A framework to integrate secure programming principles into undergraduate computing curricula
- Authors: Bangani, Sifiso Matthews
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Information technology -- Study and teaching (Higher) , Electronic data processing personnel -- Training of Computer software -- Development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46019 , vital:39409
- Description: Many graduate software developers are not competent in secure programming, resulting in risks that are caused by vulnerabilities in the application code of software applications. These graduate software developers are equipped with programming knowledge and skills from universities, however, these software developers are rarely equipped with secure programming knowledge and skills from the undergraduate level. Although there are various techniques for writing secure code in the current body of knowledge, these techniques are rarely fundamental components of a computing curriculum, resulting in incompetent graduate software developers. The security aspect of software applications, is considered as an important aspect that can reflect the ability of a system to prevent data exposures and loss of information. For businesses that rely on software applications to keep operations running, a failure of a software application can stop production, interrupt processes, and may lead to data breaches and financial losses. This research argued that secure programming education needs to be included across computing curricula, and thus, the primary objective of this dissertation was: To develop a framework for integrating secure programming principles into undergraduate computing curricula. It proposes a framework for the incorporation of secure programming principles into undergraduate computing curricula, through a step-by-step approach. This framework includes the identification of application risks and secure programming practices as they relate to each other, and to the basic programming concepts taught to undergraduate students. It specifically aims to improve the security of software applications developed in the .Net framework environment. The main research methods used in this study included a literature view, thematic content analysis, argumentation, and modelling.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Bangani, Sifiso Matthews
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Information technology -- Study and teaching (Higher) , Electronic data processing personnel -- Training of Computer software -- Development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46019 , vital:39409
- Description: Many graduate software developers are not competent in secure programming, resulting in risks that are caused by vulnerabilities in the application code of software applications. These graduate software developers are equipped with programming knowledge and skills from universities, however, these software developers are rarely equipped with secure programming knowledge and skills from the undergraduate level. Although there are various techniques for writing secure code in the current body of knowledge, these techniques are rarely fundamental components of a computing curriculum, resulting in incompetent graduate software developers. The security aspect of software applications, is considered as an important aspect that can reflect the ability of a system to prevent data exposures and loss of information. For businesses that rely on software applications to keep operations running, a failure of a software application can stop production, interrupt processes, and may lead to data breaches and financial losses. This research argued that secure programming education needs to be included across computing curricula, and thus, the primary objective of this dissertation was: To develop a framework for integrating secure programming principles into undergraduate computing curricula. It proposes a framework for the incorporation of secure programming principles into undergraduate computing curricula, through a step-by-step approach. This framework includes the identification of application risks and secure programming practices as they relate to each other, and to the basic programming concepts taught to undergraduate students. It specifically aims to improve the security of software applications developed in the .Net framework environment. The main research methods used in this study included a literature view, thematic content analysis, argumentation, and modelling.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A framework to measure the degree of alignment between corporate and IT/IS objectives at Randwater
- Authors: Sigasa, Moshane Lydia
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures , Data protection Information technology -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47156 , vital:39818
- Description: The South African Government has institutionalised a Corporate Governance of ICT Policy Framework which was developed by Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA). The framework has adopted some elements of KING III, ISO 38500 and COBIT. Consequently, it is now a requirement by the South African Government that all its entities must adopt this framework. Nevertheless, it is not clear how government has emphasised this alignment in such entities. The problem statement in this study was that Randwater is unable to realise full value of the investment in IT/IS because there is misalignment between IT objectives or deliverables and the corporate objectives. This study sought to identify a suitable framework which meets the ICT policy criteria as set out by the DPSA, which will facilitate the alignment between corporate objectives and IT/IS objectives at Randwater. This was achieved through the development and refinement of the artefact through the various iteration phases. Additionally, an online survey was used to collect data from a focus group comprising IT experts and senior management at Randwater. The Information Technology Governance Institute Framework was employed to assist in the development of the questions. The survey results were utilised during the validation of the artefact produced by this research study in a workshop. The findings were then linked with the related literature which either supported or rejected the findings through discussions on the literature and thereafter conclusions were made based on these findings. Furthermore, a literature review was conducted to gain a better understanding of what has been done in the field of research in order to assist in defining the problem that this research seeks to solve so as to inform the development of design characteristics. The research process employed the Nelson Mandela University – Design Science Strategy Methodology referred to as (NMU – DSSM) with the goal of developing an artefact in the form of a framework. The research process entailed studying the existing literature and analysing the aspects relating to corporate governance, IT governance, frameworks, and strategies to be able to measure the degree of alignment. The phases of designing the artefact were analysis, design, evaluate, validate and diffuse phases. The final artefact developed was a framework that incorporated the principles of King IV and ISO 38500 in corporate governance and ICT goals alignment. The final artefact also embedded transparency, accountability and security as important elements in the implementation of the artefact. The survey findings were instrumental in the development of the artefact that brings alignment between business strategy and IT objectives at Randwater. From the findings, in terms of IT flexibility, it was revealed that the interrelated parts of the system at Randwater were modular. It was also concluded that there is lack of communication about the manner in which the components of the information systems are organised and integrated in order to allow for rapid changes and that the organisational IT infrastructure and applications were loosely coupled. The findings further revealed that the business had established corporate rules and standards for hardware and operating systems to ensure platform compatibility. It was also revealed that organisational IT applications were developed based on compliance guidelines. In terms of IT-enabled dynamic capabilities, it was revealed that IT systems at Randwater are not capable of scanning the environment and identifying new business opportunities and are not capable of anticipating discontinuities arising in the business domain by developing greater reactive and proactive strength. It was also revealed that it was concluded that IT systems were capable of achieving strategic alignment between IT flexibility and dynamic capabilities. Therefore, design science was the ideal research paradigm towards addressing the research problem and the artefact designed was a viable research contribution. The significance of the study was that it contributed to the development of technology-based solutions to an important and relevant business problem of alignment of business strategy to IT goals. The design evaluation, the utility, quality, and efficacy of the final design artefact was rigorously demonstrated via well-executed evaluation methods. The study also contributed to the literature
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Sigasa, Moshane Lydia
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures , Data protection Information technology -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47156 , vital:39818
- Description: The South African Government has institutionalised a Corporate Governance of ICT Policy Framework which was developed by Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA). The framework has adopted some elements of KING III, ISO 38500 and COBIT. Consequently, it is now a requirement by the South African Government that all its entities must adopt this framework. Nevertheless, it is not clear how government has emphasised this alignment in such entities. The problem statement in this study was that Randwater is unable to realise full value of the investment in IT/IS because there is misalignment between IT objectives or deliverables and the corporate objectives. This study sought to identify a suitable framework which meets the ICT policy criteria as set out by the DPSA, which will facilitate the alignment between corporate objectives and IT/IS objectives at Randwater. This was achieved through the development and refinement of the artefact through the various iteration phases. Additionally, an online survey was used to collect data from a focus group comprising IT experts and senior management at Randwater. The Information Technology Governance Institute Framework was employed to assist in the development of the questions. The survey results were utilised during the validation of the artefact produced by this research study in a workshop. The findings were then linked with the related literature which either supported or rejected the findings through discussions on the literature and thereafter conclusions were made based on these findings. Furthermore, a literature review was conducted to gain a better understanding of what has been done in the field of research in order to assist in defining the problem that this research seeks to solve so as to inform the development of design characteristics. The research process employed the Nelson Mandela University – Design Science Strategy Methodology referred to as (NMU – DSSM) with the goal of developing an artefact in the form of a framework. The research process entailed studying the existing literature and analysing the aspects relating to corporate governance, IT governance, frameworks, and strategies to be able to measure the degree of alignment. The phases of designing the artefact were analysis, design, evaluate, validate and diffuse phases. The final artefact developed was a framework that incorporated the principles of King IV and ISO 38500 in corporate governance and ICT goals alignment. The final artefact also embedded transparency, accountability and security as important elements in the implementation of the artefact. The survey findings were instrumental in the development of the artefact that brings alignment between business strategy and IT objectives at Randwater. From the findings, in terms of IT flexibility, it was revealed that the interrelated parts of the system at Randwater were modular. It was also concluded that there is lack of communication about the manner in which the components of the information systems are organised and integrated in order to allow for rapid changes and that the organisational IT infrastructure and applications were loosely coupled. The findings further revealed that the business had established corporate rules and standards for hardware and operating systems to ensure platform compatibility. It was also revealed that organisational IT applications were developed based on compliance guidelines. In terms of IT-enabled dynamic capabilities, it was revealed that IT systems at Randwater are not capable of scanning the environment and identifying new business opportunities and are not capable of anticipating discontinuities arising in the business domain by developing greater reactive and proactive strength. It was also revealed that it was concluded that IT systems were capable of achieving strategic alignment between IT flexibility and dynamic capabilities. Therefore, design science was the ideal research paradigm towards addressing the research problem and the artefact designed was a viable research contribution. The significance of the study was that it contributed to the development of technology-based solutions to an important and relevant business problem of alignment of business strategy to IT goals. The design evaluation, the utility, quality, and efficacy of the final design artefact was rigorously demonstrated via well-executed evaluation methods. The study also contributed to the literature
