Employee happiness in general motors
- Authors: Cooper, Julian
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa , Corporate culture -- South Africa , Happiness -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4365 , vital:20590
- Description: Happiness is essentially the degree to which you find and judge your existence as favourable, in addition to an enduring, psychological feeling of contentment. In the hedonic view, happiness is pleasant feelings and favourable judgements, while the contrasting eudaimonic view describes it as doing what is morally right, what is righteous, that will enhance growth and that is meaningful to an individual. Both these views contribute to the overall happiness of an individual. People that are pleased with their lives usually experience greater satisfaction in their jobs. This is in line with the literature as happiness is positively correlated with job satisfaction, which suggests that a happy employee will most likely result in one that is satisfied with his/her job. In addition, happiness is correlated with evidence of success in the workplace and can increase an employee’s effectiveness at work. It is, therefore, essential that organisations identify the factors which influence employee happiness in order to enhance its cultural value-offering for employees and, in turn, increase their levels of job satisfaction. Job satisfaction is essentially the degree to which a person enjoys his/her job. It is the positive emotional state resulting from the evaluation of one’s work experience. This has profitable outcomes such as improved work performance. Furthermore, people who experience satisfaction in their jobs are better ambassadors for their organisation, demonstrate greater commitment, are more engaged and perform better within the organisation than their unhappy peers. Job satisfaction can be deemed an attitude. It is therefore important to understand the dimensions of the job, which are complex and interrelated in nature, in order to understand job attitudes. Organisational culture has been shown to influence the attitude and behaviour of employees through shared values and beliefs in the organisation. It is for this reason that there is a significant need to determine the factors in organisational culture that influence employee happiness and, in turn, job satisfaction. An organisation’s employees, through their participation and commitment, can be regarded as the most important source of success for the organisation. Organisational culture can therefore, greatly influence the efficiency and effectiveness of an organisation through its employees. Moreover, the culture of an organisation has a significant influence on the commitment and satisfaction of its employees. It inspires employees not only to feel committed to the organisation but also to perform well. The correlation between organisational culture and job satisfaction have been examined by various authors in the literature. All of these authors found a positive relationship between the two concepts. These conclusions show that the culture of an organisation can actually influence an employee’s job satisfaction and therefore his/her happiness. This research investigates the cultural value-offering of General Motors South Africa (GMSA) and its alignment to the needs of its employees. Until the end of 2012, an employee needs-analysis regarding employee happiness and his/her job satisfaction, was non-existent in the organisation. Towards the end of 2012 the organisation introduced a “Workplace of Choice” survey to perform an employee needs-analysis in order to investigate if there was a difference between employee needs and the organisation’s cultural value-offering. Another “Workplace of Choice” survey followed in 2014. This, however, was performed with the staff employees only and not with the hourly employees. Many organisations neglect to analyse the workplace needs of their employees to ensure that the organisation fully understands and is able to satisfy or accommodate these needs. Understanding employee needs is crucial to an organisation’s success. It is therefore important that the organisation investigates the employee needs to be able to align them with the cultural value-offering of the organisation. The purpose of this study is to advance the current understanding of Employee Happiness in the workplace by conducting a systematic analysis of the factors in Organisational Culture that influence Employee Happiness and, in turn, their Job Satisfaction in GMSA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Cooper, Julian
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa , Corporate culture -- South Africa , Happiness -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4365 , vital:20590
- Description: Happiness is essentially the degree to which you find and judge your existence as favourable, in addition to an enduring, psychological feeling of contentment. In the hedonic view, happiness is pleasant feelings and favourable judgements, while the contrasting eudaimonic view describes it as doing what is morally right, what is righteous, that will enhance growth and that is meaningful to an individual. Both these views contribute to the overall happiness of an individual. People that are pleased with their lives usually experience greater satisfaction in their jobs. This is in line with the literature as happiness is positively correlated with job satisfaction, which suggests that a happy employee will most likely result in one that is satisfied with his/her job. In addition, happiness is correlated with evidence of success in the workplace and can increase an employee’s effectiveness at work. It is, therefore, essential that organisations identify the factors which influence employee happiness in order to enhance its cultural value-offering for employees and, in turn, increase their levels of job satisfaction. Job satisfaction is essentially the degree to which a person enjoys his/her job. It is the positive emotional state resulting from the evaluation of one’s work experience. This has profitable outcomes such as improved work performance. Furthermore, people who experience satisfaction in their jobs are better ambassadors for their organisation, demonstrate greater commitment, are more engaged and perform better within the organisation than their unhappy peers. Job satisfaction can be deemed an attitude. It is therefore important to understand the dimensions of the job, which are complex and interrelated in nature, in order to understand job attitudes. Organisational culture has been shown to influence the attitude and behaviour of employees through shared values and beliefs in the organisation. It is for this reason that there is a significant need to determine the factors in organisational culture that influence employee happiness and, in turn, job satisfaction. An organisation’s employees, through their participation and commitment, can be regarded as the most important source of success for the organisation. Organisational culture can therefore, greatly influence the efficiency and effectiveness of an organisation through its employees. Moreover, the culture of an organisation has a significant influence on the commitment and satisfaction of its employees. It inspires employees not only to feel committed to the organisation but also to perform well. The correlation between organisational culture and job satisfaction have been examined by various authors in the literature. All of these authors found a positive relationship between the two concepts. These conclusions show that the culture of an organisation can actually influence an employee’s job satisfaction and therefore his/her happiness. This research investigates the cultural value-offering of General Motors South Africa (GMSA) and its alignment to the needs of its employees. Until the end of 2012, an employee needs-analysis regarding employee happiness and his/her job satisfaction, was non-existent in the organisation. Towards the end of 2012 the organisation introduced a “Workplace of Choice” survey to perform an employee needs-analysis in order to investigate if there was a difference between employee needs and the organisation’s cultural value-offering. Another “Workplace of Choice” survey followed in 2014. This, however, was performed with the staff employees only and not with the hourly employees. Many organisations neglect to analyse the workplace needs of their employees to ensure that the organisation fully understands and is able to satisfy or accommodate these needs. Understanding employee needs is crucial to an organisation’s success. It is therefore important that the organisation investigates the employee needs to be able to align them with the cultural value-offering of the organisation. The purpose of this study is to advance the current understanding of Employee Happiness in the workplace by conducting a systematic analysis of the factors in Organisational Culture that influence Employee Happiness and, in turn, their Job Satisfaction in GMSA.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Enablers and barriers to involvement in commercialisation
- Authors: Chetty, Mary-Ann T
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Commercialism , Entrepreneurship , Technology transfer
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4720 , vital:20657
- Description: Universities are facing growing pressure to contribute towards innovation which has social impact and which contributes to economic development. Researchers mainly in the Science and Engineering fields are the primary sources of innovation outputs from universities and as such their involvement in commercialisation activities directly adds to the growth of innovative outputs from publicly financed research. Technology Transfer Offices (TTO) have been established at universities across South Africa to foster the involvement of researchers in commercialisation activities, to champion the innovation conversation within higher education institutions and to progress innovations from concept to application in society. This study focussed on understanding the factors which enable or create a barrier to the involvement of researchers in commercialisation activities at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. The key elements examined in this study include the researchers’ perception of enablers (monetary and nonmonetary incentives) and barriers to involvement at national, institutional and individual levels. This study undertook to understand the perceptions of researchers of enablers and barriers to involvement in commercialisation at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. Researchers in the two faculties of Science and Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology were approached to anonymously complete an electronic survey, the questions for which were developed from literature. The results from the survey were analysed using descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing. This study finds that a combination of incentives is necessary to enable researcher involvement and to lower barriers to involvement in commercialisation research. A set of recommendations based on the study are put forward on how such recommendations can be implemented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Chetty, Mary-Ann T
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Commercialism , Entrepreneurship , Technology transfer
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4720 , vital:20657
- Description: Universities are facing growing pressure to contribute towards innovation which has social impact and which contributes to economic development. Researchers mainly in the Science and Engineering fields are the primary sources of innovation outputs from universities and as such their involvement in commercialisation activities directly adds to the growth of innovative outputs from publicly financed research. Technology Transfer Offices (TTO) have been established at universities across South Africa to foster the involvement of researchers in commercialisation activities, to champion the innovation conversation within higher education institutions and to progress innovations from concept to application in society. This study focussed on understanding the factors which enable or create a barrier to the involvement of researchers in commercialisation activities at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. The key elements examined in this study include the researchers’ perception of enablers (monetary and nonmonetary incentives) and barriers to involvement at national, institutional and individual levels. This study undertook to understand the perceptions of researchers of enablers and barriers to involvement in commercialisation at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. Researchers in the two faculties of Science and Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology were approached to anonymously complete an electronic survey, the questions for which were developed from literature. The results from the survey were analysed using descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing. This study finds that a combination of incentives is necessary to enable researcher involvement and to lower barriers to involvement in commercialisation research. A set of recommendations based on the study are put forward on how such recommendations can be implemented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Entrepreneurial mindset and entrepreneurial education as tools for sustainable SMES
- Authors: Mbanga, Nelisa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- South Africa Small business -- South Africa New business enterprises -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11277 , vital:26905
