Improving procurement management practices in the public sector : a study of Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Xhala, Ncedo Cameron
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Government purchasing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Government purchasing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9704 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018640
- Description: The study explored lack of improvement of public procurement management practices in the public sector. The main themes which the study focused on are the following; causes of non-compliance of public procurement and contracts management procedures, factors influencing the selection of appropriate procurement management processes and the main factors for poor implementation of procurement management processes in the public sector. The study aimed to identify the causes of non-compliance; determine factors influencing selection of appropriate procurement management processes, and lastly examine, the main factors leading to poor implementation of monitoring and evaluation in the public sector. The study employed a qualitative design to investigate the problem using the exploratory method. The purposive sampling method was used to select interviewees from three departments, namely, Department of Local government and Traditional Affairs, Public Works and Office of the Premier with 15 participants as a selective sample of the study. The key findings of this study indicate three main problems which are: that lack of properly understood processes of public procurement leads to poor implementation of the system together with alternative strategies of implementing the system. Shortages of skills and lack of training amongst those who get hired within the supply chain management sections or in the procurement management sections of the departments who have little understanding of holistic public procurement management in general affect selection processes. Findings also indicate lack of adequate monitoring and evaluation on procurement management. The study recommends that people who get hired in the procurement management section of these departments should have proper procurement qualifications. Regulations and rules should be made clear to all those who work in the procurement management sections in the public sector, to enable the improvement of best management practices and also to improve public procurement management practices in the public sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Xhala, Ncedo Cameron
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Government purchasing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Government purchasing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9704 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018640
- Description: The study explored lack of improvement of public procurement management practices in the public sector. The main themes which the study focused on are the following; causes of non-compliance of public procurement and contracts management procedures, factors influencing the selection of appropriate procurement management processes and the main factors for poor implementation of procurement management processes in the public sector. The study aimed to identify the causes of non-compliance; determine factors influencing selection of appropriate procurement management processes, and lastly examine, the main factors leading to poor implementation of monitoring and evaluation in the public sector. The study employed a qualitative design to investigate the problem using the exploratory method. The purposive sampling method was used to select interviewees from three departments, namely, Department of Local government and Traditional Affairs, Public Works and Office of the Premier with 15 participants as a selective sample of the study. The key findings of this study indicate three main problems which are: that lack of properly understood processes of public procurement leads to poor implementation of the system together with alternative strategies of implementing the system. Shortages of skills and lack of training amongst those who get hired within the supply chain management sections or in the procurement management sections of the departments who have little understanding of holistic public procurement management in general affect selection processes. Findings also indicate lack of adequate monitoring and evaluation on procurement management. The study recommends that people who get hired in the procurement management section of these departments should have proper procurement qualifications. Regulations and rules should be made clear to all those who work in the procurement management sections in the public sector, to enable the improvement of best management practices and also to improve public procurement management practices in the public sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
M-health user experience framework for the public healthcare sector
- Authors: Ouma, Stella
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Communication in public health , Public health -- South Africa , Wireless communication systems in medical care
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9827 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020793
- Description: The public healthcare sectors within developing nations face a lot of challenges because of constrained resources available to them. The South African public healthcare sector is no different. Although it serves the majority of the South African population, most of the financial resources are directed towards the private sector, which serves very few individuals when compared to the public healthcare sector. Apart from that, other challenges that the National Department of Health has to deal with include the lack of sufficiently trained healthcare employees who can work on the different levels of the public healthcare sector, as well as the burden of diseases such as HIV and Aids, tuberculosis and other chronic diseases. In order to improve service delivery, the National Department of Health is introducing Information and Communications Technology interventions that can increase efficiency and reduce costs, thereby improving the quality of service delivery. This research delivers an m-health application user experience framework to be proposed to the National Department of Health in South Africa, in order to assist in scaling up of m-health applications. The m-health applications that can benefit the South African population if scaled up successfully include those that can be used in remote data collection, treatment and compliance, accessing patients records, remote monitoring, communication and training for healthcare workers and applications that can be used for education and awareness. The study focused on three domains: the Human-Computer Interaction domain, public healthcare domain and Health Informatics domain. The proposed framework was realized by investigating mobile user experience components, mobile health requirements and the South African public healthcare domain components that contribute to the m-health user experience framework. This research was conducted through the interpretivist philosophy. Due to the exploratory nature of the study, an application of qualitative methodology was used. The conceptual theoretical framework was validated through a single case study approach by m-health user experience experts, who reside in South Africa. Data were analysed inductively. An m-health user experience framework was provided at the end of the study. An m-health user experience framework can assist the National Department of Health to look into design issues, address m-health requirements and put the domain needs in place, thus enabling the Department to successfully scale up implementations of m-health applications nationwide.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ouma, Stella
