Evaluation of broiler performance under small-scale and semi-commercial farming conditions in the Northern Province
- Authors: Nembilwi, Daniel
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Agricultural Management)
- Identifier: vital:10964 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/92 , Broilers (Chickens)
- Description: Introduction: In the Northern region of the Northern Province, there is an increase in the number of small-scale and semi-commercial farms in all sectors of agriculture. This includes the production of grains, vegetables, fruits and livestock. Broiler production seemed to be a much-preferred alternative of development in community based projects and emerging farmers have shown keen interest. This is because broiler production requires less space than ruminants and is ready for human consumption within a very short period of time. Poultry production provides a constant source of income and protein with a big customer demand. By the year 2000, broiler production is expected to reach 4000 million and 7.5 million tons of poultry feeds in the world. Many countries have initiated programs aimed at improving small-scale poultry as a means of helping to bring socio- economic benefits to rural communities (Panda, 1989). In order to feed the ever rising population of 4.9 million in the Northern Province (1996 Census), there must be an increase in the production of broilers as a primary source of top quality animal protein. With the high unemployment rate (46%) in the Northern Province, self- employment projects are needed which comply with agro- processing. More than 90 community projects based on poultry production in the Northern region of the Northern Province had been established in order to reduce the high rate of unemployment. Today more people have engaged themselves in community projects especially in poultry production than ever before. Some of the constrains of broiler production at both small-scale and semi-commercial farming condition includes inadequate ventilation system. Lack of suitable health care facilities and frequently the absence of efficient marketing structures form part of the obstacles to the rapid development of poultry production. Feed costs which remain the highest input cost in the production of broilers represent between 60 to 70% or more of the total costs of broiler productions (Benyi and Habi, 1998). Lack of management skills and training for small and semi-commercial farmers makes it difficult to obtain optimum performance. The objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of broilers as influenced by environmental factors under small.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Nembilwi, Daniel
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Agricultural Management)
- Identifier: vital:10964 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/92 , Broilers (Chickens)
- Description: Introduction: In the Northern region of the Northern Province, there is an increase in the number of small-scale and semi-commercial farms in all sectors of agriculture. This includes the production of grains, vegetables, fruits and livestock. Broiler production seemed to be a much-preferred alternative of development in community based projects and emerging farmers have shown keen interest. This is because broiler production requires less space than ruminants and is ready for human consumption within a very short period of time. Poultry production provides a constant source of income and protein with a big customer demand. By the year 2000, broiler production is expected to reach 4000 million and 7.5 million tons of poultry feeds in the world. Many countries have initiated programs aimed at improving small-scale poultry as a means of helping to bring socio- economic benefits to rural communities (Panda, 1989). In order to feed the ever rising population of 4.9 million in the Northern Province (1996 Census), there must be an increase in the production of broilers as a primary source of top quality animal protein. With the high unemployment rate (46%) in the Northern Province, self- employment projects are needed which comply with agro- processing. More than 90 community projects based on poultry production in the Northern region of the Northern Province had been established in order to reduce the high rate of unemployment. Today more people have engaged themselves in community projects especially in poultry production than ever before. Some of the constrains of broiler production at both small-scale and semi-commercial farming condition includes inadequate ventilation system. Lack of suitable health care facilities and frequently the absence of efficient marketing structures form part of the obstacles to the rapid development of poultry production. Feed costs which remain the highest input cost in the production of broilers represent between 60 to 70% or more of the total costs of broiler productions (Benyi and Habi, 1998). Lack of management skills and training for small and semi-commercial farmers makes it difficult to obtain optimum performance. The objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of broilers as influenced by environmental factors under small.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Evaluation of manufacturing processes for the production of atrazine
- Authors: Schaefer, Melissa Claire
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Atrazine , Pesticides
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:10960 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/96 , Atrazine , Pesticides
- Description: This report describes the results of investigations carried out with the view to find an alternative for MIBK as solvent for the production of atrazine as currently practised by Dow AgroSciences in South Africa. The main motivating factors for the said investigation was: · to increase the yield of atrazine produced, · to reduce the amount of organics, consisting essentially of reaction solvent containing dissolved product, in the aqueous process effluent, and · to improve the properties of the solid (crystalline) product to enable easier product formulation. Synthetic reactions carried out in the absence of organic solvent, i.e. in essentially a 10% NaCl solution containing a surfactant, proved rather disappointing. Low yields of atrazine were obtained together with relatively large amounts of by-products such as propazine and simazine, irrespective of the nature of the surfactant. The reason for the low yield of atrazine and high yields of by-products were established in competing substitution reactions. In these reactions, IPA was reacted with an equimolar mixture of cyanuric chloride and mono-i (first reaction intermediate) in both aqueous medium and in toluene as reaction solvent. The results of these experiments indicated that in aqueous medium IPA reacts faster with mono-i than cyanuric chloride to give propazine as by-product. In toluene, however, the preferred reaction is with cyanuric chloride to give more mono-i as product. Toluene was investigated as an alternative organic solvent to MIBK in view of its desirable properties such as low solubility in water and ease of recovery and recycling. The synthesis of atrazine was optimised in terms of addition sequence and rates of amine reagents and base (HCl acceptor), both by means of benchscale reactions and reaction calorimetry. Reaction energy profiles indicated that both the reaction of secondary amine/NaOH and primary amine/NaOH were virtually instantaneous. This implies that the reaction can be performed under feed control conditions. Of particular importance in ensuring high yields of high purity product was accurate temperature control (since both reaction steps are highly exothermic) and mixing. The latter was important in view of the rapid reaction of amine/NaOH with cyanuric chloride, as well as the possible reaction of mono-i, the first reaction intermediate, with IPA in cases of local excesses of reagent. Under optimum conditions, a yield of atrazine > 97% could be achieved where the resultant product was well within stipulated product specifications. In view of the results obtained, the following recommendations regarding the synthesis of atrazine in toluene as reaction solvent can be made: · Use a reagent addition sequence that staggers the addition of amine and NaOH in such a manner that amine is added first for a short while, followed by the simultaneous addition of amine and NaOH, and ending with NaOH. Use two reaction vessels in series, one for the IPA addition reaction and one for the MEA addition reaction. In this manner the reaction can be run on a continuous basis since no lag time between amine additions is required. Also, smaller reactors may be used whilst maintaining high production rates. Smaller reactors will improve both temperature control and mixing of reagents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Schaefer, Melissa Claire
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Atrazine , Pesticides
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:10960 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/96 , Atrazine , Pesticides
- Description: This report describes the results of investigations carried out with the view to find an alternative for MIBK as solvent for the production of atrazine as currently practised by Dow AgroSciences in South Africa. The main motivating factors for the said investigation was: · to increase the yield of atrazine produced, · to reduce the amount of organics, consisting essentially of reaction solvent containing dissolved product, in the aqueous process effluent, and · to improve the properties of the solid (crystalline) product to enable easier product formulation. Synthetic reactions carried out in the absence of organic solvent, i.e. in essentially a 10% NaCl solution containing a surfactant, proved rather disappointing. Low yields of atrazine were obtained together with relatively large amounts of by-products such as propazine and simazine, irrespective of the nature of the surfactant. The reason for the low yield of atrazine and high yields of by-products were established in competing substitution reactions. In these reactions, IPA was reacted with an equimolar mixture of cyanuric chloride and mono-i (first reaction intermediate) in both aqueous medium and in toluene as reaction solvent. The results of these experiments indicated that in aqueous medium IPA reacts faster with mono-i than cyanuric chloride to give propazine as by-product. In toluene, however, the preferred reaction is with cyanuric chloride to give more mono-i as product. Toluene was investigated as an alternative organic solvent to MIBK in view of its desirable properties such as low solubility in water and ease of recovery and recycling. The synthesis of atrazine was optimised in terms of addition sequence and rates of amine reagents and base (HCl acceptor), both by means of benchscale reactions and reaction calorimetry. Reaction energy profiles indicated that both the reaction of secondary amine/NaOH and primary amine/NaOH were virtually instantaneous. This implies that the reaction can be performed under feed control conditions. Of particular importance in ensuring high yields of high purity product was accurate temperature control (since both reaction steps are highly exothermic) and mixing. The latter was important in view of the rapid reaction of amine/NaOH with cyanuric chloride, as well as the possible reaction of mono-i, the first reaction intermediate, with IPA in cases of local excesses of reagent. Under optimum conditions, a yield of atrazine > 97% could be achieved where the resultant product was well within stipulated product specifications. In view of the results obtained, the following recommendations regarding the synthesis of atrazine in toluene as reaction solvent can be made: · Use a reagent addition sequence that staggers the addition of amine and NaOH in such a manner that amine is added first for a short while, followed by the simultaneous addition of amine and NaOH, and ending with NaOH. Use two reaction vessels in series, one for the IPA addition reaction and one for the MEA addition reaction. In this manner the reaction can be run on a continuous basis since no lag time between amine additions is required. Also, smaller reactors may be used whilst maintaining high production rates. Smaller reactors will improve both temperature control and mixing of reagents.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Identification and analysis of the factors that influence the development of female entrepreneurs in the informal sector
- Authors: Sokabo, Nobenguni B
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Women-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa , Businesswomen -- South Africa , Women in development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10907 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/98 , Women-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa , Businesswomen -- South Africa , Women in development -- South Africa
