Application of lean manufacturing tools in cash centres to improve operational efficiency
- Authors: Smith, Ryan Erich
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8647 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1391 , Lean manufacturing
- Description: Financial institutes, typically banks, that derive funding from the collection of cash deposits, could derive benefit from the research. In addition, companies who act as outsourced suppliers to such institutes, and therefore process cash deposits on behalf of the banks should derive a similar benefit. Notably, some financial institutes outsource their cash management services. The advantages of outsourcing, such as freeing up staff, and getting the organisation to focus on its core activities, has to be weighed against the challenges that it provides. Hines et al. (2000: 17) note that outsourcing often means a heavy reliance on third party for service, the reliance on third parties 7 for the managing of funds, as well as the risk of securing customer confidentiality. Referring to a survey done by Ernst and Young in 1999, Hines et al. (2000: 15) revealed that revenue from cash management had grown from $7 billion in 1993, to $10 billion in 1999. It would thus be hard to overstate the significance of this industry, or the importance of gaining a competitive advantage. This research aims to provide some guideline on how the banks could become more competitive through pricing and service without cross-subsidising their bulk cash processing divisions. Competitiveness, in turn, would be derived by improving productivity through the application and transfer of lean tools from manufacturing and the service industry. Although the lean approach is well established in the manufacturing sector and certain product-service sectors, evidence of lean in pure service environments is very limited (Piercy & Rich, 2009: 59). Cash centres have a unique combination of service and product environments in the sense that: (1) cash is the commodity and (2) the commodity received from customers is in a sense used as raw material to create products like floats, payrolls, and cash for ATMs. This research could therefore contribute to the way management views the suitability of lean production methodologies in the context of a part product and part service environment such as the cash centre.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Smith, Ryan Erich
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8647 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1391 , Lean manufacturing
- Description: Financial institutes, typically banks, that derive funding from the collection of cash deposits, could derive benefit from the research. In addition, companies who act as outsourced suppliers to such institutes, and therefore process cash deposits on behalf of the banks should derive a similar benefit. Notably, some financial institutes outsource their cash management services. The advantages of outsourcing, such as freeing up staff, and getting the organisation to focus on its core activities, has to be weighed against the challenges that it provides. Hines et al. (2000: 17) note that outsourcing often means a heavy reliance on third party for service, the reliance on third parties 7 for the managing of funds, as well as the risk of securing customer confidentiality. Referring to a survey done by Ernst and Young in 1999, Hines et al. (2000: 15) revealed that revenue from cash management had grown from $7 billion in 1993, to $10 billion in 1999. It would thus be hard to overstate the significance of this industry, or the importance of gaining a competitive advantage. This research aims to provide some guideline on how the banks could become more competitive through pricing and service without cross-subsidising their bulk cash processing divisions. Competitiveness, in turn, would be derived by improving productivity through the application and transfer of lean tools from manufacturing and the service industry. Although the lean approach is well established in the manufacturing sector and certain product-service sectors, evidence of lean in pure service environments is very limited (Piercy & Rich, 2009: 59). Cash centres have a unique combination of service and product environments in the sense that: (1) cash is the commodity and (2) the commodity received from customers is in a sense used as raw material to create products like floats, payrolls, and cash for ATMs. This research could therefore contribute to the way management views the suitability of lean production methodologies in the context of a part product and part service environment such as the cash centre.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Assessing BEE policy's viability in advancing establishment and survival of SMMes in South Africa
- Authors: Waithaka, Stephen Kiumi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4376 , vital:20591
- Description: Black Economic Empowerment is an ideology and policy that was effected so as to streamline the inequalities that were and have been left to stand after the apartheid era in South Africa. Despite the mixed reactions that would surface as a result of the underpinnings of the policy, the main focus of the policy was and still is to provide for equality and build better business among the economic minority who in this case are the “black” people of South Africa. This report focuses on the policy and the different guidelines that have been set in place to counter the inequalities in businesses and economy with focus being on SMMEs and looking at ways in which various sections, especially the score card, with regard to exemptions to small businesses, how this aids them in achieving BEE compliance. The research accomplished this by looking at the requirements of the score card, focusing mainly on the stipulations placed on SMMEs and by the use of literary reports gathered information that would show whether the exemptions give the said enterprises added competitive advantage. The research produced a couple of findings; that although theoretically the necessity of boosting economic growth and business of one of the most productive enterprise sectors in an economy and the fact that the score card has focused infinitely on the need for SMMEs not to be fully focused on a specific cluster of criterion in the score card but more on which criterion would work best for them and which ones are easy to maneuver around to ensure maximum growth and contribution, there is the loop hole that is experienced of how this criterion is met and passed with disregard to actualization of the need to adhere to the strictness of the rules of how compliance is attained. There was also the main issue of fronting which is the falsification of ownership of a company by providing misleading information about the directors and owners of the business. The main conclusions drawn from this research are that it is important not to lose the foresight that the policy is meant to enhance and grow the economic ability of a sector and build business through which the policy makes very heavy recommendations but there are shortfalls experienced with regard to how compliance is approached putting into consideration that SMMEs have been given exemptions in the number of pillars of the score card they can apply to their business. It is also important to note that the influence and bulldozing that is expected when it comes to dealing with policies of this nature is not to be sidelined. This research aims to look at the discrepancies that are set out within the structures that hold the policy together so as to attain maximum results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Waithaka, Stephen Kiumi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4376 , vital:20591
- Description: Black Economic Empowerment is an ideology and policy that was effected so as to streamline the inequalities that were and have been left to stand after the apartheid era in South Africa. Despite the mixed reactions that would surface as a result of the underpinnings of the policy, the main focus of the policy was and still is to provide for equality and build better business among the economic minority who in this case are the “black” people of South Africa. This report focuses on the policy and the different guidelines that have been set in place to counter the inequalities in businesses and economy with focus being on SMMEs and looking at ways in which various sections, especially the score card, with regard to exemptions to small businesses, how this aids them in achieving BEE compliance. The research accomplished this by looking at the requirements of the score card, focusing mainly on the stipulations placed on SMMEs and by the use of literary reports gathered information that would show whether the exemptions give the said enterprises added competitive advantage. The research produced a couple of findings; that although theoretically the necessity of boosting economic growth and business of one of the most productive enterprise sectors in an economy and the fact that the score card has focused infinitely on the need for SMMEs not to be fully focused on a specific cluster of criterion in the score card but more on which criterion would work best for them and which ones are easy to maneuver around to ensure maximum growth and contribution, there is the loop hole that is experienced of how this criterion is met and passed with disregard to actualization of the need to adhere to the strictness of the rules of how compliance is attained. There was also the main issue of fronting which is the falsification of ownership of a company by providing misleading information about the directors and owners of the business. The main conclusions drawn from this research are that it is important not to lose the foresight that the policy is meant to enhance and grow the economic ability of a sector and build business through which the policy makes very heavy recommendations but there are shortfalls experienced with regard to how compliance is approached putting into consideration that SMMEs have been given exemptions in the number of pillars of the score card they can apply to their business. It is also important to note that the influence and bulldozing that is expected when it comes to dealing with policies of this nature is not to be sidelined. This research aims to look at the discrepancies that are set out within the structures that hold the policy together so as to attain maximum results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Assessing conflict and management interventions
- Authors: Plaatjes, Carlton Henry
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa , Cognitive styles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8818 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018930
- Description: Human resource management, or people management, is concerned with the philosophies, policies, programmes, practices and decisions that affect the people who work for an organisation. The various people management functions are aimed at helping the organisation achieve its strategic goals and as such are an integral part of the management process. People management consists of several aspects and sub-divisions of which pro-active conflict handling and management is one and which is also the subject of this study. The objective of this study was to assess causes of conflict and interventions and styles of conflict management in the workplace. Workplace politics, change management, diversity, cultures and religious views are but a few major sources for the emergence of conflict. We are currently in the era of fast change or more aptly put “hyperchange” and conflict is inevitable and management styles can also create and/or escalate conflict situations including, the composition of diversity in the workplace. This adds to the new challenges of management. Organisations in this decade need to acknowledge that their management styles of days gone by are not relevant anymore and one must understand to recognise conflict and resolve it in an appropriate manner. This study assessed the major causes of conflict in the workplace and whether the managerial style of managers and management interventions impacts on the overall conflict situations experienced by staff members in organisations in Cape Town and Windhoek. It also gave an indication if interventions and conflict management training/programmes are in place or used, if at all. Sometimes conflict is resolved successfully or unsuccessfully and what impact it has on the managers, his/her staff and colleagues and the organisation as a whole. This can have a detriment impact on the business and the culture within the organisation and which could result in or give rise to high labour turnover, underlying unhappy staff and disempowerment of managers and staff and poor production and service levels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Plaatjes, Carlton Henry
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa , Cognitive styles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8818 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018930
