customers, this will make switching to competitor more difficult; • Automate as much as possible, enable standard work practices, routinize; • Be ready to adjust the organisational structure or relinquish control (Bruquea & Moyanob, 2007)
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: De Jong, Piet
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Mobile communication systems -- Technological innovations , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8629 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1486 , Mobile communication systems -- Technological innovations , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa
- Description: This treatise investigates how information technology (I.T.) enables growth in a family business (the firm) in Port Elizabeth. The firm operates in the mobile telecommunications sector. The objective of the study is to gain a deeper understanding on why family businesses adopt information technology in their firm by means of a case study. The firm found its technology (or lack thereof) completely out-dated compared to the competition and customer demands. The future of the firm was in jeopardy. The study starts with a literature review of the following three topics which form part of the scope of the research: 1. Family businesses; 2. Influence of I.T. as a driver of growth in business; and 3. An introduction into the mobile telecommunications industry. Data are collected through structured interviews with family members involved in the business. The data are consequently linked to the theory and provides insight as to what the drivers are for I.T. adoption and the required core competencies or critical success factors of the firm. Although it might seem trivial for a small family business to adopt information technology, the research concludes that I.T. is critical for continuous growth and survival of this family business. Conversely due to a lack of internal skills the firm is heavily reliant upon outside consultants for advice, implementation and support. Recommendations which are of particular interest to family businesses in a similar environment are: • Embrace technology early, utilise I.T. solutions to grow and enhance current competitive advantage, do not see I.T. as a competitive advantage alone (Pavlou & Sawy, 2006); • If information expertise is not present within the company it is advisable to invest in that expertise through recruitment, training, partnership, or outsourcing; • Ensure software meets specification / is effective enough – this can be achieved by frequent releases cycles with small changes instead of infrequent release cycles with many big changes; • Engage the consultants in a partnership by i.e. providing a profit share – this will ensure that the consultants are committed to the cause and will also ensure that their involvement is also in their own best interest; • Choose local consultants who are easily accessible – build relationships and focus on trust; • Create lock-in (Amit & Zott, 2001), provide tools free-ofcharge for customers, this will make switching to competitor more difficult; • Automate as much as possible, enable standard work practices, routinize; • Be ready to adjust the organisational structure or relinquish control (Bruquea & Moyanob, 2007)
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
An analysis of two tug propulsion systems in the Port Elizabeth harbour
- Authors: Dlamini, Dumsani Andrieson
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Tugboats -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Harbors -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Propulsion systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8643 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1422 , Tugboats -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Harbors -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Propulsion systems
- Description: The shipping industry is reliant on port authorities for the facilitation of safe entry and departure of ships at the ports. This role can not be fulfilled without the assistance of harbour tugs which are run by the marine operations section of the Transnet National Ports Authority. The tugs have to be safe and efficient in the process of pulling and pushing ships around the harbour. Harbour tugs are expensive to acquire and to maintain. The marine operations business has to make appropriate choices of tug propulsion design in order to realise the benefits of the tugs acquired by the ports authority. This can be achieved by analysing the current tugs that the operations are using, which will then serve as valuable information when the time for asset replacement is due. The researcher chose to use the two tug propulsion designs currently used by the Port Elizabeth harbour tugs as a basis for this analysis. The analysis links the three factors of maintenance management, equipment efficiency and equipment safety, to the minimisation of operational costs as perceived by the tug personnel, the pilots and the marine managers. This study seeks to verify the link between these factors and the perceived minimisation of operational costs. Available literature was reviewed and data was collected using a suitably designed questionnaire for this research. This research paper has led to recommendations that should inform the tug acquisition decisions and raise the awareness of the marine employees to relate the factors set out above to minimise operational costs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Dlamini, Dumsani Andrieson
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Tugboats -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Harbors -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Propulsion systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8643 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1422 , Tugboats -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Harbors -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Propulsion systems
- Description: The shipping industry is reliant on port authorities for the facilitation of safe entry and departure of ships at the ports. This role can not be fulfilled without the assistance of harbour tugs which are run by the marine operations section of the Transnet National Ports Authority. The tugs have to be safe and efficient in the process of pulling and pushing ships around the harbour. Harbour tugs are expensive to acquire and to maintain. The marine operations business has to make appropriate choices of tug propulsion design in order to realise the benefits of the tugs acquired by the ports authority. This can be achieved by analysing the current tugs that the operations are using, which will then serve as valuable information when the time for asset replacement is due. The researcher chose to use the two tug propulsion designs currently used by the Port Elizabeth harbour tugs as a basis for this analysis. The analysis links the three factors of maintenance management, equipment efficiency and equipment safety, to the minimisation of operational costs as perceived by the tug personnel, the pilots and the marine managers. This study seeks to verify the link between these factors and the perceived minimisation of operational costs. Available literature was reviewed and data was collected using a suitably designed questionnaire for this research. This research paper has led to recommendations that should inform the tug acquisition decisions and raise the awareness of the marine employees to relate the factors set out above to minimise operational costs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
The strategic role of SARS customs on trade facilitation and regional integration in SADC
- Authors: Dlamini, Thenjiwe Olga
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: South African Revenue Service -- Planning , Strategic planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8646 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1394 , South African Revenue Service -- Planning , Strategic planning -- South Africa
- Description: The objective of this study is to determine the best SARS customs strategy that can be implemented as a tool to assist the facilitation of trade and Regional integration in SADC Region because the process of integration is facing many challenges. A literature review of scholarly literature was conducted on regional integration of SADC that offered an international perspective on the experiences of other countries who have undergone similar experiences of integration and trade facilitation. With a historical background of Regional integration with the demonstration of SARS customs strategy that can be adopted to facilitate the process of trade and regional integration and, proposed future model and strategic plans to achieve the future goals. Research methodology and design was done through the combination of the four research types classification in their order of sophistication except the predictive research. These are namely exploratory, descriptive, and analytical or explanatory researches and include deductive research. The compilation of data through questionnaires was employed. The findings discussed in Chapter Five indicate that there are some gains that can be achieved by SADC members through free trade agreement. Recommendation from the study is that progression towards deeper integration requires the participation of the stakeholder and ownership at national level. The national and regional institutions require good governance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Dlamini, Thenjiwe Olga
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: South African Revenue Service -- Planning , Strategic planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8646 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1394 , South African Revenue Service -- Planning , Strategic planning -- South Africa