- Description: There is a remarkable increase in the participation of females in business activities due to their involvement in the informal sector. These activities appear to be insignificant and not measurable because they are outside the regulatory framework, but they also absorb multitudes of the unemployable. Notwithstanding the challenges of low levels of education, lack of skills and finance as well as the need to balance reproductive and productive roles, females are under pressure to generate income through trading in small scale businesses that can hardly grow beyond subsistence level. With the meagre earnings from their activities, they ensure the survival of their families. If female entrepreneurs are developed and brought into the economic main stream, they will bring with them their unique survivalist techniques that will contribute towards economic development and growth in the country. This report examines the constraints that affect the development of female entrepreneurs in the informal sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Sokabo, Nobenguni B
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Women-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa , Businesswomen -- South Africa , Women in development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10907 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/98 , Women-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa , Businesswomen -- South Africa , Women in development -- South Africa
- Description: There is a remarkable increase in the participation of females in business activities due to their involvement in the informal sector. These activities appear to be insignificant and not measurable because they are outside the regulatory framework, but they also absorb multitudes of the unemployable. Notwithstanding the challenges of low levels of education, lack of skills and finance as well as the need to balance reproductive and productive roles, females are under pressure to generate income through trading in small scale businesses that can hardly grow beyond subsistence level. With the meagre earnings from their activities, they ensure the survival of their families. If female entrepreneurs are developed and brought into the economic main stream, they will bring with them their unique survivalist techniques that will contribute towards economic development and growth in the country. This report examines the constraints that affect the development of female entrepreneurs in the informal sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Identifying the need for the development of an instrument to determine senior phase teachers' science-assessment competence
- Authors: Lombard, Elsa Helena
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Science -- Ability testing -- South Africa , Science -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Evaluation , Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa , Competency-based education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/100 , Science -- Ability testing -- South Africa , Science -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Evaluation , Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa , Competency-based education -- South Africa
- Description: The focus of this study is the competences expected of teachers in the senior phase to assess the Natural Sciences learning area. In order to be in line with the new developments, the South African science teacher will need relevant assessment training in order to utilise appropriate techniques that are in line with the new educational philosophy. The question arises: What competences do teachers need for assessing science in the senior phase? An ethnographic case study was implemented as research methodology in the descriptive research paradigm. The investigation comprised observing the classroom practices of a sample of three senior phase science teachers in two primary schools and in one secondary school in the Port Elizabeth region. The data obtained from the observations were triangulated with related artefacts produced by both the teachers and the learners in each case. In order to establish these expected competences a document analysis was done from a selection of South African documents. The descriptions of the real life assessment practices of the sample of science teachers were then compared with the competences expected by the South African education system. The comparison between the real-life assessment practices and the expected practices concurred with Shepard’s (2000, p.12) belief that the abilities needed to implement classroom assessment “are daunting”. The classroom-based assessment practices of the sample of teachers revealed a variety of assessment beliefs, practices and competence. The needs of these teachers are so diversified and intense that individualised professional development is needed if sustained implementation of the new curriculum and accompanying assessment competences is to be facilitated. The research established the need to develop an instrument that the science teachers can use to assess their own competence. There should be training modules drawn up in line with this instrument. Teachers should be able to choose the professional development modules that would address their own unique needs
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Lombard, Elsa Helena
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Science -- Ability testing -- South Africa , Science -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Evaluation , Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa , Competency-based education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/100 , Science -- Ability testing -- South Africa , Science -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Evaluation , Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa , Competency-based education -- South Africa
- Description: The focus of this study is the competences expected of teachers in the senior phase to assess the Natural Sciences learning area. In order to be in line with the new developments, the South African science teacher will need relevant assessment training in order to utilise appropriate techniques that are in line with the new educational philosophy. The question arises: What competences do teachers need for assessing science in the senior phase? An ethnographic case study was implemented as research methodology in the descriptive research paradigm. The investigation comprised observing the classroom practices of a sample of three senior phase science teachers in two primary schools and in one secondary school in the Port Elizabeth region. The data obtained from the observations were triangulated with related artefacts produced by both the teachers and the learners in each case. In order to establish these expected competences a document analysis was done from a selection of South African documents. The descriptions of the real life assessment practices of the sample of science teachers were then compared with the competences expected by the South African education system. The comparison between the real-life assessment practices and the expected practices concurred with Shepard’s (2000, p.12) belief that the abilities needed to implement classroom assessment “are daunting”. The classroom-based assessment practices of the sample of teachers revealed a variety of assessment beliefs, practices and competence. The needs of these teachers are so diversified and intense that individualised professional development is needed if sustained implementation of the new curriculum and accompanying assessment competences is to be facilitated. The research established the need to develop an instrument that the science teachers can use to assess their own competence. There should be training modules drawn up in line with this instrument. Teachers should be able to choose the professional development modules that would address their own unique needs
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Imaging the metaphysical in contemporary art practice : a comparative study of intertextuality, poststructuralism and metaphysical symbolism
- Authors: Opperman, J. A.
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Mind and body , Metaphysics in art
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Fine Art, Painting)
- Identifier: vital:10762 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/101 , Mind and body , Metaphysics in art
- Description: It was then that I decided to investigate how contemporary forms of metaphysical imaging have evolved formally and stylistically. I began to question how such approaches might be informed by current philosophical thought, given that many contemporary theorists have adopted a sceptical view towards metaphysical discourse. This point of contention presented me with the initial challenge of finding an artist whose exploration of metaphysical content is supported by topical philosophical thought. I intended this inquiry to serve as a basis from which to develop my own approach to imaging metaphysical content and to situate it within the context of contemporary thought.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Opperman, J. A.
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Mind and body , Metaphysics in art
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Fine Art, Painting)
- Identifier: vital:10762 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/101 , Mind and body , Metaphysics in art
- Description: It was then that I decided to investigate how contemporary forms of metaphysical imaging have evolved formally and stylistically. I began to question how such approaches might be informed by current philosophical thought, given that many contemporary theorists have adopted a sceptical view towards metaphysical discourse. This point of contention presented me with the initial challenge of finding an artist whose exploration of metaphysical content is supported by topical philosophical thought. I intended this inquiry to serve as a basis from which to develop my own approach to imaging metaphysical content and to situate it within the context of contemporary thought.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Improving job performance by using non-monetary reward systems to motivate low-skilled workers in the automotive component industry
- Authors: Taljaard, Jacob Johannes
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Employee motivation -- South Africa , Performance awards
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10910 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/131 , Employee motivation -- South Africa , Performance awards
- Description: Automotive component manufacturing companies where the labour is low skilled and the processes are labour intensive, are being challenged on a more regular basis to find methods to satisfy needs to motivate employees to improve performance. Automotive companies are becoming more under pressure to motivate employees through non-monetary rewards, due to collective bargaining which has made pay for performance very inflexible. It is because of this fact that employers have to assess non-monetary reward methods to motivate employees to improve performance. To be motivators, rewards must be aligned with the needs of people and the things that they value. If these rewards are aligned with employees needs, this could lead to increase in employee motivation, which will in turn lead to improvement in performance, and therefore lead to companies becoming more competitive. This research paper aims to assess what would be the motivators when establishing a non-monetary reward system. To this end the various motivational theories are presented which clearly identifies what needs people have and how they can be satisfied to change behaviour and therefore improve performance. Secondly, reward systems are discussed with various types of rewards being considered and more specifically non-monetary rewards. Applied research was undertaken to determine non-monetary rewards that will motivate low-skilled employees to improve performance. A survey, with the aid of a structured questionnaire, was used to gain information from 60 employees. The research was conducted in three companies that manufacture components for the auto industry. The majority of the respondents indicated that: 1. basic needs must be satisfied with monetary rewards; 2. non-monetary rewards, if linked to higher hierarchical needs, will then motivate employees; 3. non-monetary rewards should preferably be of a physical nature such as certificates, caps and t-shirts; 4. satisfaction of these higher level needs motivate employees and improve their performance; 5. employees prefer feedback and recognition as a non-monetary reward on a regular basis, and 6. the needs of employees should be identified through a survey to establish which rewards will satisfy these needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Taljaard, Jacob Johannes