- Description: Human resource management, or people management, is concerned with the philosophies, policies, programmes, practices and decisions that affect the people who work for an organisation. The various people management functions are aimed at helping the organisation achieve its strategic goals and as such are an integral part of the management process. People management consists of several aspects and sub-divisions of which pro-active conflict handling and management is one and which is also the subject of this study. The objective of this study was to assess causes of conflict and interventions and styles of conflict management in the workplace. Workplace politics, change management, diversity, cultures and religious views are but a few major sources for the emergence of conflict. We are currently in the era of fast change or more aptly put “hyperchange” and conflict is inevitable and management styles can also create and/or escalate conflict situations including, the composition of diversity in the workplace. This adds to the new challenges of management. Organisations in this decade need to acknowledge that their management styles of days gone by are not relevant anymore and one must understand to recognise conflict and resolve it in an appropriate manner. This study assessed the major causes of conflict in the workplace and whether the managerial style of managers and management interventions impacts on the overall conflict situations experienced by staff members in organisations in Cape Town and Windhoek. It also gave an indication if interventions and conflict management training/programmes are in place or used, if at all. Sometimes conflict is resolved successfully or unsuccessfully and what impact it has on the managers, his/her staff and colleagues and the organisation as a whole. This can have a detriment impact on the business and the culture within the organisation and which could result in or give rise to high labour turnover, underlying unhappy staff and disempowerment of managers and staff and poor production and service levels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Assessing the 'breaking new ground in housing' policy of South Africa in meeting the objectives of community participation
- Authors: April, Tandeka
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Housing policy -- Citizen participation , Political participation -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9070 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008400 , Housing policy -- Citizen participation , Political participation -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality -- Evaluation
- Description: Community participation is an important aspect of South African government policies that deal with integrated development planning and sustainable development. This report presents aspects of community participation in infrastructure delivery and in particular housing in Reeston which is part of the Duncan Village Redevelopment Initiative in East London area of the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The importance of community participation is acknowledged as it enhances the ability of the community members to demonstrate and use their own views to deal with specific issues and to address the needs and problems that emerge and prevail in their societies. The two emerging paradigms of community participation suggest that the participating communities should be involved in the ‘selection, design, planning and implementation’ of projects that will have an effect on them and from which they are going to benefit ; and that continuous feedback to communities forms a fundamental part of any development activity. This report explores how the “Breaking New Ground in Housing” (BNG) policy of the South African Government meets its objectives in the context of community participation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: April, Tandeka
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Housing policy -- Citizen participation , Political participation -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9070 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008400 , Housing policy -- Citizen participation , Political participation -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality -- Evaluation
- Description: Community participation is an important aspect of South African government policies that deal with integrated development planning and sustainable development. This report presents aspects of community participation in infrastructure delivery and in particular housing in Reeston which is part of the Duncan Village Redevelopment Initiative in East London area of the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The importance of community participation is acknowledged as it enhances the ability of the community members to demonstrate and use their own views to deal with specific issues and to address the needs and problems that emerge and prevail in their societies. The two emerging paradigms of community participation suggest that the participating communities should be involved in the ‘selection, design, planning and implementation’ of projects that will have an effect on them and from which they are going to benefit ; and that continuous feedback to communities forms a fundamental part of any development activity. This report explores how the “Breaking New Ground in Housing” (BNG) policy of the South African Government meets its objectives in the context of community participation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Assessing the impact of integrated development planning (IDP) on gender equality and women's empowerment in South Africa: a case study of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Municipality
- Authors: Mpofu, Sibongile
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Gender mainstreaming -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Women in development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Equality -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4751 , vital:20672
- Description: The South African local government is expected to conform to all national policy directives including the principle of gender equality. Local government provides an immense opportunity for redressing imbalances and empowerment of women as they are the most negatively affected by poverty as a result of inequality. The South African Government has developed a wide range of legislation that ensures that women are empowered and participate in their own development. With all the legislation in place, women‟s empowerment as envisaged in the South African Constitution has, however, not yet been yielded the desired results as evidenced by the fact that women continue to remain disadvantaged in relation to men. This study therefore seeks to investigate whether and how the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBMM) has mainstreamed gender in support to the principles of gender equality and women‟s empowerment in the implementation of Integrated Development Planning (IDP) with particular reference to wards 15 and 17. The researcher used a mixed methods research approach, this means that the study followed both the qualitative and quantitative approaches for in-depth understanding followed in the design and implementation of the IDP process. Data was collected from women participants by conducting surveys, making use of questionnaires. Structured interviews were conducted with municipality officials in order to give more insight more insight into how the IDP process is initiated in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Municipality. The findings of the study revealed that there is a lack of a strategic understanding of gender mainstreaming particularly by the leadership of the municipality. This as a result, has made operationalisation and engendering the IDP difficult. Due to this strategic vacuum, gender is generally not taken seriously when compared to other developmental challenges such as infrastructure provision. Moreover, the municipality does not have a coordination mechanism nor does it have a proper consultation mechanism to ensure that the nature of development projects is appropriate, effective and actually targets women‟s developmental needs. The leadership of the municipality must commit to the process of gender mainstreaming if the IDP is to be an effective tool in addressing the gender imbalances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mpofu, Sibongile
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Gender mainstreaming -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Women in development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Equality -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4751 , vital:20672
- Description: The South African local government is expected to conform to all national policy directives including the principle of gender equality. Local government provides an immense opportunity for redressing imbalances and empowerment of women as they are the most negatively affected by poverty as a result of inequality. The South African Government has developed a wide range of legislation that ensures that women are empowered and participate in their own development. With all the legislation in place, women‟s empowerment as envisaged in the South African Constitution has, however, not yet been yielded the desired results as evidenced by the fact that women continue to remain disadvantaged in relation to men. This study therefore seeks to investigate whether and how the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBMM) has mainstreamed gender in support to the principles of gender equality and women‟s empowerment in the implementation of Integrated Development Planning (IDP) with particular reference to wards 15 and 17. The researcher used a mixed methods research approach, this means that the study followed both the qualitative and quantitative approaches for in-depth understanding followed in the design and implementation of the IDP process. Data was collected from women participants by conducting surveys, making use of questionnaires. Structured interviews were conducted with municipality officials in order to give more insight more insight into how the IDP process is initiated in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Municipality. The findings of the study revealed that there is a lack of a strategic understanding of gender mainstreaming particularly by the leadership of the municipality. This as a result, has made operationalisation and engendering the IDP difficult. Due to this strategic vacuum, gender is generally not taken seriously when compared to other developmental challenges such as infrastructure provision. Moreover, the municipality does not have a coordination mechanism nor does it have a proper consultation mechanism to ensure that the nature of development projects is appropriate, effective and actually targets women‟s developmental needs. The leadership of the municipality must commit to the process of gender mainstreaming if the IDP is to be an effective tool in addressing the gender imbalances.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Assessing the impact of unions and related barriers in lean manufacturing implementation within Eastern Cape automotive component suppliers
- Authors: Ebrahim, Zahier
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Motor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor unions -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8791 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015690
- Description: Lean manufacturing provides a fundamental basis for competitiveness in the auto component sector. The implementation and sustainability of the lean philosophy are important aspects when deciding on the adoption of the lean concept within organisations. Various barriers to implementation present themselves during and after lean implementation. These barriers are often related and in some instances they may be converted from an impediment into an enabler of lean within companies. The impact of unions as a negative or positive influence forms a central focus of this research. The influences on the perception of unions and their constituents are studied in relation to other barriers in order to determine their relevance in the Eastern Cape auto sector. A research questionnaire was constructed in line with the selected research design. The application of triangulation in the research design allows for greater depth in the responses from the participants in this research. The quantitative analysis combined with the qualitative thematic analysis provides an excellent means to explore and understand these selected barriers to lean in great detail. It can be concluded that automotive trade unions in the Eastern Cape are a barrier to implementation; however the factor that influences lean the most is the incorrect perception of lean due to ineffective leadership practices among organisational and union leaders, among other barriers. The impact of unions on the acceptance of a lean culture has far-reaching implications for the auto sector that requires a specific implementation approach in order to change perceptions and gain the requisite interest alignment among unions and their constituents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Ebrahim, Zahier
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Motor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor unions -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8791 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015690