- Description: Small and Medium Enterprises are the engines of economic development. In developing countries, they play an irreplaceable role in poverty alleviation through creation of jobs and contribution towards the countries’ gross domestic products. South Africa is faced with a challenge of high failure rate of SMEs despite the efforts by government to support and grow this sector. For a country to have a strong sustainable economy, sustainable and successful SME sector is necessary. Literature reviews have demonstrated that incorporating sustainability aspect into entrepreneurship improves the performance of businesses. Research on implementation of sustainability principles by SMEs is limited and SMEs have been left out in sustainability teachings and monitoring. The purpose of the study was to analyse the role played by entrepreneurial mind-set and entrepreneurial education on sustainability of SMEs. The research was conducted amongst 10 SME owners/managers with businesses located in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Case study method using a semi-structured interview guide was conducted. Results were transcribed, analysed and interpreted. Results of the research demonstrated that SME owners/managers possess entrepreneurial mind-set, which is a necessity to run a successful business. There was also evidence that entrepreneurial education enhances entrepreneurial mind-set of SME owners/managers. SMEs owners/managers also demonstrated that they implement sustainability principles informally with no guiding documents. With regards to implementation of sustainability principles, there was no noticeable difference between SME owners/managers who had undergone entrepreneurship education and the ones who had not gone through entrepreneurship education. This highlighted the need to incorporate sustainability issues in entrepreneurship education courses. The study brings contribution towards building sustainable SMEs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mbanga, Nelisa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- South Africa Small business -- South Africa New business enterprises -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11277 , vital:26905
- Description: Small and Medium Enterprises are the engines of economic development. In developing countries, they play an irreplaceable role in poverty alleviation through creation of jobs and contribution towards the countries’ gross domestic products. South Africa is faced with a challenge of high failure rate of SMEs despite the efforts by government to support and grow this sector. For a country to have a strong sustainable economy, sustainable and successful SME sector is necessary. Literature reviews have demonstrated that incorporating sustainability aspect into entrepreneurship improves the performance of businesses. Research on implementation of sustainability principles by SMEs is limited and SMEs have been left out in sustainability teachings and monitoring. The purpose of the study was to analyse the role played by entrepreneurial mind-set and entrepreneurial education on sustainability of SMEs. The research was conducted amongst 10 SME owners/managers with businesses located in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Case study method using a semi-structured interview guide was conducted. Results were transcribed, analysed and interpreted. Results of the research demonstrated that SME owners/managers possess entrepreneurial mind-set, which is a necessity to run a successful business. There was also evidence that entrepreneurial education enhances entrepreneurial mind-set of SME owners/managers. SMEs owners/managers also demonstrated that they implement sustainability principles informally with no guiding documents. With regards to implementation of sustainability principles, there was no noticeable difference between SME owners/managers who had undergone entrepreneurship education and the ones who had not gone through entrepreneurship education. This highlighted the need to incorporate sustainability issues in entrepreneurship education courses. The study brings contribution towards building sustainable SMEs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Factors that influence a performance culture in a selected school in Johannesburg East district
- Authors: Gumbo, Edwell
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Academic achievement -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , School improvement programs
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4900 , vital:20748
- Description: A country’s competitive advantage is linked to its educational outcomes. South Africa, as a developing country wants to shift from being a resource based economy to being a knowledge based economy. To enable such a shift, schools must be able to graduate learners who are adequately prepared for the demands of institutions of higher learning. Schools, therefore, must become centres of excellence and a culture of performance must be prevalent in schools. The National Development Plan as outlined by the National Planning Commission (2011) identified education as one of the pillars from which South Africa’s economy will be driven. However, recent studies have rated South Africa’s education system as one of the worst among middle income economies and sometimes even worse than many low-income African economies. To bridge that gap, there is a need to drive schools to be centres of excellence. This study sought to identify factors that influence a performance culture in schools. In order to achieve this objective, literature was scanned and five factors that influence a performance culture were identified (organisational school climate, teacher attitude, school managerial processes, organisational school value and organisational school structure). These factors were initially identified and used by Marcoulides and Heck (1993) in a corporate organisation and later adopted for testing in a school setting by Gomez, Marcoulides and Heck (2012). A school in Johannesburg East district was sampled through convenience sampling and data was collected through a questionnaire which was administered to the principal, teachers and staff, school governing board members, parents and alumni of the school. The total sample was 120 and a total of 94 questionnaires were returned giving a response rate of 78 percent. Descriptive statistical techniques were performed to establish the mean and standard deviation of perceptions among the respondents. Inferential statistical techniques were used to measure and ascertain reliability through Cronbach’s alpha, comparisons of responses through t-testing and ANOVA, association through correlation and hypotheses were tested through multiple regression analysis. All the variables were found to be valid and reliable. Furthermore, statistical results revealed that in the sampled school, even though all the five factors had an association among each other, only organisational school culture and organisational school value had an association to the dependent variable, performance culture. Organisational school value, however, was found to be the only variable of great influence to performance culture at the sampled school. The ideologies and activities that represent the values, therefore, influence the performance culture of a school.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Gumbo, Edwell
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Academic achievement -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , School improvement programs
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4900 , vital:20748
- Description: A country’s competitive advantage is linked to its educational outcomes. South Africa, as a developing country wants to shift from being a resource based economy to being a knowledge based economy. To enable such a shift, schools must be able to graduate learners who are adequately prepared for the demands of institutions of higher learning. Schools, therefore, must become centres of excellence and a culture of performance must be prevalent in schools. The National Development Plan as outlined by the National Planning Commission (2011) identified education as one of the pillars from which South Africa’s economy will be driven. However, recent studies have rated South Africa’s education system as one of the worst among middle income economies and sometimes even worse than many low-income African economies. To bridge that gap, there is a need to drive schools to be centres of excellence. This study sought to identify factors that influence a performance culture in schools. In order to achieve this objective, literature was scanned and five factors that influence a performance culture were identified (organisational school climate, teacher attitude, school managerial processes, organisational school value and organisational school structure). These factors were initially identified and used by Marcoulides and Heck (1993) in a corporate organisation and later adopted for testing in a school setting by Gomez, Marcoulides and Heck (2012). A school in Johannesburg East district was sampled through convenience sampling and data was collected through a questionnaire which was administered to the principal, teachers and staff, school governing board members, parents and alumni of the school. The total sample was 120 and a total of 94 questionnaires were returned giving a response rate of 78 percent. Descriptive statistical techniques were performed to establish the mean and standard deviation of perceptions among the respondents. Inferential statistical techniques were used to measure and ascertain reliability through Cronbach’s alpha, comparisons of responses through t-testing and ANOVA, association through correlation and hypotheses were tested through multiple regression analysis. All the variables were found to be valid and reliable. Furthermore, statistical results revealed that in the sampled school, even though all the five factors had an association among each other, only organisational school culture and organisational school value had an association to the dependent variable, performance culture. Organisational school value, however, was found to be the only variable of great influence to performance culture at the sampled school. The ideologies and activities that represent the values, therefore, influence the performance culture of a school.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Factors that influence a performance culture in a selected school in Johannesburg East district
- Authors: Gumbo, Edwell
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Academic achievement -- South Africa -- Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8251 , vital:26316
- Description: A country’s competitive advantage is linked to its educational outcomes. South Africa, as a developing country wants to shift from being a resource based economy to being a knowledge based economy. To enable such a shift, schools must be able to graduate learners who are adequately prepared for the demands of institutions of higher learning. Schools, therefore, must become centres of excellence and a culture of performance must be prevalent in schools. The National Development Plan as outlined by the National Planning Commission (2011) identified education as one of the pillars from which South Africa’s economy will be driven. However, recent studies have rated South Africa’s education system as one of the worst among middle income economies and sometimes even worse than many low-income African economies. To bridge that gap, there is a need to drive schools to be centres of excellence. This study sought to identify factors that influence a performance culture in schools. In order to achieve this objective, literature was scanned and five factors that influence a performance culture were identified (organisational school climate, teacher attitude, school managerial processes, organisational school value and organisational school structure). These factors were initially identified and used by Marcoulides and Heck (1993) in a corporate organisation and later adopted for testing in a school setting by Gomez, Marcoulides and Heck (2012). A school in Johannesburg East district was sampled through convenience sampling and data was collected through a questionnaire which was administered to the principal, teachers and staff, school governing board members, parents and alumni of the school. The total sample was 120 and a total of 94 questionnaires were returned giving a response rate of 78%. Descriptive statistical techniques were performed to establish the mean and standard deviation of perceptions among the respondents. Inferential statistical techniques were used to measure and ascertain reliability through Cronbach’s alpha, comparisons of responses through t-testing and ANOVA, association through correlation and hypotheses were tested through multiple regression analysis. All the variables were found to be valid and reliable. Furthermore, statistical results revealed that in the sampled school, even though all the five factors had an association among each other, only organisational school culture and organisational school value had an association to the dependent variable, performance culture. Organisational school value, however, was found to be the only variable of great influence to performance culture at the sampled school. The ideologies and activities that represent the values, therefore, influence the performance culture of a school.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Gumbo, Edwell
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Academic achievement -- South Africa -- Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8251 , vital:26316