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Employee motivation -- South Africa , Performance awards
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10910 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/131 , Employee motivation -- South Africa , Performance awards
- Description: Automotive component manufacturing companies where the labour is low skilled and the processes are labour intensive, are being challenged on a more regular basis to find methods to satisfy needs to motivate employees to improve performance. Automotive companies are becoming more under pressure to motivate employees through non-monetary rewards, due to collective bargaining which has made pay for performance very inflexible. It is because of this fact that employers have to assess non-monetary reward methods to motivate employees to improve performance. To be motivators, rewards must be aligned with the needs of people and the things that they value. If these rewards are aligned with employees needs, this could lead to increase in employee motivation, which will in turn lead to improvement in performance, and therefore lead to companies becoming more competitive. This research paper aims to assess what would be the motivators when establishing a non-monetary reward system. To this end the various motivational theories are presented which clearly identifies what needs people have and how they can be satisfied to change behaviour and therefore improve performance. Secondly, reward systems are discussed with various types of rewards being considered and more specifically non-monetary rewards. Applied research was undertaken to determine non-monetary rewards that will motivate low-skilled employees to improve performance. A survey, with the aid of a structured questionnaire, was used to gain information from 60 employees. The research was conducted in three companies that manufacture components for the auto industry. The majority of the respondents indicated that: 1. basic needs must be satisfied with monetary rewards; 2. non-monetary rewards, if linked to higher hierarchical needs, will then motivate employees; 3. non-monetary rewards should preferably be of a physical nature such as certificates, caps and t-shirts; 4. satisfaction of these higher level needs motivate employees and improve their performance; 5. employees prefer feedback and recognition as a non-monetary reward on a regular basis, and 6. the needs of employees should be identified through a survey to establish which rewards will satisfy these needs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Intelligent gripper design and application for automated part recognition and gripping
- Authors: Wang, Jianqiang
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Automatic control , Robots, Industrial , Robotics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech (Engineering)
- Identifier: vital:10816 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/102 , Automatic control , Robots, Industrial , Robotics
- Description: Intelligent gripping may be achieved through gripper design, automated part recognition, intelligent algorithm for control of the gripper, and on-line decision-making based on sensory data. A generic framework which integrates sensory data, part recognition, decision-making and gripper control to achieve intelligent gripping based on ABB industrial robot is constructed. The three-fingered gripper actuated by a linear servo actuator designed and developed in this project for precise speed and position control is capable of handling a large variety of objects. Generic algorithms for intelligent part recognition are developed. Edge vector representation is discussed. Object geometric features are extracted. Fuzzy logic is successfully utilized to enhance the intelligence of the system. The generic fuzzy logic algorithm, which may also find application in other fields, is presented. Model-based gripping planning algorithm which is capable of extracting object grasp features from its geometric features and reasoning out grasp model for objects with different geometry is proposed. Manipulator trajectory planning solves the problem of generating robot programs automatically. Object-oriented programming technique based on Visual C++ MFC is used to constitute the system software so as to ensure the compatibility, expandability and modular programming design. Hierarchical architecture for intelligent gripping is discussed, which partitions the robot’s functionalities into high-level (modeling, recognizing, planning and perception) layers, and low-level (sensing, interfacing and execute) layers. Individual system modules are integrated seamlessly to constitute the intelligent gripping system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Wang, Jianqiang
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Automatic control , Robots, Industrial , Robotics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech (Engineering)
- Identifier: vital:10816 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/102 , Automatic control , Robots, Industrial , Robotics
- Description: Intelligent gripping may be achieved through gripper design, automated part recognition, intelligent algorithm for control of the gripper, and on-line decision-making based on sensory data. A generic framework which integrates sensory data, part recognition, decision-making and gripper control to achieve intelligent gripping based on ABB industrial robot is constructed. The three-fingered gripper actuated by a linear servo actuator designed and developed in this project for precise speed and position control is capable of handling a large variety of objects. Generic algorithms for intelligent part recognition are developed. Edge vector representation is discussed. Object geometric features are extracted. Fuzzy logic is successfully utilized to enhance the intelligence of the system. The generic fuzzy logic algorithm, which may also find application in other fields, is presented. Model-based gripping planning algorithm which is capable of extracting object grasp features from its geometric features and reasoning out grasp model for objects with different geometry is proposed. Manipulator trajectory planning solves the problem of generating robot programs automatically. Object-oriented programming technique based on Visual C++ MFC is used to constitute the system software so as to ensure the compatibility, expandability and modular programming design. Hierarchical architecture for intelligent gripping is discussed, which partitions the robot’s functionalities into high-level (modeling, recognizing, planning and perception) layers, and low-level (sensing, interfacing and execute) layers. Individual system modules are integrated seamlessly to constitute the intelligent gripping system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Modelling the broiler performance under small-scales and semi commercial management condition
- Authors: Prince, Siliga Hulisani
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Agricultural Management)
- Identifier: vital:10963 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/110 , Broilers (Chickens)
- Description: Introduction : World poultry meat consumption consists of three major segments: broilers, turkeys, and other poultry which includes spent egg layers, spent breeder hens/males, ducks, geese, guinea-fowl, pheasants, quail, ratites, ostriches and emus. Broilers clearly dominate the world poultry consumption contributing about 70 percent to the world poultry market. Turkeys account for about eight percent while other poultry provides the balance of 22 percent (Roenick, 1998). The world broiler industry has been, and continues to be a very dynamic industry. It has been typified with unprecedented growth in terms of production. In 1961, the world produced 6.5 billion broilers. By 1990, the total annual production was a little over 27 billion broilers and by 1996, total world production had grown to 35.3 billion (Van der Sluis., 1999). This represents a fivefold increase in 35 years, and it has not stopped growing since, with world production surpassed 38 billion in 1998 (Van der Sluis., 1999). In Africa the human population was estimated to be 819.9 million, while the total poultry population of the continent was estimated as 1.133 million chickens, 15 million ducks and seven million turkeys in 1998. Production scale being 1.781701 metric tones (MT) of hen eggs, 2.269000 MT of chickens’ meat, 32.824MT of turkey meat and 52.989MT of duck meat (Gueye, 2000). Commercial poultry products are also imported and exported. For example, 12.000 metric tons of poultry meat was estimated to have been exported from South Africa in 1999, whereas 87.000 and 10.000 metric tons of poultry meat was imported into South Africa and Egypt, respectively (Gueye, 2000). In South Africa poultry production is moving toward the 21st century with the potential for increased development being greater than any other sector of the agricultural industry. The small-scale to medium-scale or semi-commercial farmer is becoming a role-player that needs to be serviced by the poultry industry (Fourie, 2000). The industry will have to take up the challenges that are facing an entrepreneur starting with a poultry venture. The poultry industry has developed from a humble beginning at the turn of the century into a multi-million Rand enterprise where protein is provided through the commercial and small marketing sector (Fourie, 2000). Some of the larger commercial companies market three million birds per week. It is estimated that the commercial company sector is responsible for 75 to 85 percent of production and marketing of white meat in this country whereas the small-scale and medium-scale or semi commercial poultry production enterprises provide 20 to 25 percent of the white meat through the sales of slaughtered and live poultry sale to rural, peri-urban and urban settlements (Fourie., 2000). Small-scale and semi-commercial broiler production is developed by entrepreneurs who buy day-old chicks from the big commercial hatcheries, rear them to the age of five to eight weeks and sell them through a marketing network or small outlets. The small-scale consist of farmers who reared 100 t0 1000 chickens per batch and semi-commercial consist of farmers who reared 1000 to 5000 chickens per batch. These types of farmers acquire very little technical backup in terms of a training and services center where assistance is available every day of the week. The broiler industry requires birds that are of commercial crosses selected for their ability to grow very fast and produce a good quality carcass in the shortest time frame. The small farmers purchase broiler stock, as the day-old chicks from commercial hatcheries and reared them up to six to eight weeks before slaughtered or sold as live chickens. The selling of live chickens through a network outlets system is becoming an industry that is growing at a steady pace, as household food security is becoming important to communities (Fourie, 2000). The price of feed is the single most expensive item on the list of expenses of a farmer because of their financial constraints. The small-scale and semicommercial broiler farmer is faced with the problem of buying small quantities of feed at an inflated price. The problem can be alleviated by groups of small farmers joining co-operative and buying feeds in bulk from suppliers and redistributing to small farmers. The community co-operative can once again play a major role in the distribution of small amounts of feed to its member. The biggest challenge is to provide training with a “hands on” approach. It will be ideal to have a training center where small farmers can be trained in all aspects of poultry production. The training facility will have to operate as a fully operational poultry unit with no risks to bio-security of a commercial enterprise. Training will have to be provided in aspects like hatchery, housing, broilers and record management depending on the farmer’s needs. There is also a need for the research on broiler performance under small-scale and semi commercial farming. Research in this sector of poultry production should look in appropriate feeds, feeding, technology, genotype and performance of genotypes under the system. Emphasis in this study will be on growth patterns and performance of the Ross hybrids as a modern broiler under small-scale and semi commercial management condition. Aspect of the environment such as age, type of feeds and feeding methods, housing, seasons, lighting and genotype will be taken into consideration. The result of the study will provide a realistic database for mathematical modeling of production response and guideline for management planning in small-scale and semi-commercial management condition. Also this result will be important to broiler breeders, to determine the suitability of the modern broiler to small-scale and semi commercial management conditions. The objective of the study was to evaluate the mathematical model that could describe the performance of broilers under the small-scale and semi-commercial management conditions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Prince, Siliga Hulisani