- Description: Lean manufacturing provides a fundamental basis for competitiveness in the auto component sector. The implementation and sustainability of the lean philosophy are important aspects when deciding on the adoption of the lean concept within organisations. Various barriers to implementation present themselves during and after lean implementation. These barriers are often related and in some instances they may be converted from an impediment into an enabler of lean within companies. The impact of unions as a negative or positive influence forms a central focus of this research. The influences on the perception of unions and their constituents are studied in relation to other barriers in order to determine their relevance in the Eastern Cape auto sector. A research questionnaire was constructed in line with the selected research design. The application of triangulation in the research design allows for greater depth in the responses from the participants in this research. The quantitative analysis combined with the qualitative thematic analysis provides an excellent means to explore and understand these selected barriers to lean in great detail. It can be concluded that automotive trade unions in the Eastern Cape are a barrier to implementation; however the factor that influences lean the most is the incorrect perception of lean due to ineffective leadership practices among organisational and union leaders, among other barriers. The impact of unions on the acceptance of a lean culture has far-reaching implications for the auto sector that requires a specific implementation approach in order to change perceptions and gain the requisite interest alignment among unions and their constituents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Assessment of the status of lean implementation at selected South African Revenue Service branch offices
- Authors: Samela, Thandile
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing -- Evaluation , Production management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8702 , vital:26422
- Description: Governments around the world want to deliver better education, better health care, better pensions and better transportation services. They know that impatient electorates want to see change, and fast. But, the funds required to meet such expectations are enormous, particularly in the many developed economies where populations are aging and the public sector's productivity has not kept pace with that of the private sector. The need to get value for money from governments at all levels is therefore under the spotlight as never before. However, cost-cutting programmes that seek savings of 1 to 3% per year will not be sufficient and, in some cases, may even weaken the quality of service (Bhatia & Drew, 2006). One of the key innovative means to improve productivity, and do more with less, is through the implementation of lean initiatives. The purpose of this study is to conduct an 'Assessment of the status of lean implementation at selected SARS (South African Revenue Service) branch offices'. Literature review was conducted to investigate the origins of lean and how the service industry tapped from this philosophy, which was initially developed for the manufacturing sector. The lean philosophy has now been widely adopted in various service industries, from government agencies such as the South African Revenue Service to financial institutions such as ABSA bank, including the healthcare industry. The findings of the research indicated that even though the organisation has made a strategic decision to implement lean, this has not been entirely successful as there is a lack of understanding of lean among managers and team leaders. There are some pockets of excellence though. The researcher recommends that a comprehensive road map be developed to guide the organisation into a sustainable lean implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Samela, Thandile
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing -- Evaluation , Production management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8702 , vital:26422
- Description: Governments around the world want to deliver better education, better health care, better pensions and better transportation services. They know that impatient electorates want to see change, and fast. But, the funds required to meet such expectations are enormous, particularly in the many developed economies where populations are aging and the public sector's productivity has not kept pace with that of the private sector. The need to get value for money from governments at all levels is therefore under the spotlight as never before. However, cost-cutting programmes that seek savings of 1 to 3% per year will not be sufficient and, in some cases, may even weaken the quality of service (Bhatia & Drew, 2006). One of the key innovative means to improve productivity, and do more with less, is through the implementation of lean initiatives. The purpose of this study is to conduct an 'Assessment of the status of lean implementation at selected SARS (South African Revenue Service) branch offices'. Literature review was conducted to investigate the origins of lean and how the service industry tapped from this philosophy, which was initially developed for the manufacturing sector. The lean philosophy has now been widely adopted in various service industries, from government agencies such as the South African Revenue Service to financial institutions such as ABSA bank, including the healthcare industry. The findings of the research indicated that even though the organisation has made a strategic decision to implement lean, this has not been entirely successful as there is a lack of understanding of lean among managers and team leaders. There are some pockets of excellence though. The researcher recommends that a comprehensive road map be developed to guide the organisation into a sustainable lean implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Barriers to entrepreneurship: assessing NMBM school leavers for business enterprise
- Authors: Qumza, Thabang Vuyo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Young adults -- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Youth development -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8943 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011804 , Young adults -- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Youth development -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In plight of the country‟s high unemployment, poverty, and income inequalities, there is an urgent need to address these issues by converging toward entrepreneurship. World-wide, it is acknowledged by both government and academia that entrepreneurship soothes and remedies socio-economic ills. It creates employment, wealth, alleviates poverty, increases tax base, balances income disparities and accomplishes social stability. With the high youth (18-34 year age) unemployment looming at 73 percent and a low South African total entrepreneurship rate at 8.9 percent; this study attempts to investigate the barriers that hinder school leavers from engaging in entrepreneurship. The research investigates critical entrepreneurial factors including entrepreneurial character and behaviour, entrepreneurial knowledge and skills, managerial knowledge and skills, knowledge on legal aspects of a business, sourcing of finances, and entrepreneurial background and orientation. The primary objective was met through the investigation of the secondary objectives. This was accomplished through a questionnaire survey, composed with multiple choice questions and closed questions measured on a Likert scale. The questionnaire was constructed based on the literature reviewed from various sources including books, dissertations, journals, government reports, newspapers, magazines, internet, television and radio broadcasts (interviews and news). The study discovers that learners are inhibited by various factors from engaging into business venturing. The list of barriers identified was: A discouraging entrepreneurial background (heritage) – parents had low levels of education and were not entrepreneurial, Weak entrepreneurial character and behaviour, Lack of entrepreneurial exposure and work experience, Learners lack financial skills and computer skills, Families lack savings to financially support their business start-ups, Limited knowledge on the legal aspects regulating a business, Limited knowledge on sourcing finances (angel and venture capital investors).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Qumza, Thabang Vuyo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Young adults -- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Youth development -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8943 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011804 , Young adults -- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Youth development -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In plight of the country‟s high unemployment, poverty, and income inequalities, there is an urgent need to address these issues by converging toward entrepreneurship. World-wide, it is acknowledged by both government and academia that entrepreneurship soothes and remedies socio-economic ills. It creates employment, wealth, alleviates poverty, increases tax base, balances income disparities and accomplishes social stability. With the high youth (18-34 year age) unemployment looming at 73 percent and a low South African total entrepreneurship rate at 8.9 percent; this study attempts to investigate the barriers that hinder school leavers from engaging in entrepreneurship. The research investigates critical entrepreneurial factors including entrepreneurial character and behaviour, entrepreneurial knowledge and skills, managerial knowledge and skills, knowledge on legal aspects of a business, sourcing of finances, and entrepreneurial background and orientation. The primary objective was met through the investigation of the secondary objectives. This was accomplished through a questionnaire survey, composed with multiple choice questions and closed questions measured on a Likert scale. The questionnaire was constructed based on the literature reviewed from various sources including books, dissertations, journals, government reports, newspapers, magazines, internet, television and radio broadcasts (interviews and news). The study discovers that learners are inhibited by various factors from engaging into business venturing. The list of barriers identified was: A discouraging entrepreneurial background (heritage) – parents had low levels of education and were not entrepreneurial, Weak entrepreneurial character and behaviour, Lack of entrepreneurial exposure and work experience, Learners lack financial skills and computer skills, Families lack savings to financially support their business start-ups, Limited knowledge on the legal aspects regulating a business, Limited knowledge on sourcing finances (angel and venture capital investors).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Brand loyalty in the South African tyre industry
- Authors: Stewart, Russel
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8796 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015983
- Description: The tyre industry plays an important role in the concept of mobility. Mobility defines the human need for transportation, which has been growing at an accelerated pace since the dawn of the nineteenth century. More importantly, modern mobility cannot be achieved without the use of a pneumatic tyre, a commodity that has become increasingly complex and competitive with countless brands and products available on a global scale. In order to stand out in this competitive market landscape, big brands attempt to build an amount of brand awareness within the market place, while maintaining a balance in creating a demand for their product in pull marketing strategies. While the market place becomes increasingly competitive on a both a global and local level, tyre brands are all trying various tactics in an effort to secure wheel positions on consumer’s vehicles. Within the marketing mix there are various strategies and tactics that can be adopted by tyre brands to secure a share of voice within the mind of the consumer when the need arises for new tyres, however in South Africa, only the established brands have the spending power to employ traditional media space in an effort to communicate with the consumer. It has also become increasingly difficult for established brands to remain dominant within the decision journey of consumers, especially when the retailer has the final contact with the consumer and may be promoting the purchase of a tyre brands that results in higher margins that the brand originally requested by the consumer. The tyre industry plays an important role in the concept of mobility. Mobility defines the human need for transportation, which has been growing at an accelerated pace since the dawn of the nineteenth century. More importantly, modern mobility cannot be achieved without the use of a pneumatic tyre, a commodity that has become increasingly complex and competitive with countless brands and products available on a global scale. In order to stand out in this competitive market landscape, big brands attempt to build an amount of brand awareness within the market place, while maintaining a balance in creating a demand for their product in pull marketing strategies. While the market place becomes increasingly competitive on a both a global and local level, tyre brands are all