- Description: A country’s competitive advantage is linked to its educational outcomes. South Africa, as a developing country wants to shift from being a resource based economy to being a knowledge based economy. To enable such a shift, schools must be able to graduate learners who are adequately prepared for the demands of institutions of higher learning. Schools, therefore, must become centres of excellence and a culture of performance must be prevalent in schools. The National Development Plan as outlined by the National Planning Commission (2011) identified education as one of the pillars from which South Africa’s economy will be driven. However, recent studies have rated South Africa’s education system as one of the worst among middle income economies and sometimes even worse than many low-income African economies. To bridge that gap, there is a need to drive schools to be centres of excellence. This study sought to identify factors that influence a performance culture in schools. In order to achieve this objective, literature was scanned and five factors that influence a performance culture were identified (organisational school climate, teacher attitude, school managerial processes, organisational school value and organisational school structure). These factors were initially identified and used by Marcoulides and Heck (1993) in a corporate organisation and later adopted for testing in a school setting by Gomez, Marcoulides and Heck (2012). A school in Johannesburg East district was sampled through convenience sampling and data was collected through a questionnaire which was administered to the principal, teachers and staff, school governing board members, parents and alumni of the school. The total sample was 120 and a total of 94 questionnaires were returned giving a response rate of 78%. Descriptive statistical techniques were performed to establish the mean and standard deviation of perceptions among the respondents. Inferential statistical techniques were used to measure and ascertain reliability through Cronbach’s alpha, comparisons of responses through t-testing and ANOVA, association through correlation and hypotheses were tested through multiple regression analysis. All the variables were found to be valid and reliable. Furthermore, statistical results revealed that in the sampled school, even though all the five factors had an association among each other, only organisational school culture and organisational school value had an association to the dependent variable, performance culture. Organisational school value, however, was found to be the only variable of great influence to performance culture at the sampled school. The ideologies and activities that represent the values, therefore, influence the performance culture of a school.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Image of Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB): an external stakeholder's perspective
- Authors: Bush, Charmel Lolita
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , South Africa -- Description and travel
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9097 , vital:26464
- Description: A distinctive destination image is required in order to compete with other destinations for tourists and investors alike. This main objective of this study is to develop a model for destination image formation for Nelson Mandela Bay as a secondary economy to boost its global competitiveness. Several researchers have studied destination image and based on the fact that tourists and investors usually have a limited knowledge of destinations they have not previously visited, destination image fulfils an important function insofar as destinations with strong, positive, discriminatory and recognisable images. A literature study was conducted to identify the key influencers on destination image as well as to identify which forces are likely to influence the destination image of Nelson Mandela Bay. The different factors of destination image were identified from the literature sources and these factors provided a basis for an empirical study that was conducted amongst external stakeholders. The primary research objective was to create a model of destination image for Nelson Mandela Bay and to explain the cause and effect relationship between the dependent and independent variables. Added to the primary research objective, eight secondary research objectives were identified. The primary research question for this study was to identify what influences the destination image of Nelson Mandela Bay. Added to the primary research question, the researcher also identified eight research questions as part of the study. The empirical analysis was used to test the hypotheses and ultimately develop a model for destination image formation for Nelson Mandela Bay. This study was exploratory in nature and thus used a limited sample to gain insights for further research. Data were obtained through questionnaires that were distributed electronically to 120 respondents. This study concluded with the development of a destination image model for Nelson Mandela Bay that can be expanded upon with further research. The results indicate that general infrastructure and social environment; leisure and recreation; and culture influence the Affective component of Nelson Mandela Bay. Information sources and Political stability and risk influence the Cognitive component of Nelson Mandela Bay. Together the Affective and Cognitive component makes up the overall image of Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Bush, Charmel Lolita
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , South Africa -- Description and travel
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9097 , vital:26464
- Description: A distinctive destination image is required in order to compete with other destinations for tourists and investors alike. This main objective of this study is to develop a model for destination image formation for Nelson Mandela Bay as a secondary economy to boost its global competitiveness. Several researchers have studied destination image and based on the fact that tourists and investors usually have a limited knowledge of destinations they have not previously visited, destination image fulfils an important function insofar as destinations with strong, positive, discriminatory and recognisable images. A literature study was conducted to identify the key influencers on destination image as well as to identify which forces are likely to influence the destination image of Nelson Mandela Bay. The different factors of destination image were identified from the literature sources and these factors provided a basis for an empirical study that was conducted amongst external stakeholders. The primary research objective was to create a model of destination image for Nelson Mandela Bay and to explain the cause and effect relationship between the dependent and independent variables. Added to the primary research objective, eight secondary research objectives were identified. The primary research question for this study was to identify what influences the destination image of Nelson Mandela Bay. Added to the primary research question, the researcher also identified eight research questions as part of the study. The empirical analysis was used to test the hypotheses and ultimately develop a model for destination image formation for Nelson Mandela Bay. This study was exploratory in nature and thus used a limited sample to gain insights for further research. Data were obtained through questionnaires that were distributed electronically to 120 respondents. This study concluded with the development of a destination image model for Nelson Mandela Bay that can be expanded upon with further research. The results indicate that general infrastructure and social environment; leisure and recreation; and culture influence the Affective component of Nelson Mandela Bay. Information sources and Political stability and risk influence the Cognitive component of Nelson Mandela Bay. Together the Affective and Cognitive component makes up the overall image of Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Improving employee engagement within a contemporary call centre in the Western Cape
- Authors: Pillay, Lesharin
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Employee motivation -- Research Employees -- Rating of , Employees -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48025 , vital:40464
- Description: Call centres can be regarded as one of the most stressful working environments, where a number of challenges are experienced, such as a high staff turnover and a high level of absenteeism. Call centres have evolved over the past decade and will continue to evolve as technology progresses. The call centre industry, has experienced approximately an eight percent growth from 2013 to 2014 in terms of job creation within the Western Cape. The number of jobs increased from 38 000 to 41 000 year on year with a R9 billion contribution being made to the provincial gross domestic product. In investigating the call centre industry in the Western Cape, a core problem was identified which revealed a number of questions. Call centre agents experience low levels of satisfaction, mainly as a result of the repetitiveness and monotonous nature of their work. This leads to the main research problem, namely that of improving employee engagement within a contemporary call centre in the Western Cape. In order to resolve this problem, employee engagement need to be defined as well as various levels of engagement needed to be investigated. Furthermore, an understanding of the key drivers of engagement as well as an understanding on how employee engagement can be improved, is needed. This study aims at providing call centre managers with insight into various engagement factors which could impact on: absenteeism, attrition rates and performance of call centre agents as well as customer experience. In order to address the problem and answer the various questions described above, the researcher conducted a literature review in order to create an understanding of the employee engagement concept as well as identify the various levels of employee engagement and the key drivers of engagement. Based on the literature review conducted, a hypothesis was developed on key drivers that impact the engagement of call centre agents. The key drivers in accordance with the hypothesised model are communication, team support, autonomy, management support, rewards and recognition as well as career development. A further literature review was conducted on how to improve employee engagement based on the key drivers identified. Based on the literature review done a questionnaire has been constructed in order to test the hypothesis. Electronic surveys based on the questionnaire constructed were sent out to a sample of call centre agents. All results from the survey were captured onto excel spreadsheets and various statistical calculations were conducted. The results from empirical study were analysed in conjunction with the literature in order to address the objective of the research. The biographical statistics showed a greater composition of female respondents in comparison to male. The predominant age group was found to be 26-35 years and the predominant period of service towards the organisation was more than 3 years. Descriptive statistics per variable revealed a number of high positive indicators such as regular communication and relationships with managers as well as a sense of belonging in a team. The descriptive statistics also revealed various areas of concern of which the highest frequency of negative responses related to employees feeling like a professional associate and not just a simple worker as well as growth opportunities. All drivers in accordance with the hypothesised model, were positively correlated to employee engagement. The empirical research was conducted on a call centre within the Western Cape and thus it can be concluded that an improvement in the drivers of engagement should lead to improved employee engagement within a contemporary call centre in the Western Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Pillay, Lesharin
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Employee motivation -- Research Employees -- Rating of , Employees -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48025 , vital:40464
