Employee engagement in small medium micro enterprise in the Buffalo City Municipality
- Authors: Mlakalaka, Bulelwa Ndileka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18959 , vital:28760
- Description: The purpose of the study was to identify the factors that affect the engagement of the employees in Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in Buffalo City. The quantitative data gathering was conducted in the form of questionnaires accompanied by a covering letter and was distributed amongst the SMMEs in the Buffalo City Area. The companies selected were those that had been operational for longer than four years with an employee complement of more than five. Employee engagement is given different definitions by different authors. The Kenexa Work Trends Report, (2012 cited by Bhuvanaiah and Raya) explain employee engagement as the extent to which employees are motivated to contribute to organisational success and are willingly applying their efforts to accomplish the organisational goals (Bhuvanaiah and Raya 2014:65). Dubrin says that engagement is the employee’s commitment and willingness to stay in the company they work for and to deliver beyond what is expected of them (Dubrin 2013: 205). The variables identified in literature that affect employee engagement are: Nature of continuous learning, Revenue transparency, Employee value proposition, Job satisfaction, Leadership style, Equitable rewards, Supportive colleagues, Supportive working conditions, Compensation and job security and Policies and procedures. The study proved that different variables cannot be looked at in isolation by the SMMEs. This is because the study showed some form of dependency, which was weak, moderate or strong, that existed in these variables. The research proved a weak relationship exists between working conditions and leadership management. A moderate relationship existed between: Continuous learning and Leadership style, Leadership style and Revenue transparency, Working conditions and Continuous improvement, Job security and Leadership style, Leader and Management, Working conditions and Revenue transparency A strong relationship was seen to exist between Continuous learning and Revenue Transparency. A strong relationship also exists between Continuous learning and Management innovation and leadership and revenue transparency. The final recommendations provide the SMMEs in the Buffalo City Municipality with the opportunity to take their businesses from good to great.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mlakalaka, Bulelwa Ndileka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18959 , vital:28760
- Description: The purpose of the study was to identify the factors that affect the engagement of the employees in Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in Buffalo City. The quantitative data gathering was conducted in the form of questionnaires accompanied by a covering letter and was distributed amongst the SMMEs in the Buffalo City Area. The companies selected were those that had been operational for longer than four years with an employee complement of more than five. Employee engagement is given different definitions by different authors. The Kenexa Work Trends Report, (2012 cited by Bhuvanaiah and Raya) explain employee engagement as the extent to which employees are motivated to contribute to organisational success and are willingly applying their efforts to accomplish the organisational goals (Bhuvanaiah and Raya 2014:65). Dubrin says that engagement is the employee’s commitment and willingness to stay in the company they work for and to deliver beyond what is expected of them (Dubrin 2013: 205). The variables identified in literature that affect employee engagement are: Nature of continuous learning, Revenue transparency, Employee value proposition, Job satisfaction, Leadership style, Equitable rewards, Supportive colleagues, Supportive working conditions, Compensation and job security and Policies and procedures. The study proved that different variables cannot be looked at in isolation by the SMMEs. This is because the study showed some form of dependency, which was weak, moderate or strong, that existed in these variables. The research proved a weak relationship exists between working conditions and leadership management. A moderate relationship existed between: Continuous learning and Leadership style, Leadership style and Revenue transparency, Working conditions and Continuous improvement, Job security and Leadership style, Leader and Management, Working conditions and Revenue transparency A strong relationship was seen to exist between Continuous learning and Revenue Transparency. A strong relationship also exists between Continuous learning and Management innovation and leadership and revenue transparency. The final recommendations provide the SMMEs in the Buffalo City Municipality with the opportunity to take their businesses from good to great.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Employee happiness at a financial institution
- Authors: McConnell, Daniel Matthys
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa Happiness -- South Africa -- Employees , Positive psychology -- Employees Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19026 , vital:28766
- Description: Happiness, or the concept of well-being can be traced back to the era of Aristotle (384 to 322 BC), Epicuruss (341 to 270 BC), John Locke (1632 to 1704) and more recently Ed Diener (DOB 1946), who played an integral part in the well-being revolution. People have very different ways in seeking happiness, whether it is closely associated to their personal life, the work environment or in society, they are constantly striving towards a goal of experiencing happiness at its purist form. Bursts of absolute joy and the purist form of immediate gratification cannot provide a path to finding happiness and well-being. The process is intricate and requires a variety of variables integrated into a combination of events and lifestyle experiences to culminate into an existence which produces a feeling of inner peace and fulfillment. Current research suggests that this is not an attainable state of existence, but human nature drives every individual to seek out a path to finding true happiness. The advent of the modern day economic crisis has changed the global environment to the extent where society is attempting to find a new norm to operate in. As a consequence, individuals are presented with new challenges which have forced them to re-evaluate their path to finding a balance in their lives. These changes have added new challenges to deal with and adapt to as new forces in the global environment start to shape a new tomorrow. People spend a large portion of their existence working to earn an income and to provide a means of supporting themselves and their dependents. The challenges they face are enhanced by the strains of working in stressful and pressurised working environments as their employers are also adapting to the changing global environment. Economic pressure is passed on to employees, as they are pushed to achieve the financial results demanded by shareholders. The last ten years has seen a wealth of research being conducted in the space of well-being and how it relates to business has gained popularity. The study of epidemiology refers to the study of components of human behaviour, which have a negative impact on individual functioning, like stress and anxiety disorders. Well-being in the workplace can counter these ailments and create a working environment absent of these negative afflictions which damage the productivity of a workforce. Employers who understand the positive aspects associated with well-being are in a position to effectively deploy their employees to produce improved financial results. The starting point for many organisations is to determine the current level of happiness in their businesses and to establish what variables are responsible for the current state of well-being. The main objective of the empirical study was to determine the level of happiness at a financial institution. The target population (354 potential respondents) is the regional office the financial institution based in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Potential respondents received electronic requests by email, requesting their participation in the study. A total of 164 completed questionnaires were returned (46.33%) and analysed. Literature was reviewed to develop a conceptual model. Seven variables were identified as having an influence on employee happiness and have the potential to change employee well-being levels to aid organisations in their quest to adapt to the prevailing economic conditions and stress people have to deal with on a daily basis. The results from the study show that Work-life, Safety and Security, Growth and Development, Health, Recognition and Reward, Autonomy and Social Connectedness are all closely associate with employee well-being. Safety and security, Autonomy and Recognition and Reward have direct positive associations with the concept of well-being and have a significant relationship and potential to enhance well-being. The end result is that with the correct interventions by an employer, well-being can be measured and applied in the working environment. The correct combination of variables can have a positive impact in the work environment. A happy workforce can be an advantage to an organisation, their interventions can add great value to employees by increasing their commitment to the organisation and ultimately the business can benefit from their Interventions by seeing their efforts being realised in their financial results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: McConnell, Daniel Matthys
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa Happiness -- South Africa -- Employees , Positive psychology -- Employees Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19026 , vital:28766
- Description: Happiness, or the concept of well-being can be traced back to the era of Aristotle (384 to 322 BC), Epicuruss (341 to 270 BC), John Locke (1632 to 1704) and more recently Ed Diener (DOB 1946), who played an integral part in the well-being revolution. People have very different ways in seeking happiness, whether it is closely associated to their personal life, the work environment or in society, they are constantly striving towards a goal of experiencing happiness at its purist form. Bursts of absolute joy and the purist form of immediate gratification cannot provide a path to finding happiness and well-being. The process is intricate and requires a variety of variables integrated into a combination of events and lifestyle experiences to culminate into an existence which produces a feeling of inner peace and fulfillment. Current research suggests that this is not an attainable state of existence, but human nature drives every individual to seek out a path to finding true happiness. The advent of the modern day economic crisis has changed the global environment to the extent where society is attempting to find a new norm to operate in. As a consequence, individuals are presented with new challenges which have forced them to re-evaluate their path to finding a balance in their lives. These changes have added new challenges to deal with and adapt to as new forces in the global environment start to shape a new tomorrow. People spend a large portion of their existence working to earn an income and to provide a means of supporting themselves and their dependents. The challenges they face are enhanced by the strains of working in stressful and pressurised working environments as their employers are also adapting to the changing global environment. Economic pressure is passed on to employees, as they are pushed to achieve the financial results demanded by shareholders. The last ten years has seen a wealth of research being conducted in the space of well-being and how it relates to business has gained popularity. The study of epidemiology refers to the study of components of human behaviour, which have a negative impact on individual functioning, like stress and anxiety disorders. Well-being in the workplace can counter these ailments and create a working environment absent of these negative afflictions which damage the productivity of a workforce. Employers who understand the positive aspects associated with well-being are in a position to effectively deploy their employees to produce improved financial results. The starting point for many organisations is to determine the current level of happiness in their businesses and to establish what variables are responsible for the current state of well-being. The main objective of the empirical study was to determine the level of happiness at a financial institution. The target population (354 potential respondents) is the regional office the financial institution based in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Potential respondents received electronic requests by email, requesting their participation in the study. A total of 164 completed questionnaires were returned (46.33%) and analysed. Literature was reviewed to develop a conceptual model. Seven variables were identified as having an influence on employee happiness and have the potential to change employee well-being levels to aid organisations in their quest to adapt to the prevailing economic conditions and stress people have to deal with on a daily basis. The results from the study show that Work-life, Safety and Security, Growth and Development, Health, Recognition and Reward, Autonomy and Social Connectedness are all closely associate with employee well-being. Safety and security, Autonomy and Recognition and Reward have direct positive associations with the concept of well-being and have a significant relationship and potential to enhance well-being. The end result is that with the correct interventions by an employer, well-being can be measured and applied in the working environment. The correct combination of variables can have a positive impact in the work environment. A happy workforce can be an advantage to an organisation, their interventions can add great value to employees by increasing their commitment to the organisation and ultimately the business can benefit from their Interventions by seeing their efforts being realised in their financial results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluating critical success factors for effective leadership of projects