- Description: The objective of this study is to determine the best SARS customs strategy that can be implemented as a tool to assist the facilitation of trade and Regional integration in SADC Region because the process of integration is facing many challenges. A literature review of scholarly literature was conducted on regional integration of SADC that offered an international perspective on the experiences of other countries who have undergone similar experiences of integration and trade facilitation. With a historical background of Regional integration with the demonstration of SARS customs strategy that can be adopted to facilitate the process of trade and regional integration and, proposed future model and strategic plans to achieve the future goals. Research methodology and design was done through the combination of the four research types classification in their order of sophistication except the predictive research. These are namely exploratory, descriptive, and analytical or explanatory researches and include deductive research. The compilation of data through questionnaires was employed. The findings discussed in Chapter Five indicate that there are some gains that can be achieved by SADC members through free trade agreement. Recommendation from the study is that progression towards deeper integration requires the participation of the stakeholder and ownership at national level. The national and regional institutions require good governance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
A model for green IT strategy : a content analysis approach
- Authors: Du Preez, Riekert
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Information technology -- Environmental aspects , Green technology -- South Africa , Strategic planning , Climatic changes , Green movement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8630 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1485 , Information technology -- Environmental aspects , Green technology -- South Africa , Strategic planning , Climatic changes , Green movement
- Description: Society’s reliance on Information Technology (IT) has increased tremendously in the last few decades. Unfortunately, the growth of the IT sector has occurred at the expense of the environment. The adverse environmental impact of IT operations is partly due to the production and disposal of IT equipment, which can result in harmful pollution and toxic materials being released into the environment. Furthermore, IT equipment consumes large amounts of electricity, and this results in significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) being released into the atmosphere. Since CO2 is classified as a greenhouse gas, it contributes to the phenomenon of climate change. Organisations are socially and ethically required to minimise the environmental impact of their IT operations. However, in addition to fulfilling their responsibility towards environmental sustainability, organisations can gain a competitive advantage through adopting green IT practices. In order to reap the benefits of green IT and to fulfil their social and ethical responsibilities, organisations need to formulate and implement a comprehensive green IT strategy. When formulating strategic decisions, the use of a clear decision process enhances the effectiveness of such decisions. As a result, top IT management require a model or framework which could guide their thinking and allow for a clear decision process when formulating green IT strategy. However, after an extensive search of the literature had been conducted, a research gap was identified for the definition of a model which deals specifically with the formulation and execution of green IT strategy. As a result, this treatise sets out to answer the question of what organisations should consider when formulating and implementing green IT strategy. To answer the research question, the treatise defines a model for green IT strategy. The model was defined by conducting a content analysis of the literature on green IT. The content-analysis ABSTRACT iii research technique was utilised to identify the underlying concepts within the literature related to green IT strategy formulation and execution. The resulting model indicates that green IT strategy formulation requires holistic thinking, since several forces affect green IT strategy. As a result, these forces should be considered when a green IT strategy is to be formulated. However, even if a strategy is formulated by considering all the forces at play, it is of little use if it is not implemented effectively. The model indicates that green IT strategy should be implemented though a series of practices. These practices are not limited to IT practices alone, but include, in addition, several business practices. This indicates that green IT adoption extends far beyond the mere implementation of green technology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Du Preez, Riekert
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Information technology -- Environmental aspects , Green technology -- South Africa , Strategic planning , Climatic changes , Green movement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8630 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1485 , Information technology -- Environmental aspects , Green technology -- South Africa , Strategic planning , Climatic changes , Green movement
- Description: Society’s reliance on Information Technology (IT) has increased tremendously in the last few decades. Unfortunately, the growth of the IT sector has occurred at the expense of the environment. The adverse environmental impact of IT operations is partly due to the production and disposal of IT equipment, which can result in harmful pollution and toxic materials being released into the environment. Furthermore, IT equipment consumes large amounts of electricity, and this results in significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) being released into the atmosphere. Since CO2 is classified as a greenhouse gas, it contributes to the phenomenon of climate change. Organisations are socially and ethically required to minimise the environmental impact of their IT operations. However, in addition to fulfilling their responsibility towards environmental sustainability, organisations can gain a competitive advantage through adopting green IT practices. In order to reap the benefits of green IT and to fulfil their social and ethical responsibilities, organisations need to formulate and implement a comprehensive green IT strategy. When formulating strategic decisions, the use of a clear decision process enhances the effectiveness of such decisions. As a result, top IT management require a model or framework which could guide their thinking and allow for a clear decision process when formulating green IT strategy. However, after an extensive search of the literature had been conducted, a research gap was identified for the definition of a model which deals specifically with the formulation and execution of green IT strategy. As a result, this treatise sets out to answer the question of what organisations should consider when formulating and implementing green IT strategy. To answer the research question, the treatise defines a model for green IT strategy. The model was defined by conducting a content analysis of the literature on green IT. The content-analysis ABSTRACT iii research technique was utilised to identify the underlying concepts within the literature related to green IT strategy formulation and execution. The resulting model indicates that green IT strategy formulation requires holistic thinking, since several forces affect green IT strategy. As a result, these forces should be considered when a green IT strategy is to be formulated. However, even if a strategy is formulated by considering all the forces at play, it is of little use if it is not implemented effectively. The model indicates that green IT strategy should be implemented though a series of practices. These practices are not limited to IT practices alone, but include, in addition, several business practices. This indicates that green IT adoption extends far beyond the mere implementation of green technology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
The role of governance: family owned butchery
- Authors: Farndell, Mark
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Family-owned business enterprises -- Management , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession , Corporate governance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8588 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1509 , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Family-owned business enterprises -- Management , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession , Corporate governance -- South Africa