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Agricultural Management)
- Identifier: vital:10963 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/110 , Broilers (Chickens)
- Description: Introduction : World poultry meat consumption consists of three major segments: broilers, turkeys, and other poultry which includes spent egg layers, spent breeder hens/males, ducks, geese, guinea-fowl, pheasants, quail, ratites, ostriches and emus. Broilers clearly dominate the world poultry consumption contributing about 70 percent to the world poultry market. Turkeys account for about eight percent while other poultry provides the balance of 22 percent (Roenick, 1998). The world broiler industry has been, and continues to be a very dynamic industry. It has been typified with unprecedented growth in terms of production. In 1961, the world produced 6.5 billion broilers. By 1990, the total annual production was a little over 27 billion broilers and by 1996, total world production had grown to 35.3 billion (Van der Sluis., 1999). This represents a fivefold increase in 35 years, and it has not stopped growing since, with world production surpassed 38 billion in 1998 (Van der Sluis., 1999). In Africa the human population was estimated to be 819.9 million, while the total poultry population of the continent was estimated as 1.133 million chickens, 15 million ducks and seven million turkeys in 1998. Production scale being 1.781701 metric tones (MT) of hen eggs, 2.269000 MT of chickens’ meat, 32.824MT of turkey meat and 52.989MT of duck meat (Gueye, 2000). Commercial poultry products are also imported and exported. For example, 12.000 metric tons of poultry meat was estimated to have been exported from South Africa in 1999, whereas 87.000 and 10.000 metric tons of poultry meat was imported into South Africa and Egypt, respectively (Gueye, 2000). In South Africa poultry production is moving toward the 21st century with the potential for increased development being greater than any other sector of the agricultural industry. The small-scale to medium-scale or semi-commercial farmer is becoming a role-player that needs to be serviced by the poultry industry (Fourie, 2000). The industry will have to take up the challenges that are facing an entrepreneur starting with a poultry venture. The poultry industry has developed from a humble beginning at the turn of the century into a multi-million Rand enterprise where protein is provided through the commercial and small marketing sector (Fourie, 2000). Some of the larger commercial companies market three million birds per week. It is estimated that the commercial company sector is responsible for 75 to 85 percent of production and marketing of white meat in this country whereas the small-scale and medium-scale or semi commercial poultry production enterprises provide 20 to 25 percent of the white meat through the sales of slaughtered and live poultry sale to rural, peri-urban and urban settlements (Fourie., 2000). Small-scale and semi-commercial broiler production is developed by entrepreneurs who buy day-old chicks from the big commercial hatcheries, rear them to the age of five to eight weeks and sell them through a marketing network or small outlets. The small-scale consist of farmers who reared 100 t0 1000 chickens per batch and semi-commercial consist of farmers who reared 1000 to 5000 chickens per batch. These types of farmers acquire very little technical backup in terms of a training and services center where assistance is available every day of the week. The broiler industry requires birds that are of commercial crosses selected for their ability to grow very fast and produce a good quality carcass in the shortest time frame. The small farmers purchase broiler stock, as the day-old chicks from commercial hatcheries and reared them up to six to eight weeks before slaughtered or sold as live chickens. The selling of live chickens through a network outlets system is becoming an industry that is growing at a steady pace, as household food security is becoming important to communities (Fourie, 2000). The price of feed is the single most expensive item on the list of expenses of a farmer because of their financial constraints. The small-scale and semicommercial broiler farmer is faced with the problem of buying small quantities of feed at an inflated price. The problem can be alleviated by groups of small farmers joining co-operative and buying feeds in bulk from suppliers and redistributing to small farmers. The community co-operative can once again play a major role in the distribution of small amounts of feed to its member. The biggest challenge is to provide training with a “hands on” approach. It will be ideal to have a training center where small farmers can be trained in all aspects of poultry production. The training facility will have to operate as a fully operational poultry unit with no risks to bio-security of a commercial enterprise. Training will have to be provided in aspects like hatchery, housing, broilers and record management depending on the farmer’s needs. There is also a need for the research on broiler performance under small-scale and semi commercial farming. Research in this sector of poultry production should look in appropriate feeds, feeding, technology, genotype and performance of genotypes under the system. Emphasis in this study will be on growth patterns and performance of the Ross hybrids as a modern broiler under small-scale and semi commercial management condition. Aspect of the environment such as age, type of feeds and feeding methods, housing, seasons, lighting and genotype will be taken into consideration. The result of the study will provide a realistic database for mathematical modeling of production response and guideline for management planning in small-scale and semi-commercial management condition. Also this result will be important to broiler breeders, to determine the suitability of the modern broiler to small-scale and semi commercial management conditions. The objective of the study was to evaluate the mathematical model that could describe the performance of broilers under the small-scale and semi-commercial management conditions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Process for the preparation of vanillin from a mixed m-cresol/p-cresol stream
- Authors: Buddoo, Subash
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Vanillin
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:10968 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/138 , Vanillin
- Description: The Vanillin project was undertaken by AECI as it was believed that with the raw materials available from SASOL i.e. cresols, it would be possible to develop a process that would be globally competitive. A process for preparing both vanillin and ethyl vanillin was developed by AECI’s Research and Development Department using a mixed m- and p-cresol stream as feed. The displacement of bromide by methoxide is very successful when using a dimethyl formamide (DMF)/alcohol solvent system and excellent conversions (>95%) and selectivities (>95%) may be obtained. However, the use of DMF, which poses a serious chronic health risk, is unacceptable in this process since the products are intended for use as food and flavouring chemicals. In view of the above the main objectives of this study were: · To find a suitable alternative solvent system, which could produce comparable results while still being economically viable; · To develop an appropriate experimental protocol in the laboratory based on the alternative solvent system; · To determine the important reaction variables by conducting statistically designed experiments; · To optimise the reaction to produce a reproducible and robust experimental protocol; and · To test the reaction thoroughly at bench-scale level and to obtain experimental data for scale-up to pilot plant The most promising alternative solvent system was a methanol/methyl acetate mixture, which produced satisfactory results in the preliminary assessment (conversion of 98.3% and selectivity of 92.0%). DMA and acetonitrile also produced promising results but were not considered for further investigation because of toxicity and cost issues. A set of statistically designed experiments was carried out on the methanol/methyl acetate solvent system where four variables were tested i.e., substrate concentration, temperature, catalyst loading, and methanol to methyl acetate volume ratio. The experimentally determined response surface model showed that the most important variable was catalyst loading (63.2%) for conversion. With respect to selectivity, the most important variables were catalyst loading (31.9%) and methanol to methyl acetate ratio (33.1%). The optimum reaction conditions were as follows: · Temperature: 120°C · Methanol:methyl acetate: 15:1 vol/vol · Catalyst loading: 8 mol % to substrate · Substrate concentration: 22 %m/m on solvent · Catalyst: Copper(I) bromide · Sodium Equivalents: 2.7 wrt substrate · Time: 3 hours The optimum conditions were tested for reproducibility in a 1 Labmax pressure reactor. Replicated reactions, two at a 10% and two at a 20% substrate concentration gave conversions and selectivities all greater than 90%. Although the reaction mixture was a slurry at these concentrations, the reactions were very fast and virtually complete within the first hour (~95% conversion). Initial scale-up studies were conducted in an 8 Parr reactor where five reactions were carried out using the optimum conditions described above. The conversion of substrate and vanillin selectivity was consistently high and compared favourably to the Labmax reactions. The average conversion was 97.3% (96.3 to 98.5%) at an average selectivity of 98.2% (97.4 to 99.1%). A study of the reaction kinetics confirmed that the reaction was first order with respect to the substrate as a plot of substrate concentration versus reaction rate gave a straight line. The rate constant was calculated as 1.1096 k(h-1). The reaction mechanism proposed for the copper assisted nucleophilic aromatic substitution involves the formation of an adduct between sodium methoxide, methyl acetate and copper(I) bromide. The formation of a transient intermediate with the substrate allows intramolecular delivery of the methoxide ion to the aryl moiety through a CuI – CuIII type cycle.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Buddoo, Subash
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Vanillin
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:10968 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/138 , Vanillin
- Description: The Vanillin project was undertaken by AECI as it was believed that with the raw materials available from SASOL i.e. cresols, it would be possible to develop a process that would be globally competitive. A process for preparing both vanillin and ethyl vanillin was developed by AECI’s Research and Development Department using a mixed m- and p-cresol stream as feed. The displacement of bromide by methoxide is very successful when using a dimethyl formamide (DMF)/alcohol solvent system and excellent conversions (>95%) and selectivities (>95%) may be obtained. However, the use of DMF, which poses a serious chronic health risk, is unacceptable in this process since the products are intended for use as food and flavouring chemicals. In view of the above the main objectives of this study were: · To find a suitable alternative solvent system, which could produce comparable results while still being economically viable; · To develop an appropriate experimental protocol in the laboratory based on the alternative solvent system; · To determine the important reaction variables by conducting statistically designed experiments; · To optimise the reaction to produce a reproducible and robust experimental protocol; and · To test the reaction thoroughly at bench-scale level and to obtain experimental data for scale-up to pilot plant The most promising alternative solvent system was a methanol/methyl acetate mixture, which produced satisfactory results in the preliminary assessment (conversion of 98.3% and selectivity of 92.0%). DMA and acetonitrile also produced promising results but were not considered for further investigation because of toxicity and cost issues. A set of statistically designed experiments was carried out on the methanol/methyl acetate solvent system where four variables were tested i.e., substrate concentration, temperature, catalyst loading, and methanol to methyl acetate volume ratio. The experimentally determined response surface model showed that the most important variable was catalyst loading (63.2%) for conversion. With respect to selectivity, the most important variables were catalyst loading (31.9%) and methanol to methyl acetate ratio (33.1%). The optimum reaction conditions were as follows: · Temperature: 120°C · Methanol:methyl acetate: 15:1 vol/vol · Catalyst loading: 8 mol % to substrate · Substrate concentration: 22 %m/m on solvent · Catalyst: Copper(I) bromide · Sodium Equivalents: 2.7 wrt substrate · Time: 3 hours The optimum conditions were tested for reproducibility in a 1 Labmax pressure reactor. Replicated reactions, two at a 10% and two at a 20% substrate concentration gave conversions and selectivities all greater than 90%. Although the reaction mixture was a slurry at these concentrations, the reactions were very fast and virtually complete within the first hour (~95% conversion). Initial scale-up studies were conducted in an 8 Parr reactor where five reactions were carried out using the optimum conditions described above. The conversion of substrate and vanillin selectivity was consistently high and compared favourably to the Labmax reactions. The average conversion was 97.3% (96.3 to 98.5%) at an average selectivity of 98.2% (97.4 to 99.1%). A study of the reaction kinetics confirmed that the reaction was first order with respect to the substrate as a plot of substrate concentration versus reaction rate gave a straight line. The rate constant was calculated as 1.1096 k(h-1). The reaction mechanism proposed for the copper assisted nucleophilic aromatic substitution involves the formation of an adduct between sodium methoxide, methyl acetate and copper(I) bromide. The formation of a transient intermediate with the substrate allows intramolecular delivery of the methoxide ion to the aryl moiety through a CuI – CuIII type cycle.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Product development as part of a positioning strategy for the hunting industry in the Eastern Cape