- Authors: Notununu, Fezile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Project managers Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20042 , vital:29069
- Description: Leadership skills in projects are viewed as the secondary need in projects for a competent project manager while technical core skills are viewed as the primary need. This argues that leadership and technical core skills should be treated the same as the primary need, furthermore the leadership skills should never be compromised when recruiting a project manager. Qualitative research was employed for this study. The researcher explored the ontology and epistemology as the research paradigms of the study. Data was collected through focus groups, unstructured interviews and through case study. The data collected was analysed by employing the content analysis and descriptive analysis. The quality of the data was the main focus for ensuring that correct information was obtained, and hence triangulation was employed. The recommendations provided will contribute to the efficient and successful execution of projects. The drive to ensure effective leadership projects can be achieved through employing the following: Development of accidental project managers; accreditation of project managers; project management training for project managers; recruitment of project managers, hard technical skills and soft skills for competent project managers. If these recommendations are properly implemented the organisation may realise savings on their projects, and will be able to complete their projects on time, within approved budgets and approved scope of work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Notununu, Fezile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Project managers Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20042 , vital:29069
- Description: Leadership skills in projects are viewed as the secondary need in projects for a competent project manager while technical core skills are viewed as the primary need. This argues that leadership and technical core skills should be treated the same as the primary need, furthermore the leadership skills should never be compromised when recruiting a project manager. Qualitative research was employed for this study. The researcher explored the ontology and epistemology as the research paradigms of the study. Data was collected through focus groups, unstructured interviews and through case study. The data collected was analysed by employing the content analysis and descriptive analysis. The quality of the data was the main focus for ensuring that correct information was obtained, and hence triangulation was employed. The recommendations provided will contribute to the efficient and successful execution of projects. The drive to ensure effective leadership projects can be achieved through employing the following: Development of accidental project managers; accreditation of project managers; project management training for project managers; recruitment of project managers, hard technical skills and soft skills for competent project managers. If these recommendations are properly implemented the organisation may realise savings on their projects, and will be able to complete their projects on time, within approved budgets and approved scope of work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluating intrapreneurship levels at an Eastern Cape automotive manufacturing plant
- Authors: Barnard, Christiaan Beautry
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Business incubators -- South Africa Entrepreneurship -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14960 , vital:28023
- Description: The term automotive industry is an umbrella term for concerns and undertakings contributing to the manufacturing of motor vehicles. This includes components such as engines, electronics, harnesses, interiors and shells, but excludes consumables such as tires, batteries and fuel. The local automotive industry is one of South Africa’s most profitable industries, funding more than 7% of the country’s GDP and contributing towards almost 12% of South Africa's manufacturing exports. Many multinational automotive manufacturers have invested in South Africa. This has allowed them to be strategically placed with the intention to source components, assemble and produce vehicles locally for the South African and other world markets. Due to the current contributions and its potential to grow the South African economy, the South African administration has recognised the automotive industry as an important sector. The South African government introduced the Motor Industry Development Programme during 1994 and the Automotive Production and Development Programme since 2013 to further stimulate the market and investment and further aims to increase the local production of vehicles to 1.2 million units per year as part of its 2020 vision. When considering the global competition, from China and Eastern Europe, it is imperative for the South African manufacturers to pursue and implement innovative practices to ensure that they can be competitive in the global arena, to retain and attract more multinational manufacturers to invest in the country and to ensure the future of existing multinational manufacturing facilities. Many scholars agree that intrapreneurship, also known as corporate entrepreneurship, is an approach which has the ability to help organisations to be more innovative and can guarantee competitiveness. Intrapreneurship is a valid and important aspect of entrepreneurial research. The subject of intrapreneurship can be divided into several key areas: 1. The individual operating as an intrapreneur within an organisation, focusing on his or her traits and the acknowledgement and support received within the organisation; 2. The conceptualisation and implementation of innovative projects from inside the organisation, focusing on the different departments and business units within the organisation’s corporate structure; 3. The entrepreneurial organisation, focusing on the core characteristics of the organisation. This study explores the concept of intrapreneurship, by consulting existing literature and then measuring the levels of intrapreneurship at a German automotive manufacturing plant in the Eastern Cape. To ensure anonymity of the organisation in which the study is conducted, it will be referred to as Company X. Currently no studies focused on intrapreneurship have been conducted within Company X. Innovative practices are not demonstrated as much as desired at the local manufacturing plant of company X and the levels of intrapreneurship within the manufacturing plant are currently still unknown. With the automotive industry being such an important contributor to the South African economy, it might be beneficial to do a similar study pertaining to multiple companies within the industry and value chain. This can assist in creating a bigger awareness within the industry, so that the affected organisations can have a more intrapreneurial approach towards business. The study can furthermore be adapted to consider a more technical approach of production facilities within South Africa and the intrapreneurial approach and innovations implemented to insure productivity and future investments, locally and international, within the production sector of South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Barnard, Christiaan Beautry
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Business incubators -- South Africa Entrepreneurship -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14960 , vital:28023
- Description: The term automotive industry is an umbrella term for concerns and undertakings contributing to the manufacturing of motor vehicles. This includes components such as engines, electronics, harnesses, interiors and shells, but excludes consumables such as tires, batteries and fuel. The local automotive industry is one of South Africa’s most profitable industries, funding more than 7% of the country’s GDP and contributing towards almost 12% of South Africa's manufacturing exports. Many multinational automotive manufacturers have invested in South Africa. This has allowed them to be strategically placed with the intention to source components, assemble and produce vehicles locally for the South African and other world markets. Due to the current contributions and its potential to grow the South African economy, the South African administration has recognised the automotive industry as an important sector. The South African government introduced the Motor Industry Development Programme during 1994 and the Automotive Production and Development Programme since 2013 to further stimulate the market and investment and further aims to increase the local production of vehicles to 1.2 million units per year as part of its 2020 vision. When considering the global competition, from China and Eastern Europe, it is imperative for the South African manufacturers to pursue and implement innovative practices to ensure that they can be competitive in the global arena, to retain and attract more multinational manufacturers to invest in the country and to ensure the future of existing multinational manufacturing facilities. Many scholars agree that intrapreneurship, also known as corporate entrepreneurship, is an approach which has the ability to help organisations to be more innovative and can guarantee competitiveness. Intrapreneurship is a valid and important aspect of entrepreneurial research. The subject of intrapreneurship can be divided into several key areas: 1. The individual operating as an intrapreneur within an organisation, focusing on his or her traits and the acknowledgement and support received within the organisation; 2. The conceptualisation and implementation of innovative projects from inside the organisation, focusing on the different departments and business units within the organisation’s corporate structure; 3. The entrepreneurial organisation, focusing on the core characteristics of the organisation. This study explores the concept of intrapreneurship, by consulting existing literature and then measuring the levels of intrapreneurship at a German automotive manufacturing plant in the Eastern Cape. To ensure anonymity of the organisation in which the study is conducted, it will be referred to as Company X. Currently no studies focused on intrapreneurship have been conducted within Company X. Innovative practices are not demonstrated as much as desired at the local manufacturing plant of company X and the levels of intrapreneurship within the manufacturing plant are currently still unknown. With the automotive industry being such an important contributor to the South African economy, it might be beneficial to do a similar study pertaining to multiple companies within the industry and value chain. This can assist in creating a bigger awareness within the industry, so that the affected organisations can have a more intrapreneurial approach towards business. The study can furthermore be adapted to consider a more technical approach of production facilities within South Africa and the intrapreneurial approach and innovations implemented to insure productivity and future investments, locally and international, within the production sector of South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluating the automotive production development programme of the automotive component manufacturing industry: envisaged future interventions
- Authors: Fokker, Cornelis Dirk
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- Developing countries , Sustainable development -- Developing countries , Production management -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15215 , vital:28179
- Description: The automotive component manufacturer's (ACM's) operations are not sustainable due to their competitiveness, only determined by price. for ACM's to be competitive, effective government incentives in the automotive industry need to be present. The study was undertaken to provide a blueprint for change required in government incentives.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Fokker, Cornelis Dirk
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- Developing countries , Sustainable development -- Developing countries , Production management -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15215 , vital:28179
- Description: The automotive component manufacturer's (ACM's) operations are not sustainable due to their competitiveness, only determined by price. for ACM's to be competitive, effective government incentives in the automotive industry need to be present. The study was undertaken to provide a blueprint for change required in government incentives.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluating the safety climate effects on employee safety behaviour in ESKOM distribution Eastern Cape operating unit
- Authors: Rondganger, Aron Dominique
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Eskom (Firm) Industrial safety -- South Africa , Employee health promotion -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47755 , vital:40368