- Description: Call centres can be regarded as one of the most stressful working environments, where a number of challenges are experienced, such as a high staff turnover and a high level of absenteeism. Call centres have evolved over the past decade and will continue to evolve as technology progresses. The call centre industry, has experienced approximately an eight percent growth from 2013 to 2014 in terms of job creation within the Western Cape. The number of jobs increased from 38 000 to 41 000 year on year with a R9 billion contribution being made to the provincial gross domestic product. In investigating the call centre industry in the Western Cape, a core problem was identified which revealed a number of questions. Call centre agents experience low levels of satisfaction, mainly as a result of the repetitiveness and monotonous nature of their work. This leads to the main research problem, namely that of improving employee engagement within a contemporary call centre in the Western Cape. In order to resolve this problem, employee engagement need to be defined as well as various levels of engagement needed to be investigated. Furthermore, an understanding of the key drivers of engagement as well as an understanding on how employee engagement can be improved, is needed. This study aims at providing call centre managers with insight into various engagement factors which could impact on: absenteeism, attrition rates and performance of call centre agents as well as customer experience. In order to address the problem and answer the various questions described above, the researcher conducted a literature review in order to create an understanding of the employee engagement concept as well as identify the various levels of employee engagement and the key drivers of engagement. Based on the literature review conducted, a hypothesis was developed on key drivers that impact the engagement of call centre agents. The key drivers in accordance with the hypothesised model are communication, team support, autonomy, management support, rewards and recognition as well as career development. A further literature review was conducted on how to improve employee engagement based on the key drivers identified. Based on the literature review done a questionnaire has been constructed in order to test the hypothesis. Electronic surveys based on the questionnaire constructed were sent out to a sample of call centre agents. All results from the survey were captured onto excel spreadsheets and various statistical calculations were conducted. The results from empirical study were analysed in conjunction with the literature in order to address the objective of the research. The biographical statistics showed a greater composition of female respondents in comparison to male. The predominant age group was found to be 26-35 years and the predominant period of service towards the organisation was more than 3 years. Descriptive statistics per variable revealed a number of high positive indicators such as regular communication and relationships with managers as well as a sense of belonging in a team. The descriptive statistics also revealed various areas of concern of which the highest frequency of negative responses related to employees feeling like a professional associate and not just a simple worker as well as growth opportunities. All drivers in accordance with the hypothesised model, were positively correlated to employee engagement. The empirical research was conducted on a call centre within the Western Cape and thus it can be concluded that an improvement in the drivers of engagement should lead to improved employee engagement within a contemporary call centre in the Western Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Improving organisational commitment in a selected telecommunications company
- Authors: Shandu, Sizwesihle Derrick
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Organizational commitment , Employee motivation , Telecommunication
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4507 , vital:20610
- Description: As human resources become part of strategic management in many organisations, employees are said to play a crucial role in helping their organisations fulfil their goals. It is a fact that organisations are now relying heavily on the competence of their human resources to gain a competitive edge over their competitors. It is therefore important that organisations should have employees that are committed and motivated in order to be able to compete. This study seeks to improve organisational commitment of the employees in the maintenance section of the selected telecommunications company, by investigating whether variables such as appreciative leadership, organisational citizenship behaviour, psychological empowerment (as measured by perceived control, perceived competence and goal internalisation), job satisfaction and employee rewards are significantly or not significantly related to the organisational commitment of the employees in the selected company. A sample, consisting of 120 employees, including technicians, supervisors and managers, was selected. The study achieved a response rate of about 52% (51.7) after 120 questionnaires were distributed. The empirical results of the study showed that only psychological empowerment (as measured by goal internalisation) and job satisfaction were significantly related to organisational commitment of the employees of the selected company. The implementation of the recommendations of this study should contribute to increased organisational commitment in the selected company.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Shandu, Sizwesihle Derrick
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Organizational commitment , Employee motivation , Telecommunication
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4507 , vital:20610
- Description: As human resources become part of strategic management in many organisations, employees are said to play a crucial role in helping their organisations fulfil their goals. It is a fact that organisations are now relying heavily on the competence of their human resources to gain a competitive edge over their competitors. It is therefore important that organisations should have employees that are committed and motivated in order to be able to compete. This study seeks to improve organisational commitment of the employees in the maintenance section of the selected telecommunications company, by investigating whether variables such as appreciative leadership, organisational citizenship behaviour, psychological empowerment (as measured by perceived control, perceived competence and goal internalisation), job satisfaction and employee rewards are significantly or not significantly related to the organisational commitment of the employees in the selected company. A sample, consisting of 120 employees, including technicians, supervisors and managers, was selected. The study achieved a response rate of about 52% (51.7) after 120 questionnaires were distributed. The empirical results of the study showed that only psychological empowerment (as measured by goal internalisation) and job satisfaction were significantly related to organisational commitment of the employees of the selected company. The implementation of the recommendations of this study should contribute to increased organisational commitment in the selected company.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Improving the claims business process in a South African car rental company
- Authors: Nomadolo, Xolile Claude
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Automobile leasing and renting -- South Africa Claims Business cycles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12650 , vital:27103
- Description: The ultimate aim of this study is to identify and eliminate inefficiencies associated with the current claims management processes, thereby ensuring cost reduction, high damages recoveries while ensuring that the company is positioned to be able to apply its resources in the best way possible to respond to satisfying the needs of the customer.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Nomadolo, Xolile Claude
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Automobile leasing and renting -- South Africa Claims Business cycles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12650 , vital:27103
- Description: The ultimate aim of this study is to identify and eliminate inefficiencies associated with the current claims management processes, thereby ensuring cost reduction, high damages recoveries while ensuring that the company is positioned to be able to apply its resources in the best way possible to respond to satisfying the needs of the customer.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2016
Investigating the high level of consumer indebtedness in the South African retail market
- Authors: Kgomo, Stephen Phuti
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Consumer credit -- South Africa , Debt -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8450 , vital:26360
- Description: This study was aimed at investigating the high level of consumer indebtedness in the South African retail market more specifically factors that contribute to consumer indebtedness. Recommendations on how to control the level of consumer indebtedness are also presented. Consumer indebtedness is a problem in many countries around the world and as witnessed during the 2008 global financial crisis, its impact can be disastrous. Not only does it create problems for the families but also for a country and even to the extent of the whole world. The literature conducted did not reveal a study undertaken to investigate factors that impact consumer indebtedness. Eight factors were identified and explored further in this study. Results were analysed in chapter three and outcomes presented in chapter four. The method used in conducting this study is the quantitative method. A questionnaire was developed based on the literature review conducted. The questionnaire was a five point Likert scale and was distributed to the respondents in the southern area of Tshwane Municipal district. In view of a manageable number of responses, results were analysed using an excel spreadsheet. Results were verified by an independent expert. From the eight factors that are identified, one (easy access to credit) was found to impact the high level of consumer indebtedness. Although there are other weaknesses, easy access to credit is found to be the main contributor. Recommendations on the findings are presented in chapter five of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Kgomo, Stephen Phuti
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Consumer credit -- South Africa , Debt -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8450 , vital:26360
- Description: This study was aimed at investigating the high level of consumer indebtedness in the South African retail market more specifically factors that contribute to consumer indebtedness. Recommendations on how to control the level of consumer indebtedness are also presented. Consumer indebtedness is a problem in many countries around the world and as witnessed during the 2008 global financial crisis, its impact can be disastrous. Not only does it create problems for the families but also for a country and even to the extent of the whole world. The literature conducted did not reveal a study undertaken to investigate factors that impact consumer indebtedness. Eight factors were identified and explored further in this study. Results were analysed in chapter three and outcomes presented in chapter four. The method used in conducting this study is the quantitative method. A questionnaire was developed based on the literature review conducted. The questionnaire was a five point Likert scale and was distributed to the respondents in the southern area of Tshwane Municipal district. In view of a manageable number of responses, results were analysed using an excel spreadsheet. Results were verified by an independent expert. From the eight factors that are identified, one (easy access to credit) was found to impact the high level of consumer indebtedness. Although there are other weaknesses, easy access to credit is found to be the main contributor. Recommendations on the findings are presented in chapter five of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
NMMU students' perceptions of their creativity
- Authors: Rogers, Angela Louise
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Creative ability in business , Creative thinking , Educational innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8037 , vital:24478
- Description: Creativity is seen as the driving force behind innovation. It can even be said to be the same process. It is critical to implement the creativity in order for innovation to actually take place. This combination of creativity and innovation is required for economic growth, sustainability, continuous improvement and competitive edge for organisations. Creativity is more than just artistic ability but includes scientific and problem solving steps and basic everyday creativity. This combination would be key in government departments, organisations and universities today. People’s perception on creativity could hamper their growth and development in this key area, not only for themselves but of others that they come into contact with. People’s perception on creativity is that it is either a genius form in either artistic or musical terms or it is not at all creative. They do not necessarily view the everyday tasks as creative. The research approach for this study is positivistic and deductive. The students’ perception of creativity is gathered using a quantitative questionnaire, where they rank their perceptions. The questionnaire was from an international study and it was made available to all students at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. The data analysis will be both descriptive and inferential in nature. The research seeks to examine students’ perception of their own creativity and how they rate various creative products or services. Students are on their way to the pinnacle in their fields and the creativity should therefore be at its peak to be able to take full advantage and to get maximum benefit from it. The research will gain insight into their perception via a questionnaire where they need to rate themselves. The literature review will investigate creativity, innovation and the links between them. It will analyse the importance of innovation to business and the unlocking of creativity. There are many differing ways to unlock and stimulate creativity and some of these are addressed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Rogers, Angela Louise
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Creative ability in business , Creative thinking , Educational innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8037 , vital:24478