trying various tactics in an effort to secure wheel positions on consumer’s vehicles. Within the marketing mix there are various strategies and tactics that can be adopted by tyre brands to secure a share of voice within the mind of the consumer when the need arises for new tyres, however in South Africa, only the established brands have the spending power to employ traditional media space in an effort to communicate with the consumer. It has also become increasingly difficult for established brands to remain dominant within the decision journey of consumers, especially when the retailer has the final contact with the consumer and may be promoting the purchase of a tyre brands that results in higher margins that the brand originally requested by the consumer. The questions that remain are; do retailers have a high degree of influence on consumer behaviour or are high levels of brand awareness enough for a brand owner to be assured of a consistent demand on their product? This research aims to validate the interdependence of brand awareness and retailer influence on the consumer decision journey within the South African tyre industry. The research starts by setting the scene within the global and local tyre industry through the use of the Continental Corporation for illustration purposes. Once the scene is set in terms of the industry in which the research is taking place, brand theory is exhaustively discussed providing relevance and context within the tyre industry. Within the discussion of brand equity, the consumer decision journey and touch points are introduced as process and influence before the final purchase is made. With the theory of the tyre industry and branding covered, qualitative fieldwork was undertaken by two researchers at a tyre retail group in Tswane, South Africa. The fieldwork consisted of questionnaires that needed to be completed by consumers who had just concluded their purchase decision and were waiting in the retailer for the work to be concluded on their vehicle. The results of the fieldwork are extensively analysed and discussed upon which conclusions and recommendations for future research are drawn. The sample attained is sufficient for qualitative analysis; however the conclusions need to be read within the context of the sample size and geographical location in which the research was conducted. Further context was provided from the retail store owner who provided expert comment and insight based on experience within the industry and retail environment. The comment was utilised along with the theory to either validate or disprove findings, which formed the basis for recommendations for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Stewart, Russel
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8796 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015983
- Description: The tyre industry plays an important role in the concept of mobility. Mobility defines the human need for transportation, which has been growing at an accelerated pace since the dawn of the nineteenth century. More importantly, modern mobility cannot be achieved without the use of a pneumatic tyre, a commodity that has become increasingly complex and competitive with countless brands and products available on a global scale. In order to stand out in this competitive market landscape, big brands attempt to build an amount of brand awareness within the market place, while maintaining a balance in creating a demand for their product in pull marketing strategies. While the market place becomes increasingly competitive on a both a global and local level, tyre brands are all trying various tactics in an effort to secure wheel positions on consumer’s vehicles. Within the marketing mix there are various strategies and tactics that can be adopted by tyre brands to secure a share of voice within the mind of the consumer when the need arises for new tyres, however in South Africa, only the established brands have the spending power to employ traditional media space in an effort to communicate with the consumer. It has also become increasingly difficult for established brands to remain dominant within the decision journey of consumers, especially when the retailer has the final contact with the consumer and may be promoting the purchase of a tyre brands that results in higher margins that the brand originally requested by the consumer. The tyre industry plays an important role in the concept of mobility. Mobility defines the human need for transportation, which has been growing at an accelerated pace since the dawn of the nineteenth century. More importantly, modern mobility cannot be achieved without the use of a pneumatic tyre, a commodity that has become increasingly complex and competitive with countless brands and products available on a global scale. In order to stand out in this competitive market landscape, big brands attempt to build an amount of brand awareness within the market place, while maintaining a balance in creating a demand for their product in pull marketing strategies. While the market place becomes increasingly competitive on a both a global and local level, tyre brands are all trying various tactics in an effort to secure wheel positions on consumer’s vehicles. Within the marketing mix there are various strategies and tactics that can be adopted by tyre brands to secure a share of voice within the mind of the consumer when the need arises for new tyres, however in South Africa, only the established brands have the spending power to employ traditional media space in an effort to communicate with the consumer. It has also become increasingly difficult for established brands to remain dominant within the decision journey of consumers, especially when the retailer has the final contact with the consumer and may be promoting the purchase of a tyre brands that results in higher margins that the brand originally requested by the consumer. The questions that remain are; do retailers have a high degree of influence on consumer behaviour or are high levels of brand awareness enough for a brand owner to be assured of a consistent demand on their product? This research aims to validate the interdependence of brand awareness and retailer influence on the consumer decision journey within the South African tyre industry. The research starts by setting the scene within the global and local tyre industry through the use of the Continental Corporation for illustration purposes. Once the scene is set in terms of the industry in which the research is taking place, brand theory is exhaustively discussed providing relevance and context within the tyre industry. Within the discussion of brand equity, the consumer decision journey and touch points are introduced as process and influence before the final purchase is made. With the theory of the tyre industry and branding covered, qualitative fieldwork was undertaken by two researchers at a tyre retail group in Tswane, South Africa. The fieldwork consisted of questionnaires that needed to be completed by consumers who had just concluded their purchase decision and were waiting in the retailer for the work to be concluded on their vehicle. The results of the fieldwork are extensively analysed and discussed upon which conclusions and recommendations for future research are drawn. The sample attained is sufficient for qualitative analysis; however the conclusions need to be read within the context of the sample size and geographical location in which the research was conducted. Further context was provided from the retail store owner who provided expert comment and insight based on experience within the industry and retail environment. The comment was utilised along with the theory to either validate or disprove findings, which formed the basis for recommendations for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Building employee value proposition for attracting and retaining talent in large organisations in South Africa
- Authors: Chen, Shih-hwa James
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9121 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016056
- Description: Globalisation of businesses and the advancement of information technology have changed the way employees think, live and behave. As a result, some of the traditional theories and models on talent management have been tested, and to some extent, challenged. Companies large and small must be creative, responsive and ready to let go outdated management practices when challenged by new paradigms to improve competitiveness and alignment to market needs. In the current climate of widespread skill shortages and declining workforce numbers, large organisations continue to wrestle with appropriate management practices that could truly protect their most valuable asset – its people. This research was aimed at providing an insight into what makes a good attraction and retention strategy for large organisations in South Africa. It further examined the principles which underpin an effective employee value proposition that would capture comprehensively the expectations, personal needs and career goals of the new generation employees especially in a developing economy. Quantitative data focusing on students‘ expectations on their future employer of choice was collected via a national survey distributed at 23 tertiary institutions in South Africa during career fairs. Qualitative data was collected through focus group discussions with a sample of SARS graduate employees. Triangulation of results was possible and the analysis of data provided scientific evidence for meaningful conclusions and recommendations. The findings of this research enabled the development of a structured argument in terms of what organisations need to start, stop and continue doing to improve the talent management practices for attracting, developing and retaining highly talented people. The research further enabled the identification of key components that are essential for building an attractive and practical EVP for large organizations that focus on enhancing the value of their talent in the 21st century.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Chen, Shih-hwa James
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9121 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016056
- Description: Globalisation of businesses and the advancement of information technology have changed the way employees think, live and behave. As a result, some of the traditional theories and models on talent management have been tested, and to some extent, challenged. Companies large and small must be creative, responsive and ready to let go outdated management practices when challenged by new paradigms to improve competitiveness and alignment to market needs. In the current climate of widespread skill shortages and declining workforce numbers, large organisations continue to wrestle with appropriate management practices that could truly protect their most valuable asset – its people. This research was aimed at providing an insight into what makes a good attraction and retention strategy for large organisations in South Africa. It further examined the principles which underpin an effective employee value proposition that would capture comprehensively the expectations, personal needs and career goals of the new generation employees especially in a developing economy. Quantitative data focusing on students‘ expectations on their future employer of choice was collected via a national survey distributed at 23 tertiary institutions in South Africa during career fairs. Qualitative data was collected through focus group discussions with a sample of SARS graduate employees. Triangulation of results was possible and the analysis of data provided scientific evidence for meaningful conclusions and recommendations. The findings of this research enabled the development of a structured argument in terms of what organisations need to start, stop and continue doing to improve the talent management practices for attracting, developing and retaining highly talented people. The research further enabled the identification of key components that are essential for building an attractive and practical EVP for large organizations that focus on enhancing the value of their talent in the 21st century.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Complexity theory as a tool for developing assessment criteria for sustainable development projects, such as the MES Port Elizabeth Poverty Alleviation Program
- Authors: Liberty, Janice
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Poverty -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4418 , vital:20598