- Van Niekerk, Pieter du Preez
- Authors: Van Niekerk, Pieter du Preez
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: New products -- Marketing , Hunting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Game farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Venison -- Marketing , Meat industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: vital:10894 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/111 , New products -- Marketing , Hunting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Game farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Venison -- Marketing , Meat industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In this study on product development and positioning in the hunting industry in the Eastern Cape, two conceptual frameworks were developed, based on a literature study. These positioning and product development concepts were tested against primary and secondary information gathered about the hunting industry. The game and hunting industries were in a strong growth phase at the time of this study. These industries are playing an increasingly important role in the economy of the Eastern Cape, and more and more agricultural land is utilised for game ranching. From the perspective of obtaining a competitive advantage in an increasingly competitive environment, it is therefore important for hunting providers to develop suitable products, and to position these products correctly. It is also important to investigate the characteristics of the game and hunting industries in the Eastern Cape and to get information about the characteristics of the market in which product development and positioning take place. Hunting is the most important form of game utilisation in the Eastern Cape, followed by cropping of game and live game sales. At the time of this study, the total value of the game utilised annually in the Eastern Cape was in excess of R168 million. Game utilisation seemed to be taking place on a sustainable basis, as the number of animals utilised annually was less than the annual production. Kudu and springbok provide the biggest total income, and, together with mountain reedbuck, are the most abundant species in the Eastern Cape. The main game-producing areas in the Eastern Cape coincide with the areas where extensive beef, sheep and goat farming are practised. The hunting products on offer from hunting providers, differ in certain ways. Aspects like price, type of hunting provided, game species available for hunting, terrain where hunting takes place, and various other aspects in connection with the hunt, differ from hunting provider to hunting provider. Characteristics of the hunting experience that hunters desire may be divided into core and variable elements. The core elements include: · the conditions pertaining to the hunt being spelt out clearly; · the maintenance of safety standards; · reasonable day fees; · the presence of game in sufficient numbers; and · other aspects generally desired by hunters. In the study it was found that the needs of hunters also differ regarding certain aspects of the hunting experience. These variable elements include price levels, type and availability of accommodation, and the role of the hunting provider. The core aspects that hunters desire are as a rule part of the product offering. From a product development perspective, the variable elements provide an opportunity to customise products to hunter needs. The inclusion or exclusion of variable elements from the product offering give rise to certain unique product features, and therefore provide the opportunity for product differentiation. After development, products are positioned firstly by selecting a market segment to focus on. Secondly, the needs of hunters in the target segment should be clearly identified, followed by the development of suitable products based on hunter needs, and taking into account the features of competitive offerings. Decisions should also be taken about the features to be included in the product offering to achieve product differentiation. After development of a suitable product, an image or brand should be chosen for the product, and this image should be effectively communicated to the market. A number of possible positioning options were identified for hunting providers. It was found that factors like the physical features of the ranch, available infrastructure, the market segment chosen, desires of the hunting providers, and the perception of the needs of hunters, eventually influence decisions about product development and positioning. The final decisions on positioning should take the core competencies of the hunting provider into account and should ensure that the hunting provider has the ability to fill the chosen position in the market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Van Niekerk, Pieter du Preez
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: New products -- Marketing , Hunting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Game farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Venison -- Marketing , Meat industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: vital:10894 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/111 , New products -- Marketing , Hunting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Game farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Venison -- Marketing , Meat industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In this study on product development and positioning in the hunting industry in the Eastern Cape, two conceptual frameworks were developed, based on a literature study. These positioning and product development concepts were tested against primary and secondary information gathered about the hunting industry. The game and hunting industries were in a strong growth phase at the time of this study. These industries are playing an increasingly important role in the economy of the Eastern Cape, and more and more agricultural land is utilised for game ranching. From the perspective of obtaining a competitive advantage in an increasingly competitive environment, it is therefore important for hunting providers to develop suitable products, and to position these products correctly. It is also important to investigate the characteristics of the game and hunting industries in the Eastern Cape and to get information about the characteristics of the market in which product development and positioning take place. Hunting is the most important form of game utilisation in the Eastern Cape, followed by cropping of game and live game sales. At the time of this study, the total value of the game utilised annually in the Eastern Cape was in excess of R168 million. Game utilisation seemed to be taking place on a sustainable basis, as the number of animals utilised annually was less than the annual production. Kudu and springbok provide the biggest total income, and, together with mountain reedbuck, are the most abundant species in the Eastern Cape. The main game-producing areas in the Eastern Cape coincide with the areas where extensive beef, sheep and goat farming are practised. The hunting products on offer from hunting providers, differ in certain ways. Aspects like price, type of hunting provided, game species available for hunting, terrain where hunting takes place, and various other aspects in connection with the hunt, differ from hunting provider to hunting provider. Characteristics of the hunting experience that hunters desire may be divided into core and variable elements. The core elements include: · the conditions pertaining to the hunt being spelt out clearly; · the maintenance of safety standards; · reasonable day fees; · the presence of game in sufficient numbers; and · other aspects generally desired by hunters. In the study it was found that the needs of hunters also differ regarding certain aspects of the hunting experience. These variable elements include price levels, type and availability of accommodation, and the role of the hunting provider. The core aspects that hunters desire are as a rule part of the product offering. From a product development perspective, the variable elements provide an opportunity to customise products to hunter needs. The inclusion or exclusion of variable elements from the product offering give rise to certain unique product features, and therefore provide the opportunity for product differentiation. After development, products are positioned firstly by selecting a market segment to focus on. Secondly, the needs of hunters in the target segment should be clearly identified, followed by the development of suitable products based on hunter needs, and taking into account the features of competitive offerings. Decisions should also be taken about the features to be included in the product offering to achieve product differentiation. After development of a suitable product, an image or brand should be chosen for the product, and this image should be effectively communicated to the market. A number of possible positioning options were identified for hunting providers. It was found that factors like the physical features of the ranch, available infrastructure, the market segment chosen, desires of the hunting providers, and the perception of the needs of hunters, eventually influence decisions about product development and positioning. The final decisions on positioning should take the core competencies of the hunting provider into account and should ensure that the hunting provider has the ability to fill the chosen position in the market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Reengineering the business processes in small, medium and micro enterprises (SMME'S) in order to improve profitability
- Authors: Figg, Malcolm John
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Reengineering (Management)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10850 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/112 , Reengineering (Management)
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study was to identify guidelines to improve business processes that will enhance the ability of Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMME’s) to be able to operate competitively in local and global markets. Reengineering of business processes (BPR) is necessary because of internal factors such as increasing global competition, increasing domestic competition, new technologies, industry overcapacity, shrinking markets and increasing pressure from suppliers. There are also various external factors that influence the necessity to reengineer business processes. These factors include increasing cost structure, declining profitability, declining sales, low productivity, inadequate employee skills and less efficiency in operations. In order to identify guidelines that will enhance SMME’s performance, questionnaires with relevant questions were used . The findings of the literature survey clearly highlights the specific areas where attention is required for improvements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Figg, Malcolm John
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Reengineering (Management)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10850 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/112 , Reengineering (Management)