- Description: Work-related injuries have a significant social and economic impact on organisations and countries. Safety climate has been found to be the leading indicator to predict employee safety behaviour in an effort to reduce incidents and injuries. The organisation selected has implemented a health and safety strategy that includes a safety management system that defines safety practices. There has been an improvement seen at an organisation level, however this improvement is not wide spread. The aim of this study is to understand the role of safety climate and its effect on safety behaviour within the Eastern Cape Operating Unit. The sample only consisted of employees from the organisation selected for this study. A stratified sampling method was chosen and three hundred (300) questionnaires were distributed to managers (10), supervisors (20) and field workers (270). A total of two hundred and seventy eight employees (92.7% response rate) participated in the study consisting of nine managers (90% response rate), seventeen supervisors (85% response rate) and two hundred and forty-nine field workers (92.2% response rate). The empirical results show that organisational-level safety climate has a significant influence on team-level safety climate. The overall safety climate within the organisation was not high and the safety climate perceptions of managers, supervisors and field workers were not related. Organisation-level and team-level safety climate was found to influence safety behaviour. The results also revealed that the compliance and participation safety behaviours reported by managers, supervisors and field workers are high. It was further discovered that the safety behaviours of these three groups are related. The implementation of the recommendations that were highlighted from these results would have a significant improvement in the organisation’s safety climate and this would lead to reduced unsafe acts and safety related incidents in the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Rondganger, Aron Dominique
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Eskom (Firm) Industrial safety -- South Africa , Employee health promotion -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47755 , vital:40368
- Description: Work-related injuries have a significant social and economic impact on organisations and countries. Safety climate has been found to be the leading indicator to predict employee safety behaviour in an effort to reduce incidents and injuries. The organisation selected has implemented a health and safety strategy that includes a safety management system that defines safety practices. There has been an improvement seen at an organisation level, however this improvement is not wide spread. The aim of this study is to understand the role of safety climate and its effect on safety behaviour within the Eastern Cape Operating Unit. The sample only consisted of employees from the organisation selected for this study. A stratified sampling method was chosen and three hundred (300) questionnaires were distributed to managers (10), supervisors (20) and field workers (270). A total of two hundred and seventy eight employees (92.7% response rate) participated in the study consisting of nine managers (90% response rate), seventeen supervisors (85% response rate) and two hundred and forty-nine field workers (92.2% response rate). The empirical results show that organisational-level safety climate has a significant influence on team-level safety climate. The overall safety climate within the organisation was not high and the safety climate perceptions of managers, supervisors and field workers were not related. Organisation-level and team-level safety climate was found to influence safety behaviour. The results also revealed that the compliance and participation safety behaviours reported by managers, supervisors and field workers are high. It was further discovered that the safety behaviours of these three groups are related. The implementation of the recommendations that were highlighted from these results would have a significant improvement in the organisation’s safety climate and this would lead to reduced unsafe acts and safety related incidents in the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring counterfeit versus authentic purchases of youth consumers
- Authors: Koeberg, Richenda
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Brand name products Young consumers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18805 , vital:28725
- Description: The purpose of this research was to explore counterfeit versus authentic luxury branded products from the perspective of consumers’ choice and social influence. Africa’s high level of domestic poverty has been one of the crucial factors for encouraging the import of counterfeit products (Meeking, 2013). In 2011, South Africa had estimated the counterfeit industry to be at R3.60 billion; and it is currently viewed as the world’s fastest growing industry (Le Cordeur, 2012; News24, 2011). Research on the purchases of counterfeit and authentic luxury brands has focused primarily on the supply side; however, this assumes that consumers are unaware of counterfeits. The aim was to explore whether consumers are able to distinguish between authentic and counterfeit products. In addition, the research also aimed to explore: 1) Youth consumers’ perceptions of luxury brands; 2) the attitudes of youth consumers towards counterfeit luxury brands; 3) the behaviour of youth consumers towards counterfeit products in general; and 4) the perceived influence of functional or status utility products on purchase behaviour. Therefore To methods of analysis was used; first a discrimination test was conducted and analysed using basic descriptive statistics were used. And second, a qualitative research methodology was adopted, from a social constructionist paradigm. Four focus-group interviews were conducted and analysed using thematic analysis. The results from the thematic analysis identified five themes, namely: 1) The conceptualisation of counterfeits; 2) conceptualising luxury brands; 3) attitudes towards counterfeit-branded products; 4) consumer decision-making styles; 5) status; and 6) post-purchase behaviour. This empirical study forms a foundation for future research on this phenomenon in the current context. Additionally, manufacturers should be aware of the impact of selling defect branded products on consumers’ conceptualisation of counterfeits. Marketers should also focus on the salient role of sneakers as status symbols among youth consumers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Koeberg, Richenda
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Brand name products Young consumers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18805 , vital:28725
- Description: The purpose of this research was to explore counterfeit versus authentic luxury branded products from the perspective of consumers’ choice and social influence. Africa’s high level of domestic poverty has been one of the crucial factors for encouraging the import of counterfeit products (Meeking, 2013). In 2011, South Africa had estimated the counterfeit industry to be at R3.60 billion; and it is currently viewed as the world’s fastest growing industry (Le Cordeur, 2012; News24, 2011). Research on the purchases of counterfeit and authentic luxury brands has focused primarily on the supply side; however, this assumes that consumers are unaware of counterfeits. The aim was to explore whether consumers are able to distinguish between authentic and counterfeit products. In addition, the research also aimed to explore: 1) Youth consumers’ perceptions of luxury brands; 2) the attitudes of youth consumers towards counterfeit luxury brands; 3) the behaviour of youth consumers towards counterfeit products in general; and 4) the perceived influence of functional or status utility products on purchase behaviour. Therefore To methods of analysis was used; first a discrimination test was conducted and analysed using basic descriptive statistics were used. And second, a qualitative research methodology was adopted, from a social constructionist paradigm. Four focus-group interviews were conducted and analysed using thematic analysis. The results from the thematic analysis identified five themes, namely: 1) The conceptualisation of counterfeits; 2) conceptualising luxury brands; 3) attitudes towards counterfeit-branded products; 4) consumer decision-making styles; 5) status; and 6) post-purchase behaviour. This empirical study forms a foundation for future research on this phenomenon in the current context. Additionally, manufacturers should be aware of the impact of selling defect branded products on consumers’ conceptualisation of counterfeits. Marketers should also focus on the salient role of sneakers as status symbols among youth consumers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring HIV and AIDS workplace programmes in the tourism industry of Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Mahlangeni, Iviwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention and control -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Prevention and control -- South Africa , Tourism -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Health Programmes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9197 , vital:26473
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore and describe HIV and AIDS workplace programmes and policies (WPPs) in the tourism industry of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) in South Africa. This study adopted a quantitative and qualitative approach, in other words, a mixed approach. The reason for using more than one method of inquiry was to obtain a deeper understanding of the tourism industry of NMBM in terms of examined behaviour, and of the meaning of occurrences in the industry. To gather qualitative data concerning HIV and AIDS programmes, key informant stakeholders in the tourism industry at global, national, provincial, and local levels were identified to conduct in-depth interviews. These respondents were selected using the non-probability sampling method of quota sampling. This is a type of stratified sampling in which the selection of the strata within the sample is not random, but rather is typically left to the discretion of the interviewer (Wienclaw, 2015). One respondent for each level of the industry was selected, resulting in four key informant stakeholders participating in the qualitative research component of this study. The initial criterion for participation in the quantitative portion for this study was that tourism businesses based in NMBM must be able to produce robust evidence of HIV and AIDS WPPs. The researcher selected the probability sampling method of stratified random sampling with proportional allocation. This technique considers the known characteristics of the population (Wienclaw, 2015). A database of tourism businesses was obtained from the local tourism organisation, who are members of the governing body for local tourism. This database was cleaned, to eliminate any data that did not meet the participation criterion for the study. Ten per cent of the total number of businesses in the cleaned database were sampled. The simplest approach to sampling is to merely randomly select from the population by, for example, having a computer choose names at random from a list, or by selecting names from a hat (Wienclaw, 2015). Therefore, every fifth business listed on the sampled database was selected to participate. Unfortunately, surveys tend to have notoriously low return rates, and people are frequently reluctant to give out information over the phone. This was also the case for most of the tourism businesses in the sample. When emailed or telephoned, they refused to participate for various reasons. Some stated that HIV does not affect their business; others reported that their businesses were too small and therefore they could not afford to implement these programmes. Some businesses were hearing about the WPP for the very first time, while several others responded with simple disinterest in participating. The findings of the study are that although tourism is viewed as an important industry that contributes to the economy, tourism businesses do not include any intervention programmes with which to respond to the threat of HIV and AIDS to their businesses. Additionally, there is neither leadership nor support from any level of the tourism industry, to create a conducive environment for the adoption of HIV and AIDS WPPs by tourism businesses. The primary reason for the lack of uptake of these programmes is ignorance across cascading levels of the tourism industry, which includes tourism businesses. Additionally, a number of perceived barriers, such as size of business, are cited as the reasons why tourism workplaces in the NMBM fail to participate in HIV and AIDS WPPs. It is anticipated that this study will create further awareness of HIV and AIDS WPPs, in an industry that seems to have limited knowledge about such programmes. This study will also provide guidance regarding the requirements to implement effective HIV and AIDS WPPs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mahlangeni, Iviwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention and control -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Prevention and control -- South Africa , Tourism -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Health Programmes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/9197 , vital:26473
