A change management model for the implementation of environmental sustainability principles at General Motors South Africa
- Authors: Mzuzu, Ncedisa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: General Motors Corporation Organizational change -- Management , Corporate culture Business ethics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48047 , vital:40466
- Description: In this day and age, Environmental issues are considered to be very pertinent in a business environment. Lee (2010) argues that the natural environment is not only important for the general population, but the concern for the natural environment has become increasingly important within the accounting practice. Lee (2010) references (Porter & Van der Linde, 1995; Schaltegger & Wagner, 2006; Lee, 2009), in supporting his argument that there has been increasing interest in the relationship between environmental and economic performance, that is to say reducing costs while simultaneously improving environmental performance. Organisation in the past decades have either opted to disregard or embrace change as a result of this global phenomenon. Within organisations current leaders have had to manage operations in their local areas with a global mindset. Hill (2011:4) defines globalisation as a process whereby barriers to cross border trade and investment are declining, perceived trading distances are shrinking, material culture is starting to look similar and where national economies are merging to an interdependent, integrated economic system. With the increased hype and awareness of environmental and sustainability issues within the manufacturing environment, certain companies have adopted best practices that focus on firms' production processes (Hart, 1995; Stead & Stead, 1995) that can result in cost advantage. Within the South African context, the government has put in place a legislative framework laid down by the South African Constitution that enforces the responsibility of sustainable use of natural resources and responsible management of process outputs such as waste, effluent and gas emissions. General Motors adopted an Environmental Management System. The fundamental principles of EMS are based on continuous improvement where most of improvement opportunities and challenges exist within the implementation stages. The fundamental questions the study seeks to address are: As General Motors South Africa put in place this sustainability tool, how does the company ensure that in line with continuous improvement, the improvements are sustained? What interventions can the company implement to drive the change to ensure that it improves the implementation of its Environmental Management System so as to reap the benefits as outlined? This research effort discussed recommendations for achieving the objective of developing a change management model for improving implementation of sustainability principles at General Motors South Africa. Based on the outcome of the survey and the interview, the current senior managers at General Motors South Africa have embraced environmental issues, but there is no clear indication that the future leaders will also do the same. Based on the eight steps for transforming an organisation by Kotter (2006), the following are recommendations: A communication strategy to all employees (including leadership) that will continuously articulate connections between new behaviours and corporate success throughout the organisation, and not limit to manufacturing operations. Secondly, the company needs to ensure that there are programmes in place for leadership development and succession.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mzuzu, Ncedisa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: General Motors Corporation Organizational change -- Management , Corporate culture Business ethics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48047 , vital:40466
- Description: In this day and age, Environmental issues are considered to be very pertinent in a business environment. Lee (2010) argues that the natural environment is not only important for the general population, but the concern for the natural environment has become increasingly important within the accounting practice. Lee (2010) references (Porter & Van der Linde, 1995; Schaltegger & Wagner, 2006; Lee, 2009), in supporting his argument that there has been increasing interest in the relationship between environmental and economic performance, that is to say reducing costs while simultaneously improving environmental performance. Organisation in the past decades have either opted to disregard or embrace change as a result of this global phenomenon. Within organisations current leaders have had to manage operations in their local areas with a global mindset. Hill (2011:4) defines globalisation as a process whereby barriers to cross border trade and investment are declining, perceived trading distances are shrinking, material culture is starting to look similar and where national economies are merging to an interdependent, integrated economic system. With the increased hype and awareness of environmental and sustainability issues within the manufacturing environment, certain companies have adopted best practices that focus on firms' production processes (Hart, 1995; Stead & Stead, 1995) that can result in cost advantage. Within the South African context, the government has put in place a legislative framework laid down by the South African Constitution that enforces the responsibility of sustainable use of natural resources and responsible management of process outputs such as waste, effluent and gas emissions. General Motors adopted an Environmental Management System. The fundamental principles of EMS are based on continuous improvement where most of improvement opportunities and challenges exist within the implementation stages. The fundamental questions the study seeks to address are: As General Motors South Africa put in place this sustainability tool, how does the company ensure that in line with continuous improvement, the improvements are sustained? What interventions can the company implement to drive the change to ensure that it improves the implementation of its Environmental Management System so as to reap the benefits as outlined? This research effort discussed recommendations for achieving the objective of developing a change management model for improving implementation of sustainability principles at General Motors South Africa. Based on the outcome of the survey and the interview, the current senior managers at General Motors South Africa have embraced environmental issues, but there is no clear indication that the future leaders will also do the same. Based on the eight steps for transforming an organisation by Kotter (2006), the following are recommendations: A communication strategy to all employees (including leadership) that will continuously articulate connections between new behaviours and corporate success throughout the organisation, and not limit to manufacturing operations. Secondly, the company needs to ensure that there are programmes in place for leadership development and succession.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
A creativity model to increase employee productivity
- Authors: Qokweni, Noluvuyolwetu
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Labor productivity -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Performance -- Measurement , Manufacturing industries -- Capital productivity -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5401 , vital:20837
- Description: For business firms to continue as going concerns, productivity is a primary goal. In order for the firms to remain productive, it is imperative that managers continuously explore ways of improving productivity and employee performance. Employee productivity, in particular, is the measurement of performance and competitiveness in any business firm. A competitive advantage enables a business firm to, amongst others, survive financially, expand its operations and grow its market share. Creativity and innovation are fundamental sources of competitive advantage. In order for a business to retain its competitive edge, it must effectively enhance employee productivity, creativity and innovation. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate a creativity model that could contribute to the enhancement of employee productivity. More specifically, the study investigated how employee productivity (the dependent variable) was influenced by the independent variables rewards, a climate conducive for creativity and innovation, employee creativity, self-esteem and performance intent. The sample consisted of 82 blue-collar employees from various manufacturing firms in Port Elizabeth. The empirical results revealed that the firms’ rewards for performance and their climates for creativity and innovation were positively related to the creativity of their employees. The creativity and self-esteem of their employees were positively related to their employees’ performance intentions, while collectively these three variables were positively related to their employees’ productivity. The managerial implications of these and other findings are discussed in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Qokweni, Noluvuyolwetu