- Description: The importance of SME family businesses is evident in society. Coming out of a recession, the innovation, labour absorption and employment creation capabilities of SMEs and family businesses globally, and in emerging economies with high levels of unemployment and poverty, is incredibly important for environmental sustainability and societal harmony. Good governance is empirically proven to improve long-term sustainability of organisations, and poor governance is linked to the demise of many businesses – large and small, family and non-family businesses alike. This research, by means of a thorough literature review of family business and governance, and a single in-depth case study, identifies the components of SME family business governance in a contextual setting in South Africa. The literature review defines SMEs, family businesses and corporate governance. It reviews the nuances of family businesses that make them distinctive from non-family businesses, the models of family businesses that have been developed over time, the approaches to corporate governance, corporate governance codes of conduct, and family business governance models, as well as the components and dynamics of family business governance. The qualitative case study approach adopted enables the in depth contextual identification and exploration of the dynamics of family business governance. Empirical data collected from interviews, observations and reports are analysed using triangulation and pattern matching logic to ensure validity and reliability. Empirical findings are discussed with reference to the literary research findings, integrating literary and empirical findings, and resulting in the development of a conceptual model of family business governance, an SME family business governance structures model, and an SME family business authority delegation model. Governance is defined as the manifestation of the intent of the founder/owners of the business. Governance is manifest in structures, strategies, policies, procedures, relationships and performance. The reciprocity of transfers and outputs between the family business systems, the family business and its contextual environment is reflected in the performance of the business; which in turn is a reflection of the governance of the family and the family business. The study concludes with the importance of the family and its cohesion and harmony, and the impact it has on synergy, unity and harmony in the business. The study also finds that governance is strategic leadership, and that efficient and effective governance leads to synergies between the family, the family business and its contextual environment that when harnessed and directed towards a vision, can produce unimitable competitive advantages for the family firm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Farndell, Mark
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Family-owned business enterprises -- Management , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession , Corporate governance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8588 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1509 , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Family-owned business enterprises -- Management , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession , Corporate governance -- South Africa
- Description: The importance of SME family businesses is evident in society. Coming out of a recession, the innovation, labour absorption and employment creation capabilities of SMEs and family businesses globally, and in emerging economies with high levels of unemployment and poverty, is incredibly important for environmental sustainability and societal harmony. Good governance is empirically proven to improve long-term sustainability of organisations, and poor governance is linked to the demise of many businesses – large and small, family and non-family businesses alike. This research, by means of a thorough literature review of family business and governance, and a single in-depth case study, identifies the components of SME family business governance in a contextual setting in South Africa. The literature review defines SMEs, family businesses and corporate governance. It reviews the nuances of family businesses that make them distinctive from non-family businesses, the models of family businesses that have been developed over time, the approaches to corporate governance, corporate governance codes of conduct, and family business governance models, as well as the components and dynamics of family business governance. The qualitative case study approach adopted enables the in depth contextual identification and exploration of the dynamics of family business governance. Empirical data collected from interviews, observations and reports are analysed using triangulation and pattern matching logic to ensure validity and reliability. Empirical findings are discussed with reference to the literary research findings, integrating literary and empirical findings, and resulting in the development of a conceptual model of family business governance, an SME family business governance structures model, and an SME family business authority delegation model. Governance is defined as the manifestation of the intent of the founder/owners of the business. Governance is manifest in structures, strategies, policies, procedures, relationships and performance. The reciprocity of transfers and outputs between the family business systems, the family business and its contextual environment is reflected in the performance of the business; which in turn is a reflection of the governance of the family and the family business. The study concludes with the importance of the family and its cohesion and harmony, and the impact it has on synergy, unity and harmony in the business. The study also finds that governance is strategic leadership, and that efficient and effective governance leads to synergies between the family, the family business and its contextual environment that when harnessed and directed towards a vision, can produce unimitable competitive advantages for the family firm.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Innovation in post production stage of print Newspaper
- Authors: Fayo, Sicelo Nathaniel
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Newspaper publishing -- Technological innovations , Newspapers -- Circulation , Newspapers -- Marketing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8614 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1544 , Newspaper publishing -- Technological innovations , Newspapers -- Circulation , Newspapers -- Marketing
- Description: Print newspapers in South Africa are the oldest formal mode of news and information dissemination but which has come under tremendous pressure with the advent and spread of technological innovation involving information communication infrastructure and processes, but specifically the internet. The main challenge facing print newspapers in terms of circulation growth of print and advertising revenue is speed to market. The internet has not only provided a new avenue for news and information dissemination but has the distinct advantage of tremendous speed to deliver news and information to readers. Meanwhile, print newspapers whose production is still almost entirely dependent on traditional structures, processes and physical mode of delivery are battling to stay afloat as the chase for readers' attention is gaining more ground on digital platforms. This new competition landscape has now cast focus fully on traditional print media‟s production processes competency levels as well as their suitability for the nature of competition posed by digital news platforms. The processes involved in the production of a print newspaper can be described as hybrid (Davis and Heineke. 2005: 220) in that they involve different types of processes at different stages to produce the final product. The focus of this study at Avusa Media (Port Elizabeth) was on the post production processes involving the printing and distribution of printed newspapers with the objective of gaining an understanding of the extent and impact of the information technology advancement in the post production phase of printed newspapers. v In pursuing the goal, the case study research followed a phenomenological paradigm involving exploratory and descriptive research processes as described by Yin (1994) in Collis and Hussey (2003: 69) and Clifford Geertz (1973) in Babbie and Mouton (2005: 272) The research found that the traditional business structure for printed newspapers is increasingly becoming unviable due to poverty of technological innovation in critical parts of the production value chain; namely post production processes that encompass printing and distribution of printed newspapers. The research established and revealed that while there are some technological innovations and advances in the print newspaper publishing industry value chain worldwide, they are not only severely limited and disjointed but are also seemingly moving apart rather than towards consolidation in terms of the speed to market need faced by print newspaper publishers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Fayo, Sicelo Nathaniel
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Newspaper publishing -- Technological innovations , Newspapers -- Circulation , Newspapers -- Marketing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8614 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1544 , Newspaper publishing -- Technological innovations , Newspapers -- Circulation , Newspapers -- Marketing
- Description: Print newspapers in South Africa are the oldest formal mode of news and information dissemination but which has come under tremendous pressure with the advent and spread of technological innovation involving information communication infrastructure and processes, but specifically the internet. The main challenge facing print newspapers in terms of circulation growth of print and advertising revenue is speed to market. The internet has not only provided a new avenue for news and information dissemination but has the distinct advantage of tremendous speed to deliver news and information to readers. Meanwhile, print newspapers whose production is still almost entirely dependent on traditional structures, processes and physical mode of delivery are battling to stay afloat as the chase for readers' attention is gaining more ground on digital platforms. This new competition landscape has now cast focus fully on traditional print media‟s production processes competency levels as well as their suitability for the nature of competition posed by digital news platforms. The processes involved in the production of a print newspaper can be described as hybrid (Davis and Heineke. 2005: 220) in that they involve different types of processes at different stages to produce the final product. The focus of this study at Avusa Media (Port Elizabeth) was on the post production processes involving the printing and distribution of printed newspapers with the objective of gaining an understanding of the extent and impact of the information technology advancement in the post production phase of printed newspapers. v In pursuing the goal, the case study research followed a phenomenological paradigm involving exploratory and descriptive research processes as described by Yin (1994) in Collis and Hussey (2003: 69) and Clifford Geertz (1973) in Babbie and Mouton (2005: 272) The research found that the traditional business structure for printed newspapers is increasingly becoming unviable due to poverty of technological innovation in critical parts of the production value chain; namely post production processes that encompass printing and distribution of printed newspapers. The research established and revealed that while there are some technological innovations and advances in the print newspaper publishing industry value chain worldwide, they are not only severely limited and disjointed but are also seemingly moving apart rather than towards consolidation in terms of the speed to market need faced by print newspaper publishers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