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore and describe HIV and AIDS workplace programmes and policies (WPPs) in the tourism industry of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) in South Africa. This study adopted a quantitative and qualitative approach, in other words, a mixed approach. The reason for using more than one method of inquiry was to obtain a deeper understanding of the tourism industry of NMBM in terms of examined behaviour, and of the meaning of occurrences in the industry. To gather qualitative data concerning HIV and AIDS programmes, key informant stakeholders in the tourism industry at global, national, provincial, and local levels were identified to conduct in-depth interviews. These respondents were selected using the non-probability sampling method of quota sampling. This is a type of stratified sampling in which the selection of the strata within the sample is not random, but rather is typically left to the discretion of the interviewer (Wienclaw, 2015). One respondent for each level of the industry was selected, resulting in four key informant stakeholders participating in the qualitative research component of this study. The initial criterion for participation in the quantitative portion for this study was that tourism businesses based in NMBM must be able to produce robust evidence of HIV and AIDS WPPs. The researcher selected the probability sampling method of stratified random sampling with proportional allocation. This technique considers the known characteristics of the population (Wienclaw, 2015). A database of tourism businesses was obtained from the local tourism organisation, who are members of the governing body for local tourism. This database was cleaned, to eliminate any data that did not meet the participation criterion for the study. Ten per cent of the total number of businesses in the cleaned database were sampled. The simplest approach to sampling is to merely randomly select from the population by, for example, having a computer choose names at random from a list, or by selecting names from a hat (Wienclaw, 2015). Therefore, every fifth business listed on the sampled database was selected to participate. Unfortunately, surveys tend to have notoriously low return rates, and people are frequently reluctant to give out information over the phone. This was also the case for most of the tourism businesses in the sample. When emailed or telephoned, they refused to participate for various reasons. Some stated that HIV does not affect their business; others reported that their businesses were too small and therefore they could not afford to implement these programmes. Some businesses were hearing about the WPP for the very first time, while several others responded with simple disinterest in participating. The findings of the study are that although tourism is viewed as an important industry that contributes to the economy, tourism businesses do not include any intervention programmes with which to respond to the threat of HIV and AIDS to their businesses. Additionally, there is neither leadership nor support from any level of the tourism industry, to create a conducive environment for the adoption of HIV and AIDS WPPs by tourism businesses. The primary reason for the lack of uptake of these programmes is ignorance across cascading levels of the tourism industry, which includes tourism businesses. Additionally, a number of perceived barriers, such as size of business, are cited as the reasons why tourism workplaces in the NMBM fail to participate in HIV and AIDS WPPs. It is anticipated that this study will create further awareness of HIV and AIDS WPPs, in an industry that seems to have limited knowledge about such programmes. This study will also provide guidance regarding the requirements to implement effective HIV and AIDS WPPs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring the management-union relationship in an Eastern Cape public sector department
- Authors: Mkalipi, Nosivatho Getrude
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Industrial relations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor unions -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor movement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Work environment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Government business enterprises -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18365 , vital:28627
- Description: This study explored the relationship between management and the union in an Eastern Cape Public Sector Department. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative research tools to collect information from the respondents, who gave a view on their experiences of what the relationship is, and how it could be improved. The sample consisted of members of management and union executives, across employment levels. Both statistical and thematic analysis were used to analyse data from questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The literature review defined the concept of trade unionism, management and trade union relationship in the workplace, and different frames of reference of the labour relations system. From the literature review it is noted that management and union relationships are more of a formal arrangement in the workplace; as such government, has developed tools to assist in this regard. Although that is not the case in the Department it is noted that the informal arrangement in the relationship between management and union is ‘working’ to some extent. Quality and sustainability of that, however, is questionable. The findings indicate that most members of management acknowledge the existence of the relationship between management and the union, but they are dissatisfied, as most members are not part of the engagements with the union. They are also of the view that it is in favour of the union. Unions on the other hand, view the existing relationship as working in favour of one union instead of the union collective. The union which finds favour is satisfied, and the other is not. It is recommended that the management and union engagement be formalized in order for the Department to work with unions in a more structured, professional manner, which would be inclusive of other members of management who feel left out. Not only that, but management would also be able to engage with the union as a collective, and not as an individual union.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mkalipi, Nosivatho Getrude
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Industrial relations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor unions -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor movement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Work environment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Government business enterprises -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18365 , vital:28627
- Description: This study explored the relationship between management and the union in an Eastern Cape Public Sector Department. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative research tools to collect information from the respondents, who gave a view on their experiences of what the relationship is, and how it could be improved. The sample consisted of members of management and union executives, across employment levels. Both statistical and thematic analysis were used to analyse data from questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The literature review defined the concept of trade unionism, management and trade union relationship in the workplace, and different frames of reference of the labour relations system. From the literature review it is noted that management and union relationships are more of a formal arrangement in the workplace; as such government, has developed tools to assist in this regard. Although that is not the case in the Department it is noted that the informal arrangement in the relationship between management and union is ‘working’ to some extent. Quality and sustainability of that, however, is questionable. The findings indicate that most members of management acknowledge the existence of the relationship between management and the union, but they are dissatisfied, as most members are not part of the engagements with the union. They are also of the view that it is in favour of the union. Unions on the other hand, view the existing relationship as working in favour of one union instead of the union collective. The union which finds favour is satisfied, and the other is not. It is recommended that the management and union engagement be formalized in order for the Department to work with unions in a more structured, professional manner, which would be inclusive of other members of management who feel left out. Not only that, but management would also be able to engage with the union as a collective, and not as an individual union.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Factors influencing effective electronic word-of-mouth marketing
- Authors: Bhana, Lauren
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Word-of-mouth advertising Internet marketing , Telemarketing Electronic commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14631 , vital:27806
- Description: Marketing serves to satisfy customer needs and wants while building strong customer relationships in an effort to gain value from customers in return. On understanding that customer satisfaction is needed for a business to survive and grow, the important role marketing plays within a business is emphasised as it contributes to overall business performance. Building relationships also emphasises the importance of communication within marketing. Traditional person-to-person word-of-mouth communication has always played a role in marketing a product or service. The evolution of technology over recent years has enabled electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM), which is frequently carried out and has proven to be another effective marketing tool. Due to the fundamental role that marketing plays within a business and the frequent use of electronic word-of-mouth as a marketing tool it is important that business owners and marketers are aware of the factors influencing the effectiveness of it. This study explores eWOM from a marketing perspective, through investigating the factors that contribute towards the effectiveness of eWOM as a marketing tool. Therefore the primary objective of the study was to investigate the factors influencing effective eWOM marketing. A quantitative research approach was followed to empirically test the hypotheses and determine whether relationships exist between the four independent variables (factors influencing eWOM) and the dependent variable (effective eWOM marketing). A self-administered, five-point Likert-scale style structured questionnaire was used to obtain the data. The sample for this study comprised of 360 consumer respondents within the Nelson Mandela Metropole. An exploratory factor analysis extracted four valid constructs namely feedback, trustworthiness, social status and networking as the factors influencing effective eWOM marketing. Cronbach’s alphas confirmed the reliability of all extracted constructs. Most correlation results indicated moderate associations between the variables. However, effective eWOM marketing proved to have a strong correlation with social status. The results of the multiple regressions for the factors influencing effective eWOM marketing identified three statistically significant relationships between feedback, social status, networking and effective eWOM marketing. MANOVAS confirmed eleven statistically significant relationships of which only three were of practical significance. Practical significant relationships exist between ethnic affiliation, current position, years working experience and social status. In addition to identifying the three specific factors influencing effective eWOM marketing, namely online feedback, the need to obtain social status and the desire to engage in online networking, this study has made several contributions, specifically to eWOM marketing. This study has recommended specific online marketing strategies to increase effective eWOM for online feedback, for individuals to obtain social status and to engage in online networking. The hypothesised model developed from the study, illustrating the three factors that influence effective eWOM marketing for South African consumers, can now be used by other researchers in other countries as a framework for further testing or for businesses/marketing organisations to obtain information on the attributes to pay attention to increase the effectiveness of their eWOM marketing. The role that demographics such as ethnic affiliation, position in the business and years working experience play in satisfying the need of individuals to obtain social status in an online setting via eWOM marketing, were also confirmed. Furthermore, this study has provided practical advice to businesses/marketing organisations on how to utilise this knowledge to their advantage when wishing to stimulate eWOM conversations about their products and services. The findings of the research will also assist businesses/marketing organisations to initiate eWOM engagement and communicate more effectively with consumers online to obtain information on how to improve on and change existing products/services or the need for new product/service offerings to retain customers, ensure continuous consumer satisfaction and increase business turnover.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Bhana, Lauren
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Word-of-mouth advertising Internet marketing , Telemarketing Electronic commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14631 , vital:27806