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Labor productivity -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Performance -- Measurement , Manufacturing industries -- Capital productivity -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5401 , vital:20837
- Description: For business firms to continue as going concerns, productivity is a primary goal. In order for the firms to remain productive, it is imperative that managers continuously explore ways of improving productivity and employee performance. Employee productivity, in particular, is the measurement of performance and competitiveness in any business firm. A competitive advantage enables a business firm to, amongst others, survive financially, expand its operations and grow its market share. Creativity and innovation are fundamental sources of competitive advantage. In order for a business to retain its competitive edge, it must effectively enhance employee productivity, creativity and innovation. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate a creativity model that could contribute to the enhancement of employee productivity. More specifically, the study investigated how employee productivity (the dependent variable) was influenced by the independent variables rewards, a climate conducive for creativity and innovation, employee creativity, self-esteem and performance intent. The sample consisted of 82 blue-collar employees from various manufacturing firms in Port Elizabeth. The empirical results revealed that the firms’ rewards for performance and their climates for creativity and innovation were positively related to the creativity of their employees. The creativity and self-esteem of their employees were positively related to their employees’ performance intentions, while collectively these three variables were positively related to their employees’ productivity. The managerial implications of these and other findings are discussed in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
A customer lead qualification model for successful potential customer profiling
- Authors: Rheeder, Andre James
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Consumer profiling -- Africa , Market surveys -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3684 , vital:20453
- Description: A key question that marketers and salespeople face is based on the dilemma of which customer to pursue and which not. This choice has far reaching effects in both company success. Investigating a client’s seriousness to make a purchase at the time of an enquiry is key. This will assist the firm in determining which future clients offer the firm the most potential value in sales turnover and company profits. By taking the client’s background and history into consideration the marketer has the opportunity to determine which clients have or have not previously committed to the firm and which did not. By profiling the customer, providing a yardstick against which one can measure probability of a purchase can be developed. New or prospective customer against those attributes of customers can then be benchmarked against the attributes that attest to whether interest and intention to purchase can be converted into a sale. Identifying these customers who will be most likely to make a purchase is a very important area of study for any business that focuses on the marketing and sales of products or services. Having an accurate profile of potential customers, of who will buy and who will not, will play a key role in the success of any organization. The focus of this study will be on investigating the profile of a potential customer/company as a benchmark for sales lead qualification. The profile will also be a precursor to determining the lifetime value of the prospective customer. Profiling of high sales potential customers is a management issue. It directly influences the number of hours key personnel in the sales department spend on key tasks, which can alternatively be spent more productively on other projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Rheeder, Andre James
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Consumer profiling -- Africa , Market surveys -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3684 , vital:20453
- Description: A key question that marketers and salespeople face is based on the dilemma of which customer to pursue and which not. This choice has far reaching effects in both company success. Investigating a client’s seriousness to make a purchase at the time of an enquiry is key. This will assist the firm in determining which future clients offer the firm the most potential value in sales turnover and company profits. By taking the client’s background and history into consideration the marketer has the opportunity to determine which clients have or have not previously committed to the firm and which did not. By profiling the customer, providing a yardstick against which one can measure probability of a purchase can be developed. New or prospective customer against those attributes of customers can then be benchmarked against the attributes that attest to whether interest and intention to purchase can be converted into a sale. Identifying these customers who will be most likely to make a purchase is a very important area of study for any business that focuses on the marketing and sales of products or services. Having an accurate profile of potential customers, of who will buy and who will not, will play a key role in the success of any organization. The focus of this study will be on investigating the profile of a potential customer/company as a benchmark for sales lead qualification. The profile will also be a precursor to determining the lifetime value of the prospective customer. Profiling of high sales potential customers is a management issue. It directly influences the number of hours key personnel in the sales department spend on key tasks, which can alternatively be spent more productively on other projects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
A destination identity framework for Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Reichelt, Bianca Cindy
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Place marketing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Tourism -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Sustainable tourism -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5565 , vital:20908
- Description: Place branding has grown in popularity since the late 1990s. In this regard, place branding is an endeavour to not only construct an image or message of a place but also to communicate and manage it. Place branding can be viewed from a functionalist point of view as a strategic instrument to be managed in a similar manner as a product or corporate brand in order to enhance competitiveness. The focus of place branding has overwhelmingly been on the customers who are mainly tourists. However, there have been recent calls to take into account the perspectives of others stakeholders, in particular internal residents, in the place branding process. It has been noted that place branding is effective through its ability to authentically represent the setting of its constituents and through it to reveal a compelling narrative of the place. This authentic setting is represented by the place identity, which can be discovered from the perspectives of the place‟s internal residents. The current study was anchored in stakeholder theory and set out to propose a simple exploratory model for understanding place identity through the perspectives of internal residents. The study explored various frameworks and models proposed in the literature up to date to understand place identity. The overarching variables were filtered out from the different frameworks and an exploratory place identity framework was proposed. A non-experimental study was carried out in the city of Nelson Mandela Bay. The study was exploratory and its variables had not been previously tested in the city. A questionnaire, which was partly self-administered and partly administered through face-to-face interviews, was distributed electronically and manually. The framework proposed variables were city role, cognitive evaluations, envisioned future as well as affective evaluations and they were operationalised from the literature. The relationship between the variables was confirmed through correlation analysis. The hypotheses in the study were tested through descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, ANOVA, t-tests and Chi-squared tests. A destination identity framework for Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Reichelt, Bianca Cindy
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Place marketing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Tourism -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Sustainable tourism -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5565 , vital:20908