- Description: Creativity is seen as the driving force behind innovation. It can even be said to be the same process. It is critical to implement the creativity in order for innovation to actually take place. This combination of creativity and innovation is required for economic growth, sustainability, continuous improvement and competitive edge for organisations. Creativity is more than just artistic ability but includes scientific and problem solving steps and basic everyday creativity. This combination would be key in government departments, organisations and universities today. People’s perception on creativity could hamper their growth and development in this key area, not only for themselves but of others that they come into contact with. People’s perception on creativity is that it is either a genius form in either artistic or musical terms or it is not at all creative. They do not necessarily view the everyday tasks as creative. The research approach for this study is positivistic and deductive. The students’ perception of creativity is gathered using a quantitative questionnaire, where they rank their perceptions. The questionnaire was from an international study and it was made available to all students at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. The data analysis will be both descriptive and inferential in nature. The research seeks to examine students’ perception of their own creativity and how they rate various creative products or services. Students are on their way to the pinnacle in their fields and the creativity should therefore be at its peak to be able to take full advantage and to get maximum benefit from it. The research will gain insight into their perception via a questionnaire where they need to rate themselves. The literature review will investigate creativity, innovation and the links between them. It will analyse the importance of innovation to business and the unlocking of creativity. There are many differing ways to unlock and stimulate creativity and some of these are addressed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Optimising the marketing mix to influence consumer purchasing decisions in liquor outlets
- Authors: Mhlatyana, Lovington Unathi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Branding (Marketing) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11712 , vital:26959
- Description: Retailers, Wholesalers, Marketers, Alcohol distributors and Manufacturers continuously fight for volume growth and market-share gain within the total alcohol market. Most of the answers of how much each can gain over a period of time remain a mystery that can only be answered by the consumers. The consumers determine who will have more share of wallet or share of throat more than the other. This is also equally applicable to brands, packs and the various alcohol categories that exist in the market. Why is it important, you possibly wonder? It is important because the alcohol market is an integrated part of our society; it contributes immensely to the South African economy and its value chain is enormous in value. Consumption expenditure increased from R3 513 039 000 in 2004 to R8 558 232 000 by 2013 in the Eastern Cape alone. In the last 10 years there has been an increase of new products that are being introduced into the market across all categories ranging from traditional alcoholic brands to flavoured and ready to drink brands. This presents an opportunity to alcohol consumers, alcohol shoppers and sellers alike. This opportunity meant that the consumer is spoilt for choice and retailers / wholesalers have an opportunity to list more brands which could possibly result in increased margins. Further to the above, South African marketers face both market challenges as well as proposed legislation regarding advertising of alcohol products. Some of the challenges include marketing clutter, competition, diverse nature of the South African consumer, infrastructure issues, government legislations, social media and digital platforms. The liquor industry of the Eastern Cape contributes approximately R7,7 billion to the Gross Geographic Product of the economy of the Eastern Cape through direct and indirect impacts; Approximately 23 620 permanent jobs are supported by the Eastern Cape liquor industry annually; Tax revenue attributable to the liquor industry in the Eastern Cape is R3,9 billion; and the economic impact of the liquor industry on gross capital formation is in the region R3,4 billion per annum. The purpose of this research is to optimise the marketing mix to influence consumer purchasing decisions in liquor outlets within the Border district within the above context. The objective of this study is to identify the marketing mix that influences consumer purchasing decisions in liquor outlets. The study will be conducted within the Border district. The Border district consists of various geographies within the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The area of the study will focus on key municipalities namely; Buffalo city, Amathole, Chris Hani and Joe Gqabi municipalities. The target sample size for this study was 360 consumers. A survey questionnaire was used to measure respondents’ preferences, attitudes, motivations and perceptions. The respondents were instructed to highlight the answer that best described them and / or their preferences. Questions were asked and the respondents had to highlight to what extent they agreed or disagreed with the question. Key findings are that there is high level of agreement that price and promotions influence consumer-purchasing decision in liquor outlets. The highest percentage of respondents are in agreement that beer is a first choice of drink and a second is spirits. 69% of the respondents agree that they change from the usual drink to a different drink when they go out. This can be attributed to the notion that consumers like to badge and want to be seen drinking brands that will be deemed socially acceptable in public, or brands that are the latest trend. The key benefits from the study include improved ability for marketers to reposition brands, give clear recommendations for drinking occasions and better understanding on how to efficiently distribute alcohol portfolios, extend brands and introduce limited editions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mhlatyana, Lovington Unathi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Branding (Marketing) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11712 , vital:26959
- Description: Retailers, Wholesalers, Marketers, Alcohol distributors and Manufacturers continuously fight for volume growth and market-share gain within the total alcohol market. Most of the answers of how much each can gain over a period of time remain a mystery that can only be answered by the consumers. The consumers determine who will have more share of wallet or share of throat more than the other. This is also equally applicable to brands, packs and the various alcohol categories that exist in the market. Why is it important, you possibly wonder? It is important because the alcohol market is an integrated part of our society; it contributes immensely to the South African economy and its value chain is enormous in value. Consumption expenditure increased from R3 513 039 000 in 2004 to R8 558 232 000 by 2013 in the Eastern Cape alone. In the last 10 years there has been an increase of new products that are being introduced into the market across all categories ranging from traditional alcoholic brands to flavoured and ready to drink brands. This presents an opportunity to alcohol consumers, alcohol shoppers and sellers alike. This opportunity meant that the consumer is spoilt for choice and retailers / wholesalers have an opportunity to list more brands which could possibly result in increased margins. Further to the above, South African marketers face both market challenges as well as proposed legislation regarding advertising of alcohol products. Some of the challenges include marketing clutter, competition, diverse nature of the South African consumer, infrastructure issues, government legislations, social media and digital platforms. The liquor industry of the Eastern Cape contributes approximately R7,7 billion to the Gross Geographic Product of the economy of the Eastern Cape through direct and indirect impacts; Approximately 23 620 permanent jobs are supported by the Eastern Cape liquor industry annually; Tax revenue attributable to the liquor industry in the Eastern Cape is R3,9 billion; and the economic impact of the liquor industry on gross capital formation is in the region R3,4 billion per annum. The purpose of this research is to optimise the marketing mix to influence consumer purchasing decisions in liquor outlets within the Border district within the above context. The objective of this study is to identify the marketing mix that influences consumer purchasing decisions in liquor outlets. The study will be conducted within the Border district. The Border district consists of various geographies within the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The area of the study will focus on key municipalities namely; Buffalo city, Amathole, Chris Hani and Joe Gqabi municipalities. The target sample size for this study was 360 consumers. A survey questionnaire was used to measure respondents’ preferences, attitudes, motivations and perceptions. The respondents were instructed to highlight the answer that best described them and / or their preferences. Questions were asked and the respondents had to highlight to what extent they agreed or disagreed with the question. Key findings are that there is high level of agreement that price and promotions influence consumer-purchasing decision in liquor outlets. The highest percentage of respondents are in agreement that beer is a first choice of drink and a second is spirits. 69% of the respondents agree that they change from the usual drink to a different drink when they go out. This can be attributed to the notion that consumers like to badge and want to be seen drinking brands that will be deemed socially acceptable in public, or brands that are the latest trend. The key benefits from the study include improved ability for marketers to reposition brands, give clear recommendations for drinking occasions and better understanding on how to efficiently distribute alcohol portfolios, extend brands and introduce limited editions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Organisational culture as a determinant of efficiency in the O R Tambo district municipality
- Authors: Msebi, Nombasa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Organizational behavior Corporate culture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12264 , vital:27049
- Description: The O R Tambo District Municipality is the only district municipality in South Africa whose finances are monitored by the National Treasury, and not delegated to its Provincial Treasury. During the mid-term budget implementation assessment in the 2014/2015 financial year, National Treasury raised a concern on the under-performance of this municipality in achieving the set targets while fully spending its budget allocation. This raised a concern about the efficiency of the municipality in utilising its resources and the manner in which the municipality conducts its business. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the organisational culture of the O R Tambo District Municipality enables or hampers an efficient utilisation of its resources. The paradigm that has been followed in this study is the positivism research paradigm and the population used was the O R Tambo District Municipality’s staff in the main offices in Mthatha. Sixty employees participated in the study by responding to questionnaires. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS), which is an Excel-based statistical analysis instrument. The study revealed that the O R Tambo District Municipality does not have a dominant organisational culture, resulting in employees who struggle to determine whether their behaviour is acceptable or not. The lack of workplace procedures has a negative impact on employee performance as they instead rely on their experience, or that of a manager at a particular time, to undertake their tasks. The study found that the culture of the O R Tambo District Municipality is also not conducive for an effective management system. This paper will conclude by making recommendations to senior management and leadership on how to change the organisational culture of the municipality to ensure that it promotes efficient utilisation of the municipality’s resources.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Msebi, Nombasa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Organizational behavior Corporate culture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12264 , vital:27049
- Description: The O R Tambo District Municipality is the only district municipality in South Africa whose finances are monitored by the National Treasury, and not delegated to its Provincial Treasury. During the mid-term budget implementation assessment in the 2014/2015 financial year, National Treasury raised a concern on the under-performance of this municipality in achieving the set targets while fully spending its budget allocation. This raised a concern about the efficiency of the municipality in utilising its resources and the manner in which the municipality conducts its business. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the organisational culture of the O R Tambo District Municipality enables or hampers an efficient utilisation of its resources. The paradigm that has been followed in this study is the positivism research paradigm and the population used was the O R Tambo District Municipality’s staff in the main offices in Mthatha. Sixty employees participated in the study by responding to questionnaires. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS), which is an Excel-based statistical analysis instrument. The study revealed that the O R Tambo District Municipality does not have a dominant organisational culture, resulting in employees who struggle to determine whether their behaviour is acceptable or not. The lack of workplace procedures has a negative impact on employee performance as they instead rely on their experience, or that of a manager at a particular time, to undertake their tasks. The study found that the culture of the O R Tambo District Municipality is also not conducive for an effective management system. This paper will conclude by making recommendations to senior management and leadership on how to change the organisational culture of the municipality to ensure that it promotes efficient utilisation of the municipality’s resources.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Personality traits and emotional intelligence as predictors of sustainable commercial agricultural producers in South Africa