- Description: Marketing serves to satisfy customer needs and wants while building strong customer relationships in an effort to gain value from customers in return. On understanding that customer satisfaction is needed for a business to survive and grow, the important role marketing plays within a business is emphasised as it contributes to overall business performance. Building relationships also emphasises the importance of communication within marketing. Traditional person-to-person word-of-mouth communication has always played a role in marketing a product or service. The evolution of technology over recent years has enabled electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM), which is frequently carried out and has proven to be another effective marketing tool. Due to the fundamental role that marketing plays within a business and the frequent use of electronic word-of-mouth as a marketing tool it is important that business owners and marketers are aware of the factors influencing the effectiveness of it. This study explores eWOM from a marketing perspective, through investigating the factors that contribute towards the effectiveness of eWOM as a marketing tool. Therefore the primary objective of the study was to investigate the factors influencing effective eWOM marketing. A quantitative research approach was followed to empirically test the hypotheses and determine whether relationships exist between the four independent variables (factors influencing eWOM) and the dependent variable (effective eWOM marketing). A self-administered, five-point Likert-scale style structured questionnaire was used to obtain the data. The sample for this study comprised of 360 consumer respondents within the Nelson Mandela Metropole. An exploratory factor analysis extracted four valid constructs namely feedback, trustworthiness, social status and networking as the factors influencing effective eWOM marketing. Cronbach’s alphas confirmed the reliability of all extracted constructs. Most correlation results indicated moderate associations between the variables. However, effective eWOM marketing proved to have a strong correlation with social status. The results of the multiple regressions for the factors influencing effective eWOM marketing identified three statistically significant relationships between feedback, social status, networking and effective eWOM marketing. MANOVAS confirmed eleven statistically significant relationships of which only three were of practical significance. Practical significant relationships exist between ethnic affiliation, current position, years working experience and social status. In addition to identifying the three specific factors influencing effective eWOM marketing, namely online feedback, the need to obtain social status and the desire to engage in online networking, this study has made several contributions, specifically to eWOM marketing. This study has recommended specific online marketing strategies to increase effective eWOM for online feedback, for individuals to obtain social status and to engage in online networking. The hypothesised model developed from the study, illustrating the three factors that influence effective eWOM marketing for South African consumers, can now be used by other researchers in other countries as a framework for further testing or for businesses/marketing organisations to obtain information on the attributes to pay attention to increase the effectiveness of their eWOM marketing. The role that demographics such as ethnic affiliation, position in the business and years working experience play in satisfying the need of individuals to obtain social status in an online setting via eWOM marketing, were also confirmed. Furthermore, this study has provided practical advice to businesses/marketing organisations on how to utilise this knowledge to their advantage when wishing to stimulate eWOM conversations about their products and services. The findings of the research will also assist businesses/marketing organisations to initiate eWOM engagement and communicate more effectively with consumers online to obtain information on how to improve on and change existing products/services or the need for new product/service offerings to retain customers, ensure continuous consumer satisfaction and increase business turnover.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Factors influencing retention and turnover of the South African healthcare workforce
- Authors: Isaacs, Janice
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Labor turnover -- South Africa Employee retention -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa Organizational behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/16055 , vital:28316
- Description: South Africa experiences a steady loss of skilled workers, which compromises the provision of healthcare in the country. This study has explored and will outline the main factors that influence the decision of South African healthcare professionals to either remain with or leave their organisations. As migration involves both internal and external movement, the public sector is frequently overburdened as healthcare workers additionally tend to prefer working in the private sector with its offers of better financial incentives and better working conditions. That said, it has become apparent that it is not only financial factors but many other non-financial factors that play a role in employee turnover. From the literature explored for this paper, five main factors were identified and discussed for different groups of healthcare professionals. This study used a qualitative research approach by means of a content analysis, whereby data from secondary sources were reviewed. This study disregarded studies done in other countries and focused only on the South African healthcare sector. Push and pull factors were established and, during this process, HIV/AIDS, crime and human resources were identified as possible push factors that contribute to the movement of South Africa’s healthcare workers. Since the five main retention factors identified for the purpose of this research paper all fall under human resources, the study proposes a retention strategy that involves the revision of the employee value proposition for different healthcare groups, as their demands are not uniform. Financial as well as non-financial factors have been taken into account for the various employee value proposition frameworks. These factors must be dealt with congruently if retention and turnover strategies are to be successful. Factors that push healthcare workers from the public.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Isaacs, Janice
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Labor turnover -- South Africa Employee retention -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa Organizational behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/16055 , vital:28316
- Description: South Africa experiences a steady loss of skilled workers, which compromises the provision of healthcare in the country. This study has explored and will outline the main factors that influence the decision of South African healthcare professionals to either remain with or leave their organisations. As migration involves both internal and external movement, the public sector is frequently overburdened as healthcare workers additionally tend to prefer working in the private sector with its offers of better financial incentives and better working conditions. That said, it has become apparent that it is not only financial factors but many other non-financial factors that play a role in employee turnover. From the literature explored for this paper, five main factors were identified and discussed for different groups of healthcare professionals. This study used a qualitative research approach by means of a content analysis, whereby data from secondary sources were reviewed. This study disregarded studies done in other countries and focused only on the South African healthcare sector. Push and pull factors were established and, during this process, HIV/AIDS, crime and human resources were identified as possible push factors that contribute to the movement of South Africa’s healthcare workers. Since the five main retention factors identified for the purpose of this research paper all fall under human resources, the study proposes a retention strategy that involves the revision of the employee value proposition for different healthcare groups, as their demands are not uniform. Financial as well as non-financial factors have been taken into account for the various employee value proposition frameworks. These factors must be dealt with congruently if retention and turnover strategies are to be successful. Factors that push healthcare workers from the public.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Factors inhibiting rural development in the Amahlathi Local Municipality
- Authors: Ngamile, Nolundi Cordelia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19431 , vital:28872
- Description: In South Africa, since 1994 when democratic government came into power, the issue of development was raised as one of the priorities of government. Government promised citizens livelihoods to be improved through quality, effective and efficient services. Rural development was identified as one priorities of government to ensure better life for all the citizens. The issue of rural development was still a challenge in South Africa especially in the Eastern Cape Province. Amahlathi local municipality is not an exception from these challenges. Transformation of rural communities in this area through rural development is very slow. It is quite evident that although rural development was a priority initiative this municipality is still facing challenges. There are factors and constraints inhibiting rural development. The primary objective of this research was to obtain a better understanding of poverty and development in rural areas and also to identify the underlying factors and challenges inhibiting rural development. The study had three objectives. The first objective was to identify factors inhibiting rural development in the Amahlathi Local Municipality; the second objective was to identify the constraints on economic activities in Amahlathi Municipality. The third objective was to ascertain what has been done to address the needs of rural people in Amahlathi Local Municipality by agents of development, such as government and non-governmental organisations. The study employed a qualitative approach for an in-depth understanding and verification. Source of documents included academic and non -academic books, journal articles published and unpublished dissertations, official documents of the government and the magazines and the internet were used as sources of secondary data. The main finding in terms of the research objective is that there a number of factors inhibiting rural development include lack of basic infrastructure, lack of access to markets, low employment, and training and capacity building. Infrastructure such as roads, transport and irrigation is crucial for improving and stabilising the livelihoods of rural households and providing access to markets and key social services in the Amahlathi Municipality. The recommends that a serious interventions by the states should be employed and also has to encourage investment in infrastructure using labour-intensive methods to reduce service backlogs in underserviced areas in Amahlathi. Government has to develop service-improvement programmes that generate income and employment in order to reduce poverty in Amahlathi Municipality. This includes empowerment of people.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ngamile, Nolundi Cordelia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19431 , vital:28872
- Description: In South Africa, since 1994 when democratic government came into power, the issue of development was raised as one of the priorities of government. Government promised citizens livelihoods to be improved through quality, effective and efficient services. Rural development was identified as one priorities of government to ensure better life for all the citizens. The issue of rural development was still a challenge in South Africa especially in the Eastern Cape Province. Amahlathi local municipality is not an exception from these challenges. Transformation of rural communities in this area through rural development is very slow. It is quite evident that although rural development was a priority initiative this municipality is still facing challenges. There are factors and constraints inhibiting rural development. The primary objective of this research was to obtain a better understanding of poverty and development in rural areas and also to identify the underlying factors and challenges inhibiting rural development. The study had three objectives. The first objective was to identify factors inhibiting rural development in the Amahlathi Local Municipality; the second objective was to identify the constraints on economic activities in Amahlathi Municipality. The third objective was to ascertain what has been done to address the needs of rural people in Amahlathi Local Municipality by agents of development, such as government and non-governmental organisations. The study employed a qualitative approach for an in-depth understanding and verification. Source of documents included academic and non -academic books, journal articles published and unpublished dissertations, official documents of the government and the magazines and the internet were used as sources of secondary data. The main finding in terms of the research objective is that there a number of factors inhibiting rural development include lack of basic infrastructure, lack of access to markets, low employment, and training and capacity building. Infrastructure such as roads, transport and irrigation is crucial for improving and stabilising the livelihoods of rural households and providing access to markets and key social services in the Amahlathi Municipality. The recommends that a serious interventions by the states should be employed and also has to encourage investment in infrastructure using labour-intensive methods to reduce service backlogs in underserviced areas in Amahlathi. Government has to develop service-improvement programmes that generate income and employment in order to reduce poverty in Amahlathi Municipality. This includes empowerment of people.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Factors that prevent black South Africans from attaining adequate levels of saving