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study was to identify guidelines to improve business processes that will enhance the ability of Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMME’s) to be able to operate competitively in local and global markets. Reengineering of business processes (BPR) is necessary because of internal factors such as increasing global competition, increasing domestic competition, new technologies, industry overcapacity, shrinking markets and increasing pressure from suppliers. There are also various external factors that influence the necessity to reengineer business processes. These factors include increasing cost structure, declining profitability, declining sales, low productivity, inadequate employee skills and less efficiency in operations. In order to identify guidelines that will enhance SMME’s performance, questionnaires with relevant questions were used . The findings of the literature survey clearly highlights the specific areas where attention is required for improvements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Relationship between temparament and linear body parameters of beef cattle under communal grazing system
- Authors: Nekhofhe, Avhasei Justice
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Cattle , Grazing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Agricultural Management)
- Identifier: vital:10965 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/113 , Cattle , Grazing
- Description: Introduction : Indigenous cattle are mostly reared where the traditional farming is practiced including Northern Region of South Africa. The majority of farmers own Nguni type of cattle although other breeds are found in the region. They perform well under harsh conditions and they seem to produce better under intensive management. However, communal farmers are becoming aware and interested in indigenous breeds especially Nguni cattle type because of their adaptability. Beef cattle production and research require constant movement and handling of livestock (Erf et al., 1992 & Grandin, 1993). Dipping, castration, branding, ear-tagging and counting is commonly practiced as beef cattle management norms hence dehorning are partly practiced as some of the animals had horns which were disturbing them to pass through crushpens and as a result they increased bruising to other animals. At Matatani and Muledzhi areas animals including calves are packed in the crushpens, counted, weighed and temperament traits were also measured on the scale and this is done in order to document the information for this research and future use. Temperament is a behavioural response of animals as handled by man. It is important to be measured in beef cattle farmers under communal grazing conditions as it reduces farmer’s profit and it makes the stock man’s work unpleasant. Therefore, it is also needs to be improved for the improvement of beef cattle schemes. Management system of communal farmers was not conducive to better quality meat due to horns in some animals which ultimately cause bruising in other animals. However, exotic bulls were bought at random for the improvement of other breed types found in these two areas. The focus of this study is almost in Nguni cattle type managed under communal grazing system. Lastly, the purpose of this study is to determine behavioral response of beef cattle under communal management system at their dipping tanks.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Nekhofhe, Avhasei Justice
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Cattle , Grazing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Agricultural Management)
- Identifier: vital:10965 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/113 , Cattle , Grazing
- Description: Introduction : Indigenous cattle are mostly reared where the traditional farming is practiced including Northern Region of South Africa. The majority of farmers own Nguni type of cattle although other breeds are found in the region. They perform well under harsh conditions and they seem to produce better under intensive management. However, communal farmers are becoming aware and interested in indigenous breeds especially Nguni cattle type because of their adaptability. Beef cattle production and research require constant movement and handling of livestock (Erf et al., 1992 & Grandin, 1993). Dipping, castration, branding, ear-tagging and counting is commonly practiced as beef cattle management norms hence dehorning are partly practiced as some of the animals had horns which were disturbing them to pass through crushpens and as a result they increased bruising to other animals. At Matatani and Muledzhi areas animals including calves are packed in the crushpens, counted, weighed and temperament traits were also measured on the scale and this is done in order to document the information for this research and future use. Temperament is a behavioural response of animals as handled by man. It is important to be measured in beef cattle farmers under communal grazing conditions as it reduces farmer’s profit and it makes the stock man’s work unpleasant. Therefore, it is also needs to be improved for the improvement of beef cattle schemes. Management system of communal farmers was not conducive to better quality meat due to horns in some animals which ultimately cause bruising in other animals. However, exotic bulls were bought at random for the improvement of other breed types found in these two areas. The focus of this study is almost in Nguni cattle type managed under communal grazing system. Lastly, the purpose of this study is to determine behavioral response of beef cattle under communal management system at their dipping tanks.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Selecting an appropriate process for the formulating of an operations strategy for Bridgestone/Firestone, Port Elizabeth plant, in a changed market environment
- Authors: Jeena, Umesh
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Tire industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management , Bridgestone/Firestone (Firm)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10945 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011325 , Tire industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management , Bridgestone/Firestone (Firm)
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study was aimed in assisting the management of Bridgestone/Firestone, Port Elizabeth plant, in selecting an appropriate process for the formulation of an operations strategy. The author embarked on a literature survey to gain understanding of the challenges that are occurring in the market environment. The theories and techniques around operational strategies were extensively researched in an effort to effectively and efficiently assist the management of Firestone in achieving a competitive advantage over rival competitors. Other areas of focus include the content, development, principles and concepts in developing an operations strategy. The author details the process of the formulation of an operations strategy as well as the discussion of four models/procedures deployed in organisations that would enhance strategy formulation. It is evident from the findings of the empirical study that a high percentage of the respondents “agree” that the strategy deployed within Bridgestone/Firestone, Port Elizabeth plant is appropriate, yet an alarmingly high percentage believe it to be “ineffective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Jeena, Umesh
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Tire industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management , Bridgestone/Firestone (Firm)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10945 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011325 , Tire industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management , Bridgestone/Firestone (Firm)
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study was aimed in assisting the management of Bridgestone/Firestone, Port Elizabeth plant, in selecting an appropriate process for the formulation of an operations strategy. The author embarked on a literature survey to gain understanding of the challenges that are occurring in the market environment. The theories and techniques around operational strategies were extensively researched in an effort to effectively and efficiently assist the management of Firestone in achieving a competitive advantage over rival competitors. Other areas of focus include the content, development, principles and concepts in developing an operations strategy. The author details the process of the formulation of an operations strategy as well as the discussion of four models/procedures deployed in organisations that would enhance strategy formulation. It is evident from the findings of the empirical study that a high percentage of the respondents “agree” that the strategy deployed within Bridgestone/Firestone, Port Elizabeth plant is appropriate, yet an alarmingly high percentage believe it to be “ineffective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
Sensorless speed estimation in three phase induction motors
- Authors: Govindsamy, Matthew
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Electric motors, induction , Electronic controllers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Electrical Engineering)
- Identifier: vital:10810 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/139 , Electric motors, induction , Electronic controllers
- Description: This thesis proposes a technique to determine and improve the performance of a sensorless speed estimator for an induction motor based on Motor Current Signature Analysis (MCSA). The theoretical concepts underlying the parameter based observer are developed first and then the model of the observer is built using Simulink. The observer is developed based on Model Reference Adaptive System (MRAS). The dynamic performance of the observer and its behavior due to variation of machine parameters is studied. The error in speed estimated using this observer is shown and the ability of MCSA to retune the rotor speed from the stator current spectrum. The spectrum estimation technique has been implemented using a software routine in Matlab. Both the observer and MCSA techniques were implemented practically on an induction motor. The performance of the combined sensorless speed estimation system was tested and verified.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Govindsamy, Matthew
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Electric motors, induction , Electronic controllers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Electrical Engineering)
- Identifier: vital:10810 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/139 , Electric motors, induction , Electronic controllers
- Description: This thesis proposes a technique to determine and improve the performance of a sensorless speed estimator for an induction motor based on Motor Current Signature Analysis (MCSA). The theoretical concepts underlying the parameter based observer are developed first and then the model of the observer is built using Simulink. The observer is developed based on Model Reference Adaptive System (MRAS). The dynamic performance of the observer and its behavior due to variation of machine parameters is studied. The error in speed estimated using this observer is shown and the ability of MCSA to retune the rotor speed from the stator current spectrum. The spectrum estimation technique has been implemented using a software routine in Matlab. Both the observer and MCSA techniques were implemented practically on an induction motor. The performance of the combined sensorless speed estimation system was tested and verified.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
The determination of a strategy for the implementation of learnerships in the catalytic converter canning industry in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Heather, Keith Buxmann
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Automobiles -- Catalytic converters , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Apprenticeship programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10851 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/117 , Automobiles -- Catalytic converters , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Apprenticeship programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The Eastern Cape Region, once had sufficient job seekers with automotive component manufacturing skills and experience. Indications are that this pool has been desiccated. The draining of skills out of the area is starting to affect growth potential and competitiveness in the industry in the area. In 1998, the Skills Development Act was passed to implement the National Skills Development Plan, and to encourage employers to train personnel. The strategy promotes a three faceted approach to encourage the development of skills; Workplace Skills Development Plans, Learnerships and Sector Specific Initiatives. This study will focus on the implementation of learnerships in the Catalytic Converter Canning Industry. The aim of this research is to verify the skills shortages; identify which skills are required by the Catalytic Converter Canning Industry in the Eastern Cape and propose a strategy of addressing these needs by means of learnerships. By studying the Legislation supporting the National Skills Development Plan, conducting a literature study, and interviewing knowledgeable people in the industry, the skills requirements of the industry were identified. Thereafter, a questionnaire was drawn up and completed together with representatives from Eberspächer South Africa, Faurecia Exhaust Systems South Africa, Precision Exhaust Systems and Tenneco Automotive South Africa, the active manufacturers of catalytic converters, for OEM’s worldwide, who are based in the Eastern Cape Region. The empirical study confirmed the findings of the research and skills deficiencies were identified. In conclusion, a strategy is proposed whereby the Catalytic Converter Canning Industry could address the skills shortage by the implementation and development of learnerships.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Heather, Keith Buxmann