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A housing affordability and tenure of choice quantum deliverable model in South Africa
- Authors: Kabundu, Emmanuel Kizito
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Housing -- Prices -- South Africa Housing -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49606 , vital:41740
- Description: The aim of this research was to develop a model that practically determines the tenure of choice and affordability of households in South Africa, which will thus help towards informed decision making by analysts and housing officials. Presently, there is no clear systematic means (except for simplistic ratios) of determining the degree of the effect of changes in the housing market (such as implemented policies) on the tenure of choice and affordability decisions of households. The research set out to improve upon the usage of ratios by basing its analysis on the theoretical underpinnings of both user costs of occupancy and an assumption of endogeneity between tenure of choice and affordability. The research used the general household survey data from Statistics South Africa for the analysis and validation. Generalized joint binary regression (on assumption of endogeneity between tenure of choice and affordability) was used as a check against the user costs of occupancy modelling. An independent market analysis carried out showed that South Africa has consistently faced increasing problems of acute housing shortages and housing affordability. Never the less, apart from subsidy programs, the option to promote renting, coupled with use of innovative building technologies showed promise of significantly alleviating these problems. More living space is especially more vital than ever, amid the current crisis of COVID-19 pademic. Statistical tests indicated strong evidence suggesting that the developed user costs of occupancy model (dynamic tenure model) is reliable at correctly recovering the tenure statuses of the households, with its recovery rates being better than those of the regression model. Both models provided useful unique, but different insights into the housing market and also correctly predicted the behavioural patterns of South African housing markets, such as significantly worsening affordability, and a market that is biased towards home ownership. The analysis also showed that affordability and tenure of choice were significantly affected by locational factors, household characteristics (such as race and age of household head), and most significantly, the age of the household head (which is a proxy to household income). The research successfully met its goal of model building but also recognized the need to merge these two models (dynamic tenure model and the regression model) into one model for more comprehensive housing related analysis. The research also recognized a need to fully operationalize the optimization, Monte Carlo and parallelization modules in order to improve the practical usefulness and effectiveness of the model. The significance of the study is that it it underpins the basis for proper tenure and affordability analysis, by assuming endogeneity between the two (2), and provides a modelling framework based on these criteria, that are useful for meaningful housing market analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kabundu, Emmanuel Kizito
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Housing -- Prices -- South Africa Housing -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49606 , vital:41740
- Description: The aim of this research was to develop a model that practically determines the tenure of choice and affordability of households in South Africa, which will thus help towards informed decision making by analysts and housing officials. Presently, there is no clear systematic means (except for simplistic ratios) of determining the degree of the effect of changes in the housing market (such as implemented policies) on the tenure of choice and affordability decisions of households. The research set out to improve upon the usage of ratios by basing its analysis on the theoretical underpinnings of both user costs of occupancy and an assumption of endogeneity between tenure of choice and affordability. The research used the general household survey data from Statistics South Africa for the analysis and validation. Generalized joint binary regression (on assumption of endogeneity between tenure of choice and affordability) was used as a check against the user costs of occupancy modelling. An independent market analysis carried out showed that South Africa has consistently faced increasing problems of acute housing shortages and housing affordability. Never the less, apart from subsidy programs, the option to promote renting, coupled with use of innovative building technologies showed promise of significantly alleviating these problems. More living space is especially more vital than ever, amid the current crisis of COVID-19 pademic. Statistical tests indicated strong evidence suggesting that the developed user costs of occupancy model (dynamic tenure model) is reliable at correctly recovering the tenure statuses of the households, with its recovery rates being better than those of the regression model. Both models provided useful unique, but different insights into the housing market and also correctly predicted the behavioural patterns of South African housing markets, such as significantly worsening affordability, and a market that is biased towards home ownership. The analysis also showed that affordability and tenure of choice were significantly affected by locational factors, household characteristics (such as race and age of household head), and most significantly, the age of the household head (which is a proxy to household income). The research successfully met its goal of model building but also recognized the need to merge these two models (dynamic tenure model and the regression model) into one model for more comprehensive housing related analysis. The research also recognized a need to fully operationalize the optimization, Monte Carlo and parallelization modules in order to improve the practical usefulness and effectiveness of the model. The significance of the study is that it it underpins the basis for proper tenure and affordability analysis, by assuming endogeneity between the two (2), and provides a modelling framework based on these criteria, that are useful for meaningful housing market analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A lean production approach to materials management in the Nigerian construction industry
- Authors: Albert, Idowu
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Materials management , Lean manufacturing Construction industry -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46008 , vital:39408
- Description: The Nigerian Construction Industry faces a problem of poor materials management that leads to, among other things, materials waste, poor quality of work, poor materials flow, project delay and cost overrun. Overcoming these challenges, requires the rethinking the current modus operandi of the Nigerian construction industry. One such method that has been espoused as having potential to improve materials management, and associated challenges is ‘lean production’. This research aimed at deciphering the lean approach to production management with a view of extracting its utility in enhancing materials management in the construction industry. The qualitative method of research inquiry that is rooted in the phenomenological paradigm was employed. The research activities included a comprehensive review of the related literature and study of selected cases. Abuja, the Federal capital territory of Nigeria was the selected geographical scope of the research. Ten case studies were purposefully selected for the study. The research instrument was a tick box used for direct observation. The study revealed that poor materials management has a negative effect on the materials management plan. Moreover, mixing of waste at the site, negates the effort for identification of materials waste streams, and makes it difficult to account for materials waste, as well as implementing a materials waste management policy on sites. The research also found that poor materials management has a significant effect (high, moderate or low) on materials waste, quality of work, materials flow, productivity, project delay, project profitability and accounting for materials. The research has developed a conceptual model for a lean production approach to materials management based on the results and informed by the theoretical framework. The study has achieved its aim of establishing an understanding of the lean production approach to materials management in the Nigerian construction industry. The study recommends that construction professionals should be well informed on the effects of poor materials management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Albert, Idowu
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Materials management , Lean manufacturing Construction industry -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46008 , vital:39408
- Description: The Nigerian Construction Industry faces a problem of poor materials management that leads to, among other things, materials waste, poor quality of work, poor materials flow, project delay and cost overrun. Overcoming these challenges, requires the rethinking the current modus operandi of the Nigerian construction industry. One such method that has been espoused as having potential to improve materials management, and associated challenges is ‘lean production’. This research aimed at deciphering the lean approach to production management with a view of extracting its utility in enhancing materials management in the construction industry. The qualitative method of research inquiry that is rooted in the phenomenological paradigm was employed. The research activities included a comprehensive review of the related literature and study of selected cases. Abuja, the Federal capital territory of Nigeria was the selected geographical scope of the research. Ten case studies were purposefully selected for the study. The research instrument was a tick box used for direct observation. The study revealed that poor materials management has a negative effect on the materials management plan. Moreover, mixing of waste at the site, negates the effort for identification of materials waste streams, and makes it difficult to account for materials waste, as well as implementing a materials waste management policy on sites. The research also found that poor materials management has a significant effect (high, moderate or low) on materials waste, quality of work, materials flow, productivity, project delay, project profitability and accounting for materials. The research has developed a conceptual model for a lean production approach to materials management based on the results and informed by the theoretical framework. The study has achieved its aim of establishing an understanding of the lean production approach to materials management in the Nigerian construction industry. The study recommends that construction professionals should be well informed on the effects of poor materials management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A management model for human settlements: a case study of Nigeria and South Africa
- Authors: Adeniran, Adeleye Ayoade
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Human settlements -- Nigeria , Human settlements -- South Africa Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45985 , vital:39403