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Communication in public health , Public health -- South Africa , Wireless communication systems in medical care
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9827 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020793
- Description: The public healthcare sectors within developing nations face a lot of challenges because of constrained resources available to them. The South African public healthcare sector is no different. Although it serves the majority of the South African population, most of the financial resources are directed towards the private sector, which serves very few individuals when compared to the public healthcare sector. Apart from that, other challenges that the National Department of Health has to deal with include the lack of sufficiently trained healthcare employees who can work on the different levels of the public healthcare sector, as well as the burden of diseases such as HIV and Aids, tuberculosis and other chronic diseases. In order to improve service delivery, the National Department of Health is introducing Information and Communications Technology interventions that can increase efficiency and reduce costs, thereby improving the quality of service delivery. This research delivers an m-health application user experience framework to be proposed to the National Department of Health in South Africa, in order to assist in scaling up of m-health applications. The m-health applications that can benefit the South African population if scaled up successfully include those that can be used in remote data collection, treatment and compliance, accessing patients records, remote monitoring, communication and training for healthcare workers and applications that can be used for education and awareness. The study focused on three domains: the Human-Computer Interaction domain, public healthcare domain and Health Informatics domain. The proposed framework was realized by investigating mobile user experience components, mobile health requirements and the South African public healthcare domain components that contribute to the m-health user experience framework. This research was conducted through the interpretivist philosophy. Due to the exploratory nature of the study, an application of qualitative methodology was used. The conceptual theoretical framework was validated through a single case study approach by m-health user experience experts, who reside in South Africa. Data were analysed inductively. An m-health user experience framework was provided at the end of the study. An m-health user experience framework can assist the National Department of Health to look into design issues, address m-health requirements and put the domain needs in place, thus enabling the Department to successfully scale up implementations of m-health applications nationwide.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Management of capital expenditure for infrastructure programmes in the North-West Province
- Authors: Norgbey, Wisdom Selorm
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Capital investments , Infrastructure (Economics) -- Management , Expenditures, Public
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9718 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021075
- Description: The need for programme management to align, coordinate and manage a portfolio of construction projects to deliver benefits that would not be achievable if the projects were managed independently in a turbulent economic environment, limitations of project management, and increasing stakeholder expectations cannot be over emphasised. In the construction industry, the implementation of programme management has been bedevilled with major challenges of which the North West Department of Public Works (DPW) CAPEX programme is no exception. The CAPEX programme has been noted for delivering fewer infrastructure projects as planned in terms of budget, time, and other expectations. The research documented in this treatise thus examined the existing programme management approach of the North West DPW CAPEX programme with respect to generally accepted standards and practices. A mixed research approach was used to identify problems such as delays in payment of works, poor reporting standards, improper planning of works, procurement difficulties, and inadequate management structures. The results point to excessive bureaucratic processes, improper information management systems and lack of commitment and ownership towards government works as the major underlying causes of the programme predicaments. Dogmatic implementation of government’s black economic empowerment policies and inadequate in-house capacity were also contributing factors. The research findings imply that effective processes should be laid for prompt payment of works certificates and invoices. Improved reporting standards and proper planning of the programme as a whole and its constituent projects is necessary for the attainment of stipulated goals. In particular, it is crucial to ensure that adequate management considerations in terms of capacity, infrastructure, structures and expertise are put in place while the procurement processes should be continually reviewed for programme success purposes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Norgbey, Wisdom Selorm
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Capital investments , Infrastructure (Economics) -- Management , Expenditures, Public
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9718 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021075
- Description: The need for programme management to align, coordinate and manage a portfolio of construction projects to deliver benefits that would not be achievable if the projects were managed independently in a turbulent economic environment, limitations of project management, and increasing stakeholder expectations cannot be over emphasised. In the construction industry, the implementation of programme management has been bedevilled with major challenges of which the North West Department of Public Works (DPW) CAPEX programme is no exception. The CAPEX programme has been noted for delivering fewer infrastructure projects as planned in terms of budget, time, and other expectations. The research documented in this treatise thus examined the existing programme management approach of the North West DPW CAPEX programme with respect to generally accepted standards and practices. A mixed research approach was used to identify problems such as delays in payment of works, poor reporting standards, improper planning of works, procurement difficulties, and inadequate management structures. The results point to excessive bureaucratic processes, improper information management systems and lack of commitment and ownership towards government works as the major underlying causes of the programme predicaments. Dogmatic implementation of government’s black economic empowerment policies and inadequate in-house capacity were also contributing factors. The research findings imply that effective processes should be laid for prompt payment of works certificates and invoices. Improved reporting standards and proper planning of the programme as a whole and its constituent projects is necessary for the attainment of stipulated goals. In particular, it is crucial to ensure that adequate management considerations in terms of capacity, infrastructure, structures and expertise are put in place while the procurement processes should be continually reviewed for programme success purposes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Packed-bed rock thermal energy storage for concetrated solar power: enhancement of storage time and system efficiency