- Description: This research focuses on using criteria developed with the help of complexity theory to assess development projects, with special reference to a poverty alleviation project. As a test case it specifically addressed MES Port Elizabeth Poverty Alleviation Program. The first objective of the research was to use the principles of complexity theory and sustainable development to help develop a list of criteria for assessing whether or not any poverty alleviation program is worthwhile. These were laid out in terms of four categories: poverty alleviation, general complexity, social complexity and sustainable development. The second objective was to gather together as much information as possible on how the MES Poverty Alleviation Program operates. For this exploratory case study, a document analysis was conducted and the program leader of the MES Program was interviewed in depth. The final objective was to critically assess to what extent the MES Poverty Alleviation Program meets the criteria laid out for a worthwhile project. The results obtained from the analysis indicate that while the MES program makes a significant impact on the lives of participants, it experiences multiple challenges, particularly in relation to social complexity and sustainable development that reduce its effectiveness as a poverty alleviation program. It is concluded that complexity theory provides useful assessment criteria that enables us to identify diverse kinds of weakness within a program. It is recommended that the MES program should try to improve in its specific areas of weakness. Specifically it should redefine its policy on sustainable development, form more partnerships with external local organizations, increase pressure on government for policy change and increase the investment in service units of the project.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Liberty, Janice
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Poverty -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4418 , vital:20598
- Description: This research focuses on using criteria developed with the help of complexity theory to assess development projects, with special reference to a poverty alleviation project. As a test case it specifically addressed MES Port Elizabeth Poverty Alleviation Program. The first objective of the research was to use the principles of complexity theory and sustainable development to help develop a list of criteria for assessing whether or not any poverty alleviation program is worthwhile. These were laid out in terms of four categories: poverty alleviation, general complexity, social complexity and sustainable development. The second objective was to gather together as much information as possible on how the MES Poverty Alleviation Program operates. For this exploratory case study, a document analysis was conducted and the program leader of the MES Program was interviewed in depth. The final objective was to critically assess to what extent the MES Poverty Alleviation Program meets the criteria laid out for a worthwhile project. The results obtained from the analysis indicate that while the MES program makes a significant impact on the lives of participants, it experiences multiple challenges, particularly in relation to social complexity and sustainable development that reduce its effectiveness as a poverty alleviation program. It is concluded that complexity theory provides useful assessment criteria that enables us to identify diverse kinds of weakness within a program. It is recommended that the MES program should try to improve in its specific areas of weakness. Specifically it should redefine its policy on sustainable development, form more partnerships with external local organizations, increase pressure on government for policy change and increase the investment in service units of the project.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Contributions of women to family Business as evidence in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Billson, Leonie
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8585 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1608 , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Family businesses are operating throughout the world and suggested to be the predominant way of doing business. This is also true in South Africa with its unique challenges and informal sector providing work to many South Africans not able to find work in the formal sector. Women operating in the corporate environment have traditionally encountered challenges in breaking through the glass ceiling in order to be counted as a successful person in her own right. The same scenario seems to be evident in the family Business environment. Women in family business might choose the family business career path as it allows them more flexibility and time to attend to the home and children, but they also face a glass ceiling of another nature and are there other challenges to overcome in order to make their mark in the family business world. This study’s primary objective was to investigate the literature pertaining to women in business and women in family business. Of great importance was to determine what contributions women make in the family business environment allowing them to be successful. In order to answer this question the secondary objectives supported the primary objective of this study and pertained to the difference between men and women in terms of leadership style and execution of their personalities in business. The inherent strengths and weaknesses displayed by both male and females in the family business environment are investigated in order to link this to their management execution. v A questionnaire was developed to do an empirical study on respondents as identified in the Nelson Mandela Metropole and greater Eastern Cape. The respondents were from varied industries and was selected and interviewed with the support of the questionnaire structure as guidance. The results were analysed and certain recommendations were made addressing the primary objective. Further recommendations were made relating to future potential research in this area. An important finding of the research is that women as identified in the Eastern Cape environment still have difficulty in reaching the top. This is true for the corporate world as well as the family business environment. The difficulty might be based in the traditional roles women assume, but in many cases it was found that women are responsible for their downfall or stagnation in the family business environment as women are satisfied to remain in the shadows and do not command their own space and right of existence. Recommendations were made based on the advice of some of the female respondents which can assist in women stepping up to the role they should take up. Some of the advice given can be used as a best practice in future research of this nature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Billson, Leonie
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8585 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1608 , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Family businesses are operating throughout the world and suggested to be the predominant way of doing business. This is also true in South Africa with its unique challenges and informal sector providing work to many South Africans not able to find work in the formal sector. Women operating in the corporate environment have traditionally encountered challenges in breaking through the glass ceiling in order to be counted as a successful person in her own right. The same scenario seems to be evident in the family Business environment. Women in family business might choose the family business career path as it allows them more flexibility and time to attend to the home and children, but they also face a glass ceiling of another nature and are there other challenges to overcome in order to make their mark in the family business world. This study’s primary objective was to investigate the literature pertaining to women in business and women in family business. Of great importance was to determine what contributions women make in the family business environment allowing them to be successful. In order to answer this question the secondary objectives supported the primary objective of this study and pertained to the difference between men and women in terms of leadership style and execution of their personalities in business. The inherent strengths and weaknesses displayed by both male and females in the family business environment are investigated in order to link this to their management execution. v A questionnaire was developed to do an empirical study on respondents as identified in the Nelson Mandela Metropole and greater Eastern Cape. The respondents were from varied industries and was selected and interviewed with the support of the questionnaire structure as guidance. The results were analysed and certain recommendations were made addressing the primary objective. Further recommendations were made relating to future potential research in this area. An important finding of the research is that women as identified in the Eastern Cape environment still have difficulty in reaching the top. This is true for the corporate world as well as the family business environment. The difficulty might be based in the traditional roles women assume, but in many cases it was found that women are responsible for their downfall or stagnation in the family business environment as women are satisfied to remain in the shadows and do not command their own space and right of existence. Recommendations were made based on the advice of some of the female respondents which can assist in women stepping up to the role they should take up. Some of the advice given can be used as a best practice in future research of this nature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Cross-border tourism planning and development: the case of the Lake Gariep Initiative
- Authors: Crozier, Marguerite Nicole
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Tourism -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam -- Case studies , Gariep Dam (South Africa) -- Tourism -- Case studies , Central-local government relations -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam , Globalization -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9034 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1668 , Tourism -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam -- Case studies , Gariep Dam (South Africa) -- Tourism -- Case studies , Central-local government relations -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam , Globalization -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Description: The concept of cross-border tourism planning and cooperation is investigated in reference to the Lake !Gariep Initiative. The field of cross-border economic planning and integration is an area of increasing interest in regional development studies. The Lake Gariep Initiative is an initiative to promote cross-border planning and development around nature conservation, water resource management, economic development, poverty alleviation and tourism in the three municipalities that surround the Gariep Dam. The Gariep Dam, which is largest dam in South Africa, is surrounded by three provinces. The region is also economically and politically marginalised as it has a small, dispersed population and a marginal contribution to the broader regional economy. Under these circumstances the coordination of resources between municipalities to develop and promote the region has been identified as a key success factor for the region. The Lake Gariep Initiative although strongly supported locally has over ten years failed to be institutionalised. This study examines the Lake Gariep Initiative in terms of the origins of the concept and the key challenges that have been faced in establishing a cross-border, development entity. Findings are based on an assessment of documents on the formation of the LGI, interviews with stakeholders involved in the process and an assessment of critical success factors in reference to national and international case studies. This study provides a review of the key challenges, benefits and critical success factors for cross-border tourism development in relation to the Lake !Gariep Initiative.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Crozier, Marguerite Nicole
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Tourism -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam -- Case studies , Gariep Dam (South Africa) -- Tourism -- Case studies , Central-local government relations -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam , Globalization -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9034 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1668 , Tourism -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam -- Case studies , Gariep Dam (South Africa) -- Tourism -- Case studies , Central-local government relations -- South Africa -- Gariep Dam , Globalization -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Description: The concept of cross-border tourism planning and cooperation is investigated in reference to the Lake !Gariep Initiative. The field of cross-border economic planning and integration is an area of increasing interest in regional development studies. The Lake Gariep Initiative is an initiative to promote cross-border planning and development around nature conservation, water resource management, economic development, poverty alleviation and tourism in the three municipalities that surround the Gariep Dam. The Gariep Dam, which is largest dam in South Africa, is surrounded by three provinces. The region is also economically and politically marginalised as it has a small, dispersed population and a marginal contribution to the broader regional economy. Under these circumstances the coordination of resources between municipalities to develop and promote the region has been identified as a key success factor for the region. The Lake Gariep Initiative although strongly supported locally has over ten years failed to be institutionalised. This study examines the Lake Gariep Initiative in terms of the origins of the concept and the key challenges that have been faced in establishing a cross-border, development entity. Findings are based on an assessment of documents on the formation of the LGI, interviews with stakeholders involved in the process and an assessment of critical success factors in reference to national and international case studies. This study provides a review of the key challenges, benefits and critical success factors for cross-border tourism development in relation to the Lake !Gariep Initiative.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Customer relationship management practiced by KOSAB