- Authors: Posthumus, Karen-Louise
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa Emotional intelligence -- South Africa Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10399 , vital:26742
- Description: The dual agriculture sector in South Africa comprises both a well-developed commercial farming and a smaller scale communal component. It is however, the commercial sector that is relied upon for food security. The multi-dimensional and complex nature of agricultural production in South Africa demands that sustainable commercial farmers of the future need to demonstrate the ability to effectively handle a multitude of tasks, which may be a function of individual personality traits and emotional intelligence. In this paper, the contribution of individual differences in personality and emotional intelligence as drivers for sustainability of South African commercial agricultural producers was investigated for inclusion into a selection model defining the entry-level requirements (skills, knowledge and competencies) for this occupation. Despite several studies that reported on the personality traits of farmers on a global level, no reports are found on similar studies conducted within a South African context. The main objective of this study was to improve the sustainability of all commercial agricultural producers in South Africa by investigating the personality traits and emotional intelligence driving that sustainability. This study focused on the commercial farming sector in South Africa, which has a unique need to integrate emerging/new farmers into the modern agricultural value chain. This is in accordance with the objectives of the Land Reform Bill (South Africa, 2015) as set out in the government’s National Development Plan (South Africa, 2012). The population of the study comprised commercial agricultural producers throughout South Africa and the sample frame was the estimated 40 000 commercial agricultural producers from whom the sample was drawn. The sampling method employed was snowball sampling (non-probability sampling) with the sampling unit selected on a degree of personal judgement. Quantitative questionnaires were administered to 60 commercial farmers throughout South Africa. Quantitative data was analysed using the STATISTICA Version 10.0 (2011) computer software programme and results were presented in tabulated format. The empirical results revealed that amongst the independent variables investigated in this study, only two variables were significantly related to the successful implementation of sustainable farming; they are neuroticism and management of emotions. Emanating from the findings of this study, recommendations were made to respective role-players on how to manage and support these findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Posthumus, Karen-Louise
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa Emotional intelligence -- South Africa Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10399 , vital:26742
- Description: The dual agriculture sector in South Africa comprises both a well-developed commercial farming and a smaller scale communal component. It is however, the commercial sector that is relied upon for food security. The multi-dimensional and complex nature of agricultural production in South Africa demands that sustainable commercial farmers of the future need to demonstrate the ability to effectively handle a multitude of tasks, which may be a function of individual personality traits and emotional intelligence. In this paper, the contribution of individual differences in personality and emotional intelligence as drivers for sustainability of South African commercial agricultural producers was investigated for inclusion into a selection model defining the entry-level requirements (skills, knowledge and competencies) for this occupation. Despite several studies that reported on the personality traits of farmers on a global level, no reports are found on similar studies conducted within a South African context. The main objective of this study was to improve the sustainability of all commercial agricultural producers in South Africa by investigating the personality traits and emotional intelligence driving that sustainability. This study focused on the commercial farming sector in South Africa, which has a unique need to integrate emerging/new farmers into the modern agricultural value chain. This is in accordance with the objectives of the Land Reform Bill (South Africa, 2015) as set out in the government’s National Development Plan (South Africa, 2012). The population of the study comprised commercial agricultural producers throughout South Africa and the sample frame was the estimated 40 000 commercial agricultural producers from whom the sample was drawn. The sampling method employed was snowball sampling (non-probability sampling) with the sampling unit selected on a degree of personal judgement. Quantitative questionnaires were administered to 60 commercial farmers throughout South Africa. Quantitative data was analysed using the STATISTICA Version 10.0 (2011) computer software programme and results were presented in tabulated format. The empirical results revealed that amongst the independent variables investigated in this study, only two variables were significantly related to the successful implementation of sustainable farming; they are neuroticism and management of emotions. Emanating from the findings of this study, recommendations were made to respective role-players on how to manage and support these findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Preparing for life after rugby
- Authors: Koch, Wilhelm
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Retirement -- Planning Rugby football players -- Retirement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21537 , vital:29535
- Description: The inception of rugby as a workforce in 1995 created a range of new issues surrounding sport as a vocation. With professional rugby often wearing the glamorous coat of fame and fortune, young athletes sacrifice education and learning additional life-skills in pursuit of well-paid contracts and glitzy lifestyles unaware of the realities rugby as a profession holds. One such reality is the relatively short lifespan of a professional rugby career and the fact that transition to a whole new career is firstly inevitable and secondly a very challenging process. Traditional retirement has been associated with the end of a long working career, making comprehensive lifestyle- and financial planning part of the preparation process. This process helps the retiree anticipate and understand the expected demands of life beyond a working career. In rugby however, the retirement experience of a player can be extremely difficult to cope with, especially if the player is not adequately prepared or has not planned for such an event. This leaves players vulnerable for the imminent new phase of life and often leads to physiological - and other challenges players are not able to withstand in a world outside sport (Price, 2007). The aim of this study is to identify the different aspects that influence a professional rugby player’s retirement – and transition experience into a new profession. The researcher believes that an increased understanding of how current and retired professional rugby players perceive/experienced the retirement process would assist current players to better plan and prepare for this phase of life. This ultimately would reduce the anxiety and uncertainty for life after rugby. If players are more relaxed and stress-free about their future, more focus could also be placed on the here-and-now, leading to greater performance on the current field of play. The views of both current and retired professional rugby players were captured through questionnaires distributed all around South Africa. The researcher utilised a mixed mode paradigm of both positivistic and interpretive research methods. This approach enabled him to best compare the views of the two groups and test the developed theories and hypothesis. Ultimately, the research revealed that the presence of the following variables will have a positive influence on a player’s retirement and transition experience: A) Leadership, advice and planning for retirement B) Tertiary education and additional work skills C) Popularity amongst fans and other influential people D) Sufficient wealth and E) A self-selected retirement. With these findings the researcher will develop some specific guidelines for current professional rugby players to help them firstly better prepare for their life beyond sport and secondly successfully switch to a new career. A few valuable recommendations were also made to other stakeholders to better assist and support players in their preparation and transition process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Koch, Wilhelm
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Retirement -- Planning Rugby football players -- Retirement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21537 , vital:29535
- Description: The inception of rugby as a workforce in 1995 created a range of new issues surrounding sport as a vocation. With professional rugby often wearing the glamorous coat of fame and fortune, young athletes sacrifice education and learning additional life-skills in pursuit of well-paid contracts and glitzy lifestyles unaware of the realities rugby as a profession holds. One such reality is the relatively short lifespan of a professional rugby career and the fact that transition to a whole new career is firstly inevitable and secondly a very challenging process. Traditional retirement has been associated with the end of a long working career, making comprehensive lifestyle- and financial planning part of the preparation process. This process helps the retiree anticipate and understand the expected demands of life beyond a working career. In rugby however, the retirement experience of a player can be extremely difficult to cope with, especially if the player is not adequately prepared or has not planned for such an event. This leaves players vulnerable for the imminent new phase of life and often leads to physiological - and other challenges players are not able to withstand in a world outside sport (Price, 2007). The aim of this study is to identify the different aspects that influence a professional rugby player’s retirement – and transition experience into a new profession. The researcher believes that an increased understanding of how current and retired professional rugby players perceive/experienced the retirement process would assist current players to better plan and prepare for this phase of life. This ultimately would reduce the anxiety and uncertainty for life after rugby. If players are more relaxed and stress-free about their future, more focus could also be placed on the here-and-now, leading to greater performance on the current field of play. The views of both current and retired professional rugby players were captured through questionnaires distributed all around South Africa. The researcher utilised a mixed mode paradigm of both positivistic and interpretive research methods. This approach enabled him to best compare the views of the two groups and test the developed theories and hypothesis. Ultimately, the research revealed that the presence of the following variables will have a positive influence on a player’s retirement and transition experience: A) Leadership, advice and planning for retirement B) Tertiary education and additional work skills C) Popularity amongst fans and other influential people D) Sufficient wealth and E) A self-selected retirement. With these findings the researcher will develop some specific guidelines for current professional rugby players to help them firstly better prepare for their life beyond sport and secondly successfully switch to a new career. A few valuable recommendations were also made to other stakeholders to better assist and support players in their preparation and transition process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Preventative measures implementation of occupational health and safety injuries at SABMiller
- Mahlinza, Zwelibandze Phillip
- Authors: Mahlinza, Zwelibandze Phillip
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Industrial safety , Human rights workers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8392 , vital:26351
- Description: Purpose of study: The purpose of this study was to explore preventative measures in the implementation of occupational health and safety at SABMiller. Objective: The primary objective was to examine preventative measures in the implementation of occupational health and safety injuries at SABMiller. The study assessed the effectiveness of management strategies in the prevention of occupational health and safety injuries within SABMiller. Population and sample: The primary case is a beer manufacturing company in Rosslyn called SABMiller. The brewery operates in six different departments and each has a large staff population. Methodology: This study applied a mixed-method using a multiple case study design as an approach to the enquiry. Methods of data collection: Documents, questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews were be used to obtain data to answer the research questions. Process of analysis: Qualitative and quantitative themes were analysed in a matrix. The three data sources were triangulated to validate the findings. Benefits of the study: Injury prevention benefits the employer and employee in many ways, including increased employee performance leading to increased productivity as well as cost savings. Main findings: Injuries that were reported were mostly musculoskeletal injuries and are mainly caused by human error. Most injuries that were reported are caused by contractors. Health and safety training and knowledge sharing was not well supported and injury prevention strategies were not optimised. Poor quality incident investigation, contractor injuries, lack of funding on safety projects, slow progress on loop closer and induction procedure not followed were the five main challenges to injury prevention management systems. Conclusions: The implementation of an effective injury measurement implementation programme could benefit the organisation and translate into increased operational value (organisational quality).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mahlinza, Zwelibandze Phillip