- Description: Persistent depreciating human settlements is a global challenge, particularly in developing countries and this challenge contributes to the continuously increasing housing gap, despite several novel policies and programmes. Although there is a dearth of research-based literature on human settlements management, studies show that property management, Facility Management, housing management and urban management impact the sustainability of all these built environment milieus which form part of the human settlements’ sub-components. This research aimed at altering the afore-said challenge by exploring the management of human settlements in Nigeria and in South Africa. Philosophically, the research is pragmatic, and it rests on positivist deductive reasoning. The methods used for data collection include a review of literature, collection of archival records, and empirical studies of purposively selected professionals and stakeholders involved in human settlements’ management in Nigeria and in South Africa. The findings indicate that existing human settlements in the case studies are “good” and “acceptable” with the majority adopting an outsourced method of management. Furthermore, the lack of maintenance records, the deficiency in policy monitoring and the training of management and maintenance personnel were the three highest ranking factors indicated to be affecting human settlements management. Moreover, an inhabitant’s income, the time available for management, professional expertise and technology employed for management are recognised as the critical sustainability sub-factors affecting human settlement management. The factor analysis established ownership, human resource and capital, social, legal, technology, economic, physical and environmental factors as vital and very significant in achieving sustainable management of human settlements. The study recommends the professionalisation of the field of human settlements as well as a formulation of management policy among others. The study developed a management model for human settlements, and it advocates that human settlements managers, owners and organisations should apply the model in this study, to improve their human settlement management practices, so as to achieve sustainability, and in essence, Sustainable Development Goal 11. It is hoped that the suggested management model will influence human settlement policy development and review, the designing of human settlement management programmes including the framework for their ongoing monitoring and evaluation. The study furthermore contributes to the development of housing and human settlement curricula and evolving human settlement research in both developed and developing countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Adeniran, Adeleye Ayoade
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Human settlements -- Nigeria , Human settlements -- South Africa Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45985 , vital:39403
- Description: Persistent depreciating human settlements is a global challenge, particularly in developing countries and this challenge contributes to the continuously increasing housing gap, despite several novel policies and programmes. Although there is a dearth of research-based literature on human settlements management, studies show that property management, Facility Management, housing management and urban management impact the sustainability of all these built environment milieus which form part of the human settlements’ sub-components. This research aimed at altering the afore-said challenge by exploring the management of human settlements in Nigeria and in South Africa. Philosophically, the research is pragmatic, and it rests on positivist deductive reasoning. The methods used for data collection include a review of literature, collection of archival records, and empirical studies of purposively selected professionals and stakeholders involved in human settlements’ management in Nigeria and in South Africa. The findings indicate that existing human settlements in the case studies are “good” and “acceptable” with the majority adopting an outsourced method of management. Furthermore, the lack of maintenance records, the deficiency in policy monitoring and the training of management and maintenance personnel were the three highest ranking factors indicated to be affecting human settlements management. Moreover, an inhabitant’s income, the time available for management, professional expertise and technology employed for management are recognised as the critical sustainability sub-factors affecting human settlement management. The factor analysis established ownership, human resource and capital, social, legal, technology, economic, physical and environmental factors as vital and very significant in achieving sustainable management of human settlements. The study recommends the professionalisation of the field of human settlements as well as a formulation of management policy among others. The study developed a management model for human settlements, and it advocates that human settlements managers, owners and organisations should apply the model in this study, to improve their human settlement management practices, so as to achieve sustainability, and in essence, Sustainable Development Goal 11. It is hoped that the suggested management model will influence human settlement policy development and review, the designing of human settlement management programmes including the framework for their ongoing monitoring and evaluation. The study furthermore contributes to the development of housing and human settlement curricula and evolving human settlement research in both developed and developing countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A model for the detection of breast cancer using machine learning and thermal images in a mobile environment
- Authors: Lennox, Nicholas
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Breast -- Cancer -- Imaging , Breast -- Imaging Mobile communication systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46097 , vital:39492
- Description: Breast cancer is the most common cancer amongst women and one of the deadliest. Various modalities exist which image the breasts, all with a focus on early detection; thermography is one such method. It is a non-invasive test, which is safe and can be used for a wide variety of breast densities. It functions by analysing thermal patterns captured via an infrared camera of the surface of the breast. Advances in infrared and mobile technology enable this modality to be mobile based; allowing a high degree of portability at a lower cost. Furthermore, as technology has improved, machine learning has played a larger role in medical practices by offering unbiased, consistent, and timely second opinions. Machine learning algorithms are able to classify medical images automatically if offered in the correct format. This study aims to provide a model, which integrates breast cancer detection, thermal imaging, machine learning, and mobile technology. The conceptual model is theorised from three literature studies regarding: identifiable aspects of breast cancer through thermal imaging, the mobile ecosystem, and classification using machine learning algorithms. The model is implemented and evaluated using an experiment designed to classify automatically thermal breast images of the same quality that mobile attachable thermal cameras are able to capture. The experiment contrasts various combinations of segmentation methods, extracted features, and classification algorithms. Promising results were shown in the experiment with a high degree of accuracy obtained. The successful results obtained from the experimentation process validates the feasibility of the model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Lennox, Nicholas
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Breast -- Cancer -- Imaging , Breast -- Imaging Mobile communication systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46097 , vital:39492
- Description: Breast cancer is the most common cancer amongst women and one of the deadliest. Various modalities exist which image the breasts, all with a focus on early detection; thermography is one such method. It is a non-invasive test, which is safe and can be used for a wide variety of breast densities. It functions by analysing thermal patterns captured via an infrared camera of the surface of the breast. Advances in infrared and mobile technology enable this modality to be mobile based; allowing a high degree of portability at a lower cost. Furthermore, as technology has improved, machine learning has played a larger role in medical practices by offering unbiased, consistent, and timely second opinions. Machine learning algorithms are able to classify medical images automatically if offered in the correct format. This study aims to provide a model, which integrates breast cancer detection, thermal imaging, machine learning, and mobile technology. The conceptual model is theorised from three literature studies regarding: identifiable aspects of breast cancer through thermal imaging, the mobile ecosystem, and classification using machine learning algorithms. The model is implemented and evaluated using an experiment designed to classify automatically thermal breast images of the same quality that mobile attachable thermal cameras are able to capture. The experiment contrasts various combinations of segmentation methods, extracted features, and classification algorithms. Promising results were shown in the experiment with a high degree of accuracy obtained. The successful results obtained from the experimentation process validates the feasibility of the model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A strategic approach towards the successful implementation of corporate governance of Information and Communication Technology in the Kwazulu-Natal Department of Social Development
- Authors: Siziba, Makabongwe Johnson
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Corporate governance -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal -- Management Information technology -- Management -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49617 , vital:41741
- Description: Information is a critical asset in any organisation and its management, including the associated technological channels, requires the attention of decision-makers to ensure that information assets are utilised for the intended purposes. Therefore, decision-makers need to have appropriate governance oversight on technology that produces information and information itself. Over the years, the governance of ICT has been adopted in the public sector given the fact that state funding received from tax collections is utilised to invest in IT solutions with the intention of expediting service delivery and increase productivity. The purpose of this treatise was to identify the root causes of why the department is not implementing Corporate Governance of ICT successfully despite the fact that most good controls do exist. The research revealed that there is insufficient budget to implement ICT projects coupled with inadequate ICT staff to implement ICT strategy. Furthermore, it cited a lack of ICT governance skills with ICT Strategic Committee members who are tasked with pioneering ICT governance. This weakness relates directly to other identified weaknesses such as end-user resistance to adopt ICT projects and a lack of project management function in the department.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Siziba, Makabongwe Johnson
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Corporate governance -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal -- Management Information technology -- Management -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49617 , vital:41741
- Description: Information is a critical asset in any organisation and its management, including the associated technological channels, requires the attention of decision-makers to ensure that information assets are utilised for the intended purposes. Therefore, decision-makers need to have appropriate governance oversight on technology that produces information and information itself. Over the years, the governance of ICT has been adopted in the public sector given the fact that state funding received from tax collections is utilised to invest in IT solutions with the intention of expediting service delivery and increase productivity. The purpose of this treatise was to identify the root causes of why the department is not implementing Corporate Governance of ICT successfully despite the fact that most good controls do exist. The research revealed that there is insufficient budget to implement ICT projects coupled with inadequate ICT staff to implement ICT strategy. Furthermore, it cited a lack of ICT governance skills with ICT Strategic Committee members who are tasked with pioneering ICT governance. This weakness relates directly to other identified weaknesses such as end-user resistance to adopt ICT projects and a lack of project management function in the department.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A Strategy for good IT Governance in South African Municipalities
- Authors: Sibanda, Mbusi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Information technology -- Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49573 , vital:41737