- Description: Place branding has grown in popularity since the late 1990s. In this regard, place branding is an endeavour to not only construct an image or message of a place but also to communicate and manage it. Place branding can be viewed from a functionalist point of view as a strategic instrument to be managed in a similar manner as a product or corporate brand in order to enhance competitiveness. The focus of place branding has overwhelmingly been on the customers who are mainly tourists. However, there have been recent calls to take into account the perspectives of others stakeholders, in particular internal residents, in the place branding process. It has been noted that place branding is effective through its ability to authentically represent the setting of its constituents and through it to reveal a compelling narrative of the place. This authentic setting is represented by the place identity, which can be discovered from the perspectives of the place‟s internal residents. The current study was anchored in stakeholder theory and set out to propose a simple exploratory model for understanding place identity through the perspectives of internal residents. The study explored various frameworks and models proposed in the literature up to date to understand place identity. The overarching variables were filtered out from the different frameworks and an exploratory place identity framework was proposed. A non-experimental study was carried out in the city of Nelson Mandela Bay. The study was exploratory and its variables had not been previously tested in the city. A questionnaire, which was partly self-administered and partly administered through face-to-face interviews, was distributed electronically and manually. The framework proposed variables were city role, cognitive evaluations, envisioned future as well as affective evaluations and they were operationalised from the literature. The relationship between the variables was confirmed through correlation analysis. The hypotheses in the study were tested through descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, ANOVA, t-tests and Chi-squared tests. A destination identity framework for Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
A framework for management participation in HIV and AIDS intervention programmes: the Chris Hani District Municipality case
- Authors: Kolo, Vuyiswa Felicia
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Employee health promotion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15345 , vital:28221
- Description: South Africa is one of the countries in the world with the highest number of people living with HIV/AIDS. Workplace HIV/AIDS programmes have been singled out by the Government as one of the measures to fight against the spread of the disease. However, it is quite concerning that managers in most organisations are very reluctant to actively participate in the programmes. One of such organisations is the Chris Hani District Municipality. Reluctance by managers to participate in these programmes has given rise to effects such as lower level employees also not willing to participate in the programmes; thereby undermining efforts by the municipality and the National Government as a whole to fight against the spread of the disease in South Africa. This study has developed a framework that may enable municipal managers to participate in HIV/AIDS programmes in the municipality. In addition the study has also explored factors that discourage managers from participating in HIV/AIDS programmes. The study took place in the Chris Hani municipality. The sample population was municipal managers from the different directorates. The methodological approach was quantitative. Data was collected with use of a questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed physically and electronically by the researcher. The findings of the study show that in order for managers to actively participate in the programmes of HIV/AIDS, measures should be put place to enhance the following: self-awareness, positive attitude, effective communication, management involvement, management support, and relationship building. The researcher hopes that the study will not only enhance management participation in the Chris Hani municipality, but also other municipalities and organisations in South Africa interested in the fight against the spread of the HIV/AIDS disease.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Kolo, Vuyiswa Felicia
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Employee health promotion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15345 , vital:28221
- Description: South Africa is one of the countries in the world with the highest number of people living with HIV/AIDS. Workplace HIV/AIDS programmes have been singled out by the Government as one of the measures to fight against the spread of the disease. However, it is quite concerning that managers in most organisations are very reluctant to actively participate in the programmes. One of such organisations is the Chris Hani District Municipality. Reluctance by managers to participate in these programmes has given rise to effects such as lower level employees also not willing to participate in the programmes; thereby undermining efforts by the municipality and the National Government as a whole to fight against the spread of the disease in South Africa. This study has developed a framework that may enable municipal managers to participate in HIV/AIDS programmes in the municipality. In addition the study has also explored factors that discourage managers from participating in HIV/AIDS programmes. The study took place in the Chris Hani municipality. The sample population was municipal managers from the different directorates. The methodological approach was quantitative. Data was collected with use of a questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed physically and electronically by the researcher. The findings of the study show that in order for managers to actively participate in the programmes of HIV/AIDS, measures should be put place to enhance the following: self-awareness, positive attitude, effective communication, management involvement, management support, and relationship building. The researcher hopes that the study will not only enhance management participation in the Chris Hani municipality, but also other municipalities and organisations in South Africa interested in the fight against the spread of the HIV/AIDS disease.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
A marketing framework to enhance healthcare professionals' prescription for specialised infant formula
- Authors: Jordaan, Josina Hermeine
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Marketing , Infant formulas , Medicine -- Formulae, receipts, prescriptions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8340 , vital:26346
- Description: The marketing of infant feeding products is almost impossible as the infant nutrition industry is highly regulated. Despite operating under strict regulations, the infant formula manufacturing companies still generate high revenues on an annual basis. The infant formula manufacturing industry operates under a value chain which can be broken down into six sequential steps. These steps are: (1) Translational science; (2) Product development; (3) Clinical research; (4) Product notification; (5) Reimbursement granting and (6) Product marketing. Medical nutrition companies aspire to understand product requirements of healthcare professionals and medical representatives. This is to enable direct investment to acquire market share without wasting resources. The medical nutrition industry currently makes use of medical representatives to execute product marketing. Manufacturing companies invest a lot of money into developing their products, employing and training medical representatives and trust that this will be enough to persuade healthcare professionals to recommend their products to parents. This study analyses the main contributing factors that enhance prescription of specialised infant formula by healthcare professionals. This study was conducted in a positivistic paradigm by making use of a quantitative approach. Healthcare professionals from Port Elizabeth, working with paediatric patients were included in this study. The healthcare professionals were chosen by a convenience sampling method and were then interviewed. The empirical interview results were substantiated with the interpretive findings which were in the form of verbatim statements extracted directly from the research questionnaire. Linkage between the dependable variable (prescription) and independent variables (manufacturing company; product composition; cost of product; medical representative and peers) were established and analysed. The research revealed that prescription behaviour is an important construct which can be measured in medical practices. Prescription behaviour is correlated with positive business and medical outcomes and manufacturing companies are able to exert influence over it through the identified variables. Of these variables, efficacy of vii a product, trusted manufacturing company and the medical representatives were found to have direct and significant effects. Healthcare professionals tend to prescribe a specialised infant formula if they have seen results and trust the outcome of the product. It is advisable for manufacturing companies to exert great effort before appointing a medical representative, to make sure that the right candidate represents the face of the company.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Jordaan, Josina Hermeine