- Authors: Maidadi, Mohaman Bello
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Solar thermal energy , Energy storage , Reliability (Engineering)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9639 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020914
- Description: Solar thermal energy harvesting is a promising solution to offset the electricity demands of a growing population. The use of the technology is however still limited and this can most likely be attributed to the capital cost and also the intermittent nature of solar energy which requires incorporation of a storage system. To make the technology more attractive and effective, cheap means of harvesting solar energy and the development of efficient and inexpensive thermal energy storage devices will improve the performance of solar energy systems and the widespread use of solar energy. Heat storage in a packed-bed rock with air as the working fluid presents an attractive and simple solution for storing solar thermal energy and it is recommended for solar air heaters. A packed-bed rock storage system consists of rocks of good heat capacity packed in a storage tank. The working fluid (air) flows through the bed to transfer its energy. The major concern of the design for a packed-bed rock thermal storage system is to maximize the heat transfer and minimise the pressure drop across the storage tank and hence the pumping power. The time duration the stored energy can be preserved and the air flow wall effect through the bed are the common complications encountered in this system. This study presents an experimental and analytical analysis of a vacuum storage tank with the use of expanded perlite for high temperature thermal energy storage in a packed-bed of rocks. Dolerite rocks are used as the storage medium due to their high heat capacity and as they are locally available. To minimise the pressure drop across the tank, moderate rock sizes are used. The tank contains baffles, allowing an even spread of air to rock contact through the entire tank, therefore improving heat transfer. There is a good correlation between the predicted and the actual results (4 percent) which implies that the baffles incorporated inside the vacuum tank forces the air through the entire tank, thereby resulting in an even lateral temperature distribution across the tank. The investigation of heat loss showed that a vacuum with expanded perlite is a viable solution to high temperature heat storage for an extended period. The research also focuses on the investigation of a proposed low cost parabolic trough solar collector for an air heating system as shown in Figure (1.3). The use of a standard solar geyser evacuated tube (@R130 each) has cost benefits over the industry standard solar tubes normally used in concentrating solar power systems. A mathematical was developed to predict the thermal performance of proposed PTC and it was found that the measured results compared well with the predictions. The solar energy conversion efficiency of this collector is up to 70 percent. This research could impact positively on remote rural communities by providing a source of clean energy, especially for off-grid applications for schools, clinics and communication equipment. It could lead to a significant improvement in the cost performance, ease of installation and technical performance of storage systems for solar heating applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Maidadi, Mohaman Bello
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Solar thermal energy , Energy storage , Reliability (Engineering)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9639 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020914
- Description: Solar thermal energy harvesting is a promising solution to offset the electricity demands of a growing population. The use of the technology is however still limited and this can most likely be attributed to the capital cost and also the intermittent nature of solar energy which requires incorporation of a storage system. To make the technology more attractive and effective, cheap means of harvesting solar energy and the development of efficient and inexpensive thermal energy storage devices will improve the performance of solar energy systems and the widespread use of solar energy. Heat storage in a packed-bed rock with air as the working fluid presents an attractive and simple solution for storing solar thermal energy and it is recommended for solar air heaters. A packed-bed rock storage system consists of rocks of good heat capacity packed in a storage tank. The working fluid (air) flows through the bed to transfer its energy. The major concern of the design for a packed-bed rock thermal storage system is to maximize the heat transfer and minimise the pressure drop across the storage tank and hence the pumping power. The time duration the stored energy can be preserved and the air flow wall effect through the bed are the common complications encountered in this system. This study presents an experimental and analytical analysis of a vacuum storage tank with the use of expanded perlite for high temperature thermal energy storage in a packed-bed of rocks. Dolerite rocks are used as the storage medium due to their high heat capacity and as they are locally available. To minimise the pressure drop across the tank, moderate rock sizes are used. The tank contains baffles, allowing an even spread of air to rock contact through the entire tank, therefore improving heat transfer. There is a good correlation between the predicted and the actual results (4 percent) which implies that the baffles incorporated inside the vacuum tank forces the air through the entire tank, thereby resulting in an even lateral temperature distribution across the tank. The investigation of heat loss showed that a vacuum with expanded perlite is a viable solution to high temperature heat storage for an extended period. The research also focuses on the investigation of a proposed low cost parabolic trough solar collector for an air heating system as shown in Figure (1.3). The use of a standard solar geyser evacuated tube (@R130 each) has cost benefits over the industry standard solar tubes normally used in concentrating solar power systems. A mathematical was developed to predict the thermal performance of proposed PTC and it was found that the measured results compared well with the predictions. The solar energy conversion efficiency of this collector is up to 70 percent. This research could impact positively on remote rural communities by providing a source of clean energy, especially for off-grid applications for schools, clinics and communication equipment. It could lead to a significant improvement in the cost performance, ease of installation and technical performance of storage systems for solar heating applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Strategic management of construction companies