The risks of civil engineering project development in emerging nations
- Authors: Fyvie, Richard Michael
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Engineering -- Management , Engineering firms -- South Africa , Construction industry -- Management , Project management -- South Africa , Civil engineering -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8632 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1481 , Engineering -- Management , Engineering firms -- South Africa , Construction industry -- Management , Project management -- South Africa , Civil engineering -- Africa
- Description: This research reviews the challenges and obstacles confronting multinational civil engineering consulting and contracting companies seeking to conduct project developments within Emerging Markets, specifically with regard to the regions of Africa and the Middle East. With the increasing convergence of the global economy towards an interconnected and co-dependant system, the emerging economies of previously underdeveloped parts of the world are now capturing the focus of the civil engineering industry as the primary area of operation. Multinational companies that historically were restricted to construction of the developed world must now adapt and reposition themselves with a footprint in these emerging markets, if they are to take advantage of the changing conditions within the global infrastructure construction industry. For companies historically unfamiliar with operating in Africa and the Middle East, a plethora of potential risks are associated with project development. This research incorporated a substantial literature study that determined a number of critical issues that directly and indirectly influence a company’s ability to complete a project within time and under budget. The literature bank was then tested against the expert opinions of four selected respondents utilising a case study research methodology, as detailed by Yin (1994: 1-17). The respondents represented two selected civil engineering consulting firms, one based in a developed country with an extensive interest in the Middle East, and the other based in an emerging country itself, with operations throughout Africa. The outcome of the research ii highlighted several internal risk factors affecting development in Africa and the Middle East, such as capacity, staff experience, available resources and corporate culture. External factors were, however, the primary focus of respondents’ feedback, and included the reliability of energy supply in the target country, the condition of the built infrastructure such as roads and ports, tax rates and cost of finance, the prevalence of corruption as well as the risk of civil conflict and political instability. The Project Risk Guideline was the final output of this research process, which represented a synthesis between the literature review, the case study investigations as well as synthesis of various accepted risk evaluation techniques. The Guideline is a stage-gate sequential process, and may be utilised by civil engineering consulting or contracting firms with an interest in risk profiling and mitigation for project developments in emerging nations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Fyvie, Richard Michael
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Engineering -- Management , Engineering firms -- South Africa , Construction industry -- Management , Project management -- South Africa , Civil engineering -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8632 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1481 , Engineering -- Management , Engineering firms -- South Africa , Construction industry -- Management , Project management -- South Africa , Civil engineering -- Africa
- Description: This research reviews the challenges and obstacles confronting multinational civil engineering consulting and contracting companies seeking to conduct project developments within Emerging Markets, specifically with regard to the regions of Africa and the Middle East. With the increasing convergence of the global economy towards an interconnected and co-dependant system, the emerging economies of previously underdeveloped parts of the world are now capturing the focus of the civil engineering industry as the primary area of operation. Multinational companies that historically were restricted to construction of the developed world must now adapt and reposition themselves with a footprint in these emerging markets, if they are to take advantage of the changing conditions within the global infrastructure construction industry. For companies historically unfamiliar with operating in Africa and the Middle East, a plethora of potential risks are associated with project development. This research incorporated a substantial literature study that determined a number of critical issues that directly and indirectly influence a company’s ability to complete a project within time and under budget. The literature bank was then tested against the expert opinions of four selected respondents utilising a case study research methodology, as detailed by Yin (1994: 1-17). The respondents represented two selected civil engineering consulting firms, one based in a developed country with an extensive interest in the Middle East, and the other based in an emerging country itself, with operations throughout Africa. The outcome of the research ii highlighted several internal risk factors affecting development in Africa and the Middle East, such as capacity, staff experience, available resources and corporate culture. External factors were, however, the primary focus of respondents’ feedback, and included the reliability of energy supply in the target country, the condition of the built infrastructure such as roads and ports, tax rates and cost of finance, the prevalence of corruption as well as the risk of civil conflict and political instability. The Project Risk Guideline was the final output of this research process, which represented a synthesis between the literature review, the case study investigations as well as synthesis of various accepted risk evaluation techniques. The Guideline is a stage-gate sequential process, and may be utilised by civil engineering consulting or contracting firms with an interest in risk profiling and mitigation for project developments in emerging nations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
A critical analysis of the South African automotive industry and government incentive policy
- Authors: Gaskin, Sean
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Motor Industry Development Programme , Automobile industry and trade -- Government policy -- South Africa , Incentives in industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8656 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1358 , Motor Industry Development Programme , Automobile industry and trade -- Government policy -- South Africa , Incentives in industry -- South Africa
- Description: The automotive industry in South Africa exists in its current state due to the developmental programmes created by the South African government. During the next three years the government’s main development policy for the automotive industry will change from the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP) to the Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP). As a result of this change there were feelings of uncertainty experienced across the domestic automotive industry during the APDP’s design and the period leading up to its launch, more or less years 2008 to 2010. Also present is the fear that the industry would collapse when faced with global competition should this change not fully comprehend all aspects of South Africa’s automotive industry. The research problem addressed in this study was to determine the effect on the sector’s competiveness in light of the impending change in governmental development programmes. This was accurately explained and expressed clearly while sub problems were identified from areas in the main problem that required further analysis due to their criticality or lack of clarity. A comprehensive literature review was executed to understand the nature and extent of the South African automotive industry, the Motor Industry Development Programme and the Automotive Production and Development Programme. A primary research instrument was constructed, in the form of a questionnaire, to test specific themes exposed during the literature review which can influence the sector’s competitive advantage. This questionnaire was distributed with the assistance of industry representative bodies NAAMSA (National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa, the domestic de facto representative body) and NAACAM (National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers, a component manufacturers’ representative body), to an even spread of respondents representative of the senior management and executives of automotive