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Marketing , Infant formulas , Medicine -- Formulae, receipts, prescriptions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8340 , vital:26346
- Description: The marketing of infant feeding products is almost impossible as the infant nutrition industry is highly regulated. Despite operating under strict regulations, the infant formula manufacturing companies still generate high revenues on an annual basis. The infant formula manufacturing industry operates under a value chain which can be broken down into six sequential steps. These steps are: (1) Translational science; (2) Product development; (3) Clinical research; (4) Product notification; (5) Reimbursement granting and (6) Product marketing. Medical nutrition companies aspire to understand product requirements of healthcare professionals and medical representatives. This is to enable direct investment to acquire market share without wasting resources. The medical nutrition industry currently makes use of medical representatives to execute product marketing. Manufacturing companies invest a lot of money into developing their products, employing and training medical representatives and trust that this will be enough to persuade healthcare professionals to recommend their products to parents. This study analyses the main contributing factors that enhance prescription of specialised infant formula by healthcare professionals. This study was conducted in a positivistic paradigm by making use of a quantitative approach. Healthcare professionals from Port Elizabeth, working with paediatric patients were included in this study. The healthcare professionals were chosen by a convenience sampling method and were then interviewed. The empirical interview results were substantiated with the interpretive findings which were in the form of verbatim statements extracted directly from the research questionnaire. Linkage between the dependable variable (prescription) and independent variables (manufacturing company; product composition; cost of product; medical representative and peers) were established and analysed. The research revealed that prescription behaviour is an important construct which can be measured in medical practices. Prescription behaviour is correlated with positive business and medical outcomes and manufacturing companies are able to exert influence over it through the identified variables. Of these variables, efficacy of vii a product, trusted manufacturing company and the medical representatives were found to have direct and significant effects. Healthcare professionals tend to prescribe a specialised infant formula if they have seen results and trust the outcome of the product. It is advisable for manufacturing companies to exert great effort before appointing a medical representative, to make sure that the right candidate represents the face of the company.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
A model for Internet management at a higher education institution
- Authors: Boshoff, Ryno
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Internet governance -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Internet -- Security measures -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10839 , vital:26828
- Description: The management of the Internet at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), an Higher Education Institute (HEI) in the Eastern and Western Cape area in South Africa (SA) was the focus of this research. The investigation was conducted into the level of Internet usage by determining for what purpose the Internet is used by the people at NMMU. The empirical data was collected, analysed and interpreted. From these findings a proposed Internet Management Model was created that will assist NMMU with its Internet management obligations. It has become a standing practice at HEIs for its Internet management and relevant Information and Communication Technology (ICT) resources to be continuously investigated by HEI Management as well as by its users. The reason is that the Internet has become the foundation on which most ICT resources function and therefore is labelled as a distinctive competency for the HEI. HEIs have limited ICT Internet resources and are expected to utilise these resources optimally, to ensure efficient and effective Internet connectivity on all campuses and to all users and systems. This is a daunting task for various reasons, amongst which are: guidelines, best practices, governance influences, etc. are not readily available to assist with decision-making processes; the number of devices that require Internet connectivity is increasing almost on a daily basis; the content found on the Internet has become extremely resources-demanding; the Internet is no longer being utilised only during working hours but on a 24/7 basis; and lastly, the Internet is increasingly being abused by its use for non-work related activities which hinder the required connection and resources requirements for those who are using the Internet for work and research purposes. The purpose of this research study was to provide a proposed Internet Management Model to address all weaknesses and threats, currently being experienced at NMMU. This was created by firstly; determining what was considered best practices regarding Internet management at HEI; secondly, determining what the NMMU Internet users were utilising the Internet for and lastly; using the combined findings to draw conclusions and thereafter create an Internet Management Model for the HEI. This can assist the NMMU ICT Management team to re-align the Internet resources to match the current business and customer requirements. This will ensure that the NMMU Internet resources are effectively and efficiently utilised, which in turn will confirm that the availability of the Internet to its users and systems becomes a reliable and pleasant experience. The ICT Management team can then focus their undivided attention on other ICT-related matters. This treatise is an exploratory, mixed method study which comprises of literature studies, surveys and cross-sectional studies. The literature studies were conducted on secondary sources to identify the national and international governance structures that influence Internet management. The empirical study which consisted of two surveys (questionnaires) was compiled from existing questionnaires as well as from literature studies, and was completed by its respective respondent groups. The first survey was used to gain an insight into what was considered best practices regarding Internet management at HEIs in South Africa. The survey consisted of questions regarding demographic data and various ICT Internet resources. Respondents were asked to identify the practices relevant to their HEI. The second survey was used to gain an insight into what the Internet was being used for at NMMU by staff and students. The survey consisted of questions regarding demographic data and the various uses, frequency and periods of Internet usage. These respondents were then asked to identify the practices relevant to their Internet usage patterns. A cross-sectional study was then used to compare the two different population groups, which were NMMU staff and students, at a single point in time. Both Descriptive and Inferential Statistical methods were used for the analysis of the data. The HEI Internet management survey samples were of various sizes with each sample having its Internet resources specifically aligned with its environment. The common stereotypes regarding their Internet resources were mostly not present.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Boshoff, Ryno
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Internet governance -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Internet -- Security measures -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10839 , vital:26828