- Authors: Van Rooyen, Roelof Petrus
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Planning , Business planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Corporate turnarounds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9712 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020407
- Description: The research emanated from an investigation of GB7, GB8 and GB9 main contractors in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was focussed on the strident economic times in the construction industry following the FIFA Soccer World Cup from August 2010 to December 2012. The research was conducted to identify the key strategy or combination of strategies keeping construction entities in operation. The study further investigates the key elements of a successful turnaround strategy as well as the most effective methods in implementing strategies within construction organizations. The research took the form of an empirical quantitative study where a descriptive survey was used to collect data. Structured interviews were held with the target population to collect data in the field. The study established that geographic diversification was the most effective method utilized by main contractors for survival during the study timeframe. The study also found that lowering of profit margins and preliminary and general amounts were most effective methods in the use of turn around strategies. The study finally concluded that effective steps were taken by main contractors in the Eastern Cape to implement corporate strategies within their organizations. Step by step guidance to all employees on new processes was the key element in successful strategic implementation of a strategy within construction organizations. The research conducted contributes to the strategic management competency within the built environment as well as the existing body of knowledge within the construction industry. All members of the construction industry in South Africa involved with strategic level planning of entities would value the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Van Rooyen, Roelof Petrus
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Planning , Business planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Corporate turnarounds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9712 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020407
- Description: The research emanated from an investigation of GB7, GB8 and GB9 main contractors in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was focussed on the strident economic times in the construction industry following the FIFA Soccer World Cup from August 2010 to December 2012. The research was conducted to identify the key strategy or combination of strategies keeping construction entities in operation. The study further investigates the key elements of a successful turnaround strategy as well as the most effective methods in implementing strategies within construction organizations. The research took the form of an empirical quantitative study where a descriptive survey was used to collect data. Structured interviews were held with the target population to collect data in the field. The study established that geographic diversification was the most effective method utilized by main contractors for survival during the study timeframe. The study also found that lowering of profit margins and preliminary and general amounts were most effective methods in the use of turn around strategies. The study finally concluded that effective steps were taken by main contractors in the Eastern Cape to implement corporate strategies within their organizations. Step by step guidance to all employees on new processes was the key element in successful strategic implementation of a strategy within construction organizations. The research conducted contributes to the strategic management competency within the built environment as well as the existing body of knowledge within the construction industry. All members of the construction industry in South Africa involved with strategic level planning of entities would value the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The development of a segmented variable pitch small horizontal axis wind turbine with active pitch control
- Authors: Poole, Sean
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Horizontal axis wind turbines , Wind turbines -- Environmental aspects , Wind turbines -- Aerodynamics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEngineering
- Identifier: vital:9657 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020583
- Description: Small scale wind turbines operating in an urban environment produce dismal amounts of power when compared to their expected output [1-4]. This is largely due to the gusty wind conditions found in an urban environment, coupled with the fact that the wind turbines are not designed for these conditions. A new concept of a Segmented Variable Pitch (SVP) wind turbine has been proposed, which has a strong possibility to perform well in gusty and variable wind conditions. This dissertation explains the concept of a SVP wind turbine in more detail and shows analytical and experimental results relating to this concept. Also, the potential benefits of the proposed concept are mentioned. The results from this dissertation show that this concept has potential with promising results on possible turbine blade aerofoil configurations. Scaled model tests were completed and although further design optimisation is required, the tests showed good potential for the SVP concept. Lastly a proof-of-concept full scale model was manufactured and tested to prove scalability to full size from concept models. Along with the proof-of-concept full scale model, a wireless control system (to control the blade segments) was developed and tested.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Poole, Sean
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Horizontal axis wind turbines , Wind turbines -- Environmental aspects , Wind turbines -- Aerodynamics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEngineering
- Identifier: vital:9657 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020583
- Description: Small scale wind turbines operating in an urban environment produce dismal amounts of power when compared to their expected output [1-4]. This is largely due to the gusty wind conditions found in an urban environment, coupled with the fact that the wind turbines are not designed for these conditions. A new concept of a Segmented Variable Pitch (SVP) wind turbine has been proposed, which has a strong possibility to perform well in gusty and variable wind conditions. This dissertation explains the concept of a SVP wind turbine in more detail and shows analytical and experimental results relating to this concept. Also, the potential benefits of the proposed concept are mentioned. The results from this dissertation show that this concept has potential with promising results on possible turbine blade aerofoil configurations. Scaled model tests were completed and although further design optimisation is required, the tests showed good potential for the SVP concept. Lastly a proof-of-concept full scale model was manufactured and tested to prove scalability to full size from concept models. Along with the proof-of-concept full scale model, a wireless control system (to control the blade segments) was developed and tested.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The relationship between the value chain and project success in the Malawian construction industry