- Authors: Mantashe, Zuko Nathi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Saving and investment -- Blacks -- South Africa Finance, Personal -- Blacks -- South Africa , Economic development -- Blacks -- South Africa Economics -- Blacks -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18551 , vital:28676
- Description: South Africa is trailing behind its BRICS counterparts in terms of Gross national Savings rates. South Africa stands at around 16% of gross domestic product, fellow BRICS members China and Russia are standing at approximately 52% and 22% respectively. South Africa saw a decline from approximately 30% GDP to savings ratio before 1994 to the current level of approximately 16%. The trend has been very similar in comparison with India. The other similarity between these BRICS countries is that they all have seen very rapid growth. All economic indicators have indicated that the economies of the BRICS nations are very strong and have been performing at a superior level to South Africa. South Africa compares even worse with regards to household savings versus its BRICS counterparts. Various arguments and explanations as to why this is so come up on a number of social, government and corporate platforms. The “aspirational” culture is widely blamed for the poor showing of South African households when it comes to savings. The South African financial sector is very sophisticated and is widely blamed for the encouraging consumption and even worse credit consumption. An analysis done by Ecnometrics found that amongst the significant determinants of household saving rates are: uncertainty (inflation), income level, public sector savings, development’s in the global economy and government economic policy. The study revealed that the above factors were very influential in the rapid economic growth and increased per capita net worth seen of the most BRICS countries. The correlation between saving/investment and consumption/irresponsible consumer behavior is indicated to be a very strong one and takes a very longtime to evolve. This requires outrooting certain societal norms, attitudes and culture and replacing it with a brand new behavior, beliefs and aspirations. Role players that emerge as strong drivers in this phenomena is the societal culture however the other role player who prove to be prominent are the policy makers. In most cases the economic and gross national saving rates coincided with major economic policy reforms in the countries that have performed well.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mantashe, Zuko Nathi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Saving and investment -- Blacks -- South Africa Finance, Personal -- Blacks -- South Africa , Economic development -- Blacks -- South Africa Economics -- Blacks -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18551 , vital:28676
- Description: South Africa is trailing behind its BRICS counterparts in terms of Gross national Savings rates. South Africa stands at around 16% of gross domestic product, fellow BRICS members China and Russia are standing at approximately 52% and 22% respectively. South Africa saw a decline from approximately 30% GDP to savings ratio before 1994 to the current level of approximately 16%. The trend has been very similar in comparison with India. The other similarity between these BRICS countries is that they all have seen very rapid growth. All economic indicators have indicated that the economies of the BRICS nations are very strong and have been performing at a superior level to South Africa. South Africa compares even worse with regards to household savings versus its BRICS counterparts. Various arguments and explanations as to why this is so come up on a number of social, government and corporate platforms. The “aspirational” culture is widely blamed for the poor showing of South African households when it comes to savings. The South African financial sector is very sophisticated and is widely blamed for the encouraging consumption and even worse credit consumption. An analysis done by Ecnometrics found that amongst the significant determinants of household saving rates are: uncertainty (inflation), income level, public sector savings, development’s in the global economy and government economic policy. The study revealed that the above factors were very influential in the rapid economic growth and increased per capita net worth seen of the most BRICS countries. The correlation between saving/investment and consumption/irresponsible consumer behavior is indicated to be a very strong one and takes a very longtime to evolve. This requires outrooting certain societal norms, attitudes and culture and replacing it with a brand new behavior, beliefs and aspirations. Role players that emerge as strong drivers in this phenomena is the societal culture however the other role player who prove to be prominent are the policy makers. In most cases the economic and gross national saving rates coincided with major economic policy reforms in the countries that have performed well.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Financial development in the SADC: growth and cross-country spatial spill-over effects
- Authors: Bara, Alex
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa Economic assistance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14950 , vital:27943
- Description: This study was prompted by the prevailing imbalance in financial development across SADC countries, which is not consistent with the linkages and interconnectedness of financial systems of these economies. South Africa is the most financially developed country in Africa, yet it is surrounded by economies with relatively small and underdeveloped financial systems, contrary to the spatial proximity theory in finance. The study performed a number of empirical estimations in respect of the spatiality of financial development, motivated by the intention to assess the growth and spatial spill-over effects of financial development in SADC. The study provides new information in spatial spill-over dynamics of financial development, which could inform policy development particularly in view of the on-going financial integration in the SADC region. The study also contributes to regional economic development in SADC from a finance perspective. The analysis was performed using annual data for all the 15 SADC countries, spanning for the period 1985 to 2014. Using the Generalised Method of Moments approach, the study finds that financial development does not support economic growth in SADC. Financial reforms were found to be insufficient to drive growth. A bi-directional causality between financial development and economic growth was established with causality being strong when flowing from economic growth to financial development. The extended Aghion, Howitt and Mayer-Foulkes Model, estimated by an Autoregressive Distributive Lag approach, established that financial innovation has a positive relation to economic growth in SADC, particularly in the long-run. There is no causality, in either direction, between financial innovation and economic growth in both the short and long-run. The Spatial Durbin Model reveals a presence of positive spatial effects on financial development in the region and that proximity to South Africa yields consistent effects of spatial externality in money markets and inconsistent spatial externality in credit markets. The monetary union has no influence on spatial dynamics of financial development in SADC. The generalised impulse response analysis of a Bayesian VAR model indicate that shocks in South Africa’s financial sector has positive, but constrained and in some cases weak, financial spill-over effects on both economic growth and financial development of other SADC countries. The study established, using the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index, a high level of financial market concentration for SADC, cantered in South Africa, and a fair distribution when South Africa is excluded. Dynamic panel models established that financial market concentration reduces financial development in SADC. South Africa’s financial development has mixed and opposing effects on financial market concentration in SADC. The findings also show that international finance has a positive, but currently weak, effect on financial development in SADC and countries with international financial centres contribute more to financial development than countries without. Proximity to South Africa creates huge potential for increasing financial development in SADC through spill-overs and more benefits of spatial proximity are realised in the long-run. Given the strong spatial effects in money markets and significant positive spill-overs in credit markets in the region, countries closer to South Africa need to link their money and credit markets to the South African markets and possibly benchmark to the Rand so as to benefit from proximity and spill-overs from South Africa. The results also suggest that SADC countries need to capitalise on their proximity to South Africa to enhance financial development by promoting economic growth, financial innovation, opening and diversification of financial sectors and linkages to global financial markets. Financial innovation supports financial inclusion, cross-border flows of funds, remittances and trade in SADC and has effects of enabling integration with developed markets and facilitating economic activity. Opening financial sectors enhances diversification of financial systems, increases competition and efficiency. To enhance access to international finance, the study suggests the creation of information centres in South Africa with SADC countries as economic hinterlands, commercialisation of solutions to SADC countries financial challenges, financial integration and support for deepening of financial systems in these countries. Strengthening economic growth could also increase financial development given a strong demand-following causality. The major challenge, however, is that some of the SADC countries have underdeveloped and highly concentrated financial systems characterised by high financial intermediation inefficiencies, high financial exclusion, weak financial infrastructure and regulations. Consequently, countries suffer financial leakages, are not receptive to spatial externalities and financial spill-overs from South Africa and often generate financial spillbacks to South Africa. SADC countries should, however, first address the issue of financial exclusion, financial infrastructure and regulation as well as efficiency in the financial markets. The SADC countries need mechanisms to attract financial development from South Africa to benefit from positive spill-overs and instruments to deal with negative externalities of financial shocks in South Africa. Overall, there is potential for increased financial development in SADC by consolidating absorption of positive financial spill-overs and externalities of proximity to South Africa -particularly in the medium to long term. Heterogeneity among SADC countries and the varying levels of financial development, however, dictates that the region should promote financial integration in order to enhance development of underdeveloped financial systems through spatial spill-over gains.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Bara, Alex
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa Economic assistance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14950 , vital:27943
- Description: This study was prompted by the prevailing imbalance in financial development across SADC countries, which is not consistent with the linkages and interconnectedness of financial systems of these economies. South Africa is the most financially developed country in Africa, yet it is surrounded by economies with relatively small and underdeveloped financial systems, contrary to the spatial proximity theory in finance. The study performed a number of empirical estimations in respect of the spatiality of financial development, motivated by the intention to assess the growth and spatial spill-over effects of financial development in SADC. The study provides new information in spatial spill-over dynamics of financial development, which could inform policy development particularly in view of the on-going financial integration in the SADC region. The study also contributes to regional economic development in SADC from a finance perspective. The analysis was performed using annual data for all the 15 SADC countries, spanning for the period 1985 to 2014. Using the Generalised Method of Moments approach, the study finds that financial development does not support economic growth in SADC. Financial reforms were found to be insufficient to drive growth. A bi-directional causality between financial development and economic growth was established with causality being strong when flowing from economic growth to financial development. The extended Aghion, Howitt and Mayer-Foulkes Model, estimated by an Autoregressive Distributive Lag approach, established that financial innovation has a positive relation to economic growth in SADC, particularly in the long-run. There is no causality, in either direction, between financial innovation and economic growth in both the short and long-run. The Spatial Durbin Model reveals a presence of positive spatial effects on financial development in the region and that proximity to South Africa yields consistent effects of spatial externality in money markets and inconsistent spatial externality in credit markets. The monetary union has no influence on spatial dynamics of financial development in SADC. The generalised