- Description: Information technology (IT) is widely used in South African municipalities as a tool for enabling business processes and therefore its design and implementation are critical to municipalities delivering on their core mandate of delivering services to their communities. The implementation of IT relies on the adoption of sound IT governance practices, whose outcome is to ensure that municipalities derive value from the use of IT and minimise the risk associated with it. However, the implementation of IT governance has proved to be challenging in most municipalities. This research sought to devise a strategic approach to the effective and viable implementation of IT governance in municipalities in South Africa. The research was carried out by adopting a design science research approach, which is increasingly being used for studies in the IT discipline as it assists in solving problems through the design of innovative artefacts, in this case a strategy for the implementation of IT governance. To address the objectives, the research was carried out through case studies of South African municipalities which enabled a detailed investigation of phenomena in its natural context. The data was collected by means of mixed methods consisting of a literature review, a survey and semi-structured interviews. A literature review connected to the research problem was done in order to identify the present state of the issues and how they have been confronted. A survey was sent out to municipalities, institutions and individuals with a mandate to support municipalities, while semi-structured interviews were conducted in five municipalities, government departments and regulatory bodies. A thematic analysis of the data collected was performed which led to a diagnosis of the issues. These include inadequate IT infrastructure; lack of coordinated external support; inadequate IT skills; lack of strong and committed IT leadership; poor IT controls; and fragmented planning. Guiding policies and a set of coherent actions for solving the issues were developed. This culminated in the devising of a strategy for the coordinated implementation of IT governance in municipalities. The primary contribution of this study is the formulation of a strategy for the sound implementation of IT governance in South African municipalities. The research contends that by identifying the strategic issues facing municipalities and implementing the proposed actions, most of which fall outside the municipalities, a new contribution to knowledge has been made. Accordingly, the strategy facilitates the development of plans that address the root causes of the poor implementation of IT in municipalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Sibanda, Mbusi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Information technology -- Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49573 , vital:41737
- Description: Information technology (IT) is widely used in South African municipalities as a tool for enabling business processes and therefore its design and implementation are critical to municipalities delivering on their core mandate of delivering services to their communities. The implementation of IT relies on the adoption of sound IT governance practices, whose outcome is to ensure that municipalities derive value from the use of IT and minimise the risk associated with it. However, the implementation of IT governance has proved to be challenging in most municipalities. This research sought to devise a strategic approach to the effective and viable implementation of IT governance in municipalities in South Africa. The research was carried out by adopting a design science research approach, which is increasingly being used for studies in the IT discipline as it assists in solving problems through the design of innovative artefacts, in this case a strategy for the implementation of IT governance. To address the objectives, the research was carried out through case studies of South African municipalities which enabled a detailed investigation of phenomena in its natural context. The data was collected by means of mixed methods consisting of a literature review, a survey and semi-structured interviews. A literature review connected to the research problem was done in order to identify the present state of the issues and how they have been confronted. A survey was sent out to municipalities, institutions and individuals with a mandate to support municipalities, while semi-structured interviews were conducted in five municipalities, government departments and regulatory bodies. A thematic analysis of the data collected was performed which led to a diagnosis of the issues. These include inadequate IT infrastructure; lack of coordinated external support; inadequate IT skills; lack of strong and committed IT leadership; poor IT controls; and fragmented planning. Guiding policies and a set of coherent actions for solving the issues were developed. This culminated in the devising of a strategy for the coordinated implementation of IT governance in municipalities. The primary contribution of this study is the formulation of a strategy for the sound implementation of IT governance in South African municipalities. The research contends that by identifying the strategic issues facing municipalities and implementing the proposed actions, most of which fall outside the municipalities, a new contribution to knowledge has been made. Accordingly, the strategy facilitates the development of plans that address the root causes of the poor implementation of IT in municipalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A strategy to motivate continued instructor usage of learning management systems (LMSS) in higher learning institutions of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Siwela, Ndukuyenkosi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Web-based instruction , Computer systems Organizational learning -- Zimbabwe Internet in education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47259 , vital:39837
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop a strategy to motivate continued usage of Learning Management Systems in higher learning institutions of Zimbabwe. A related goal was to identify unique challenges experienced by instructors in their use of LMSs. The use of LMSs is now global and has been fairly successful in developed countries even though past research shows that instructors tend to discontinue usage over a period of time. Whereas most LMSs research is carried in the context of the developed world, the candidate demonstrates that Vantankesh's IS Success Model and Davis' Technology Acceptance Model can be successfully replicated into the developing world on condition that local environment is taken into context. The results showed that LMSs in Zimbabwe higher learning institutions hold a promise of success even though challenges exist. The findings have wider implications on the need to invest in neccessary infrustructure and future predictions on learner interests. The study demonstrates that shared success can be achieved if the local conditions are taken into context when developing a strategy to motivate instructor continued LMS usage. The study holds the practical implication that institutions can motivate instructors to continue with usage of LMSs to deliver quality output in their daily duties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Siwela, Ndukuyenkosi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Web-based instruction , Computer systems Organizational learning -- Zimbabwe Internet in education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47259 , vital:39837
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop a strategy to motivate continued usage of Learning Management Systems in higher learning institutions of Zimbabwe. A related goal was to identify unique challenges experienced by instructors in their use of LMSs. The use of LMSs is now global and has been fairly successful in developed countries even though past research shows that instructors tend to discontinue usage over a period of time. Whereas most LMSs research is carried in the context of the developed world, the candidate demonstrates that Vantankesh's IS Success Model and Davis' Technology Acceptance Model can be successfully replicated into the developing world on condition that local environment is taken into context. The results showed that LMSs in Zimbabwe higher learning institutions hold a promise of success even though challenges exist. The findings have wider implications on the need to invest in neccessary infrustructure and future predictions on learner interests. The study demonstrates that shared success can be achieved if the local conditions are taken into context when developing a strategy to motivate instructor continued LMS usage. The study holds the practical implication that institutions can motivate instructors to continue with usage of LMSs to deliver quality output in their daily duties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A strategy towards implementing standardised data structures in municipal information systems
- Authors: Koekemoer, Silma Marguerite
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Data structures (Computer science) , Municipal government -- Data processing Public administration -- Data processing Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46064 , vital:39482
- Description: The regulation pertaining to a Standard Chart of Accounts (SCOA) for Municipalities was published in 2014 and is applicable to all 257 municipalities and municipal entities in South Africa. The regulation represents a data classification framework or structure and affects all financial management and internal control systems (FMICS) used by municipalities and municipal entities, and affects key business processes within these organisations. Compliance with the SCOA regulation means that the full municipal accountability cycle should accommodate all seven of the SCOA segments, from the budget through transacting and reporting at the transaction level, with all seven of the segments being embedded in the master data table of the municipal FMICS. While the change to technology and systems may be self-evident, the related business change should not be underestimated. This information technology (IT) driven organisational change across the whole municipal environment represents the research topic and key objective of this research study, namely, a strategy towards implementing standard data structures in municipal IT systems. The study followed a pragmatic philosophy using diagnostic reasoning based on an inductive approach, multiple action research methods and a descriptive case study to derive the proposed implementation strategy. The research subjects, which included 25 pilot municipalities, were studied for the duration of the pilot implementation of the strategy with the objective of identifying and utilising the lessons learnt from their experience to fast track the rollout of the strategy to non-pilot municipalities. The study was limited to the local government environment and to South Africa as a geographic area and involved an accidental sample aligned to the implementation project under investigation. The proposed implementation strategy was, however, of a generic nature and is therefore applicable to any other institution or environment engaged in a similar implementation project. The main contribution of the study is an implementation strategy for standard data structures in municipal financial information systems and which consists of seven diagnostics, 17 guiding policies and 48 coherent actions. The strategy was developed and refined during six cycles of data collection, which were conducted at 25 municipalities actively involved in implementing of the standard data structures. The secondary contributions of the research study include three conference papers and one submission to an academic journal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Koekemoer, Silma Marguerite
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Data structures (Computer science) , Municipal government -- Data processing Public administration -- Data processing Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46064 , vital:39482