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Automobiles -- Catalytic converters , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Apprenticeship programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10851 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/117 , Automobiles -- Catalytic converters , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Apprenticeship programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The Eastern Cape Region, once had sufficient job seekers with automotive component manufacturing skills and experience. Indications are that this pool has been desiccated. The draining of skills out of the area is starting to affect growth potential and competitiveness in the industry in the area. In 1998, the Skills Development Act was passed to implement the National Skills Development Plan, and to encourage employers to train personnel. The strategy promotes a three faceted approach to encourage the development of skills; Workplace Skills Development Plans, Learnerships and Sector Specific Initiatives. This study will focus on the implementation of learnerships in the Catalytic Converter Canning Industry. The aim of this research is to verify the skills shortages; identify which skills are required by the Catalytic Converter Canning Industry in the Eastern Cape and propose a strategy of addressing these needs by means of learnerships. By studying the Legislation supporting the National Skills Development Plan, conducting a literature study, and interviewing knowledgeable people in the industry, the skills requirements of the industry were identified. Thereafter, a questionnaire was drawn up and completed together with representatives from Eberspächer South Africa, Faurecia Exhaust Systems South Africa, Precision Exhaust Systems and Tenneco Automotive South Africa, the active manufacturers of catalytic converters, for OEM’s worldwide, who are based in the Eastern Cape Region. The empirical study confirmed the findings of the research and skills deficiencies were identified. In conclusion, a strategy is proposed whereby the Catalytic Converter Canning Industry could address the skills shortage by the implementation and development of learnerships.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
The determination of critical success factors that impact on the performance of SMEs in e-commerce
- Authors: Zeelie, Eben Johannes
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , Small business -- Management , New business enterprises -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10905 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/118 , Electronic commerce , Small business -- Management , New business enterprises -- Management
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study is the determination of the critical success factors for SMEs in e-commerce. To achieve the objective, an integrated list of critical success factors, gathered from practitioner- and academic literature, had to be identified. The integrated list was developed through the following sub-processes: · The first consisted of a literature survey of the sources and the identification of critical success factors, which lead to insights into the role of critical success factors in strategic management and the objectivity of the CSF identification process. The second comprised surveying the literature dealing specifically with the unique characteristics of SMEs, to identify factors that are critical to the survival and growth of SMEs. · The third consisted of a survey of the academic and practitioner literature dealing with critical success factors in e-commerce, in order to develop an integrated list of critical success factors for SMEs in ecommerce. The integrated list that emerged from the literature study consisted of the following seventeen critical success factors: 1. Target the right customers 2. Involve all stakeholders 3. Provide access to all customer information 4. User-friendly web design 5. Let customers help themselves 6. Offer online and offline assistance to customer enquiries 7. Deliver personalized service 8. Foster online community 9. Top management support 10. Technical infrastructure 11. Security and control of the e-commerce system 12. Promotion of site 13. Financial planning and control of project 14. Loyalty 15. Development of a business plan 16. Branding of the site 17. Shipping and fulfilment The integrated list was used as the basis for the compilation of a survey questionnaire to identify the eight most critical success factors for SMEs in ecommerce. The survey questionnaire was sent to SMEs that are members of the Port Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce and Industry, have a website and comply with the criteria for SMEs. The empirical study identified the eight most critical success factors for SMEs in e-commerce and indicated strong concurrence with the unique characteristics of SMEs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Zeelie, Eben Johannes
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , Small business -- Management , New business enterprises -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10905 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/118 , Electronic commerce , Small business -- Management , New business enterprises -- Management
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study is the determination of the critical success factors for SMEs in e-commerce. To achieve the objective, an integrated list of critical success factors, gathered from practitioner- and academic literature, had to be identified. The integrated list was developed through the following sub-processes: · The first consisted of a literature survey of the sources and the identification of critical success factors, which lead to insights into the role of critical success factors in strategic management and the objectivity of the CSF identification process. The second comprised surveying the literature dealing specifically with the unique characteristics of SMEs, to identify factors that are critical to the survival and growth of SMEs. · The third consisted of a survey of the academic and practitioner literature dealing with critical success factors in e-commerce, in order to develop an integrated list of critical success factors for SMEs in ecommerce. The integrated list that emerged from the literature study consisted of the following seventeen critical success factors: 1. Target the right customers 2. Involve all stakeholders 3. Provide access to all customer information 4. User-friendly web design 5. Let customers help themselves 6. Offer online and offline assistance to customer enquiries 7. Deliver personalized service 8. Foster online community 9. Top management support 10. Technical infrastructure 11. Security and control of the e-commerce system 12. Promotion of site 13. Financial planning and control of project 14. Loyalty 15. Development of a business plan 16. Branding of the site 17. Shipping and fulfilment The integrated list was used as the basis for the compilation of a survey questionnaire to identify the eight most critical success factors for SMEs in ecommerce. The survey questionnaire was sent to SMEs that are members of the Port Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce and Industry, have a website and comply with the criteria for SMEs. The empirical study identified the eight most critical success factors for SMEs in e-commerce and indicated strong concurrence with the unique characteristics of SMEs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
The development of a competency based model for training operators within the confectionery industry
- Authors: Van Heerden, Alan Joshua
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Employees, Training Of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Business Administration)
- Identifier: vital:10914 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/83 , Employees, Training Of
- Description: Most South African manufacturing companies provide some sort of training for its shop floor employees to help them improve productivity and reduce wastage. Unfortunately, training presented on-the-job to operators is more often than not implemented in an unstructured and unplanned manner, usually when a crisis occurs and fires need to be put out quickly. The introduction of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) demands that training practitioners structure their training efforts and ensure that all training leads to national qualifications. This study is aimed at making a contribution towards the NQF and in particular, the development of shop floor employees. Firstly, a model for operator training was developed from a survey of the relevant literature. This phase of the study identified the components of the model and their respective guidelines. Secondly, the model was e.mailed to managers working in confectionery companies requesting their opinion on the guidelines of the model. Lastly, the feedback received from the empirical study was evaluated, conclusions were drawn and recommendations made, based on the information obtained from both the literature study and empirical study. The results from the empirical study indicated strong concurrence with the theoretical model on operator training. In contrast to theory that the use of rewards after training results in improved productivity, the majority of respondents disagreed with the implementation of a reward What are the long term benefits to an organization with a productivity reward system in place? · What kind of reward system would work best in the confectionery industry? · How would management implement an effective performancerelated reward system at shop floor level?
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
The development of a competency based model for training operators within the confectionery industry
- Authors: Van Heerden, Alan Joshua
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Employees, Training Of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Business Administration)
- Identifier: vital:10914 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/83 , Employees, Training Of
- Description: Most South African manufacturing companies provide some sort of training for its shop floor employees to help them improve productivity and reduce wastage. Unfortunately, training presented on-the-job to operators is more often than not implemented in an unstructured and unplanned manner, usually when a crisis occurs and fires need to be put out quickly. The introduction of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) demands that training practitioners structure their training efforts and ensure that all training leads to national qualifications. This study is aimed at making a contribution towards the NQF and in particular, the development of shop floor employees. Firstly, a model for operator training was developed from a survey of the relevant literature. This phase of the study identified the components of the model and their respective guidelines. Secondly, the model was e.mailed to managers working in confectionery companies requesting their opinion on the guidelines of the model. Lastly, the feedback received from the empirical study was evaluated, conclusions were drawn and recommendations made, based on the information obtained from both the literature study and empirical study. The results from the empirical study indicated strong concurrence with the theoretical model on operator training. In contrast to theory that the use of rewards after training results in improved productivity, the majority of respondents disagreed with the implementation of a reward What are the long term benefits to an organization with a productivity reward system in place? · What kind of reward system would work best in the confectionery industry? · How would management implement an effective performancerelated reward system at shop floor level?