- Description: The management of the Internet at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), an Higher Education Institute (HEI) in the Eastern and Western Cape area in South Africa (SA) was the focus of this research. The investigation was conducted into the level of Internet usage by determining for what purpose the Internet is used by the people at NMMU. The empirical data was collected, analysed and interpreted. From these findings a proposed Internet Management Model was created that will assist NMMU with its Internet management obligations. It has become a standing practice at HEIs for its Internet management and relevant Information and Communication Technology (ICT) resources to be continuously investigated by HEI Management as well as by its users. The reason is that the Internet has become the foundation on which most ICT resources function and therefore is labelled as a distinctive competency for the HEI. HEIs have limited ICT Internet resources and are expected to utilise these resources optimally, to ensure efficient and effective Internet connectivity on all campuses and to all users and systems. This is a daunting task for various reasons, amongst which are: guidelines, best practices, governance influences, etc. are not readily available to assist with decision-making processes; the number of devices that require Internet connectivity is increasing almost on a daily basis; the content found on the Internet has become extremely resources-demanding; the Internet is no longer being utilised only during working hours but on a 24/7 basis; and lastly, the Internet is increasingly being abused by its use for non-work related activities which hinder the required connection and resources requirements for those who are using the Internet for work and research purposes. The purpose of this research study was to provide a proposed Internet Management Model to address all weaknesses and threats, currently being experienced at NMMU. This was created by firstly; determining what was considered best practices regarding Internet management at HEI; secondly, determining what the NMMU Internet users were utilising the Internet for and lastly; using the combined findings to draw conclusions and thereafter create an Internet Management Model for the HEI. This can assist the NMMU ICT Management team to re-align the Internet resources to match the current business and customer requirements. This will ensure that the NMMU Internet resources are effectively and efficiently utilised, which in turn will confirm that the availability of the Internet to its users and systems becomes a reliable and pleasant experience. The ICT Management team can then focus their undivided attention on other ICT-related matters. This treatise is an exploratory, mixed method study which comprises of literature studies, surveys and cross-sectional studies. The literature studies were conducted on secondary sources to identify the national and international governance structures that influence Internet management. The empirical study which consisted of two surveys (questionnaires) was compiled from existing questionnaires as well as from literature studies, and was completed by its respective respondent groups. The first survey was used to gain an insight into what was considered best practices regarding Internet management at HEIs in South Africa. The survey consisted of questions regarding demographic data and various ICT Internet resources. Respondents were asked to identify the practices relevant to their HEI. The second survey was used to gain an insight into what the Internet was being used for at NMMU by staff and students. The survey consisted of questions regarding demographic data and the various uses, frequency and periods of Internet usage. These respondents were then asked to identify the practices relevant to their Internet usage patterns. A cross-sectional study was then used to compare the two different population groups, which were NMMU staff and students, at a single point in time. Both Descriptive and Inferential Statistical methods were used for the analysis of the data. The HEI Internet management survey samples were of various sizes with each sample having its Internet resources specifically aligned with its environment. The common stereotypes regarding their Internet resources were mostly not present.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
A strategic analysis on the meaning of work: a focus on the fashion retail industry
- Authors: Van Heerden, Lisle
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Retail trade -- South Africa Job satisfaction -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13936 , vital:27360
- Description: The primary objective of this research study was to strategically analyse the meaning of work for fashion retail industry employees with the aim of developing a calling orientation to work.A sample of 84 fashion retail industry employees from Port Elizabeth, South Africa indicated their perception of callings in work; the pathways to callings in work and job satisfaction. Furthermore, fashion retail industry employees also indicated their use of job crafting techniques as a tool to foster meaningful work. This is one of the first studies conducted on callings in work in the fashion retail industry.Findings of the study indicated that although on average fashion retail industry employees are neutral about having a calling orientation to work, 24-27% indicated to having a calling orientation to work. Furthermore the study showed that there is a positive correlation between 1) transcendent guiding force; 2) value-driven behaviour and sense and meaning; 3) identification with one’s work and person-environment fit and a calling orientation to work. The study also indicated that the presence of a transcendent guiding force and job satisfaction are the two independent variables that are influential in achieving calling orientation to work for fashion retail industry employees of Port Elizabeth. Implications and recommendations from this study are outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Van Heerden, Lisle
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Retail trade -- South Africa Job satisfaction -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13936 , vital:27360
- Description: The primary objective of this research study was to strategically analyse the meaning of work for fashion retail industry employees with the aim of developing a calling orientation to work.A sample of 84 fashion retail industry employees from Port Elizabeth, South Africa indicated their perception of callings in work; the pathways to callings in work and job satisfaction. Furthermore, fashion retail industry employees also indicated their use of job crafting techniques as a tool to foster meaningful work. This is one of the first studies conducted on callings in work in the fashion retail industry.Findings of the study indicated that although on average fashion retail industry employees are neutral about having a calling orientation to work, 24-27% indicated to having a calling orientation to work. Furthermore the study showed that there is a positive correlation between 1) transcendent guiding force; 2) value-driven behaviour and sense and meaning; 3) identification with one’s work and person-environment fit and a calling orientation to work. The study also indicated that the presence of a transcendent guiding force and job satisfaction are the two independent variables that are influential in achieving calling orientation to work for fashion retail industry employees of Port Elizabeth. Implications and recommendations from this study are outlined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Adoption of cloud computing by the South African public sector
- Authors: Govender, Judian
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Information technology -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Cloud computing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6791 , vital:21142
- Description: Technology enables progress for individuals and organisations; however, adopting technology may not always be simple. Cloud computing technology has revolutionised how one consumes IT. Governments too can leverage the advantages of adopting cloud computing. A review of the literature reveals a gap in research on the adoption of cloud computing by the South African public sector. Limited research has been done on the topic of cloud computing and none of them are from a quantitative perspective. This study set out to answer the question, “What is the extent (current state, benefits, barriers and readiness levels) of the adoption of cloud computing by the South Africa public sector?” The study is of much value to the public sector of South Africa and other countries and organisations wanting to understand what to consider when adopting cloud computing. The study used a survey research strategy that was exploratory in nature. The sample comprised government CIO’s and government Senior IT management. Questionnaires were sent via a web link and 51 responses were completed. The results revealed that more than half of the South African public sector has adopted cloud computing; however there is a lack of visibility of government initiatives that promote cloud computing. The study shows that public organisations that have adopted cloud computing significantly perceive more benefits of cloud computing than organisations that are yet to adopt. The Technology Organisation Environment (TOE) framework tested the barriers to adoption, revealing areas of concern that are limiting successful cloud computing adoption and adoption rates. The study uncovers a timeline for further cloud computing adoption in the South African public sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Govender, Judian
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Information technology -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Cloud computing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6791 , vital:21142