- Description: The regulation pertaining to a Standard Chart of Accounts (SCOA) for Municipalities was published in 2014 and is applicable to all 257 municipalities and municipal entities in South Africa. The regulation represents a data classification framework or structure and affects all financial management and internal control systems (FMICS) used by municipalities and municipal entities, and affects key business processes within these organisations. Compliance with the SCOA regulation means that the full municipal accountability cycle should accommodate all seven of the SCOA segments, from the budget through transacting and reporting at the transaction level, with all seven of the segments being embedded in the master data table of the municipal FMICS. While the change to technology and systems may be self-evident, the related business change should not be underestimated. This information technology (IT) driven organisational change across the whole municipal environment represents the research topic and key objective of this research study, namely, a strategy towards implementing standard data structures in municipal IT systems. The study followed a pragmatic philosophy using diagnostic reasoning based on an inductive approach, multiple action research methods and a descriptive case study to derive the proposed implementation strategy. The research subjects, which included 25 pilot municipalities, were studied for the duration of the pilot implementation of the strategy with the objective of identifying and utilising the lessons learnt from their experience to fast track the rollout of the strategy to non-pilot municipalities. The study was limited to the local government environment and to South Africa as a geographic area and involved an accidental sample aligned to the implementation project under investigation. The proposed implementation strategy was, however, of a generic nature and is therefore applicable to any other institution or environment engaged in a similar implementation project. The main contribution of the study is an implementation strategy for standard data structures in municipal financial information systems and which consists of seven diagnostics, 17 guiding policies and 48 coherent actions. The strategy was developed and refined during six cycles of data collection, which were conducted at 25 municipalities actively involved in implementing of the standard data structures. The secondary contributions of the research study include three conference papers and one submission to an academic journal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A transportation management framework for the Polokwane local municipality during Zion Christian Church (ZCC) Easter weekend pilgrimage
- Authors: Mathebula, Andrew Mabila
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Transportation -- Management , Urban transportation -- Planning Urban transportation -- Management Christian pilgrims and pilgrimages
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46152 , vital:39509
- Description: The study investigated the impact of the high volume of vehicular traffic on pilgrims and the community during the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) Easter weekend pilgrimage. The researcher adopted an interpretivist research philosophy, and thus attempted to understand policy, planning, and management of the ZCC Easter pilgrimage through meanings that municipal officials assign to them. The study employed the action research approach by collaborating with the Polokwane Local Municipality (PLM) with a view to evolving lasting solutions to traffic congestion during the Easter weekend. The researchers used the seven-step model proposed by Van Tonder and Dietrichsen (Van Tonder and Dietrichsen, 2008). The justification of the model is that it is aligned with the action research model of Organisational Development (OD). It requires that a diagnosis process should be collaborative and participative towards offering solutions to organisational challenges as opposed to imposing a unilateral theoretical generated solution. This model also fits the ontological stance of the researchers which assumes that reality is co-constructed through engagement with other stakeholders. The researcher conducted semi-structured individual and focus groups discussion (FGD) using openended guides. The data from the informants were collected until a point of saturation. In addition to facilitation FGD discussion, the researcher made his own personal reflection of the participatory action research (PAR). A content analysis method was used to synthesise the qualitative data. The contents were extracted from transcribed interviews. The researcher carefully reviewed the notes several times and coded the notes independently. After that, the researcher coded the codes with each other for any potential contradiction. These codes were converted into themes and sub-themes. The qualitative content analysis process, led by the researcher, was both inductive and deductive. Prior to the inductive process, the researcher listened carefully to the audio recordings transcriptions to get a general understanding of participants’ experiences. The findings indicate that the South African transportation planning approach is ossified and divorced from reality. There is a lacuna to address peak traffic challenges during the Easter weekend and the festive season. It is notable that the government-led seasonal road safety campaigns such as ‘Arrive Alive’ are curiously inadequate to address peak traffic and road accidents challenges in South Africa during the ZCC Easter pilgrimage. The transportation management framework for the PLM as well as a peak traffic standard were developed as part of the study recommendations. These recommendations augur a shift to transport planning in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mathebula, Andrew Mabila
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Transportation -- Management , Urban transportation -- Planning Urban transportation -- Management Christian pilgrims and pilgrimages
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46152 , vital:39509
- Description: The study investigated the impact of the high volume of vehicular traffic on pilgrims and the community during the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) Easter weekend pilgrimage. The researcher adopted an interpretivist research philosophy, and thus attempted to understand policy, planning, and management of the ZCC Easter pilgrimage through meanings that municipal officials assign to them. The study employed the action research approach by collaborating with the Polokwane Local Municipality (PLM) with a view to evolving lasting solutions to traffic congestion during the Easter weekend. The researchers used the seven-step model proposed by Van Tonder and Dietrichsen (Van Tonder and Dietrichsen, 2008). The justification of the model is that it is aligned with the action research model of Organisational Development (OD). It requires that a diagnosis process should be collaborative and participative towards offering solutions to organisational challenges as opposed to imposing a unilateral theoretical generated solution. This model also fits the ontological stance of the researchers which assumes that reality is co-constructed through engagement with other stakeholders. The researcher conducted semi-structured individual and focus groups discussion (FGD) using openended guides. The data from the informants were collected until a point of saturation. In addition to facilitation FGD discussion, the researcher made his own personal reflection of the participatory action research (PAR). A content analysis method was used to synthesise the qualitative data. The contents were extracted from transcribed interviews. The researcher carefully reviewed the notes several times and coded the notes independently. After that, the researcher coded the codes with each other for any potential contradiction. These codes were converted into themes and sub-themes. The qualitative content analysis process, led by the researcher, was both inductive and deductive. Prior to the inductive process, the researcher listened carefully to the audio recordings transcriptions to get a general understanding of participants’ experiences. The findings indicate that the South African transportation planning approach is ossified and divorced from reality. There is a lacuna to address peak traffic challenges during the Easter weekend and the festive season. It is notable that the government-led seasonal road safety campaigns such as ‘Arrive Alive’ are curiously inadequate to address peak traffic and road accidents challenges in South Africa during the ZCC Easter pilgrimage. The transportation management framework for the PLM as well as a peak traffic standard were developed as part of the study recommendations. These recommendations augur a shift to transport planning in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A vision based multirotor aircraft for use in the security industry
- Authors: Nelson, Benjamin David
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Drone aircraft -- South Africa , Mechatronics -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46816 , vital:39664
- Description: This research consisted of developing a vision based multirotor aircraft that could be used in the security industry. A second-hand aircraft was purchased and modified. The aircraft made use of a Pixhawk flight controller and a Odroid XU4 companion computer, which resulted in the computer injecting commands into the flight controller. Robot Operating System was installed and used on the companion computer to integrate the vision system and the aircraft. The vision system was designed to help develop a landing system where the aircraft would land on an ArUco marker. The vision system also allowed the aircraft to detect and follow humans. A Software in the Loop (SITL) was run alongside Gazebo, allowing the developed landing system and the human detecting system to be simulated and tested. The developed landing system was implemented on the aircraft, where the developed landing system was tested and compared to the aircraft’s current GPS based landing system. The developed landing system obtained a better overall accuracy , while also taking longer to land the aircraft compared to the GPS based landing system. There were also numerous manual and autonomous test flights implemented on the aircraft.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Nelson, Benjamin David
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Drone aircraft -- South Africa , Mechatronics -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46816 , vital:39664
- Description: This research consisted of developing a vision based multirotor aircraft that could be used in the security industry. A second-hand aircraft was purchased and modified. The aircraft made use of a Pixhawk flight controller and a Odroid XU4 companion computer, which resulted in the computer injecting commands into the flight controller. Robot Operating System was installed and used on the companion computer to integrate the vision system and the aircraft. The vision system was designed to help develop a landing system where the aircraft would land on an ArUco marker. The vision system also allowed the aircraft to detect and follow humans. A Software in the Loop (SITL) was run alongside Gazebo, allowing the developed landing system and the human detecting system to be simulated and tested. The developed landing system was implemented on the aircraft, where the developed landing system was tested and compared to the aircraft’s current GPS based landing system. The developed landing system obtained a better overall accuracy , while also taking longer to land the aircraft compared to the GPS based landing system. There were also numerous manual and autonomous test flights implemented on the aircraft.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System modelling of surface topology in ultra-high precision diamond turning of rapidly solidified aluminium grade (RSA 443)
- Authors: Zvikomborero, Hweju
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Mechatronics Surface roughness -- Measurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49441 , vital:41721
- Description: Surface roughness prediction is a crucial stage during product manufacturing since it acts as a quality indicator. This investigative research thesis presents an online surface roughness prediction, based on the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) model during Ultra-High Precision Diamond Turning (UHPDT) of Rapidly Solidified Aluminium (RSA-443) using water and kerosene as coolants. Based on the Taguchi L9 orthogonal array, the cutting parameters (spindle speed, depth of cut and feed rate) are varied at three levels. Acoustic Emission (AE) signals are detected during the UHPDT process using a piezoelectric sensor. Spindle speed, depth of cut, feed rate, AE root mean square, prominent frequency and peak rate are considered as model inputs in this thesis. The experimental results reveal that a better surface finish is obtained using water coolant in comparison to kerosene coolant. Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) based comparison between ANFIS and Response Surface Method (RSM) is carried out. In this study, the ANFIS model has a prediction accuracy of 79.42% and 69.40% on water-based and kerosene-based results respectively. The RSM model yields higher prediction accuracies of 98.59% and 95.55% on water-based and kerosene-based results respectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Zvikomborero, Hweju
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Mechatronics Surface roughness -- Measurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49441 , vital:41721