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Industrial safety , Human rights workers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8392 , vital:26351
- Description: Purpose of study: The purpose of this study was to explore preventative measures in the implementation of occupational health and safety at SABMiller. Objective: The primary objective was to examine preventative measures in the implementation of occupational health and safety injuries at SABMiller. The study assessed the effectiveness of management strategies in the prevention of occupational health and safety injuries within SABMiller. Population and sample: The primary case is a beer manufacturing company in Rosslyn called SABMiller. The brewery operates in six different departments and each has a large staff population. Methodology: This study applied a mixed-method using a multiple case study design as an approach to the enquiry. Methods of data collection: Documents, questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews were be used to obtain data to answer the research questions. Process of analysis: Qualitative and quantitative themes were analysed in a matrix. The three data sources were triangulated to validate the findings. Benefits of the study: Injury prevention benefits the employer and employee in many ways, including increased employee performance leading to increased productivity as well as cost savings. Main findings: Injuries that were reported were mostly musculoskeletal injuries and are mainly caused by human error. Most injuries that were reported are caused by contractors. Health and safety training and knowledge sharing was not well supported and injury prevention strategies were not optimised. Poor quality incident investigation, contractor injuries, lack of funding on safety projects, slow progress on loop closer and induction procedure not followed were the five main challenges to injury prevention management systems. Conclusions: The implementation of an effective injury measurement implementation programme could benefit the organisation and translate into increased operational value (organisational quality).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Promoting innovation through intrapreneurship at Eskom distribution (Eastern Cape)
- Authors: Phillips, Abraham James
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Technological innovations -- Economic aspects , Satellite solar power stations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13060 , vital:27148
- Description: Maintaining and improving innovation is vital to any organisation.There are many challenges organisations are faced with, both internally and externally when it comes to maintain and improving innovation. Eskom is such an organisation. The employees, both non-managerial and managerial, of Eskom are faced with various challenges in their daily activities. The quest for innovation advantages requires increased creativity to assist employees in adopting an intrapreneurial outlook to provide proactive solutions. Intrapreneurship is an autonomous process. Eskom which bulk suppliers South Africa mission is to provide electricity reliably at a low cost to all South African. This seems less reachable with high operating cost, slow capacity growth and aging infrastructure. This study focused and contributed to the innovation environment of Eskom, with the area of study being confined within the Eastern Cape. The study objectives sought to review Eskom Distribution’s business plan and innovation policy, while identifying if employees have intrapreneurial trait, if organisational culture, system and managerial styles are conducive for intraprenuership, if the external environment will promote intrapreneurship within the organisation, and which ideas have best adoption rates of innovation within the organisation, these factors may hinder the success of innovation in the organisation, based on the theoretical findings of the literature study. Employees, at both managerial and non-managerial levels participated in a research study. The research instrument used comprised of questions that covered the various objectives listed above. This provided the basis for a quantitative study to be done. Using statistical methods to identify any special relationships or trends, the research was conducted and recommendations were made based on the objectives of this study in relation to the organisation under study, Eskom Distribution, Eastern Cape Operating Unit. Based on the findings, recommendations to improve innovation, through intrapreneurship methods were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Phillips, Abraham James
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Technological innovations -- Economic aspects , Satellite solar power stations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13060 , vital:27148
- Description: Maintaining and improving innovation is vital to any organisation.There are many challenges organisations are faced with, both internally and externally when it comes to maintain and improving innovation. Eskom is such an organisation. The employees, both non-managerial and managerial, of Eskom are faced with various challenges in their daily activities. The quest for innovation advantages requires increased creativity to assist employees in adopting an intrapreneurial outlook to provide proactive solutions. Intrapreneurship is an autonomous process. Eskom which bulk suppliers South Africa mission is to provide electricity reliably at a low cost to all South African. This seems less reachable with high operating cost, slow capacity growth and aging infrastructure. This study focused and contributed to the innovation environment of Eskom, with the area of study being confined within the Eastern Cape. The study objectives sought to review Eskom Distribution’s business plan and innovation policy, while identifying if employees have intrapreneurial trait, if organisational culture, system and managerial styles are conducive for intraprenuership, if the external environment will promote intrapreneurship within the organisation, and which ideas have best adoption rates of innovation within the organisation, these factors may hinder the success of innovation in the organisation, based on the theoretical findings of the literature study. Employees, at both managerial and non-managerial levels participated in a research study. The research instrument used comprised of questions that covered the various objectives listed above. This provided the basis for a quantitative study to be done. Using statistical methods to identify any special relationships or trends, the research was conducted and recommendations were made based on the objectives of this study in relation to the organisation under study, Eskom Distribution, Eastern Cape Operating Unit. Based on the findings, recommendations to improve innovation, through intrapreneurship methods were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Sports events for the citizens of the Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Solomon, Steffen Brett
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: City promotion -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Branding (Marketing) -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12897 , vital:27132
- Description: The concept of city branding has sprung to prominence in recent years. This can be attributed to globalisation and the ease of access to all corners of the globe with the improvements in technology and modes of transport. This increased competition for resources, skills, talent and revenue has made cities not only compete with other cities in close proximity to one another, but also with cities across the world. The answer to this conundrum was found to be a comprehensive marketing strategy composed of clever and catchy slogans, beautiful logos, media campaigns and public relations drives. This process only led to the loss of large amounts of money since the benefits were not longstanding and the results were not tangible as these avenues only benefitted the home country’s tourism industry. A long term solution for cities was needed to build a favourable image. Corporations were used as models to build a brand since manufacturers of similar products are in constant competition to gain market share and revenues from their competitors. The similarities between corporations and cities are undeniable and efforts were made to incorporate successful branding strategies from corporations into city branding efforts. Cities and corporations must be effective in developing and incorporating social, economic and political aspects of their culture into a successful city brand image. The major difference between cities and corporations stems from the fact that it takes considerably longer to leverage a comprehensive brand of a city, when compared to the brand of a product since their lifespans are completely different. In the past, city brands were based on historical significance. Today, city brands are exclusively influenced by the events it hosts. The hosting of events has been seen as a guaranteed way for a city to improve its brand image. On the contrary, the hosting of events has been found to either improve a city brand or tarnish it. Sports events have been deemed as the best way to improve a city brand because sports appeal to a wide audience and are relatively inexpensive to host in comparison to the benefit and improvements they bring. This treatise investigates the approach and various types of sports events which must be included for the successful branding of Nelson Mandela Bay as part of a destination marketing strategy. The suggestions from this study were formulated upon scrutiny of the available literature and case studies on various branding efforts undertaken by cities around the world to establish and improve their brand image. A survey was conducted amongst the residents of Nelson Mandela Bay using a questionnaire. A total of 952 responses were received. The questionnaire measured the respondents’ attitude to what types of sports events they will support, their feelings on the standard of facilities and quality of events in Nelson Mandela Bay. This treatise served to identify which sports events should be used in any branding effort undertaken by Nelson Mandela Bay. Literature and case studies served as the foundation for this study. The survey insights and expectations enabled a plan to be developed that will be unique for Nelson Mandela Bay based on its location, characteristics, tastes and preferences of its residents. This plan would serve to benefit the residents of Nelson Mandela Bay, the city itself and encourage additional investment from external sources. The results of this study indicate that the residents of Nelson Mandela Bay advocate the use of sports events as the main driver in branding the city. Furthermore, the residents have made it clear that cricket, rugby and Iron Man-type of events are favoured and more likely to be supported than any other type of sports event in Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Solomon, Steffen Brett
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: City promotion -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Branding (Marketing) -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12897 , vital:27132