companies in South Africa. From the results obtained from the sample group, it seemed that there was consensus on many issues regarding the current structure of the South African automotive industry. Specifically, the profitability of vehicle assemblers and component manufacturers is heavily iii influenced by the incentives offered under the MIDP and the industry is not viable without them. The respondents were virtually unanimous in indicating that there is a need for some form of incentive programme and were positive about the effect the MIDP has had thus far on the automotive industry of South Africa, particularly the effect on the structure, focus and encouraging a reduction in complexity. The research found that it is common practice for OEMs to include the import duty on vehicles imported for domestic consumption even though this duty will be paid with the use of import-duty rebate credit certificates (IRCCs), which are provided to those vehicle assemblers who are net exporters of vehicles. Looking to the future, it emerged that the APDP will have a similar, positive effect on the domestic automotive industry when compared to the MIDP, but the effect will be experienced in a more aggressive manner. Companies will be encouraged by the new development programme to more aggressively improve aspects such as restructuring, rationalising, reducing model proliferation and improving low scale economies for example. Also the APDP will encourage OEMs to increase plant production volumes and ensure that reasonable scale economies are present to develop a domestic component supply industry to a degree. However, the volumes will be insufficient to create a world-class supplier industry. As a result automotive companies will have to be more aggressive in their adoption of more automated production processes and through Automotive Investment Scheme capital investment will increase in both vehicle assemblers and component manufacturers. Component manufacturers indicated that they would invest more in the coming years under the APDP than previously while vehicle assemblers indicated that their investment levels will remain as before. While this is good for the industry, labour is somewhat left out of this: considering the APDP’s focus on increased volumes and capital investments automotive companies are not incentivised to make use of labour-absorbing production processes. The study also found that there is still a need for tariff protection and that the domestic industry would collapse in the face of global competition. The research found that the APDP was compliant with South Africa’s commitments to the World Trade Organisation. Finally, the Department of Trade and Industry’s goal of producing 1.2 million vehicles per annum by 2020 was revealed to be unrealistic and unreachable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Gaskin, Sean
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Motor Industry Development Programme , Automobile industry and trade -- Government policy -- South Africa , Incentives in industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8656 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1358 , Motor Industry Development Programme , Automobile industry and trade -- Government policy -- South Africa , Incentives in industry -- South Africa
- Description: The automotive industry in South Africa exists in its current state due to the developmental programmes created by the South African government. During the next three years the government’s main development policy for the automotive industry will change from the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP) to the Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP). As a result of this change there were feelings of uncertainty experienced across the domestic automotive industry during the APDP’s design and the period leading up to its launch, more or less years 2008 to 2010. Also present is the fear that the industry would collapse when faced with global competition should this change not fully comprehend all aspects of South Africa’s automotive industry. The research problem addressed in this study was to determine the effect on the sector’s competiveness in light of the impending change in governmental development programmes. This was accurately explained and expressed clearly while sub problems were identified from areas in the main problem that required further analysis due to their criticality or lack of clarity. A comprehensive literature review was executed to understand the nature and extent of the South African automotive industry, the Motor Industry Development Programme and the Automotive Production and Development Programme. A primary research instrument was constructed, in the form of a questionnaire, to test specific themes exposed during the literature review which can influence the sector’s competitive advantage. This questionnaire was distributed with the assistance of industry representative bodies NAAMSA (National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa, the domestic de facto representative body) and NAACAM (National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers, a component manufacturers’ representative body), to an even spread of respondents representative of the senior management and executives of automotive companies in South Africa. From the results obtained from the sample group, it seemed that there was consensus on many issues regarding the current structure of the South African automotive industry. Specifically, the profitability of vehicle assemblers and component manufacturers is heavily iii influenced by the incentives offered under the MIDP and the industry is not viable without them. The respondents were virtually unanimous in indicating that there is a need for some form of incentive programme and were positive about the effect the MIDP has had thus far on the automotive industry of South Africa, particularly the effect on the structure, focus and encouraging a reduction in complexity. The research found that it is common practice for OEMs to include the import duty on vehicles imported for domestic consumption even though this duty will be paid with the use of import-duty rebate credit certificates (IRCCs), which are provided to those vehicle assemblers who are net exporters of vehicles. Looking to the future, it emerged that the APDP will have a similar, positive effect on the domestic automotive industry when compared to the MIDP, but the effect will be experienced in a more aggressive manner. Companies will be encouraged by the new development programme to more aggressively improve aspects such as restructuring, rationalising, reducing model proliferation and improving low scale economies for example. Also the APDP will encourage OEMs to increase plant production volumes and ensure that reasonable scale economies are present to develop a domestic component supply industry to a degree. However, the volumes will be insufficient to create a world-class supplier industry. As a result automotive companies will have to be more aggressive in their adoption of more automated production processes and through Automotive Investment Scheme capital investment will increase in both vehicle assemblers and component manufacturers. Component manufacturers indicated that they would invest more in the coming years under the APDP than previously while vehicle assemblers indicated that their investment levels will remain as before. While this is good for the industry, labour is somewhat left out of this: considering the APDP’s focus on increased volumes and capital investments automotive companies are not incentivised to make use of labour-absorbing production processes. The study also found that there is still a need for tariff protection and that the domestic industry would collapse in the face of global competition. The research found that the APDP was compliant with South Africa’s commitments to the World Trade Organisation. Finally, the Department of Trade and Industry’s goal of producing 1.2 million vehicles per annum by 2020 was revealed to be unrealistic and unreachable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Improving the sales success at Avusa Publishing Eastern Cape
- Authors: Gerwel, Ettienne
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Sales management -- South Africa , Advertising, Newspaper -- South Africa , Selling
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8634 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1453 , Sales management -- South Africa , Advertising, Newspaper -- South Africa , Selling
- Description: Avusa Publishing (East Cape) (APEC) publishes several of the oldest and best known newspaper products in the Eastern Cape. The Eastern Province Herald is currently the oldest daily morning newspaper in South Africa and the average daily circulation of the paper is 25 000. Its main distribution is in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan area, as well as the area up to the Garden Route and as far East as Port Alfred. APEC also publishes the Weekend Post. According to the financial statements and circulation and advertisement figures of the company, the revenue generated by the company has not increased, but stayed stagnant. In addition to this, the daily circulation of the flagship publication, The Herald, has decreased from 29 000 in 2005 to 24 000 in 2008. As the company only generates revenue from two sources, namely advertising sales and the sale of newspapers, the above mentioned situation negatively affects the financial wellbeing of the company. The management dilemma that needed to be researched was how APEC's circulation and advertising income could be increased. The primary objective of this study was therefore to improve APEC's sales success by investigating the determinants of such sales success. More specifically, the study investigated the influence of determinants such as newsworthiness, value proposition, brand awareness, customer service, customer loyalty, credibility and new media on sales success, as measured by increased circulation and advertising revenue. Convenience sampling was used to select 287 employees working for the company. A mail survey was conducted among these 287 employees, but only 114 usable questionnaires were returned (a response rate of 40 percent). The empirical results revealed that brand awareness, customer loyalty and the use of new media technologies exerted a significantly positive influence on the sales success of APEC. The results further showed that newsworthiness, editorial credibility, value proposition and customer service exerted no significant influence on the APEC’s sales success. Despite the latter findings, the results revealed that there was a high level of trust and loyalty in the editorial content of APEC, as well as the perception of good value for money among both readers and advertisers. The managerial implications of these findings are discussed and areas of future research are recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Gerwel, Ettienne