- Description: Surface roughness prediction is a crucial stage during product manufacturing since it acts as a quality indicator. This investigative research thesis presents an online surface roughness prediction, based on the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) model during Ultra-High Precision Diamond Turning (UHPDT) of Rapidly Solidified Aluminium (RSA-443) using water and kerosene as coolants. Based on the Taguchi L9 orthogonal array, the cutting parameters (spindle speed, depth of cut and feed rate) are varied at three levels. Acoustic Emission (AE) signals are detected during the UHPDT process using a piezoelectric sensor. Spindle speed, depth of cut, feed rate, AE root mean square, prominent frequency and peak rate are considered as model inputs in this thesis. The experimental results reveal that a better surface finish is obtained using water coolant in comparison to kerosene coolant. Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) based comparison between ANFIS and Response Surface Method (RSM) is carried out. In this study, the ANFIS model has a prediction accuracy of 79.42% and 69.40% on water-based and kerosene-based results respectively. The RSM model yields higher prediction accuracies of 98.59% and 95.55% on water-based and kerosene-based results respectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
An internal audit expectation gap: South African Revenue Services project audit engagements
- Authors: Sekhwela, Mmanapo Bella
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Electronic data processing -- Auditing , Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures Information technology -- Security measures Computer security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47139 , vital:39815
- Description: South African Revenue Services (SARS) was established as a quasi-government organisation with a mandate to efficiently and effectively collect revenue based on the export, import, movement, manufacture and storage of specific goods. Information Technology (IT) governance is strategically important to SARS in that its business processes are technology driven and that technology projects are implemented to support the SARS strategic objectives. In alignment to the King code for corporate governance and ethical business practices, an Internal Audit Function (IAF) as a regulatory requirement of all public sector entities in South Africa exists at SARS. The aim of the research was to evaluate the perspectives of SARS stakeholders regarding the organisation’s IT project auditing process. The study focused on gathering data from various SARS stakeholders involved in the delivery of IT projects and IT projects auditing. Through a qualitative research approach, interviews were conducted with practitioners such as Internal Auditors, Internal Audit managers, and executives as well as project managers and ownersso asto obtain a holistic understanding of stakeholder expectations of an IT project audit. An analysis of the data collected led to the deduction of recommendations meant to enhance stakeholder perceptions of the IT audit function within SARS. The study found that there is a perceived value derived from IA reviews of IT projects. The findings also revealed that rather than lack of resources and expertise, skill set deficiencies were the major setback in achieving IA goals. The findings further revealed that there are deficiencies in the quality of IA reports. Some of the main recommendations were to expand the scope of the Internal Audit roles, intensify engagements of Internal Audits by the Enterprise Project Management Office (EPMO), improve the quality of reports, and capacitate Internal Auditors with reporting skills. This study presents a modest contribution that is expected to enrich knowledge on how to audit IT projects. Moreover, the study contributes towards a methodological position of design science by producing results from a smaller sample augmented by interview results in an environment characterised by smaller populations so that inferences can be made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Sekhwela, Mmanapo Bella
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Electronic data processing -- Auditing , Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures Information technology -- Security measures Computer security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47139 , vital:39815
- Description: South African Revenue Services (SARS) was established as a quasi-government organisation with a mandate to efficiently and effectively collect revenue based on the export, import, movement, manufacture and storage of specific goods. Information Technology (IT) governance is strategically important to SARS in that its business processes are technology driven and that technology projects are implemented to support the SARS strategic objectives. In alignment to the King code for corporate governance and ethical business practices, an Internal Audit Function (IAF) as a regulatory requirement of all public sector entities in South Africa exists at SARS. The aim of the research was to evaluate the perspectives of SARS stakeholders regarding the organisation’s IT project auditing process. The study focused on gathering data from various SARS stakeholders involved in the delivery of IT projects and IT projects auditing. Through a qualitative research approach, interviews were conducted with practitioners such as Internal Auditors, Internal Audit managers, and executives as well as project managers and ownersso asto obtain a holistic understanding of stakeholder expectations of an IT project audit. An analysis of the data collected led to the deduction of recommendations meant to enhance stakeholder perceptions of the IT audit function within SARS. The study found that there is a perceived value derived from IA reviews of IT projects. The findings also revealed that rather than lack of resources and expertise, skill set deficiencies were the major setback in achieving IA goals. The findings further revealed that there are deficiencies in the quality of IA reports. Some of the main recommendations were to expand the scope of the Internal Audit roles, intensify engagements of Internal Audits by the Enterprise Project Management Office (EPMO), improve the quality of reports, and capacitate Internal Auditors with reporting skills. This study presents a modest contribution that is expected to enrich knowledge on how to audit IT projects. Moreover, the study contributes towards a methodological position of design science by producing results from a smaller sample augmented by interview results in an environment characterised by smaller populations so that inferences can be made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
An IT Risk Management Framework for provincial business entities : a case study for Limpopo Economic Development Agency, Limpopo Province, South Africa
- Authors: Mabitsela, Ngoakoana Unity
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Risk management -- South Africa -- Limpopo Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Information technology -- Security measures -- South Africa -- Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49463 , vital:41723
- Description: This study focused on a lack of an Information Technology Risk Management (ITRM) framework tailored for provincial business entities to assist with the management of IT risks. The research was aimed at developing a tailored IT risk management framework that would assist provincial business entities with an effective ITRM process. This was achieved through identifying factors that constitute an ITRM framework, determining the current IT risk management methods used in provincial business entities and assessing the IT risk culture. This research study was conducted at the Limpopo Economic Development Agency (LEDA), which is a provincial business entity in the Limpopo province. The objectives of the study were accomplished using a design science research approach which involved the creation of an artefact and design theory as a means to improve the current state of practice as well as existing research knowledge about provincial business entities and their management of IT risks. The Nelson Mandela University Design Science Methodology Framework (NMU-DSFM) was identified as the methodology to be followed to devise the contribution in the form of an artefact. It was found that the organisation does not have a positive IT risk culture. From the study of the data analysis performed, it was evident that provincial business entities have challenges associated with adequately identifying IT risks. The findings highlighted that for the proper management of risks, risk governance should be effective by ensuring that the board of directors takes the responsibility of IT risk management, and the essentials of risk governance were discussed at length. The research output for this study was a framework. The adoption of this framework may positively contribute to strengthening governance of IT risk management in the provincial business entities. Best practices were highlighted for ease of reference to determine what is required and how to implement this regarding IT risk management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mabitsela, Ngoakoana Unity
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Risk management -- South Africa -- Limpopo Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Information technology -- Security measures -- South Africa -- Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49463 , vital:41723
- Description: This study focused on a lack of an Information Technology Risk Management (ITRM) framework tailored for provincial business entities to assist with the management of IT risks. The research was aimed at developing a tailored IT risk management framework that would assist provincial business entities with an effective ITRM process. This was achieved through identifying factors that constitute an ITRM framework, determining the current IT risk management methods used in provincial business entities and assessing the IT risk culture. This research study was conducted at the Limpopo Economic Development Agency (LEDA), which is a provincial business entity in the Limpopo province. The objectives of the study were accomplished using a design science research approach which involved the creation of an artefact and design theory as a means to improve the current state of practice as well as existing research knowledge about provincial business entities and their management of IT risks. The Nelson Mandela University Design Science Methodology Framework (NMU-DSFM) was identified as the methodology to be followed to devise the contribution in the form of an artefact. It was found that the organisation does not have a positive IT risk culture. From the study of the data analysis performed, it was evident that provincial business entities have challenges associated with adequately identifying IT risks. The findings highlighted that for the proper management of risks, risk governance should be effective by ensuring that the board of directors takes the responsibility of IT risk management, and the essentials of risk governance were discussed at length. The research output for this study was a framework. The adoption of this framework may positively contribute to strengthening governance of IT risk management in the provincial business entities. Best practices were highlighted for ease of reference to determine what is required and how to implement this regarding IT risk management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Analytical evaluation of the effect of aggregate variation on Asphalt Mixture Properties
- Authors: Van Eck, Elandre
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Aggregates (Building materials)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49639 , vital:41743
- Description: This research study aimed to conduct an analytical evaluation of the effect of aggregate grading on the properties of asphalt mixtures. This was achieved by obtaining asphalt mix designs from approved civil engineering organisations and determining the relationship between the aggregate grading and the corresponding properties of the asphalt mix designs.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Van Eck, Elandre
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Aggregates (Building materials)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49639 , vital:41743
- Description: This research study aimed to conduct an analytical evaluation of the effect of aggregate grading on the properties of asphalt mixtures. This was achieved by obtaining asphalt mix designs from approved civil engineering organisations and determining the relationship between the aggregate grading and the corresponding properties of the asphalt mix designs.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
Applying blockchain technology to aspects of electronic health records in South Africa: lessons learnt
- Authors: Adlam, Ryno
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Blockchains (Databases) , Database security Data protection Medical records -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45996 , vital:39405