- Authors: Kadangwe, Samuel Ronald
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Malawi , Industrial procurement -- Construction -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9715 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020865
- Description: The construction industry in Malawi plays a vital role in developing the infrastructure of the country that is in need of improvement. Thus, in order to improve the quality of infrastructure in Malawi, the construction industry has to perform better than the status quo. The construction industry is characterised by a complex value chain that comprises of clients, consultants, contractors, and material manufacturers, suppliers, financing institutions, knowledge organisations and regulatory authority. This research looks at the relationship between construction value and project success in the Malawian construction industry. A qualitative research method was used for compiling the primary data for the study. Twenty-nine (29) participants were interviewed. These participants represented clients, consultants, contractors and material suppliers. The findings reveal that value creation in Malawi is characterised by lack of harmonised standards and specifications, inconsistent project management practices, existence of non-value adding activities, corrupt practices, lack of a skilled labour force, and lack of commitment to best practices in H&S as well as environmental management. Further, logistical problems affect the supply of construction materials to the country; while an unfavourable economic environment makes pricing of materials a challenge in the country too. Poor communication and limited use of information technology (IT) is very common in the industry and project implementation is also affected by a poor road network, an intermittent power supply, and a lack of cooperation from other service providers. In terms of supply chain structures in use, the research revealed that the traditional procurement method that is based on the lowest bidder / price is the most dominant method in use and very few members of the construction industry are conversant with other procurement methods. The method is also the preferred procurement method used by public sector clients. The performance of the traditional procurement method largely depends on the competence of the project design and supervision team, the adequacy of the documentation, and the capacity of the contractor. However, in most cases the system has failed to perform due to the poor contract management skills of the supervising consultant and the lack of timely guidance from the public sector clients. The findings also revealed that most of the suppliers or subcontractors are engaged on project based relationships, and members of the industry are unwilling to engage in long terms relationships due to mistrust and greed among members of the industry, and also largely due to lack of proper frameworks that can support such relationships. It is therefore recommended that other procurement methods should be explored and the engagement of the lowest price bidders should be discontinued on small and medium scale projects. The criteria for upgrading contractors to higher categories should equally be revisited to eliminate incompetent contractors. The NCIC should take a leading role in harmonising the various standards and specifications in use in the country. Promotion of the usage IT services should be encouraged to facilitate faster information dissemination. Usage of risk management in construction and evaluation and monitoring of projects should be encouraged and benchmark best practices. Finally, the members of the industry should take up the responsibility to take leading entities in the industry to task, if fundamental changes are to take place in the industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Kadangwe, Samuel Ronald
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Malawi , Industrial procurement -- Construction -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9715 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020865
- Description: The construction industry in Malawi plays a vital role in developing the infrastructure of the country that is in need of improvement. Thus, in order to improve the quality of infrastructure in Malawi, the construction industry has to perform better than the status quo. The construction industry is characterised by a complex value chain that comprises of clients, consultants, contractors, and material manufacturers, suppliers, financing institutions, knowledge organisations and regulatory authority. This research looks at the relationship between construction value and project success in the Malawian construction industry. A qualitative research method was used for compiling the primary data for the study. Twenty-nine (29) participants were interviewed. These participants represented clients, consultants, contractors and material suppliers. The findings reveal that value creation in Malawi is characterised by lack of harmonised standards and specifications, inconsistent project management practices, existence of non-value adding activities, corrupt practices, lack of a skilled labour force, and lack of commitment to best practices in H&S as well as environmental management. Further, logistical problems affect the supply of construction materials to the country; while an unfavourable economic environment makes pricing of materials a challenge in the country too. Poor communication and limited use of information technology (IT) is very common in the industry and project implementation is also affected by a poor road network, an intermittent power supply, and a lack of cooperation from other service providers. In terms of supply chain structures in use, the research revealed that the traditional procurement method that is based on the lowest bidder / price is the most dominant method in use and very few members of the construction industry are conversant with other procurement methods. The method is also the preferred procurement method used by public sector clients. The performance of the traditional procurement method largely depends on the competence of the project design and supervision team, the adequacy of the documentation, and the capacity of the contractor. However, in most cases the system has failed to perform due to the poor contract management skills of the supervising consultant and the lack of timely guidance from the public sector clients. The findings also revealed that most of the suppliers or subcontractors are engaged on project based relationships, and members of the industry are unwilling to engage in long terms relationships due to mistrust and greed among members of the industry, and also largely due to lack of proper frameworks that can support such relationships. It is therefore recommended that other procurement methods should be explored and the engagement of the lowest price bidders should be discontinued on small and medium scale projects. The criteria for upgrading contractors to higher categories should equally be revisited to eliminate incompetent contractors. The NCIC should take a leading role in harmonising the various standards and specifications in use in the country. Promotion of the usage IT services should be encouraged to facilitate faster information dissemination. Usage of risk management in construction and evaluation and monitoring of projects should be encouraged and benchmark best practices. Finally, the members of the industry should take up the responsibility to take leading entities in the industry to task, if fundamental changes are to take place in the industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The sustainability of rural sanitation facilities in municipalities