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Sales management -- South Africa , Advertising, Newspaper -- South Africa , Selling
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8634 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1453 , Sales management -- South Africa , Advertising, Newspaper -- South Africa , Selling
- Description: Avusa Publishing (East Cape) (APEC) publishes several of the oldest and best known newspaper products in the Eastern Cape. The Eastern Province Herald is currently the oldest daily morning newspaper in South Africa and the average daily circulation of the paper is 25 000. Its main distribution is in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan area, as well as the area up to the Garden Route and as far East as Port Alfred. APEC also publishes the Weekend Post. According to the financial statements and circulation and advertisement figures of the company, the revenue generated by the company has not increased, but stayed stagnant. In addition to this, the daily circulation of the flagship publication, The Herald, has decreased from 29 000 in 2005 to 24 000 in 2008. As the company only generates revenue from two sources, namely advertising sales and the sale of newspapers, the above mentioned situation negatively affects the financial wellbeing of the company. The management dilemma that needed to be researched was how APEC's circulation and advertising income could be increased. The primary objective of this study was therefore to improve APEC's sales success by investigating the determinants of such sales success. More specifically, the study investigated the influence of determinants such as newsworthiness, value proposition, brand awareness, customer service, customer loyalty, credibility and new media on sales success, as measured by increased circulation and advertising revenue. Convenience sampling was used to select 287 employees working for the company. A mail survey was conducted among these 287 employees, but only 114 usable questionnaires were returned (a response rate of 40 percent). The empirical results revealed that brand awareness, customer loyalty and the use of new media technologies exerted a significantly positive influence on the sales success of APEC. The results further showed that newsworthiness, editorial credibility, value proposition and customer service exerted no significant influence on the APEC’s sales success. Despite the latter findings, the results revealed that there was a high level of trust and loyalty in the editorial content of APEC, as well as the perception of good value for money among both readers and advertisers. The managerial implications of these findings are discussed and areas of future research are recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Improving project implementation in firms
- Authors: Hassen, Ismail
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Project management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8667 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1245 , Project management -- South Africa
- Description: Project implementation appears to be one the most difficult aspects of a manager’s job. The purpose of project management is to forecast or anticipate potential dangers and problems that may jeopardise the success of a project and then to plan, organise and control activities that will lead to the successful completion of projects in spite of all the envisaged risks. It is estimated that more than 80% of projects run late or over budget. Such failure often sinks small firms and erodes profits of larger organisations. Project implementation is therefore critical to the success of both small and big firms. The primary objective of this study is to improve project management in firms by investigating the variables that influence project implementation. More specifically, the study investigates the influence of organisational communication, leadership, business process management and resistance to change on project implementation. The sample consisted of 170 employees in a cross-section of industries. The sample was stratified to include senior managers, managers, supervisors and lower level employees. The empirical results show that organisational communication, participatory leadership, retention of the status quo and goal-oriented leadership increase project implementation, while resistance to change decreases project implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Hassen, Ismail
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Project management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8667 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1245 , Project management -- South Africa
- Description: Project implementation appears to be one the most difficult aspects of a manager’s job. The purpose of project management is to forecast or anticipate potential dangers and problems that may jeopardise the success of a project and then to plan, organise and control activities that will lead to the successful completion of projects in spite of all the envisaged risks. It is estimated that more than 80% of projects run late or over budget. Such failure often sinks small firms and erodes profits of larger organisations. Project implementation is therefore critical to the success of both small and big firms. The primary objective of this study is to improve project management in firms by investigating the variables that influence project implementation. More specifically, the study investigates the influence of organisational communication, leadership, business process management and resistance to change on project implementation. The sample consisted of 170 employees in a cross-section of industries. The sample was stratified to include senior managers, managers, supervisors and lower level employees. The empirical results show that organisational communication, participatory leadership, retention of the status quo and goal-oriented leadership increase project implementation, while resistance to change decreases project implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Improving economic development through effective communication strategies in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Headbush, Shambalda
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Communication in economic development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8666 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1246 , Communication in economic development
- Description: The purpose of this study is to improve Local Economic Development (LED) through effective communication strategies between Local Government and the Private sector in Nelson Mandela Bay. The study has been carried out by means of a literature and a primary study. Effective communication is one of the key elements which contribute to the success of Local Economic Development implementation. The communication strategies in Local Economic Development have been discussed and analysed to determine the ineffective methods of communication in Local Economic Development implementation. The literature indicated that a good communication strategy is determining the most effective method of communicating with ones’ target audience. The findings of the primary study revealed that the communication strategy between the stakeholders was not fully maximised in improving Local Economic Development implementation. It also revealed secondary factors that contributed to the ineffectiveness of Local Economic Development implementation. In order to improve the current communication strategies, the researcher recommended that new forms of communication medium between Government and the Private sector could be introduced. Lastly, the secondary factors which contribute to ineffective Local Economic Development implementation were analysed and recommendations were suggested.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Headbush, Shambalda
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Communication in economic development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8666 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1246 , Communication in economic development
- Description: The purpose of this study is to improve Local Economic Development (LED) through effective communication strategies between Local Government and the Private sector in Nelson Mandela Bay. The study has been carried out by means of a literature and a primary study. Effective communication is one of the key elements which contribute to the success of Local Economic Development implementation. The communication strategies in Local Economic Development have been discussed and analysed to determine the ineffective methods of communication in Local Economic Development implementation. The literature indicated that a good communication strategy is determining the most effective method of communicating with ones’ target audience. The findings of the primary study revealed that the communication strategy between the stakeholders was not fully maximised in improving Local Economic Development implementation. It also revealed secondary factors that contributed to the ineffectiveness of Local Economic Development implementation. In order to improve the current communication strategies, the researcher recommended that new forms of communication medium between Government and the Private sector could be introduced. Lastly, the secondary factors which contribute to ineffective Local Economic Development implementation were analysed and recommendations were suggested.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