- Authors: Felix, Amoah
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Customer relations , Customer services , Consumer satisfaction , Customer loyalty
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8635 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008046 , Customer relations , Customer services , Consumer satisfaction , Customer loyalty
- Description: Customer relationship management (CRM) presents a new paradigm shift to the old traditional marketing strategies that are known and practiced by many organisations in South Africa and across the globe. Competition is not an excuse for failure anymore. Organisations that do not have any concrete strategies in dealing with the customer will not survive in the market. The ultimate goal of CRM is to enable organisations to forge closer ties with the customer so that a solid bond can be created to enhance loyalty and satisfaction. The goal for this research was to identify the CRM strategies used by a single organisation and thereafter suggest improvements to enhance customer loyalty. The results of the study could assist the management of the organisation to improve the CRM strategies which will hopefully enhance retention and prevent customer attrition. A literature review was conducted to unveil various elements of CRM, and strategies that can attract and retain customers. It helped in identifying themes for the empirical study. An in-depth interview was conducted with the general manager of the organisation to gauge his perception, and CRM practices in the organisation. An interview guide was used during the interview process. Four main topics namely: implementation of CRM, customer loyalty, customer complaints and conflict, and employees training and motivation were utilised for the interview guide and followed by further probing. Based on the responses obtained, analyses were made by comparing the responses to what literature revealed so that shortcomings could easily be identified.The study revealed that there were several inconsistencies with what was practised by the organisation and what the literature study revealed. Bearing in mind the shortcomings identified in the empirical study, the researcher made the following recommendations. The CRM implementation approach needs to be carefully planned with a clear defined vision and mission statement that focus on customer centredness. The organisation needs to invest in modern and innovative channels of communication and strategic partnership to reach the right customer. The organisation has to develop effective market segmentation and targeting to know the customer well. Consistent and highly relevant customer experiences should be drawn-on to fulfill the organisation’s promise of trust and reliability. The organisation should adopt competitive pricing strategy to limit customer sensitivity on price. The organisation should invest in employees’ development and welfare. Further research can be conducted to investigate the perception of other food retailers on the CRM strategies practiced. Further research can also be conducted in the organisation to investigate the perception of employees and customers on the CRM strategies practised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Felix, Amoah
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Customer relations , Customer services , Consumer satisfaction , Customer loyalty
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8635 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008046 , Customer relations , Customer services , Consumer satisfaction , Customer loyalty
- Description: Customer relationship management (CRM) presents a new paradigm shift to the old traditional marketing strategies that are known and practiced by many organisations in South Africa and across the globe. Competition is not an excuse for failure anymore. Organisations that do not have any concrete strategies in dealing with the customer will not survive in the market. The ultimate goal of CRM is to enable organisations to forge closer ties with the customer so that a solid bond can be created to enhance loyalty and satisfaction. The goal for this research was to identify the CRM strategies used by a single organisation and thereafter suggest improvements to enhance customer loyalty. The results of the study could assist the management of the organisation to improve the CRM strategies which will hopefully enhance retention and prevent customer attrition. A literature review was conducted to unveil various elements of CRM, and strategies that can attract and retain customers. It helped in identifying themes for the empirical study. An in-depth interview was conducted with the general manager of the organisation to gauge his perception, and CRM practices in the organisation. An interview guide was used during the interview process. Four main topics namely: implementation of CRM, customer loyalty, customer complaints and conflict, and employees training and motivation were utilised for the interview guide and followed by further probing. Based on the responses obtained, analyses were made by comparing the responses to what literature revealed so that shortcomings could easily be identified.The study revealed that there were several inconsistencies with what was practised by the organisation and what the literature study revealed. Bearing in mind the shortcomings identified in the empirical study, the researcher made the following recommendations. The CRM implementation approach needs to be carefully planned with a clear defined vision and mission statement that focus on customer centredness. The organisation needs to invest in modern and innovative channels of communication and strategic partnership to reach the right customer. The organisation has to develop effective market segmentation and targeting to know the customer well. Consistent and highly relevant customer experiences should be drawn-on to fulfill the organisation’s promise of trust and reliability. The organisation should adopt competitive pricing strategy to limit customer sensitivity on price. The organisation should invest in employees’ development and welfare. Further research can be conducted to investigate the perception of other food retailers on the CRM strategies practiced. Further research can also be conducted in the organisation to investigate the perception of employees and customers on the CRM strategies practised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Destination management: critical success factors for Knysna as an international tourism destination
- Authors: Gie, Jannie Adriaan
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Place marketing -- South Africa -- Knysna , Tourism -- Marketing -- South Africa -- Knysna , Tourism management -- South Africa -- Knysna , Tourism -- South Africa -- Knysna
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8641 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1433 , Place marketing -- South Africa -- Knysna , Tourism -- Marketing -- South Africa -- Knysna , Tourism management -- South Africa -- Knysna , Tourism -- South Africa -- Knysna
- Description: Tourism, as an industry, has a great impact on society and the environment. It adds to economic growth; and therefore, many governments try to enhance tourism because they realise the potential economic returns. Within each country, there are towns or cities that have great tourism potential. In South Africa, Knysna is a good example of a small town with great tourism potential. This study examines the critical success factors of tourism destination marketing for the town of Knysna. Most South Africans see Knysna as an ideal holiday destination, as it has the infrastructure and offerings to make tourists' holidays unforgettable. However, unfortunately, in recent times bad publicity has caused Knysna's image to be damaged. To improve the town's image and to add to its economic growth, tourism bodies and the community have had to work together to ensure that Knysna sustains its position in the national and international tourism markets. The best way to achieve this is through effective destination management and destination marketing. The aim of this study is to determine how effective destination management and destination marketing can lead to competitive growth and to enhancing a destination's position in the tourism industry, and also to providing a set of practical guidelines for the successful implementation of the destination marketing of the town of Knysna. A literature study was conducted to find out what the theory reveals about destination management and marketing. This was followed by an empirical survey; and this survey was conducted in Knysna in the Western Cape. The results of the survey were compared with the literature and tourism operators and managers can now use these as a point of departure to fill any gaps, thus leading to the optimal positioning of Knysna on the international tourism map.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Gie, Jannie Adriaan
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Place marketing -- South Africa -- Knysna , Tourism -- Marketing -- South Africa -- Knysna , Tourism management -- South Africa -- Knysna , Tourism -- South Africa -- Knysna
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8641 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1433 , Place marketing -- South Africa -- Knysna , Tourism -- Marketing -- South Africa -- Knysna , Tourism management -- South Africa -- Knysna , Tourism -- South Africa -- Knysna
- Description: Tourism, as an industry, has a great impact on society and the environment. It adds to economic growth; and therefore, many governments try to enhance tourism because they realise the potential economic returns. Within each country, there are towns or cities that have great tourism potential. In South Africa, Knysna is a good example of a small town with great tourism potential. This study examines the critical success factors of tourism destination marketing for the town of Knysna. Most South Africans see Knysna as an ideal holiday destination, as it has the infrastructure and offerings to make tourists' holidays unforgettable. However, unfortunately, in recent times bad publicity has caused Knysna's image to be damaged. To improve the town's image and to add to its economic growth, tourism bodies and the community have had to work together to ensure that Knysna sustains its position in the national and international tourism markets. The best way to achieve this is through effective destination management and destination marketing. The aim of this study is to determine how effective destination management and destination marketing can lead to competitive growth and to enhancing a destination's position in the tourism industry, and also to providing a set of practical guidelines for the successful implementation of the destination marketing of the town of Knysna. A literature study was conducted to find out what the theory reveals about destination management and marketing. This was followed by an empirical survey; and this survey was conducted in Knysna in the Western Cape. The results of the survey were compared with the literature and tourism operators and managers can now use these as a point of departure to fill any gaps, thus leading to the optimal positioning of Knysna on the international tourism map.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Developing an incubation strategy for Oudtshoorn
- Authors: Petersen, Winifred
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Business incubators -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8648 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1385 , Business incubators -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn