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore the applicability of blockchain technology as a viable alternative for the secure storage and distribution of electronic health records in a South African context. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) has grown over recent years. Electronic health records (EHRs) can be seen as electronic versions of patients’ medical history. EHRs promise benefits such as improving the quality of care, reducing medical errors, reducing costs, saving time, and enhancing the availability and sharing of medical records. Blockchain, in simple terms, could be seen as a distributed database controlled by a group of individuals. Blockchain technology differs from other distributed ledger technology by bundling unrelated data into blocks that are chained together in a linked-list manner, hence the name blockchain. Blockchain technology strives to provide desirable features, such as decentralization, immutability, audibility, and transparency. EHRs are traditionally constructed with a cloud-based infrastructure to promote the storing and distribution of medical records. These medical records are commonly stored in a centralized architecture, such as a relational database. The centralized architecture employed by EHRs may present a single point of failure. These kinds of failures may lead to data-breaches. The cloud-based infrastructure is effective and efficient from an availability standpoint. The increased availability of electronic health records has brought forth challenges related to the security and privacy of the patient’s medical records. The sensitive nature of EHRs attracts the attention of cyber-criminals. There has been a rise in the number of data breaches related to electronic health records. The traditional infrastructure used by electronic health records can no longer ensure the privacy and security of patient’s medical records. To determine whether blockchain is a viable alternative to these approaches, the main objective of this study was to compile a technical report on the applicability of aspects of blockchain technology to the secure storage and distribution of electronic health records. The study first conducted a literature review to gather background on the current state of electronic health records and blockchain technology. The results of the literature review were used to compile an initial report. Experiments were conducted with various aspects of blockchain technology to build a technical baseline and to ultimately validate the initial report. The insights gained from the experiments served to refine the initial report into a final technical report. The final deliverable of this study was to devise a technical report. The technical report serves as a generalized overview of the applicability of blockchain technology as a secure storage and distribution mechanism for electronic health records. The main topics covered by the technical report to outline the applicability of blockchain technology to EHRs are as follows: authentication, authorization, audit log, storage and transactions. The insights gained from the study illustrate that permissioned blockchain technology can enhance the traditional AAA security scheme employed by traditional EHRs. The AAA security scheme entails the use of certificate-based authentication and attributebased access control for authorization. Audit logs can be stored in a semi-decentralized architecture that can enhance the security and privacy of audit logs. Using blockchain technology for storing electronic health records might not be a viable alternative to traditional EHRs architecture. Blockchain technology violates certain privacy regulations as information is stored in a permanent manner. Furthermore, blockchain technology is not optimized for dealing with large volumes of data. However, blockchain technology could be used to store a cryptographic hash of electronic health records to ensure the integrity of records. Permissioned blockchain technology can enhance the EHRs transaction process by transacting health records in a peer-to-peer infrastructure. In doing so, the above-mentioned AAA security scheme can enhance the security, confidentiality, and integrity of electronic health records shared across organizational bounds.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Adlam, Ryno
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Blockchains (Databases) , Database security Data protection Medical records -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45996 , vital:39405
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore the applicability of blockchain technology as a viable alternative for the secure storage and distribution of electronic health records in a South African context. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) has grown over recent years. Electronic health records (EHRs) can be seen as electronic versions of patients’ medical history. EHRs promise benefits such as improving the quality of care, reducing medical errors, reducing costs, saving time, and enhancing the availability and sharing of medical records. Blockchain, in simple terms, could be seen as a distributed database controlled by a group of individuals. Blockchain technology differs from other distributed ledger technology by bundling unrelated data into blocks that are chained together in a linked-list manner, hence the name blockchain. Blockchain technology strives to provide desirable features, such as decentralization, immutability, audibility, and transparency. EHRs are traditionally constructed with a cloud-based infrastructure to promote the storing and distribution of medical records. These medical records are commonly stored in a centralized architecture, such as a relational database. The centralized architecture employed by EHRs may present a single point of failure. These kinds of failures may lead to data-breaches. The cloud-based infrastructure is effective and efficient from an availability standpoint. The increased availability of electronic health records has brought forth challenges related to the security and privacy of the patient’s medical records. The sensitive nature of EHRs attracts the attention of cyber-criminals. There has been a rise in the number of data breaches related to electronic health records. The traditional infrastructure used by electronic health records can no longer ensure the privacy and security of patient’s medical records. To determine whether blockchain is a viable alternative to these approaches, the main objective of this study was to compile a technical report on the applicability of aspects of blockchain technology to the secure storage and distribution of electronic health records. The study first conducted a literature review to gather background on the current state of electronic health records and blockchain technology. The results of the literature review were used to compile an initial report. Experiments were conducted with various aspects of blockchain technology to build a technical baseline and to ultimately validate the initial report. The insights gained from the experiments served to refine the initial report into a final technical report. The final deliverable of this study was to devise a technical report. The technical report serves as a generalized overview of the applicability of blockchain technology as a secure storage and distribution mechanism for electronic health records. The main topics covered by the technical report to outline the applicability of blockchain technology to EHRs are as follows: authentication, authorization, audit log, storage and transactions. The insights gained from the study illustrate that permissioned blockchain technology can enhance the traditional AAA security scheme employed by traditional EHRs. The AAA security scheme entails the use of certificate-based authentication and attributebased access control for authorization. Audit logs can be stored in a semi-decentralized architecture that can enhance the security and privacy of audit logs. Using blockchain technology for storing electronic health records might not be a viable alternative to traditional EHRs architecture. Blockchain technology violates certain privacy regulations as information is stored in a permanent manner. Furthermore, blockchain technology is not optimized for dealing with large volumes of data. However, blockchain technology could be used to store a cryptographic hash of electronic health records to ensure the integrity of records. Permissioned blockchain technology can enhance the EHRs transaction process by transacting health records in a peer-to-peer infrastructure. In doing so, the above-mentioned AAA security scheme can enhance the security, confidentiality, and integrity of electronic health records shared across organizational bounds.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Applying the substitution augmentation modification redefinition model towards adoption of e-learning usage at Walter Sisulu University
- Authors: Mabona, Teoflax Anele
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Educational technology -- South Africa Universities and colleges -- Computer-assisted instruction -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49474 , vital:41724
- Description: The adoption of e-learning by universities around the world has grown drastically during this time of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Most universities implement the full utilisation of e-learning, conducting classes only by using online course delivery. Some universities still prefer a blended learning approach where classes are presented to students using both the traditional way of teaching and online e-learning platforms. Walter Sisulu University (WSU) is one of those universities that uses blended learning. The university started using this approach in 2009, through a partnership between WSU and the Netherlands for learning and teaching enhancement using e-learning. The adoption and usage of e-learning in universities is a challenge, which some researchers have investigated. This study aimed to apply the Substitution; Augmentation; Modification; Redefinition (SAMR) Model to enhance the adoption of e-learning and its usage at WSU. To obtain results, a quantitative method using approaches, such as WiseUp logs, WiseUp e-learning usage publications, WSU e-learning documents and literature, was applied. The study, according to the WiseUp logs, found that the e-learning levels at the university were low. Using the WiseUp e-learning usage publications, revealed that the university was still having some challenges regarding the low usage of WiseUp. Some of the students were not aware of the WiseUp platform as they said the system was only shown to them once and never again for continuous training. Most lecturers’ challenge was that the system was time-consuming to upload online content. This study used the WSU e-learning documents to show that the institution employed some initiatives for the adoption and usage of WiseUp, such as the LTD (Learning Teaching Development) department orientating students about WiseUp, just after their registration. The study ‘s objective was achieved, which was to apply the Substitution; Augmentation; Modification; Redefinition (SAMR) Model to enhance the adoption and usage of e-learning at WSU. The study applied the Substitution; Augmentation; Modification; Redefinition (SAMR) Model to provide a clear understanding of WSU’s position in terms of e-learning adoption and usage. The overall result from the study showed that WSU was based mostly on the first three levels of teaching and learning integration into technology, and in the enhancement level of the Substitution; Augmentation; Modification; Redefinition (SAMR) Model. The researcher noted that much still needed to be done because the usage of the system was still very low but its integration into teaching and learning was positive.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mabona, Teoflax Anele
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Educational technology -- South Africa Universities and colleges -- Computer-assisted instruction -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49474 , vital:41724