The impact of increasing electricity tariffs on the automative industry in South Africa
- Authors: Hoops, Eduard Christiaan
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Electricity -- Costs , Electric utilities -- Rates
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8639 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1436 , Electricity -- Costs , Electric utilities -- Rates
- Description: South African electricity tariffs were relatively low compared to the rest of the world. The average South African business has for long taken this advantage for granted and is now surprised to realise that electricity is becoming an expensive and scarce commodity. The South African electricity supply industry is far more complex than the average person may think. The infrastructure supporting this industry is extremely costly; takes long to develop and build and requires careful planning and management. There are many sources of energy and many technologies for generating electricity. However, many of these do not appear quite ready to serve the needs of the industry. The manufacturing industry depends heavily on electricity. The recent power outages and tariff increases have served as a cruel reminder of this fact. The automotive sector has lost many days of production and the increasing electricity costs erode the profitability of the affected companies. The automotive suppliers and vehicle manufacturers have expressed their concerns. Indications are that some have reduced the number of employees and may even face bankruptcy. This research aims to gain the perspective of senior managers in the automotive industry regarding the impact of the increased electricity tariffs on their manufacturing costs. Naturally, all electricity consumers will be affected by this. However, this research aims to investigate the significance of the effect on the automotive industry as well as obtain some indication of which factors determine the level of dependency. Each company has to react strategically to the situation and apply those measures which are available to them. This research determines how strongly the industry feels about reacting and which strategic measures they will apply. The outcome is descriptive of the circumstances in the industry and indisputably serves as an indication of the financial impact of electricity tariff increases.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Hoops, Eduard Christiaan
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Electricity -- Costs , Electric utilities -- Rates
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8639 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1436 , Electricity -- Costs , Electric utilities -- Rates
- Description: South African electricity tariffs were relatively low compared to the rest of the world. The average South African business has for long taken this advantage for granted and is now surprised to realise that electricity is becoming an expensive and scarce commodity. The South African electricity supply industry is far more complex than the average person may think. The infrastructure supporting this industry is extremely costly; takes long to develop and build and requires careful planning and management. There are many sources of energy and many technologies for generating electricity. However, many of these do not appear quite ready to serve the needs of the industry. The manufacturing industry depends heavily on electricity. The recent power outages and tariff increases have served as a cruel reminder of this fact. The automotive sector has lost many days of production and the increasing electricity costs erode the profitability of the affected companies. The automotive suppliers and vehicle manufacturers have expressed their concerns. Indications are that some have reduced the number of employees and may even face bankruptcy. This research aims to gain the perspective of senior managers in the automotive industry regarding the impact of the increased electricity tariffs on their manufacturing costs. Naturally, all electricity consumers will be affected by this. However, this research aims to investigate the significance of the effect on the automotive industry as well as obtain some indication of which factors determine the level of dependency. Each company has to react strategically to the situation and apply those measures which are available to them. This research determines how strongly the industry feels about reacting and which strategic measures they will apply. The outcome is descriptive of the circumstances in the industry and indisputably serves as an indication of the financial impact of electricity tariff increases.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
The implementation of e-business in the South African automative industry
- Authors: Khayundi, Silas Imende
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Electronic commerce -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8640 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1446 , Electronic commerce -- South Africa
- Description: Globally, the automotive industry has progressed through various stages of manufacturing paradigms over many decades. The automotive industry is one of South Africa's most important sectors, with many of the major automotive multinationals using South Africa to source components and assemble vehicles for both the local and international markets. Lean production has been recognised as the most effective manufacturing strategy that generates high quality products at low costs, while still producing different varieties of products. The effectiveness of the lean production lies in the relationships that exist between the original equipment manufacturer and its suppliers. Klopping and McKinney (2004) state that the evolution of the Internet as a business tool enhanced by the development of the World Wide Web has led to the emergence of the fast growing e-commerce applications. This quantitative research study aims at investigating the e-business relationships that exist between a selected Eastern Cape Original Equipment Manufacturer and its first tier suppliers. The primary objective of the study was to obtain and document direct feedback from the South African Automotive Manufacturing Industry about their perceptions, opinions, plans and activities in respect to Business to Business Electronic Commerce - called "e-Business" for the remainder of this study. The study shows that most automotive suppliers are comparatively heavy users of e-business. Many of these suppliers are also using e-mail and have a website, but comparatively few engage in more complex e-business operations. The greater majority of respondents reported that e-business has facilitated efficiency of their operations. However, e-business is not being utilised effectively between the OEM and its suppliers even with the introduction of Covisint which is a common e-business interface that was created through collaboration between major OEMs and their suppliers to ease e-business in the automotive industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Khayundi, Silas Imende
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Electronic commerce -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8640 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1446 , Electronic commerce -- South Africa
- Description: Globally, the automotive industry has progressed through various stages of manufacturing paradigms over many decades. The automotive industry is one of South Africa's most important sectors, with many of the major automotive multinationals using South Africa to source components and assemble vehicles for both the local and international markets. Lean production has been recognised as the most effective manufacturing strategy that generates high quality products at low costs, while still producing different varieties of products. The effectiveness of the lean production lies in the relationships that exist between the original equipment manufacturer and its suppliers. Klopping and McKinney (2004) state that the evolution of the Internet as a business tool enhanced by the development of the World Wide Web has led to the emergence of the fast growing e-commerce applications. This quantitative research study aims at investigating the e-business relationships that exist between a selected Eastern Cape Original Equipment Manufacturer and its first tier suppliers. The primary objective of the study was to obtain and document direct feedback from the South African Automotive Manufacturing Industry about their perceptions, opinions, plans and activities in respect to Business to Business Electronic Commerce - called "e-Business" for the remainder of this study. The study shows that most automotive suppliers are comparatively heavy users of e-business. Many of these suppliers are also using e-mail and have a website, but comparatively few engage in more complex e-business operations. The greater majority of respondents reported that e-business has facilitated efficiency of their operations. However, e-business is not being utilised effectively between the OEM and its suppliers even with the introduction of Covisint which is a common e-business interface that was created through collaboration between major OEMs and their suppliers to ease e-business in the automotive industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Applying a lean engagement assessment tool to improve the probability of successful lean implementation at AB company