- Description: The concept of city branding has sprung to prominence in recent years. This can be attributed to globalisation and the ease of access to all corners of the globe with the improvements in technology and modes of transport. This increased competition for resources, skills, talent and revenue has made cities not only compete with other cities in close proximity to one another, but also with cities across the world. The answer to this conundrum was found to be a comprehensive marketing strategy composed of clever and catchy slogans, beautiful logos, media campaigns and public relations drives. This process only led to the loss of large amounts of money since the benefits were not longstanding and the results were not tangible as these avenues only benefitted the home country’s tourism industry. A long term solution for cities was needed to build a favourable image. Corporations were used as models to build a brand since manufacturers of similar products are in constant competition to gain market share and revenues from their competitors. The similarities between corporations and cities are undeniable and efforts were made to incorporate successful branding strategies from corporations into city branding efforts. Cities and corporations must be effective in developing and incorporating social, economic and political aspects of their culture into a successful city brand image. The major difference between cities and corporations stems from the fact that it takes considerably longer to leverage a comprehensive brand of a city, when compared to the brand of a product since their lifespans are completely different. In the past, city brands were based on historical significance. Today, city brands are exclusively influenced by the events it hosts. The hosting of events has been seen as a guaranteed way for a city to improve its brand image. On the contrary, the hosting of events has been found to either improve a city brand or tarnish it. Sports events have been deemed as the best way to improve a city brand because sports appeal to a wide audience and are relatively inexpensive to host in comparison to the benefit and improvements they bring. This treatise investigates the approach and various types of sports events which must be included for the successful branding of Nelson Mandela Bay as part of a destination marketing strategy. The suggestions from this study were formulated upon scrutiny of the available literature and case studies on various branding efforts undertaken by cities around the world to establish and improve their brand image. A survey was conducted amongst the residents of Nelson Mandela Bay using a questionnaire. A total of 952 responses were received. The questionnaire measured the respondents’ attitude to what types of sports events they will support, their feelings on the standard of facilities and quality of events in Nelson Mandela Bay. This treatise served to identify which sports events should be used in any branding effort undertaken by Nelson Mandela Bay. Literature and case studies served as the foundation for this study. The survey insights and expectations enabled a plan to be developed that will be unique for Nelson Mandela Bay based on its location, characteristics, tastes and preferences of its residents. This plan would serve to benefit the residents of Nelson Mandela Bay, the city itself and encourage additional investment from external sources. The results of this study indicate that the residents of Nelson Mandela Bay advocate the use of sports events as the main driver in branding the city. Furthermore, the residents have made it clear that cricket, rugby and Iron Man-type of events are favoured and more likely to be supported than any other type of sports event in Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Sustainble public bus transport services in the Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Mntwini, Mkhonto
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Urban transportation -- Economic aspects Urban transportation -- Research Transportation -- Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11875 , vital:27000
- Description: Purpose - Transport is a common constant variable found in just about every aspect of our lives as well as commercial activities; this is so because transport enables accessibility to people, places and goods. The effective management of public passenger transport operations is a more complex and all-embracing concept than what it may appear at first glance. Wider dispersed work place locations and urban sprawl is on the rise driven by among other factors the increased rate of globalisation. A unique opportunity is then presented in a developing country like South Africa for effective planning and management of public passenger bus operations. In the main, the purpose of this case study research was to develop a more sustainable public passenger transport bus operation to better connect people, places and goods. The organisation that will be studied is Blunden Coach Tours a luxury and semi-lux coach Tour operator, operating from the Nelson Mandela Bay. Design / Methodology / Approach – This study employed the case study research approach which was based on the qualitative research paradigm as such allowed for in-depth description and analysis of the case as well as related phenomena in real world context. The researcher focused only on the public passenger bus transport operations in Nelson Mandela Bay thus assuming a single context focus with a single case namely the development of a more sustainable public passenger transport operations in Nelson Mandela Bay. An embedded multiple unit of analysis strategy was employed selecting a sample of key persons responsible for strategic operational areas at Blunden Coach tours, sub-contractors and suppliers. The case study employed an in-depth probing interview process in an effort to better comprehend occurrences within the actual context of the events observed. The secondary sources of information gathered were used to structure and backup the interview questions. Practical implications – The case study enabled thought provoking insight which by virtue of South Africa’s historical socio-economic landscape offered an unusual perspective of the South African bus transport scene with a particular focus on environmental, regulatory and socio-economic sustainability considerations. A limitation to the study – The lack of responses to the interview questions from some of the key role players in the bus industry who were contacted as well as some of the respondents interviewed. The lack of responses to some of the interview questions could be perceived as a limitation to validating the Summary drawn from the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mntwini, Mkhonto
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Urban transportation -- Economic aspects Urban transportation -- Research Transportation -- Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11875 , vital:27000
- Description: Purpose - Transport is a common constant variable found in just about every aspect of our lives as well as commercial activities; this is so because transport enables accessibility to people, places and goods. The effective management of public passenger transport operations is a more complex and all-embracing concept than what it may appear at first glance. Wider dispersed work place locations and urban sprawl is on the rise driven by among other factors the increased rate of globalisation. A unique opportunity is then presented in a developing country like South Africa for effective planning and management of public passenger bus operations. In the main, the purpose of this case study research was to develop a more sustainable public passenger transport bus operation to better connect people, places and goods. The organisation that will be studied is Blunden Coach Tours a luxury and semi-lux coach Tour operator, operating from the Nelson Mandela Bay. Design / Methodology / Approach – This study employed the case study research approach which was based on the qualitative research paradigm as such allowed for in-depth description and analysis of the case as well as related phenomena in real world context. The researcher focused only on the public passenger bus transport operations in Nelson Mandela Bay thus assuming a single context focus with a single case namely the development of a more sustainable public passenger transport operations in Nelson Mandela Bay. An embedded multiple unit of analysis strategy was employed selecting a sample of key persons responsible for strategic operational areas at Blunden Coach tours, sub-contractors and suppliers. The case study employed an in-depth probing interview process in an effort to better comprehend occurrences within the actual context of the events observed. The secondary sources of information gathered were used to structure and backup the interview questions. Practical implications – The case study enabled thought provoking insight which by virtue of South Africa’s historical socio-economic landscape offered an unusual perspective of the South African bus transport scene with a particular focus on environmental, regulatory and socio-economic sustainability considerations. A limitation to the study – The lack of responses to the interview questions from some of the key role players in the bus industry who were contacted as well as some of the respondents interviewed. The lack of responses to some of the interview questions could be perceived as a limitation to validating the Summary drawn from the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The development of a recommended digital marketing strategy for Pan Macmillan, South Africa
- Authors: Conradie, Tessa Jane
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:865 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021247
- Description: This research attempts to create a recommended digital marketing strategy for Pan Macmillan, South Africa. As a result of the advance of technology and the increase of connectivity, digital marketing is becoming a highly important tool with regards to competitive advantage, differentiation and the overall marketing of a company and its product or service (Barwise and Farley, 2005, p. 68). Digital marketing is, in South Africa specifically, a relatively new concept (Sandmann, 2014, p. 1). If South African companies are able to efficiently utilise the gap in the market, they will ensure a significant competitive advantage (Sandmann, 2013, p. 1). In order to accomplish this successfully a digital marketing strategy must be created and adopted to ensure a full understanding of the requirements of effective digital marketing. This research focusses on understanding digital marketing requirements in relation to a South African book publisher and how those requirements can be met by the publisher through the development of a digital marketing strategy. The literature has been reviewed and previous research indicates that an established framework is needed to guide the development of a digital marketing strategy. The framework used in this research is the RACE framework (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2013, p. 14) which is used in conjunction to the SOSTAC planning system (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2014, p. 11) and the 7 steps to digital marketing strategy creation (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2014, p. 2). The literature suggests that a combination of the established traditional marketing strategy of a company and current digital marketing practices and tools is the most practical with regards to the development of a successful digital marketing strategy, implementation and evaluation. In order to understand the current marketing strategy and practices of Pan Macmillan, interviews with the Marketing Manager of the company were conducted as well as an analysis of marketing documents relating to Pan Macmillan’s current marketing actions. Results of the interviews and documentation analysis showed that Pan Macmillan had many elements digital marketing but no decisive digital marketing strategy. Using the selected frameworks and information gathered on the company’s marketing practices, digital marketing goals were established and a digital marketing strategy was created. The goals of the research were reached as a recommended digital marketing strategy was developed for Pan Macmillan based on the assessment made, using RACE, SOSTAC and the 7 steps to digital marketing creation, of the company’s current practices, challenges and opportunities with regards to digital marketing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Conradie, Tessa Jane
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:865 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021247
- Description: This research attempts to create a recommended digital marketing strategy for Pan Macmillan, South Africa. As a result of the advance of technology and the increase of connectivity, digital marketing is becoming a highly important tool with regards to competitive advantage, differentiation and the overall marketing of a company and its product or service (Barwise and Farley, 2005, p. 68). Digital marketing is, in South Africa specifically, a relatively new concept (Sandmann, 2014, p. 1). If South African companies are able to efficiently utilise the gap in the market, they will ensure a significant competitive advantage (Sandmann, 2013, p. 1). In order to accomplish this successfully a digital marketing strategy must be created and adopted to ensure a full understanding of the requirements of effective digital marketing. This research focusses on understanding digital marketing requirements in relation to a South African book publisher and how those requirements can be met by the publisher through the development of a digital marketing strategy. The literature has been reviewed and previous research indicates that an established framework is needed to guide the development of a digital marketing strategy. The framework used in this research is the RACE framework (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2013, p. 14) which is used in conjunction to the SOSTAC planning system (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2014, p. 11) and the 7 steps to digital marketing strategy creation (Chaffey and Bosomworth, 2014, p. 2). The literature suggests that a combination of the established traditional marketing strategy of a company and current digital marketing practices and tools is the most practical with regards to the development of a successful digital marketing strategy, implementation and evaluation. In order to understand the current marketing strategy and practices of Pan Macmillan, interviews with the Marketing Manager of the company were conducted as well as an analysis of marketing documents relating to Pan Macmillan’s current marketing actions. Results of the interviews and documentation analysis showed that Pan Macmillan had many elements digital marketing but no decisive digital marketing strategy. Using the selected frameworks and information gathered on the company’s marketing practices, digital marketing goals were established and a digital marketing strategy was created. The goals of the research were reached as a recommended digital marketing strategy was developed for Pan Macmillan based on the assessment made, using RACE, SOSTAC and the 7 steps to digital marketing creation, of the company’s current practices, challenges and opportunities with regards to digital marketing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016