- Description: Technology enables progress for individuals and organisations; however, adopting technology may not always be simple. Cloud computing technology has revolutionised how one consumes IT. Governments too can leverage the advantages of adopting cloud computing. A review of the literature reveals a gap in research on the adoption of cloud computing by the South African public sector. Limited research has been done on the topic of cloud computing and none of them are from a quantitative perspective. This study set out to answer the question, “What is the extent (current state, benefits, barriers and readiness levels) of the adoption of cloud computing by the South Africa public sector?” The study is of much value to the public sector of South Africa and other countries and organisations wanting to understand what to consider when adopting cloud computing. The study used a survey research strategy that was exploratory in nature. The sample comprised government CIO’s and government Senior IT management. Questionnaires were sent via a web link and 51 responses were completed. The results revealed that more than half of the South African public sector has adopted cloud computing; however there is a lack of visibility of government initiatives that promote cloud computing. The study shows that public organisations that have adopted cloud computing significantly perceive more benefits of cloud computing than organisations that are yet to adopt. The Technology Organisation Environment (TOE) framework tested the barriers to adoption, revealing areas of concern that are limiting successful cloud computing adoption and adoption rates. The study uncovers a timeline for further cloud computing adoption in the South African public sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An entrepreneurial development framework for SMEs in South Africa
- Authors: Pyper, Regina Christina
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5411 , vital:20838
- Description: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are engines of growth. It has been determined globally that these enterprises are the largest employers in economies. Small and Medium Enterprises fail fundamentally to succeed in South Africa. Many challenges and barriers were identified as the reason why the enterprise fails to survive or succeed for at least 42 months. Poor performance of the SMEs could be blamed on the lack of meaningful support including an over-regulated environment, red tape and the poor quality of education and training. A number of Small and Medium Enterprise owners in Turkey were interviewed to determine if the enterprise development support system contributed to success and economic growth. The government succeeded to improve the economy of Turkey profoundly by investing and supporting this very important sector. Turkey is positioned 17th in the world based on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The purpose of this study was to develop an entrepreneurial development framework for SMEs in South Africa. The government needs to support and implement this framework to stimulate economic growth, to address the poor quality of education and training and to establish a system to measure the performance of critical success factors. A case study research approach was employed to address five propositions that were investigated in this research project. Semi-structured interviews studied the perceptions and experiences of the SME owners in Turkey. The study found a positive relationship between economic growth, a meaningful enterprise development support system, education and training, critical success factors and entrepreneurship and the perceived success of entrepreneurial ventures in South Africa. The establishment and implementation of an entrepreneurial development framework will encourage the creation of new ventures. The government will be able to achieve the goal of economic growth as set out in the National Development Plan. The establishment of SMEs will result in employment, social stability, economic growth and the generation of tax revenues. The purpose of an entrepreneurial development framework is to ensure the sustainable economic development and prosperity of South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Pyper, Regina Christina
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5411 , vital:20838
- Description: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are engines of growth. It has been determined globally that these enterprises are the largest employers in economies. Small and Medium Enterprises fail fundamentally to succeed in South Africa. Many challenges and barriers were identified as the reason why the enterprise fails to survive or succeed for at least 42 months. Poor performance of the SMEs could be blamed on the lack of meaningful support including an over-regulated environment, red tape and the poor quality of education and training. A number of Small and Medium Enterprise owners in Turkey were interviewed to determine if the enterprise development support system contributed to success and economic growth. The government succeeded to improve the economy of Turkey profoundly by investing and supporting this very important sector. Turkey is positioned 17th in the world based on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The purpose of this study was to develop an entrepreneurial development framework for SMEs in South Africa. The government needs to support and implement this framework to stimulate economic growth, to address the poor quality of education and training and to establish a system to measure the performance of critical success factors. A case study research approach was employed to address five propositions that were investigated in this research project. Semi-structured interviews studied the perceptions and experiences of the SME owners in Turkey. The study found a positive relationship between economic growth, a meaningful enterprise development support system, education and training, critical success factors and entrepreneurship and the perceived success of entrepreneurial ventures in South Africa. The establishment and implementation of an entrepreneurial development framework will encourage the creation of new ventures. The government will be able to achieve the goal of economic growth as set out in the National Development Plan. The establishment of SMEs will result in employment, social stability, economic growth and the generation of tax revenues. The purpose of an entrepreneurial development framework is to ensure the sustainable economic development and prosperity of South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An integrated farm management information system for the South African hydroponic industry
- Authors: Cork, Justin Trevor James
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Farm management Hydroponics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5500 , vital:20871
- Description: The world’s population is growing at an average of 1.2 percent per annum and forecasts see the global population reaching 9.6 billion by 2050. This places great demands on the sustained production capacity of agricultural organisations to meet the desperate need for nutrition. This problem will continue to persist if production methods do not evolve to improve production and quality. Hydroponics and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) was first seen in Rome during the 1st Century. Then sixteen Centuries later Greenhouses were developed in France and England as experimental hydroponics for basic laboratory research. Rapid expansion took place from about the 1950’s in areas where traditional openenvironment agriculture was difficult or impossible such as the deserts of Iran, Abu Dhabi and California. Sixty-five years later in 2015 hydroponics and CEA are well established around the world with thousands of hectares under propagation. Hydroponics is a method of agricultural production that has been refined over the years to become an exact science. Through the application of technology and know-how the physiological processes within plants can be manipulated and controlled to produce superior results. These results require less land area and less water to accomplish. It can be seen, based on this development, that hydroponics is such an evolution that has the capacity to meet the needs of a growing global population and its nutritional needs. The challenge lies, though, in the scientific understanding and application of knowledge in growing and managing a hydroponics farm. This study seeks to determine the internal data and external information needs of farmers in the hydroponics industry. This data and information will be integrated into a Farm Management Information System (FMIS) model that will be used for decision making, report generation and documentation. The problem leading to this study is the dissemination of data and information sources that are currently underutilised and difficult to access. In determining the internal data and external information needs, an empirical study was conducted using structured interview. Thirty farm managers were interviewed to assess what their current information system consisted of, whether they had a need for an FMIS and what internal data and external information was needed which related to four functional components of hydroponic farming. The results of this study indicate that there is a need for an FMIS for the hydroponic industry in South Africa. The results also indicate that managers are not fully satisfied with the performance of their current information system and would be interested in considering alternative information systems. Data points relating to the four functional components were assessed and integrated into an FMIS model for the hydroponic industry. This model sets out to integrate internal data and external information for purposes of decision making, report generation and documentation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Cork, Justin Trevor James