impulse response analysis of a Bayesian VAR model indicate that shocks in South Africa’s financial sector has positive, but constrained and in some cases weak, financial spill-over effects on both economic growth and financial development of other SADC countries. The study established, using the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index, a high level of financial market concentration for SADC, cantered in South Africa, and a fair distribution when South Africa is excluded. Dynamic panel models established that financial market concentration reduces financial development in SADC. South Africa’s financial development has mixed and opposing effects on financial market concentration in SADC. The findings also show that international finance has a positive, but currently weak, effect on financial development in SADC and countries with international financial centres contribute more to financial development than countries without. Proximity to South Africa creates huge potential for increasing financial development in SADC through spill-overs and more benefits of spatial proximity are realised in the long-run. Given the strong spatial effects in money markets and significant positive spill-overs in credit markets in the region, countries closer to South Africa need to link their money and credit markets to the South African markets and possibly benchmark to the Rand so as to benefit from proximity and spill-overs from South Africa. The results also suggest that SADC countries need to capitalise on their proximity to South Africa to enhance financial development by promoting economic growth, financial innovation, opening and diversification of financial sectors and linkages to global financial markets. Financial innovation supports financial inclusion, cross-border flows of funds, remittances and trade in SADC and has effects of enabling integration with developed markets and facilitating economic activity. Opening financial sectors enhances diversification of financial systems, increases competition and efficiency. To enhance access to international finance, the study suggests the creation of information centres in South Africa with SADC countries as economic hinterlands, commercialisation of solutions to SADC countries financial challenges, financial integration and support for deepening of financial systems in these countries. Strengthening economic growth could also increase financial development given a strong demand-following causality. The major challenge, however, is that some of the SADC countries have underdeveloped and highly concentrated financial systems characterised by high financial intermediation inefficiencies, high financial exclusion, weak financial infrastructure and regulations. Consequently, countries suffer financial leakages, are not receptive to spatial externalities and financial spill-overs from South Africa and often generate financial spillbacks to South Africa. SADC countries should, however, first address the issue of financial exclusion, financial infrastructure and regulation as well as efficiency in the financial markets. The SADC countries need mechanisms to attract financial development from South Africa to benefit from positive spill-overs and instruments to deal with negative externalities of financial shocks in South Africa. Overall, there is potential for increased financial development in SADC by consolidating absorption of positive financial spill-overs and externalities of proximity to South Africa -particularly in the medium to long term. Heterogeneity among SADC countries and the varying levels of financial development, however, dictates that the region should promote financial integration in order to enhance development of underdeveloped financial systems through spatial spill-over gains.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Financial sustainability mechanisms for local NGOs in the Gauteng province, South Africa
- Authors: Manzere, Bogadi Patricia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Gauteng -- Finance Nonprofit organizations -- South Africa -- Gauteng -- Finance , Nonprofit organizations -- South Africa -- Gauteng -- Management Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18562 , vital:28682
- Description: The role of NGOs has been widely recognised in eradicating poverty and creating sustainable development in communities. Governments and private corporations view them as complementary partners in enhancing the livelihoods of people. In order to survive, NGOs need to be financially sustainable to carry out their missions. Their existence is, however, threatened by the current economic and political climate. In South Africa, the recent global economic recession and the country’s recovery from the apartheid system since 1994 have both had a negative impact in funding financial flow to NGOs. Compounded by the growing demand for new NGOs, evidence shows that there is fierce competition between NGOs for the same funding and, since NGOs by nature do not produce commercial outputs, they are limited to pursue funding opportunities made available through donations. This study explored the issues of financial sustainability within local NGOs in the Gauteng Province. The aim was to build mechanisms that could be put in place to monitor organisational financial sustainability over time. The study used a qualitative methodology and the researcher adopted an exploratory design to gain insight and meaning into the issues faced by NGOs. A sample of ten members from local NGOs in the Gauteng Province was identified and data was collected through key informant interviews and questionnaires. The study found that the majority of NGOs face difficulties in achieving financial sustainability over the long-term. The results indicated that funding in the sector is shrinking, with very few NGOs surviving through endowments. Their major challenges in raising funds are due to area limitations, competition within the sector, lack of skills, staff shortage and visibility. They optimise available opportunities but also acknowledge that they are not implementing other fundraising strategies that could be effective in raising funds. Evidence also showed that these NGOs are meeting the requirements of good financial management practices, which could improve their likelihood to achieve financial sustainability. The research recommends that NGOs need to be empowered to negotiate restrictions under the grants, raise endowments through income-generating activities, manage stakeholder relationships and cost any future funding prospects for key decision making that is likely to have an impact on the structure and the strategic direction of an organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Manzere, Bogadi Patricia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Gauteng -- Finance Nonprofit organizations -- South Africa -- Gauteng -- Finance , Nonprofit organizations -- South Africa -- Gauteng -- Management Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18562 , vital:28682
- Description: The role of NGOs has been widely recognised in eradicating poverty and creating sustainable development in communities. Governments and private corporations view them as complementary partners in enhancing the livelihoods of people. In order to survive, NGOs need to be financially sustainable to carry out their missions. Their existence is, however, threatened by the current economic and political climate. In South Africa, the recent global economic recession and the country’s recovery from the apartheid system since 1994 have both had a negative impact in funding financial flow to NGOs. Compounded by the growing demand for new NGOs, evidence shows that there is fierce competition between NGOs for the same funding and, since NGOs by nature do not produce commercial outputs, they are limited to pursue funding opportunities made available through donations. This study explored the issues of financial sustainability within local NGOs in the Gauteng Province. The aim was to build mechanisms that could be put in place to monitor organisational financial sustainability over time. The study used a qualitative methodology and the researcher adopted an exploratory design to gain insight and meaning into the issues faced by NGOs. A sample of ten members from local NGOs in the Gauteng Province was identified and data was collected through key informant interviews and questionnaires. The study found that the majority of NGOs face difficulties in achieving financial sustainability over the long-term. The results indicated that funding in the sector is shrinking, with very few NGOs surviving through endowments. Their major challenges in raising funds are due to area limitations, competition within the sector, lack of skills, staff shortage and visibility. They optimise available opportunities but also acknowledge that they are not implementing other fundraising strategies that could be effective in raising funds. Evidence also showed that these NGOs are meeting the requirements of good financial management practices, which could improve their likelihood to achieve financial sustainability. The research recommends that NGOs need to be empowered to negotiate restrictions under the grants, raise endowments through income-generating activities, manage stakeholder relationships and cost any future funding prospects for key decision making that is likely to have an impact on the structure and the strategic direction of an organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Funding and governance of cooperatives: a case study of Magwa and Majola tea estates in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Velani, Chuma
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- Finance -- Law and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14411 , vital:27585
- Description: The purpose of this research study is to assess the funding and governance models utilised in the operations of cooperatives, with specific reference to Magwa and Majola Tea Estates in the Eastern Cape. Luyt (2008) observes that poverty levels in South Africa remain high, and have not been greatly reduced since 1994. There is general agreement amongst Eastern Cape communities that more than two decades after apartheid has ended, nearly half of South Africa’s population continue to live in poverty. A common understanding, is that cooperatives are geared and established to address poverty, address both social and economic development, even though they also emphasise a social focus, they are expected to be operated on sound business principles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Velani, Chuma
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- Finance -- Law and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14411 , vital:27585
- Description: The purpose of this research study is to assess the funding and governance models utilised in the operations of cooperatives, with specific reference to Magwa and Majola Tea Estates in the Eastern Cape. Luyt (2008) observes that poverty levels in South Africa remain high, and have not been greatly reduced since 1994. There is general agreement amongst Eastern Cape communities that more than two decades after apartheid has ended, nearly half of South Africa’s population continue to live in poverty. A common understanding, is that cooperatives are geared and established to address poverty, address both social and economic development, even though they also emphasise a social focus, they are expected to be operated on sound business principles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Growth strategies for black township entrepreneurs
- Authors: Boniwe, Sihlangule
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14598 , vital:27800
- Description: The situation in South Africa throws up a trickier and more unconventional challenge. The country has symptoms of a spatial realm that is not fully connected with the urban systems (spatially, socially, or structurally) and is certainly disconnected from the rural economy. This is the realm of the country’s townships and informal settlements. Conceptually, they are relics of the country’s special past, but the policies of post-apartheid South Africa have inadvertently kept their contemporary reality alive. In many ways, the townships and especially the informal settlements are similar to the slums in much of the developing world, although never was a slum formed with as much central planning and purpose as were some of the larger South African townships. This paper undertakes to understand the growth strategies of black township entrepreneurs in South Africa. This paper also undertakes to investigate the perceived influence of education, government policies, access to funding, market constraints, crime and social norms on the development or perceived growth strategies for black township entrepreneurs. Propositions are made and tested through conducting interviews with individuals involved with the dynamics presented by this subject on a day to day basis. Evidence collected is interpreted into knowledge and finally recommendations are made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Boniwe, Sihlangule
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14598 , vital:27800