- Description: Business incubators, as recognised in their contemporary form, have a history dating back to the 1970s in the United Kingdom and the USA. South Africa is no stranger to this concept of business incubation either: Since the 1980s the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) operated business “hives” as clusters of small enterprises. Business incubators are support facilities that empower and stimulate small-entrepreneurial businesses – from the financially vulnerable start-up period, until the time that the fledgling company is ready to operate more autonomously. Business incubators provide, as part of their services, affordable space, financial-management services, sound business advice and other development services. Incubation stimulates the development of small-entrepreneurial businesses and, to this end, helps stimulate the economy. Thus, for South Africa to invest in the development of small growing businesses, is to invest directly in its larger economy and to address its own development challenges like employment-creation, income-generation and the alleviation of poverty. It is in this context that this study discusses the development challenges of one of the rural areas in South Africa, Oudtshoorn, and aims to provide a viable strategy of business incubation for this area, in anticipation that in future lessons can be drawn from this and applied to other rural areas. Oudtshoorn is a town in the Klein Karoo, in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. The strongest sectors in Oudtshoorn’s economy are agriculture and tourism. These two sectors should provide the basis for an empowering business incubator to strengthen and enhance smaller businesses in the town. The study focuses on the development challenges of South Africa and, in particular, a rural town such as Oudtshoorn, the importance of investing in small entrepreneurial businesses so as to strengthen the country’s economy. the nature an significance of a business-incubation strategy for the Oudtshoorn area. Background literature on South Africa’s development challenges was collated as well as information gathered on small-business support and incubation in particular. Literature was retrieved from local institutions as well as national and international sources. Case studies of incubators in South Africa and in other countries were included to enhance the understanding of the importance of business incubation. In addition, the researcher’s close networks with the Oudtshoorn municipality, the local Red Door office and the different role-players in the small-business support sphere allowed for an in-depth assessment of support for such an incubation project and the critical obstacles it may encounter en route.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Petersen, Winifred
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Business incubators -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8648 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1385 , Business incubators -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn
- Description: Business incubators, as recognised in their contemporary form, have a history dating back to the 1970s in the United Kingdom and the USA. South Africa is no stranger to this concept of business incubation either: Since the 1980s the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) operated business “hives” as clusters of small enterprises. Business incubators are support facilities that empower and stimulate small-entrepreneurial businesses – from the financially vulnerable start-up period, until the time that the fledgling company is ready to operate more autonomously. Business incubators provide, as part of their services, affordable space, financial-management services, sound business advice and other development services. Incubation stimulates the development of small-entrepreneurial businesses and, to this end, helps stimulate the economy. Thus, for South Africa to invest in the development of small growing businesses, is to invest directly in its larger economy and to address its own development challenges like employment-creation, income-generation and the alleviation of poverty. It is in this context that this study discusses the development challenges of one of the rural areas in South Africa, Oudtshoorn, and aims to provide a viable strategy of business incubation for this area, in anticipation that in future lessons can be drawn from this and applied to other rural areas. Oudtshoorn is a town in the Klein Karoo, in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. The strongest sectors in Oudtshoorn’s economy are agriculture and tourism. These two sectors should provide the basis for an empowering business incubator to strengthen and enhance smaller businesses in the town. The study focuses on the development challenges of South Africa and, in particular, a rural town such as Oudtshoorn, the importance of investing in small entrepreneurial businesses so as to strengthen the country’s economy. the nature an significance of a business-incubation strategy for the Oudtshoorn area. Background literature on South Africa’s development challenges was collated as well as information gathered on small-business support and incubation in particular. Literature was retrieved from local institutions as well as national and international sources. Case studies of incubators in South Africa and in other countries were included to enhance the understanding of the importance of business incubation. In addition, the researcher’s close networks with the Oudtshoorn municipality, the local Red Door office and the different role-players in the small-business support sphere allowed for an in-depth assessment of support for such an incubation project and the critical obstacles it may encounter en route.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Developing assessment criteria for a sustainable energy sector development project: shale gas exploration in the Karoo
- Authors: Badassey, Jyoti
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Sustainable development , Economic development -- Sustainability
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9072 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008405 , Sustainable development , Economic development -- Sustainability
- Description: This research project aims to assess development projects in the energy sector with its focus on the shale gas exploration in the Karoo. The assessment is based on a critical analysis of the concepts and principles of sustainability, complexity and the National Environmental Management Act, using a critical hermeneutics methodology to develop an assessment criterion. Critical hermeneutics is the science and art of interpreting texts, challenging the status quo, its influences and assumptions. Hermeneutics is the reaction to enlightenment fundamentalism, which is an over-reliance on rationality and the scientific method as a primary means of obtaining truth. Hence this research has adopted a triangulation of ideas and concepts derived from sustainability and complexity to find the truth about the sustainability of development projects (Cilliers, 1998; Deleuze & Guattari, 1994; Byrne, 1998). The Central Karoo is situated in the North Eastern part of the Western Province. It is characterised by dry, arid conditions with highly environmentally sensitive land. Central Karoo has the smallest concentration of people in the Western Cape (Van Vuuren, 2008). This research project offers an assessment that will help governments determine the feasibility of energy sector projects since it discusses the impact of exploration for shale gas in the Karoo and explains the process, recommendations and the environmental legislature required for any project to take place in South Africa. Further, it highlights the environmental damage caused by the shale gas exploration as well as the positive economic impact that it could have on the country. For this research, hermeneutics has offered a framework rather than a system; it is a research philosophy that places human experience at the forefront as it honours a variety of interpretations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Badassey, Jyoti
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Sustainable development , Economic development -- Sustainability
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9072 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008405 , Sustainable development , Economic development -- Sustainability
- Description: This research project aims to assess development projects in the energy sector with its focus on the shale gas exploration in the Karoo. The assessment is based on a critical analysis of the concepts and principles of sustainability, complexity and the National Environmental Management Act, using a critical hermeneutics methodology to develop an assessment criterion. Critical hermeneutics is the science and art of interpreting texts, challenging the status quo, its influences and assumptions. Hermeneutics is the reaction to enlightenment fundamentalism, which is an over-reliance on rationality and the scientific method as a primary means of obtaining truth. Hence this research has adopted a triangulation of ideas and concepts derived from sustainability and complexity to find the truth about the sustainability of development projects (Cilliers, 1998; Deleuze & Guattari, 1994; Byrne, 1998). The Central Karoo is situated in the North Eastern part of the Western Province. It is characterised by dry, arid conditions with highly environmentally sensitive land. Central Karoo has the smallest concentration of people in the Western Cape (Van Vuuren, 2008). This research project offers an assessment that will help governments determine the feasibility of energy sector projects since it discusses the impact of exploration for shale gas in the Karoo and explains the process, recommendations and the environmental legislature required for any project to take place in South Africa. Further, it highlights the environmental damage caused by the shale gas exploration as well as the positive economic impact that it could have on the country. For this research, hermeneutics has offered a framework rather than a system; it is a research philosophy that places human experience at the forefront as it honours a variety of interpretations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Developing assessment criteria for successful poverty alleviation with special reference to the Nomzamo Special Care Centre
- Authors: Gidi, Banele Anthony
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Child care services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9050 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1601 , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Child care services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: While this study is partly theoretical it includes an exploratory case study in which theoretical insights are applied. In the theoretical part of this study, criteria for a successful poverty alleviation project were developed, guided by sustainability theory and complexity theory. It was proposed that researchers could assess existing projects according to these criteria to show where they were successful and where they could improve. The second part of this research consists of a case study, where an actual poverty alleviation project (The Nomzamo Special Care Centre, Peddie, Eastern Cape) was assessed according to the criteria developed in the first part. For this exploratory case study a non-random sample of 9 participants was drawn from the Nomzamo Special Care Centre and other stakeholders in the Ngqushwa Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape. Data was collected using questionnaires, observation and interviews. The results obtained from analysis indicate that project members particularly experience challenges pertaining to financial resources, infrastructure and maintenance. It is recommended that project members receive assistance from the government departments in order for the project to remain sustainable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Gidi, Banele Anthony
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Child care services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9050 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1601 , Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Child care services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: While this study is partly theoretical it includes an exploratory case study in which theoretical insights are applied. In the theoretical part of this study, criteria for a successful poverty alleviation project were developed, guided by sustainability theory and complexity theory. It was proposed that researchers could assess existing projects according to these criteria to show where they were successful and where they could improve. The second part of this research consists of a case study, where an actual poverty alleviation project (The Nomzamo Special Care Centre, Peddie, Eastern Cape) was assessed according to the criteria developed in the first part. For this exploratory case study a non-random sample of 9 participants was drawn from the Nomzamo Special Care Centre and other stakeholders in the Ngqushwa Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape. Data was collected using questionnaires, observation and interviews. The results obtained from analysis indicate that project members particularly experience challenges pertaining to financial resources, infrastructure and maintenance. It is recommended that project members receive assistance from the government departments in order for the project to remain sustainable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
E-commerce as an alternative marketing channel
- Authors: Mounsear-Wilson, Clifford