- Authors: Kleinhans, Carel Pretorious
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Engagement (Philosophy) , Preparedness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8593 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1521 , Lean manufacturing , Engagement (Philosophy) , Preparedness
- Description: Competitiveness is crucial to achieving solid future national economics. A nation’s competitiveness reflects the extent to which it is able to provide increased prosperity to its citizens. Competitiveness can be defined to include the level of productivity of a country. This, in turn, sets the sustainability level of prosperity that can be achieved by an economy (Porter & Schwab, 2008). President Mbeki stated in the 2004 State of the Nation Address that “(South Africa) must continue to focus on the growth, development, and modernisation of the First Economy” (National Research Foundation, n.d.). The National Research Foundation (n.d.) claims that knowledge, innovation, and productivity, as well as optimal use of resources in the enterprise, are key to a competitive, sustainable growing economy. Firms involved in lean manufacturing do so to improve overall company performance in terms of productivity, efficiency, profitability and reducing costs. More than 90 per cent of these firms claim to be successful in achieving such goals. There is a clear association between the use of lean manufacturing and achieving higher productivity (Lucey, 2008a). Against this research and the claims made by the National Research Foundation it may be stated that lean manufacturing results will impact positively on an economy’s growth. AB Company will be evaluated in terms of the readiness and future sustainability of its lean transformation for the purposes of this study. It is anticipated that the results of this study will contribute toward reducing the risk of failure associated with a major lean transformation in the business.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Kleinhans, Carel Pretorious
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Engagement (Philosophy) , Preparedness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8593 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1521 , Lean manufacturing , Engagement (Philosophy) , Preparedness
- Description: Competitiveness is crucial to achieving solid future national economics. A nation’s competitiveness reflects the extent to which it is able to provide increased prosperity to its citizens. Competitiveness can be defined to include the level of productivity of a country. This, in turn, sets the sustainability level of prosperity that can be achieved by an economy (Porter & Schwab, 2008). President Mbeki stated in the 2004 State of the Nation Address that “(South Africa) must continue to focus on the growth, development, and modernisation of the First Economy” (National Research Foundation, n.d.). The National Research Foundation (n.d.) claims that knowledge, innovation, and productivity, as well as optimal use of resources in the enterprise, are key to a competitive, sustainable growing economy. Firms involved in lean manufacturing do so to improve overall company performance in terms of productivity, efficiency, profitability and reducing costs. More than 90 per cent of these firms claim to be successful in achieving such goals. There is a clear association between the use of lean manufacturing and achieving higher productivity (Lucey, 2008a). Against this research and the claims made by the National Research Foundation it may be stated that lean manufacturing results will impact positively on an economy’s growth. AB Company will be evaluated in terms of the readiness and future sustainability of its lean transformation for the purposes of this study. It is anticipated that the results of this study will contribute toward reducing the risk of failure associated with a major lean transformation in the business.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
NMMU alumni as non-donors : why NMMU alumni do not become donors to the institution
- Authors: Knoesen, Evert Philip
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University -- Alumni and alumnae , Universities and colleges -- Alumni and alumnae -- Charitable contributions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8642 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1432 , Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University -- Alumni and alumnae , Universities and colleges -- Alumni and alumnae -- Charitable contributions
- Description: This project investigates why alumni do not become donors to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. Interviews with non-donors created the opportunity for an in depth qualitative examination of the motivating process that led these non-donors to abstain from giving. This study used the Van Slyke and Brooks (Van Slyke & Brooks, 2005) model of alumni giving and the Schervish (Schervish, The spiritual horizon of philianthropy: New directors for money and motives, 2000) supply side theory of philanthropy, which has been successfully applied in similar studies (Wastyn, 2008), to provide the conceptual framework. This framework maintains that donors and non-donors differ in that the manner in which they socially construct their university experience in creating their own realities. This constructed reality becomes the filter through which non-donors pass requests for financial support (whether direct or indirect) from the institution. The study revealed that at NMMU factors including generic donor behaviour among alumni, the status of current non-donors as being mostly past donors to their respective constituent institution, attitudes toward the institutional reputation (or aspects thereof) of the NMMU, identified obstacles to engagement, pervasive negative attitudes to institutional giving and alumni support for commercialised but not tiered giving activities, can play a major role in restructuring the manner in which non-donor alumni should be approached. The study demonstrates the need to include non-donors in research that explores alumni giving to the university. It confirms the distinct impact of the abnormally distributed demographic characteristics of this university and confirms that examining the impact of these characteristics and experiences cannot be effectively done by simply relying on one or two simple variables. Being a management project, 13 (thirteen) distinct categories of management recommendations are made, ranging from strategy development, through accounting and budgeting practice, to proposing specific revenue generating initiatives. The study concludes with the view that Alumni can and should be able to make a notable contribution to the revenue of the university and in so doing, contribute to the sustainability of the pro-social transformation process of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Knoesen, Evert Philip
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University -- Alumni and alumnae , Universities and colleges -- Alumni and alumnae -- Charitable contributions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8642 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1432 , Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University -- Alumni and alumnae , Universities and colleges -- Alumni and alumnae -- Charitable contributions
- Description: This project investigates why alumni do not become donors to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. Interviews with non-donors created the opportunity for an in depth qualitative examination of the motivating process that led these non-donors to abstain from giving. This study used the Van Slyke and Brooks (Van Slyke & Brooks, 2005) model of alumni giving and the Schervish (Schervish, The spiritual horizon of philianthropy: New directors for money and motives, 2000) supply side theory of philanthropy, which has been successfully applied in similar studies (Wastyn, 2008), to provide the conceptual framework. This framework maintains that donors and non-donors differ in that the manner in which they socially construct their university experience in creating their own realities. This constructed reality becomes the filter through which non-donors pass requests for financial support (whether direct or indirect) from the institution. The study revealed that at NMMU factors including generic donor behaviour among alumni, the status of current non-donors as being mostly past donors to their respective constituent institution, attitudes toward the institutional reputation (or aspects thereof) of the NMMU, identified obstacles to engagement, pervasive negative attitudes to institutional giving and alumni support for commercialised but not tiered giving activities, can play a major role in restructuring the manner in which non-donor alumni should be approached. The study demonstrates the need to include non-donors in research that explores alumni giving to the university. It confirms the distinct impact of the abnormally distributed demographic characteristics of this university and confirms that examining the impact of these characteristics and experiences cannot be effectively done by simply relying on one or two simple variables. Being a management project, 13 (thirteen) distinct categories of management recommendations are made, ranging from strategy development, through accounting and budgeting practice, to proposing specific revenue generating initiatives. The study concludes with the view that Alumni can and should be able to make a notable contribution to the revenue of the university and in so doing, contribute to the sustainability of the pro-social transformation process of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010