- Authors: Maxwele, Zukani
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sanitation, Rural -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sanitary engineering -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sewage disposal, Rural -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Citizen participation , Municipal services -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9713 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020580
- Description: Progress has been made in eradicating the backlog in sanitation. This is reflected by the 2011 Census results that reflect a 21 percent increase in the provision of sanitation between the 2001 Census and the 2011 Census. In the rural areas of O.R. Tambo District Municipality, the eradication of sanitation backlogs is done through the provision of VIPs for sanitation. Even with this progress, there are still challenges resulting from the previously constructed sanitation facilities. Some of the challenges relate to the poor quality of these facilities. Community members – via the IDP road shows have voiced their unhappiness with regard to some of the sustainability factors of these structures. Community members feel they were not involved in decisions related to the sanitation projects. It has also been observed that the municipality and its agents do not conduct environmental management studies; and some pits of these structures were not lined, and the health and hygiene training, together with post-construction assessment was not done. In this study, an assessment of the provision of sanitation facilities, in order to identify some of the key factors that are critical to the sustainability of rural sanitation facilities, was done. The research findings should be helpful in assisting local government to improve the provision of sanitation facilities, with the aim of ensuring sustainability, improving community satisfaction, and improving the quality of life for the people living in these villages. For the purpose of the study, a quantitative research approach was used. A research questionnaire was used to collect the data; and it was distributed through email to a sample of respondents that understood sanitation issues. The data were collected from municipal officials, consultants working on sanitation projects, as well as other stakeholders with influence and an interest in sanitation. The results were analysed to establish the findings and to propose recommendations, in order to improve the sustainability of rural sanitation facilities. From the research findings, the recommendations highlighted the need for an improved participatory approach in implementing sanitation projects. To ensure sustainability, the following issues are key: monitoring and supervision; community participation and adherence to design guidelines; a review of the sanitation provision policy; as well as the promotion of health and hygiene.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Maxwele, Zukani
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sanitation, Rural -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sanitary engineering -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sewage disposal, Rural -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Citizen participation , Municipal services -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9713 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020580
- Description: Progress has been made in eradicating the backlog in sanitation. This is reflected by the 2011 Census results that reflect a 21 percent increase in the provision of sanitation between the 2001 Census and the 2011 Census. In the rural areas of O.R. Tambo District Municipality, the eradication of sanitation backlogs is done through the provision of VIPs for sanitation. Even with this progress, there are still challenges resulting from the previously constructed sanitation facilities. Some of the challenges relate to the poor quality of these facilities. Community members – via the IDP road shows have voiced their unhappiness with regard to some of the sustainability factors of these structures. Community members feel they were not involved in decisions related to the sanitation projects. It has also been observed that the municipality and its agents do not conduct environmental management studies; and some pits of these structures were not lined, and the health and hygiene training, together with post-construction assessment was not done. In this study, an assessment of the provision of sanitation facilities, in order to identify some of the key factors that are critical to the sustainability of rural sanitation facilities, was done. The research findings should be helpful in assisting local government to improve the provision of sanitation facilities, with the aim of ensuring sustainability, improving community satisfaction, and improving the quality of life for the people living in these villages. For the purpose of the study, a quantitative research approach was used. A research questionnaire was used to collect the data; and it was distributed through email to a sample of respondents that understood sanitation issues. The data were collected from municipal officials, consultants working on sanitation projects, as well as other stakeholders with influence and an interest in sanitation. The results were analysed to establish the findings and to propose recommendations, in order to improve the sustainability of rural sanitation facilities. From the research findings, the recommendations highlighted the need for an improved participatory approach in implementing sanitation projects. To ensure sustainability, the following issues are key: monitoring and supervision; community participation and adherence to design guidelines; a review of the sanitation provision policy; as well as the promotion of health and hygiene.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Transient analysis of erroneous tripping at grassridge static VAr compensator
- Authors: Taberer, Marcel Wayne
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Transients (Electricity) , Electric transformers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9603 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020918