- Description: The situation in South Africa throws up a trickier and more unconventional challenge. The country has symptoms of a spatial realm that is not fully connected with the urban systems (spatially, socially, or structurally) and is certainly disconnected from the rural economy. This is the realm of the country’s townships and informal settlements. Conceptually, they are relics of the country’s special past, but the policies of post-apartheid South Africa have inadvertently kept their contemporary reality alive. In many ways, the townships and especially the informal settlements are similar to the slums in much of the developing world, although never was a slum formed with as much central planning and purpose as were some of the larger South African townships. This paper undertakes to understand the growth strategies of black township entrepreneurs in South Africa. This paper also undertakes to investigate the perceived influence of education, government policies, access to funding, market constraints, crime and social norms on the development or perceived growth strategies for black township entrepreneurs. Propositions are made and tested through conducting interviews with individuals involved with the dynamics presented by this subject on a day to day basis. Evidence collected is interpreted into knowledge and finally recommendations are made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Happiness in the private physiotherapy sector of South Africa
- Authors: Elliot, Michael
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Happiness Well-being , Health behavior -- Economic aspects Economics -- Sociological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15171 , vital:28171
- Description: There is limited research pertaining to assessing the happiness levels of various disciplines within the healthcare industry. Furthermore, happiness and physiotherapy studies are two research areas that are not necessarily associated with one another on a global perspective. Hence, the happiness levels have not been adequately established for private physiotherapists. This treatise is the first attempt to evaluate the happiness levels of private physiotherapists in South Africa. A thorough literature review was conducted to determine the current climate of happiness studies pertaining to the business industry, with focus on private physiotherapy businesses in the healthcare sector. The literature review enabled the development of a hypothesised model, which was tested with quantitative techniques consisting of a questionnaire, data collection and statistical analysis. The research confirmed that influence, social relations, life balance, optimism, work and leisure are all positively associated with the happiness levels of private physiotherapists in South Africa. These variables are recommended as key focus areas for physiotherapy business owners to address, in order to positively affect happiness levels in the workplace and thereby create favourable bottom line results. In accordance with the reviewed literature and the findings of this treatise, by adequately addressing these variables the business owners of physiotherapy practices will generate a workforce that are more productive, demonstrate greater collaboration with colleagues and customers, produce happier customers, are more positively energised and are less absent and more loyal to the business. It is recommended that the proposed model is tested to provide further benefit to the industry by constructing evidence-based retention and recruitment strategies for high performing private physiotherapy staff.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Elliot, Michael
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Happiness Well-being , Health behavior -- Economic aspects Economics -- Sociological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15171 , vital:28171
- Description: There is limited research pertaining to assessing the happiness levels of various disciplines within the healthcare industry. Furthermore, happiness and physiotherapy studies are two research areas that are not necessarily associated with one another on a global perspective. Hence, the happiness levels have not been adequately established for private physiotherapists. This treatise is the first attempt to evaluate the happiness levels of private physiotherapists in South Africa. A thorough literature review was conducted to determine the current climate of happiness studies pertaining to the business industry, with focus on private physiotherapy businesses in the healthcare sector. The literature review enabled the development of a hypothesised model, which was tested with quantitative techniques consisting of a questionnaire, data collection and statistical analysis. The research confirmed that influence, social relations, life balance, optimism, work and leisure are all positively associated with the happiness levels of private physiotherapists in South Africa. These variables are recommended as key focus areas for physiotherapy business owners to address, in order to positively affect happiness levels in the workplace and thereby create favourable bottom line results. In accordance with the reviewed literature and the findings of this treatise, by adequately addressing these variables the business owners of physiotherapy practices will generate a workforce that are more productive, demonstrate greater collaboration with colleagues and customers, produce happier customers, are more positively energised and are less absent and more loyal to the business. It is recommended that the proposed model is tested to provide further benefit to the industry by constructing evidence-based retention and recruitment strategies for high performing private physiotherapy staff.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Identifying operations waste at a logistics service institution in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Bailey, Grizenier
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Service industries -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17537 , vital:28376
- Description: In today’s dynamic market, it is crucial that logistics systems understand their activities and processes in an efficient way. Lean, in essence, is a method to assist companies in rendering efficient services to customers (Andrejic, 2013, p. 84). The Lean approach for waste elimination can be applied to many different types of operations whether in manufacturing or service industries. The identification of warehousing wastes is sometimes considered difficult in its identification within processes (Villareal, Garza, Rosas & Garcia, 2012, p. 278). The purpose of this case study is to contribute to finding a solution for the decreasing operational efficiency in the operation under study. The researcher found that this paper filled an important research gap in terms of offering management of the selected logistics institution a better understanding of the different waste types in each process. Operational areas such as receiving, unboxing, put-away, picking and issuing were examined as possible reasons for concern about service orientated wastes. The research was conducted through observations and thereafter a questionnaire was distributed amongst a sample of 40 employees within a specific logistics institution. The study discussed certain key factors in Lean, specifically focusing on the types of waste in a service environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Bailey, Grizenier
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Service industries -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17537 , vital:28376
- Description: In today’s dynamic market, it is crucial that logistics systems understand their activities and processes in an efficient way. Lean, in essence, is a method to assist companies in rendering efficient services to customers (Andrejic, 2013, p. 84). The Lean approach for waste elimination can be applied to many different types of operations whether in manufacturing or service industries. The identification of warehousing wastes is sometimes considered difficult in its identification within processes (Villareal, Garza, Rosas & Garcia, 2012, p. 278). The purpose of this case study is to contribute to finding a solution for the decreasing operational efficiency in the operation under study. The researcher found that this paper filled an important research gap in terms of offering management of the selected logistics institution a better understanding of the different waste types in each process. Operational areas such as receiving, unboxing, put-away, picking and issuing were examined as possible reasons for concern about service orientated wastes. The research was conducted through observations and thereafter a questionnaire was distributed amongst a sample of 40 employees within a specific logistics institution. The study discussed certain key factors in Lean, specifically focusing on the types of waste in a service environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Improving revenue management at the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality through customer relationship management
- Authors: Nogqala, Mbuzeli
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Revenue management -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Customer relations -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20191 , vital:29155
- Description: In South Africa, local government as represented by a number of municipalities, is at the coal-face of service delivery. As such, the effect of community displeasure with poor service delivery is usually directed at this sphere of government. To maintain and develop infrastructure such as roads and electricity, municipalities are dependent on financial grants allocated by the national government. Notably, in the main, municipalities are required to maximise their own sources of revenue in order to render the requisite operational services/activities. Inevitably, municipal budgets are usually not sufficient to meet the unlimited service delivery obligations required by the local communities. The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) is not immune to these interconnected revenue generation and service delivery priorities. The primary objective of the study is to establish an effective CRM framework that may enhance revenue collection at the NMBM. More specifically, the study investigates the nature of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) at the NMBM, factors that are responsible for ineffective CRM at the NMBM, the impacts of ineffective CRM on revenue collection at the municipality and the ways in which a CRM framework suitable to improve revenue collection at the NMBM can be established. Purposive sampling was used to select a sample of 130 respondents from a population of 420 employees in the Revenue Management and Customer Care Sub-directorate of the municipality. In view of the primary objective of the study, participants were drawn from relevant divisions such as, customer care, debtor management, rates and valuations, billing coordination and receipting. Of 130 questionnaires distributed, only 121 usable questionnaires were returned. This translates to a response rate of 93%. The empirical results reveal that there is a positive relationship between CRM and revenue management. In addition to this, the empirical results show that there is a positive relationship between customer satisfaction, customer engagement, customer value, customer experience, service standards and CRM. Furthermore, the findings of the study show that more needs to be done, as very little has been achieved by the NMBM in the context of implementing measures to enhance CRM. In this regard, the study provides managerial and future research recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Nogqala, Mbuzeli
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Revenue management -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Customer relations -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20191 , vital:29155
- Description: In South Africa, local government as represented by a number of municipalities, is at the coal-face of service delivery. As such, the effect of community displeasure with poor service delivery is usually directed at this sphere of government. To maintain and develop infrastructure such as roads and electricity, municipalities are dependent on financial grants allocated by the national government. Notably, in the main, municipalities are required to maximise their own sources of revenue in order to render the requisite operational services/activities. Inevitably, municipal budgets are usually not sufficient to meet the unlimited service delivery obligations required by the local communities. The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) is not immune to these interconnected revenue generation and service delivery priorities. The primary objective of the study is to establish an effective CRM framework that may enhance revenue collection at the NMBM. More specifically, the study investigates the nature of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) at the NMBM, factors that are responsible for ineffective CRM at the NMBM, the impacts of ineffective CRM on revenue collection at the municipality and the ways in which a CRM framework suitable to improve revenue collection at the NMBM can be established. Purposive sampling was used to select a sample of 130 respondents from a population of 420 employees in the Revenue Management and Customer Care Sub-directorate of the municipality. In view of the primary objective of the study, participants were drawn from relevant divisions such as, customer care, debtor management, rates and valuations, billing coordination and receipting. Of 130 questionnaires distributed, only 121 usable questionnaires were returned. This translates to a response rate of 93%. The empirical results reveal that there is a positive relationship between CRM and revenue management. In addition to this, the empirical results show that there is a positive relationship between customer satisfaction, customer engagement, customer value, customer experience, service standards and CRM. Furthermore, the findings of the study show that more needs to be done, as very little has been achieved by the NMBM in the context of implementing measures to enhance CRM. In this regard, the study provides managerial and future research recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017