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Farm management Hydroponics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5500 , vital:20871
- Description: The world’s population is growing at an average of 1.2 percent per annum and forecasts see the global population reaching 9.6 billion by 2050. This places great demands on the sustained production capacity of agricultural organisations to meet the desperate need for nutrition. This problem will continue to persist if production methods do not evolve to improve production and quality. Hydroponics and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) was first seen in Rome during the 1st Century. Then sixteen Centuries later Greenhouses were developed in France and England as experimental hydroponics for basic laboratory research. Rapid expansion took place from about the 1950’s in areas where traditional openenvironment agriculture was difficult or impossible such as the deserts of Iran, Abu Dhabi and California. Sixty-five years later in 2015 hydroponics and CEA are well established around the world with thousands of hectares under propagation. Hydroponics is a method of agricultural production that has been refined over the years to become an exact science. Through the application of technology and know-how the physiological processes within plants can be manipulated and controlled to produce superior results. These results require less land area and less water to accomplish. It can be seen, based on this development, that hydroponics is such an evolution that has the capacity to meet the needs of a growing global population and its nutritional needs. The challenge lies, though, in the scientific understanding and application of knowledge in growing and managing a hydroponics farm. This study seeks to determine the internal data and external information needs of farmers in the hydroponics industry. This data and information will be integrated into a Farm Management Information System (FMIS) model that will be used for decision making, report generation and documentation. The problem leading to this study is the dissemination of data and information sources that are currently underutilised and difficult to access. In determining the internal data and external information needs, an empirical study was conducted using structured interview. Thirty farm managers were interviewed to assess what their current information system consisted of, whether they had a need for an FMIS and what internal data and external information was needed which related to four functional components of hydroponic farming. The results of this study indicate that there is a need for an FMIS for the hydroponic industry in South Africa. The results also indicate that managers are not fully satisfied with the performance of their current information system and would be interested in considering alternative information systems. Data points relating to the four functional components were assessed and integrated into an FMIS model for the hydroponic industry. This model sets out to integrate internal data and external information for purposes of decision making, report generation and documentation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An integrated marketing communication framework for communicating city events in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Kanyutu, Teresia Watiri
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Communication in marketing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Mass media -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8477 , vital:26368
- Description: In the recent past, cities all over the world have made attempts to brand themselves differently from their counterparts. These efforts have been made with the aim of improving the economic locus of the city in question and to some extent the welfare of its inhabitants. With this regard, various activities have been organised to ensure that the cities attract tourists, investors and other pertinent stakeholders. The hosting of city events is one major strategy that cities have used to trademark themselves more attractively to external stakeholders. City event planners have similarly made efforts to brand and communicate these city events in order to achieve recognition and attendance. In spite of these attempts however, studies reveal that the major stakeholders of the events: the residents, seem to be overlooked by the city decision makers during these endeavours. Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) involves the combination of all the available communication channels and resources to convey a message to a target audience. Hence, with regard to communicating city events, the key motivation for using IMC is to generate awareness whilst communicating an effective, clear and consistent message to the target audience (residents). However, communication strategies should not be developed in isolation. It is of extreme importance that city event planners consider involving the city residents when crafting these IMC strategies. In fact, the city events planners and decision makers should bear in mind that; the major success of any city event depends entirely on the support of the city residents, who act as brand ambassadors to their social circles within and outside the city. In order for a city to successfully implement a communication strategy, it is imperative that the city understands the media consumption patterns of the residents. Various factors such as age, gender and ethnicity determine the media consumption habits of residents; and should be investigated in order to determine the most effective channels of communication to use for a particular target audience. During the early months of the year 2014, key stakeholders within Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) resolved to improve the brand image of the NMB. These stakeholders entered into a partnership with NMMU Business School, who offered to conduct research on various themes: Brand Identity, Business Events, City Events Communication, City Events Marketing, Cultural Events and Sports Events. This study is hence based on the City Events Communication theme and its purpose is to establish the factors that determine media consumption amongst the residents and their perception towards communication with and amongst the residents of NMB. Additionally, this study sought to identify the various communication channels that are available in NMB whilst establishing which of these channels are most highly ranked by the residents. In order to achieve these objectives, both primary and secondary research were conducted. Literature was reviewed in order to create a basis for this study based on previous academic research. The background of IMC was established and the various pillars of IMC discussed. Factors that influence the choice of communication media were also identified and discussed. Thereafter, an empirical study was conducted in order to determine the factors that influence media usage amongst the residents of NMB, in addition to their perception towards communication. A total of 3,659 residents were interviewed and findings indicated that there is a strong relationship between the media usage and age, gender, ethnicity, income per household and the suburb lived. However, the strength of relationships that were observed differed amongst the various dependent variables that were created for purposes of analysing the media usage. A strong inclination towards the use of traditional media; radio and newspaper amongst the residents of NMB was identified. Equally, Public Relations (PR) emerged as an essential way for residents to create and maintain stakeholder relationships between themselves and the NMB. The residents felt that NMB should make efforts and engage with them more frequently especially with regard to communicating city events. Word of mouth amongst peers and billboards were also identified as communication media that are largely used to source for city events information, impacting greatly on the events attendance by the residents. Unfortunately, the use of New Media (Facebook, Twitter and YouTube) to source for city events information was not predominant amongst the respondents. However, with close to three quarters of the respondents having access to the Internet, there is a likelihood that residents can adopt to the use of social media as a source of city events information. Furthermore, the majority of respondents indicated that they access the Internet daily. These findings are a clear indication that the adoption and use of new media is possible if developed and implemented in a strategic manner by the major decision makers. Once the factors that influence media consumption by the residents of NMB were established, an integrated marketing communication framework was developed based on these factors and the highly ranked channels of communication. This study concluded in the development and proposal of an IMC framework for use in communication of city events to the residents of NMB. Managerial recommendations were also given which are expected to enhance the effective implementation of the proposed framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Kanyutu, Teresia Watiri