- Description: The research work conducted and presented forward in this document is the evaluation of real time values obtained using three recording devices at two independent locations and implementing them as recorder devices in Eskom’s power system. The research work conducted was presented at an IEEE International Conference (ICIT2013) and Appendix A shows the accepted paper presented. A derived model within a simulation software package known as DIgSILENT PowerFactory is created and Electromagnetic Transient (EMT) studies are performed and then compared to the real time values obtained using the OMICRON CMC 356’s. Transformers are normally energised via a circuit breaker which is controlled by an auxiliary closing contact. By applying system voltage at a random instant in time on the transformer windings may result in a large transient magnetizing inrush current which causes high orders of 2nd harmonic currents to flow under no load conditions. A philosophy known to mitigate these currents is to energise the transformer by controlling each individual phase 120 degrees apart with the first pole closing at the peak on the voltage waveform. Transients produced due to 500MVA transformers been introduced into the power system at a certain space in time can cause nuisance tripping’s at the particular location where the respective transformer is energised. OMICRON EnerLyzer is the software tool used for the Comtrade recordings at both locations. Four independent case studies are generated within EnerLyzer software and the relevant Comtrade files are extracted for the four independent case studies relative to Transformer1 and Transformer2 switching’s. TOP software, which is a mathematical tool used to analyse Comtrade files, is then used to analyse and investigate the four case studies. Results from DIgSILENT PowerFactory are then generated according to the derived model. The results extracted depict three scenarios, indicating a power system that is weak, strong and specifically a power system that correlates to the actual tripping of a Static VAr Compensator (SVC). The results are all formulated and then evaluated in order to produce a conclusion and bring forward recommendations to Eskom in order to effectively ensure the Dedisa/Grassridge power system is reliable once again.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Taberer, Marcel Wayne
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Transients (Electricity) , Electric transformers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9603 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020918
- Description: The research work conducted and presented forward in this document is the evaluation of real time values obtained using three recording devices at two independent locations and implementing them as recorder devices in Eskom’s power system. The research work conducted was presented at an IEEE International Conference (ICIT2013) and Appendix A shows the accepted paper presented. A derived model within a simulation software package known as DIgSILENT PowerFactory is created and Electromagnetic Transient (EMT) studies are performed and then compared to the real time values obtained using the OMICRON CMC 356’s. Transformers are normally energised via a circuit breaker which is controlled by an auxiliary closing contact. By applying system voltage at a random instant in time on the transformer windings may result in a large transient magnetizing inrush current which causes high orders of 2nd harmonic currents to flow under no load conditions. A philosophy known to mitigate these currents is to energise the transformer by controlling each individual phase 120 degrees apart with the first pole closing at the peak on the voltage waveform. Transients produced due to 500MVA transformers been introduced into the power system at a certain space in time can cause nuisance tripping’s at the particular location where the respective transformer is energised. OMICRON EnerLyzer is the software tool used for the Comtrade recordings at both locations. Four independent case studies are generated within EnerLyzer software and the relevant Comtrade files are extracted for the four independent case studies relative to Transformer1 and Transformer2 switching’s. TOP software, which is a mathematical tool used to analyse Comtrade files, is then used to analyse and investigate the four case studies. Results from DIgSILENT PowerFactory are then generated according to the derived model. The results extracted depict three scenarios, indicating a power system that is weak, strong and specifically a power system that correlates to the actual tripping of a Static VAr Compensator (SVC). The results are all formulated and then evaluated in order to produce a conclusion and bring forward recommendations to Eskom in order to effectively ensure the Dedisa/Grassridge power system is reliable once again.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Unlocking the development of built environment professionals through infrastructure investment in South Africa
- Authors: Mputa, Nobutyani Sinethemba
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Career development -- South Africa , Construction workers -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa , Job security -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9673 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020049
- Description: spending is regarded to be one of the major contributors to economic growth. The purpose of the study was to investigate how infrastructure projects could engender professional skills development. The topic is focused on a human resource (HR) perspective as it is one of the knowledge areas in project management. In order to achieve the research objectives and also establish the breadth of the subject issues in the literature review, a qualitative methodology was employed. Interviews were conducted and the majority of the participants were working towards professional registration in the built environment professions. The empirical findings that emerged from the study show that the majority of the respondents agreed that HR units should be aware of the legislation related to professional training and education. The interviewees further elucidate that, although professional registration is the primary duty of the candidate, HR units should ensure that interns are doing what is in line with their professional requirements, according to different councils, to ensure compliance. However, the lack of a structured approach in administering training programmes is a key factor that contributes to the lack of development of professional skills on government sponsored infrastructure projects. This must be addressed to attain the desired professional development outcomes among historically disadvantaged individuals (HDIs) that are keen on professional registration and development in the built environment professions. Other empirical findings showed that most of the respondents showed some concern regarding job security with their present employment. They explained that once the status of professional registration is attained, securing employment in the industry should be relatively easy. South Africa needs a highly skilled workforce to ensure growth of the economy therefore HR departments in organisation should adapt a systematic approach in their HR planning in order to ensure skills are engendered to HDIs as well.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mputa, Nobutyani Sinethemba
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Career development -- South Africa , Construction workers -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa , Job security -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9673 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020049