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
The development of a financial plan to partly cover the cost of frail care in a retirement village in George
- Authors: Brink, F J
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Older people -- Care -- South Africa , Frail elderly -- Medical care -- South Africa -- George , Frail elderly -- Care -- South Africa -- George
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10919 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/84 , Older people -- Care -- South Africa , Frail elderly -- Medical care -- South Africa -- George , Frail elderly -- Care -- South Africa -- George
- Description: The world population is ageing, and this is also relevant to South Africa. At the same time the potential support ratio (the number of persons aged 15 to 64 years per one older person aged 65 years or older) is falling, and the dependency burden on potential workers increases. To alleviate the financial burden on the aged, and their families, it has become necessary to develop a financial plan to cover the cost of frail care. The overall purpose of this research is to determine whether any financial plans exist which are relevant. If nothing existed, a plan had to be developed. The research methodology for this study comprised the following steps: Firstly, the demographics of the world and South Africa were researched. The concept of frail (long-term) care in the United States of America and New Zealand was investigated to determine what is available. The subsidisation concept of the South African Government towards caring for the elderly was also investigated. Secondly, a questionnaire was sent to the residents of five retirement complexes in George to determine their interest in such a plan. The records of the frail care unit that these residents utilise were analysed to determine the number of residents needing frail care. A comparative study of the cost of frail care in the Southern Cape was undertaken. Thirdly, two options to partly subsidise the cost of frail care were examined, where the first option covers the running cost, and the second option, subsidising one third of the frail care cost, builds up a sustainable fund after the first five year period. The funds of the second option can then be utilised in the subsequent years to increase the subsidisation portion of frail care cost. The final step of this study entailed the formulation of recommendations to implement the frail care nursing levy as soon as possible, with special attention given to the following: a) It must be compulsory for new residents to join the fund. b) A yearly capital amount of R100 000 or more is needed to sustain the fund. c) A contract must be drafted to set out all the rules and regulations to the residents. d) An attitude change amongst some residents is required. Individuals must realise that the success of this plan depends upon themselves and with the necessary support could make a significant contribution towards their own peace of mind if and when frail care is needed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Brink, F J
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Older people -- Care -- South Africa , Frail elderly -- Medical care -- South Africa -- George , Frail elderly -- Care -- South Africa -- George
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10919 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/84 , Older people -- Care -- South Africa , Frail elderly -- Medical care -- South Africa -- George , Frail elderly -- Care -- South Africa -- George
- Description: The world population is ageing, and this is also relevant to South Africa. At the same time the potential support ratio (the number of persons aged 15 to 64 years per one older person aged 65 years or older) is falling, and the dependency burden on potential workers increases. To alleviate the financial burden on the aged, and their families, it has become necessary to develop a financial plan to cover the cost of frail care. The overall purpose of this research is to determine whether any financial plans exist which are relevant. If nothing existed, a plan had to be developed. The research methodology for this study comprised the following steps: Firstly, the demographics of the world and South Africa were researched. The concept of frail (long-term) care in the United States of America and New Zealand was investigated to determine what is available. The subsidisation concept of the South African Government towards caring for the elderly was also investigated. Secondly, a questionnaire was sent to the residents of five retirement complexes in George to determine their interest in such a plan. The records of the frail care unit that these residents utilise were analysed to determine the number of residents needing frail care. A comparative study of the cost of frail care in the Southern Cape was undertaken. Thirdly, two options to partly subsidise the cost of frail care were examined, where the first option covers the running cost, and the second option, subsidising one third of the frail care cost, builds up a sustainable fund after the first five year period. The funds of the second option can then be utilised in the subsequent years to increase the subsidisation portion of frail care cost. The final step of this study entailed the formulation of recommendations to implement the frail care nursing levy as soon as possible, with special attention given to the following: a) It must be compulsory for new residents to join the fund. b) A yearly capital amount of R100 000 or more is needed to sustain the fund. c) A contract must be drafted to set out all the rules and regulations to the residents. d) An attitude change amongst some residents is required. Individuals must realise that the success of this plan depends upon themselves and with the necessary support could make a significant contribution towards their own peace of mind if and when frail care is needed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
The development of a marketing plan for an emergency medical service
- Authors: Barley, Kim Wayne
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Market -- Planning , Emergency medical services , Health facilities -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10853 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/120 , Market -- Planning , Emergency medical services , Health facilities -- South Africa
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study was to develop a comprehensive marketing plan that would help an emergency medical service (EMS) in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality (NMMM), capture a significant market share and gain a competitive advantage over competitors. To achieve this object, a literature study to determine the key components of a marketing plan was undertaken and used as a theoretical model in developing an actual marketing plan. In addition to the literature study, an empirical study was conducted to identify the key issues critical to the development of a marketing plan for the EMS. The survey method used, based on the key components gained from the literature study, consisted of an in-depth scan of the macro-environment and thorough market investigation of the target industry. The investigation involved the general management and senior personnel from the local emergency medical industry, medical aid schemes and private hospitals and clinics delimited in the study. The results of the above literature study were finally combined with the results of the empirical study and a marketing plan for an emergency medical service was developed. This study concludes with recommendations applicable for the implementation of the actual marketing plan.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Barley, Kim Wayne
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Market -- Planning , Emergency medical services , Health facilities -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10853 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/120 , Market -- Planning , Emergency medical services , Health facilities -- South Africa
- Description: The research problem addressed in this study was to develop a comprehensive marketing plan that would help an emergency medical service (EMS) in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality (NMMM), capture a significant market share and gain a competitive advantage over competitors. To achieve this object, a literature study to determine the key components of a marketing plan was undertaken and used as a theoretical model in developing an actual marketing plan. In addition to the literature study, an empirical study was conducted to identify the key issues critical to the development of a marketing plan for the EMS. The survey method used, based on the key components gained from the literature study, consisted of an in-depth scan of the macro-environment and thorough market investigation of the target industry. The investigation involved the general management and senior personnel from the local emergency medical industry, medical aid schemes and private hospitals and clinics delimited in the study. The results of the above literature study were finally combined with the results of the empirical study and a marketing plan for an emergency medical service was developed. This study concludes with recommendations applicable for the implementation of the actual marketing plan.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
The development of a model for the assessment of the subject entrepreneurship and business management at the N4 level using an outcomes based education approach
- Authors: Olivier, Marina
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Curriculum-based assessment -- South Africa , Competency-based education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10781 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/86 , Curriculum-based assessment -- South Africa , Competency-based education
- Description: The focus of this study is on assessment in an Outcomes Based Education environment. The question arises as to how assessment of Entrepreneurship and Business Management-N4 can be changed to suit an Outcomes Based Education approach. Action research was used as the research methodology and the findings were reported as case studies. A sample of three colleges in the Eastern Cape was chosen to take part in the study. Only two modules of the Entrepreneurship and Business Management-N4 syllabus were adapted to suit an Outcomes Based Education approach, as the students still had to write the normal external examination at the end of the semester as required by the Department of Education. In the first two cycles the participants implemented Outcomes Based Education in the classroom using only the resources available at the college for the old education system. During the third cycle the researcher implemented Outcomes Based Education in the classroom under the same circumstances, but with the advantage that the researcher benefited from the reflections of the first two cycles. In order for assessment to meet the requirements of an Outcomes Based Education approach, it was necessary to change teaching practices as well. Important aspects such as group work, new assessment methods, the role of resource materials and the training of lecturers were included in the study. At the end of the third cycle a model for the assessment of Entrepreneurship and Business Management-N4 was developed. Recommendations on aspects such as students, lecturers, resources and assessment were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002
- Authors: Olivier, Marina
- Date: 2002
- Subjects: Curriculum-based assessment -- South Africa , Competency-based education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:10781 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/86 , Curriculum-based assessment -- South Africa , Competency-based education
- Description: The focus of this study is on assessment in an Outcomes Based Education environment. The question arises as to how assessment of Entrepreneurship and Business Management-N4 can be changed to suit an Outcomes Based Education approach. Action research was used as the research methodology and the findings were reported as case studies. A sample of three colleges in the Eastern Cape was chosen to take part in the study. Only two modules of the Entrepreneurship and Business Management-N4 syllabus were adapted to suit an Outcomes Based Education approach, as the students still had to write the normal external examination at the end of the semester as required by the Department of Education. In the first two cycles the participants implemented Outcomes Based Education in the classroom using only the resources available at the college for the old education system. During the third cycle the researcher implemented Outcomes Based Education in the classroom under the same circumstances, but with the advantage that the researcher benefited from the reflections of the first two cycles. In order for assessment to meet the requirements of an Outcomes Based Education approach, it was necessary to change teaching practices as well. Important aspects such as group work, new assessment methods, the role of resource materials and the training of lecturers were included in the study. At the end of the third cycle a model for the assessment of Entrepreneurship and Business Management-N4 was developed. Recommendations on aspects such as students, lecturers, resources and assessment were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2002