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Internet marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Electronic commerce -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8605 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1615 , Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Internet marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Electronic commerce -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Information technology (IT) has become an integral part of the success and globalisation of business over the last two decades. It is hard to imagine how the efficiencies expected in today’s fast paced business world could possibly be achieved without the advancements in IT. The most significant of these advancements is arguably the advent of the Internet which has empowered businesses of all sizes by giving them the means to promote their products and services at a relatively low cost in markets that would previously have been inaccessible. The aim of this study was to assess whether e-commerce represents an alternative channel for a brick and mortar company wishing to follow a market penetration strategy. The study was based around a company, Canoa Eastern Cape, which trades in the office automation industry in the Eastern and Southern Cape of South Africa. The study investigated the history of Canoa Eastern Cape, focusing predominantly on the growth strategies followed by the business in the past. With a view to the future, growth strategies which could potentially be followed by Canoa Eastern Cape were also investigated. The result of these investigations was a recommendation that Canoa Eastern Cape should follow a market penetration strategy, which will see the business marketing its existing products within its current market by making use of a new distribution channel, more specifically e-commerce. In order to assess the suitability of e-commerce as a tool within a market penetration strategy a literature study was conducted to get a better understanding of ecommerce and its viability as business tool. The literature study focused on eight core concepts felt to be critical in the evaluation of e-commerce, namely: • the development of e-commerce over the past years; • the future of e-commerce; • whether e-commerce is a financial success or not; • requirements for e-commerce to be successful; iv • products that customers are prepared to buy online; • industries most affected by e-commerce; and • demographics of e-commerce users; and • e-commerce in the office automation industry. Using the information gained in the literature study as a basis from which to start, an empirical study was conducted. The objective of the empirical study was to obtain data which would be used to assess the level to which e-commerce has been adopted by consumers in the specific geographic area and whether these consumers are willing and able to make use of e-commerce as an alternative to conventional purchasing for the procurement of office automation consumables and office automation equipment. A quantitative research paradigm was adopted, making use of a structured questionnaire to gather information from the sample of Canoa Eastern Cape’s customers. The data collected from the empirical study were analysed using univariate and bivariate analysis. The findings of the empirical study suggested that: • demographics are a poor indicator of adoption of e-commerce; • there is a significant adoption rate within the sample: o 79.85 percent of the respondents reported to have used e-commerce before for personal use; and o 59.13 percentreported to have used e-commerce before for business use; • there is a high rate of willingness to use e-commerce again: o 91.09 percent of the respondents indicating that they would use e-commerce again for personal use; and o 80.18 percent indicating that they would use e-commerce again for business use; • there is a high likelihood that consumers will buy office automation consumables through an e-commerce channel, with 65.82 percentof the respondents indicating that they would be likely or very likely to buy consumables through an e-commerce channel; • there is no significant difference in the adoption rates between the three main areas within the targeted sample, that is, East London, Port Elizabeth and George and Knysna. Given the findings of the empirical study it is felt that an e-commerce solution does present a viable alternative channel for a brick and mortar company trading in the Office Automation Industry in the Eastern and Southern Cape wishing to follow a market penetration strategy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mounsear-Wilson, Clifford
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Internet marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Electronic commerce -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8605 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1615 , Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Internet marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Electronic commerce -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Information technology (IT) has become an integral part of the success and globalisation of business over the last two decades. It is hard to imagine how the efficiencies expected in today’s fast paced business world could possibly be achieved without the advancements in IT. The most significant of these advancements is arguably the advent of the Internet which has empowered businesses of all sizes by giving them the means to promote their products and services at a relatively low cost in markets that would previously have been inaccessible. The aim of this study was to assess whether e-commerce represents an alternative channel for a brick and mortar company wishing to follow a market penetration strategy. The study was based around a company, Canoa Eastern Cape, which trades in the office automation industry in the Eastern and Southern Cape of South Africa. The study investigated the history of Canoa Eastern Cape, focusing predominantly on the growth strategies followed by the business in the past. With a view to the future, growth strategies which could potentially be followed by Canoa Eastern Cape were also investigated. The result of these investigations was a recommendation that Canoa Eastern Cape should follow a market penetration strategy, which will see the business marketing its existing products within its current market by making use of a new distribution channel, more specifically e-commerce. In order to assess the suitability of e-commerce as a tool within a market penetration strategy a literature study was conducted to get a better understanding of ecommerce and its viability as business tool. The literature study focused on eight core concepts felt to be critical in the evaluation of e-commerce, namely: • the development of e-commerce over the past years; • the future of e-commerce; • whether e-commerce is a financial success or not; • requirements for e-commerce to be successful; iv • products that customers are prepared to buy online; • industries most affected by e-commerce; and • demographics of e-commerce users; and • e-commerce in the office automation industry. Using the information gained in the literature study as a basis from which to start, an empirical study was conducted. The objective of the empirical study was to obtain data which would be used to assess the level to which e-commerce has been adopted by consumers in the specific geographic area and whether these consumers are willing and able to make use of e-commerce as an alternative to conventional purchasing for the procurement of office automation consumables and office automation equipment. A quantitative research paradigm was adopted, making use of a structured questionnaire to gather information from the sample of Canoa Eastern Cape’s customers. The data collected from the empirical study were analysed using univariate and bivariate analysis. The findings of the empirical study suggested that: • demographics are a poor indicator of adoption of e-commerce; • there is a significant adoption rate within the sample: o 79.85 percent of the respondents reported to have used e-commerce before for personal use; and o 59.13 percentreported to have used e-commerce before for business use; • there is a high rate of willingness to use e-commerce again: o 91.09 percent of the respondents indicating that they would use e-commerce again for personal use; and o 80.18 percent indicating that they would use e-commerce again for business use; • there is a high likelihood that consumers will buy office automation consumables through an e-commerce channel, with 65.82 percentof the respondents indicating that they would be likely or very likely to buy consumables through an e-commerce channel; • there is no significant difference in the adoption rates between the three main areas within the targeted sample, that is, East London, Port Elizabeth and George and Knysna. Given the findings of the empirical study it is felt that an e-commerce solution does present a viable alternative channel for a brick and mortar company trading in the Office Automation Industry in the Eastern and Southern Cape wishing to follow a market penetration strategy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Effectiveness of ICT education in the Northern school area of Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Mooi, Alicia Tenjiswa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Educational technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Computer-assisted instruction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational innovations -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communication -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9049 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1605 , Educational technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Computer-assisted instruction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational innovations -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communication -- Technological innovations
- Description: The use of information communication technology in the 21st Century is very important. The skills and knowledge of using these technologies should start at high school level, as it is at this stage where learners are equipped for tertiary education and the business world. This study seeks to answer how much ICT is used at the average school in Port Elizabeth and how effective such use is. South Africa is one of the countries in the whole world that is still behind in using the new technology. Learners from high school still enter university with no knowledge of how to use a computer. This becomes a problem in the world of technology as almost everything is done using technology. It also becomes a big problem when learners look for jobs in the business world. An active learning theory has been used on the study because, if learners can learn and have access computer at school, life will be easy for both learners and teachers, there would be co-operation and discussion and the fast way of doing school work. For the purpose of the study a qualitative research method has been used to ensure that answers are received straight from, teachers and learners for evidence. It is therefore clear that there are schools in South Africa that still needs the attention of the government in terms of getting access to computers and to have professional teachers for teaching the subject. The government has a responsibility of making sure that all learners and teachers in high schools have access to computers and internet. This will improve the working and learning conditions of both parties involved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mooi, Alicia Tenjiswa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Educational technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Computer-assisted instruction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational innovations -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communication -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9049 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1605 , Educational technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Computer-assisted instruction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational innovations -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communication -- Technological innovations
- Description: The use of information communication technology in the 21st Century is very important. The skills and knowledge of using these technologies should start at high school level, as it is at this stage where learners are equipped for tertiary education and the business world. This study seeks to answer how much ICT is used at the average school in Port Elizabeth and how effective such use is. South Africa is one of the countries in the whole world that is still behind in using the new technology. Learners from high school still enter university with no knowledge of how to use a computer. This becomes a problem in the world of technology as almost everything is done using technology. It also becomes a big problem when learners look for jobs in the business world. An active learning theory has been used on the study because, if learners can learn and have access computer at school, life will be easy for both learners and teachers, there would be co-operation and discussion and the fast way of doing school work. For the purpose of the study a qualitative research method has been used to ensure that answers are received straight from, teachers and learners for evidence. It is therefore clear that there are schools in South Africa that still needs the attention of the government in terms of getting access to computers and to have professional teachers for teaching the subject. The government has a responsibility of making sure that all learners and teachers in high schools have access to computers and internet. This will improve the working and learning conditions of both parties involved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011