- Description: spending is regarded to be one of the major contributors to economic growth. The purpose of the study was to investigate how infrastructure projects could engender professional skills development. The topic is focused on a human resource (HR) perspective as it is one of the knowledge areas in project management. In order to achieve the research objectives and also establish the breadth of the subject issues in the literature review, a qualitative methodology was employed. Interviews were conducted and the majority of the participants were working towards professional registration in the built environment professions. The empirical findings that emerged from the study show that the majority of the respondents agreed that HR units should be aware of the legislation related to professional training and education. The interviewees further elucidate that, although professional registration is the primary duty of the candidate, HR units should ensure that interns are doing what is in line with their professional requirements, according to different councils, to ensure compliance. However, the lack of a structured approach in administering training programmes is a key factor that contributes to the lack of development of professional skills on government sponsored infrastructure projects. This must be addressed to attain the desired professional development outcomes among historically disadvantaged individuals (HDIs) that are keen on professional registration and development in the built environment professions. Other empirical findings showed that most of the respondents showed some concern regarding job security with their present employment. They explained that once the status of professional registration is attained, securing employment in the industry should be relatively easy. South Africa needs a highly skilled workforce to ensure growth of the economy therefore HR departments in organisation should adapt a systematic approach in their HR planning in order to ensure skills are engendered to HDIs as well.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
User requirements framework for mobile government in the Western Cape
- Authors: Wilson, Fiona Michelle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Government communication systems , Internet in public administration , Electronic government information , Mobile communication systems , Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9751 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008076 , Government communication systems , Internet in public administration , Electronic government information , Mobile communication systems , Information technology
- Description: Globally, mobile technology use, particularly the use of mobile phones, is becoming increasingly widespread. One consequence of this growth is mounting interest in using mobile technologies in the public sector, particularly in developing countries, because it is seen as enabling better access to information and services for citizens. Mobile government (m-government), defined as the use of mobile technologies and applications for public sector services, promises to extend access to public services to marginalised sectors of the population and is emerging as a new focus in the ongoing challenge to provide efficient, effective and accessible public services. Though interest in m-government is emerging in the provincial Western Cape Government (WCG) of South Africa, few guidelines exist in the WCG to inform the development of public sector mobile services. This absence impacts on service delivery and the primary objective of this study was to propose a set of guidelines that could guide the prioritisation of citizen facing public sector services for mobile implementation in the Western Cape. The study considered two areas namely, government and user needs. The primary research question was to determine what public sector services citizens need and how these services should be prioritised for mobile delivery in the Western Cape. To address this, three research sub-questions were formulated. The first question aimed to examine conceptions of mobile government. To achieve this a literature study and documentation review was conducted, from which factors influencing service prioritisation emerged. The second research question aimed to identify citizen needs that could inform mobile public sector services in the Western Cape. Thus a survey and interviews were conducted with citizens using the WCG community ICT centres (e-Centres). The third research question aimed to identify factors that impact on the prioritisation of citizen facing public sectors for mobile delivery in the Western Cape. The findings from the literature study, survey and interviews conducted were used to address this research question. The results from the three research sub-questions were triangulated to address the main objective of the study and from this a set of guidelines for prioritising mobile public sector services in the Western Cape was proposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Wilson, Fiona Michelle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Government communication systems , Internet in public administration , Electronic government information , Mobile communication systems , Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9751 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008076 , Government communication systems , Internet in public administration , Electronic government information , Mobile communication systems , Information technology
- Description: Globally, mobile technology use, particularly the use of mobile phones, is becoming increasingly widespread. One consequence of this growth is mounting interest in using mobile technologies in the public sector, particularly in developing countries, because it is seen as enabling better access to information and services for citizens. Mobile government (m-government), defined as the use of mobile technologies and applications for public sector services, promises to extend access to public services to marginalised sectors of the population and is emerging as a new focus in the ongoing challenge to provide efficient, effective and accessible public services. Though interest in m-government is emerging in the provincial Western Cape Government (WCG) of South Africa, few guidelines exist in the WCG to inform the development of public sector mobile services. This absence impacts on service delivery and the primary objective of this study was to propose a set of guidelines that could guide the prioritisation of citizen facing public sector services for mobile implementation in the Western Cape. The study considered two areas namely, government and user needs. The primary research question was to determine what public sector services citizens need and how these services should be prioritised for mobile delivery in the Western Cape. To address this, three research sub-questions were formulated. The first question aimed to examine conceptions of mobile government. To achieve this a literature study and documentation review was conducted, from which factors influencing service prioritisation emerged. The second research question aimed to identify citizen needs that could inform mobile public sector services in the Western Cape. Thus a survey and interviews were conducted with citizens using the WCG community ICT centres (e-Centres). The third research question aimed to identify factors that impact on the prioritisation of citizen facing public sectors for mobile delivery in the Western Cape. The findings from the literature study, survey and interviews conducted were used to address this research question. The results from the three research sub-questions were triangulated to address the main objective of the study and from this a set of guidelines for prioritising mobile public sector services in the Western Cape was proposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013