- Description: The adoption of e-learning by universities around the world has grown drastically during this time of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Most universities implement the full utilisation of e-learning, conducting classes only by using online course delivery. Some universities still prefer a blended learning approach where classes are presented to students using both the traditional way of teaching and online e-learning platforms. Walter Sisulu University (WSU) is one of those universities that uses blended learning. The university started using this approach in 2009, through a partnership between WSU and the Netherlands for learning and teaching enhancement using e-learning. The adoption and usage of e-learning in universities is a challenge, which some researchers have investigated. This study aimed to apply the Substitution; Augmentation; Modification; Redefinition (SAMR) Model to enhance the adoption of e-learning and its usage at WSU. To obtain results, a quantitative method using approaches, such as WiseUp logs, WiseUp e-learning usage publications, WSU e-learning documents and literature, was applied. The study, according to the WiseUp logs, found that the e-learning levels at the university were low. Using the WiseUp e-learning usage publications, revealed that the university was still having some challenges regarding the low usage of WiseUp. Some of the students were not aware of the WiseUp platform as they said the system was only shown to them once and never again for continuous training. Most lecturers’ challenge was that the system was time-consuming to upload online content. This study used the WSU e-learning documents to show that the institution employed some initiatives for the adoption and usage of WiseUp, such as the LTD (Learning Teaching Development) department orientating students about WiseUp, just after their registration. The study ‘s objective was achieved, which was to apply the Substitution; Augmentation; Modification; Redefinition (SAMR) Model to enhance the adoption and usage of e-learning at WSU. The study applied the Substitution; Augmentation; Modification; Redefinition (SAMR) Model to provide a clear understanding of WSU’s position in terms of e-learning adoption and usage. The overall result from the study showed that WSU was based mostly on the first three levels of teaching and learning integration into technology, and in the enhancement level of the Substitution; Augmentation; Modification; Redefinition (SAMR) Model. The researcher noted that much still needed to be done because the usage of the system was still very low but its integration into teaching and learning was positive.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Best practices to address medical identity theft awareness : the case of South African medical aid members
- Authors: Ah Why, Brandon Lawrence
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Medical records -- Access control -- South Africa Identity theft -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49396 , vital:41708
- Description: The prevalence of medical identity theft continues to increase. This is a concern for medical aid members within the South African private healthcare sector. Medical identity theft can be caused by various individuals, including internal and external role players. The deceptions involved in medical identity theft can affect medical aid members, the healthcare industry, and medical aids. Medical aid members remain unaware that they are victims of medical identity theft until they receive high medical bills or are notified by their healthcare providers. This research study focused on the lack of awareness of medical identity theft among medical aid members. The main objective of this research study was to propose best practices that can be used to address medical aid members’ awareness of medical identity theft in the South African private healthcare sector. Sub-objectives were used to achieve the main objective. The first sub-objective was to identify the parties causing and the parties affected by medical identity theft. The second sub-objective was to determine the level of medical identity theft awareness among medical aid members in the South African private healthcare sector. The third sub-objective was to identify best practices to address medical identity theft awareness. The methodology used by this exploratory research study included a convergent mixed method design, which was used to obtain quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection was completed using a literature review and a questionnaire. Data analysis and reporting made use of a qualitative content analysis, descriptive statistics, and logical argumentation. Respondents’ answers to a questionnaire about their experiences with medical identity theft provided insight into South African medical aid members’ awareness of medical identity theft. The data gathered from the respondents was analysed, and themes emerged that emphasised a lack of awareness of medical identity theft among South African medical aid members. Twenty-six pre-emptive and nine retroactive best practices to address medical identity theft awareness were identified from existing literature. These best practices were cross-referenced to determine their relevance to the list of concerns about medical identity theft that emanated from the survey completed by South African medical aid members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Ah Why, Brandon Lawrence
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Medical records -- Access control -- South Africa Identity theft -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49396 , vital:41708
- Description: The prevalence of medical identity theft continues to increase. This is a concern for medical aid members within the South African private healthcare sector. Medical identity theft can be caused by various individuals, including internal and external role players. The deceptions involved in medical identity theft can affect medical aid members, the healthcare industry, and medical aids. Medical aid members remain unaware that they are victims of medical identity theft until they receive high medical bills or are notified by their healthcare providers. This research study focused on the lack of awareness of medical identity theft among medical aid members. The main objective of this research study was to propose best practices that can be used to address medical aid members’ awareness of medical identity theft in the South African private healthcare sector. Sub-objectives were used to achieve the main objective. The first sub-objective was to identify the parties causing and the parties affected by medical identity theft. The second sub-objective was to determine the level of medical identity theft awareness among medical aid members in the South African private healthcare sector. The third sub-objective was to identify best practices to address medical identity theft awareness. The methodology used by this exploratory research study included a convergent mixed method design, which was used to obtain quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection was completed using a literature review and a questionnaire. Data analysis and reporting made use of a qualitative content analysis, descriptive statistics, and logical argumentation. Respondents’ answers to a questionnaire about their experiences with medical identity theft provided insight into South African medical aid members’ awareness of medical identity theft. The data gathered from the respondents was analysed, and themes emerged that emphasised a lack of awareness of medical identity theft among South African medical aid members. Twenty-six pre-emptive and nine retroactive best practices to address medical identity theft awareness were identified from existing literature. These best practices were cross-referenced to determine their relevance to the list of concerns about medical identity theft that emanated from the survey completed by South African medical aid members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Constraints in attainment of sustainable human settlements at Kwamaphumulo Local Municipality
- Authors: Sikhosana, Phindokuhle
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Human settlements , Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47181 , vital:39829
- Description: This study sought to investigate the constraints in the attainment of sustainable human settlement in KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality at iLembe District in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The aim of this study was to investigate the constraints that limit the achievement of the ideal of sustainable human settlement development in the KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality. Furthermore, the study sought to determine the impact of these constraints on sustainable development and to proffer measures that can be taken to combat stagnant or underdevelopment in the area. A mixed-method approach is followed in this study, which considers a triangulation of quantitative and qualitative data collection, analysis and interpretation techniques. It is important to note that in the past years since South Africa became a democratic country, there have been countless efforts with regard to overcoming the problems created during the apartheid era. These problems stemmed from a distorted spatial, social, economic and political background that was advocated by both segregationist public policies and the planning systems of the Apartheid Regime. In recent years, South African cities have also been faced with environmental issues, which are imperative to the future development of the country. With all these issues in mind, we see that the many efforts that are put in place by government always fall short of solving the problems. This research report looked at the constraints that affect the KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality in attaining sustainable human settlements and whether the efforts of redistribution and equality have been enough to overcome the problems. The key findings of the study were that constraints in attaining sustainable human settlements in the KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality negatively impacts on the development in the area. The level of services being provided is poor. There is an apparent disconnect between traditional leaders and the municipality councillor as development management and vision are concerned. Furthermore, the development programmes and projects do not seem to address the critical needs of the community. Housing development is narrow minded with a focus on the top structure and a failure to include basic services and infrastructure. Houses built that are financed by subsidies are of poor quality. The latter situation results in more able‐ bodied, skilled and capable people emigrating to developed areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Sikhosana, Phindokuhle
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Human settlements , Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47181 , vital:39829
- Description: This study sought to investigate the constraints in the attainment of sustainable human settlement in KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality at iLembe District in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The aim of this study was to investigate the constraints that limit the achievement of the ideal of sustainable human settlement development in the KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality. Furthermore, the study sought to determine the impact of these constraints on sustainable development and to proffer measures that can be taken to combat stagnant or underdevelopment in the area. A mixed-method approach is followed in this study, which considers a triangulation of quantitative and qualitative data collection, analysis and interpretation techniques. It is important to note that in the past years since South Africa became a democratic country, there have been countless efforts with regard to overcoming the problems created during the apartheid era. These problems stemmed from a distorted spatial, social, economic and political background that was advocated by both segregationist public policies and the planning systems of the Apartheid Regime. In recent years, South African cities have also been faced with environmental issues, which are imperative to the future development of the country. With all these issues in mind, we see that the many efforts that are put in place by government always fall short of solving the problems. This research report looked at the constraints that affect the KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality in attaining sustainable human settlements and whether the efforts of redistribution and equality have been enough to overcome the problems. The key findings of the study were that constraints in attaining sustainable human settlements in the KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality negatively impacts on the development in the area. The level of services being provided is poor. There is an apparent disconnect between traditional leaders and the municipality councillor as development management and vision are concerned. Furthermore, the development programmes and projects do not seem to address the critical needs of the community. Housing development is narrow minded with a focus on the top structure and a failure to include basic services and infrastructure. Houses built that are financed by subsidies are of poor quality. The latter situation results in more able‐ bodied, skilled and capable people emigrating to developed areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020