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Communication in marketing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Mass media -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8477 , vital:26368
- Description: In the recent past, cities all over the world have made attempts to brand themselves differently from their counterparts. These efforts have been made with the aim of improving the economic locus of the city in question and to some extent the welfare of its inhabitants. With this regard, various activities have been organised to ensure that the cities attract tourists, investors and other pertinent stakeholders. The hosting of city events is one major strategy that cities have used to trademark themselves more attractively to external stakeholders. City event planners have similarly made efforts to brand and communicate these city events in order to achieve recognition and attendance. In spite of these attempts however, studies reveal that the major stakeholders of the events: the residents, seem to be overlooked by the city decision makers during these endeavours. Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) involves the combination of all the available communication channels and resources to convey a message to a target audience. Hence, with regard to communicating city events, the key motivation for using IMC is to generate awareness whilst communicating an effective, clear and consistent message to the target audience (residents). However, communication strategies should not be developed in isolation. It is of extreme importance that city event planners consider involving the city residents when crafting these IMC strategies. In fact, the city events planners and decision makers should bear in mind that; the major success of any city event depends entirely on the support of the city residents, who act as brand ambassadors to their social circles within and outside the city. In order for a city to successfully implement a communication strategy, it is imperative that the city understands the media consumption patterns of the residents. Various factors such as age, gender and ethnicity determine the media consumption habits of residents; and should be investigated in order to determine the most effective channels of communication to use for a particular target audience. During the early months of the year 2014, key stakeholders within Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) resolved to improve the brand image of the NMB. These stakeholders entered into a partnership with NMMU Business School, who offered to conduct research on various themes: Brand Identity, Business Events, City Events Communication, City Events Marketing, Cultural Events and Sports Events. This study is hence based on the City Events Communication theme and its purpose is to establish the factors that determine media consumption amongst the residents and their perception towards communication with and amongst the residents of NMB. Additionally, this study sought to identify the various communication channels that are available in NMB whilst establishing which of these channels are most highly ranked by the residents. In order to achieve these objectives, both primary and secondary research were conducted. Literature was reviewed in order to create a basis for this study based on previous academic research. The background of IMC was established and the various pillars of IMC discussed. Factors that influence the choice of communication media were also identified and discussed. Thereafter, an empirical study was conducted in order to determine the factors that influence media usage amongst the residents of NMB, in addition to their perception towards communication. A total of 3,659 residents were interviewed and findings indicated that there is a strong relationship between the media usage and age, gender, ethnicity, income per household and the suburb lived. However, the strength of relationships that were observed differed amongst the various dependent variables that were created for purposes of analysing the media usage. A strong inclination towards the use of traditional media; radio and newspaper amongst the residents of NMB was identified. Equally, Public Relations (PR) emerged as an essential way for residents to create and maintain stakeholder relationships between themselves and the NMB. The residents felt that NMB should make efforts and engage with them more frequently especially with regard to communicating city events. Word of mouth amongst peers and billboards were also identified as communication media that are largely used to source for city events information, impacting greatly on the events attendance by the residents. Unfortunately, the use of New Media (Facebook, Twitter and YouTube) to source for city events information was not predominant amongst the respondents. However, with close to three quarters of the respondents having access to the Internet, there is a likelihood that residents can adopt to the use of social media as a source of city events information. Furthermore, the majority of respondents indicated that they access the Internet daily. These findings are a clear indication that the adoption and use of new media is possible if developed and implemented in a strategic manner by the major decision makers. Once the factors that influence media consumption by the residents of NMB were established, an integrated marketing communication framework was developed based on these factors and the highly ranked channels of communication. This study concluded in the development and proposal of an IMC framework for use in communication of city events to the residents of NMB. Managerial recommendations were also given which are expected to enhance the effective implementation of the proposed framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An internal audit's perspective on the role of social and ethics committees
- Authors: Jalavu, Zisanda Beatrice
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Corporate governance -- South Africa Disclosure of information -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11998 , vital:27020
- Description: This thesis reveals the results of a study during which the 2014 integrated reports, sustainability reports and websites of the twelve JSE listed companies, were selected and evaluated. The aim of the thesis was to explore the responsibilities and duties of the S&E Committee; in the South African governance context as well as to assess the usefulness of disclosures made in the integrated reports regarding the social and ethics as part of corporate governance. Content analysis was used to identify the information and an interview was held with the expert in the field of social and ethics governance. Content analysis was used to identify the information and form themes and trends. A checklist was developed and used as an the evaluation tool based on the King III and Companies Act requirements on reporting of social and ethics governance. This checklist may be used as an effective tool by internal audit in carrying out an audit of the social and ethics governance. The results of the analysis were then presented to the expert in the field of social and ethics governance for comments. The results obtained indicate that most JSE listed companies conform to good corporate governance practices. However, there are areas where limited disclosure of information was found to be the case. These include the disclosure of information on sustainability, the information was not consistent and would be less helpful to stakeholders who want to analyse changes in the company‟s performance over time, especially relative to other companies. The information also did not meet the sustainability reporting criteria of sustainability context; the sustainability performance was not presented in the wider context, which limits the significant interpretative value. Future research, with the focus on sectorial disclosures, smaller companies as well as consideration of other sources of social and ethics governance information should be conducted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Jalavu, Zisanda Beatrice
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Corporate governance -- South Africa Disclosure of information -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11998 , vital:27020
- Description: This thesis reveals the results of a study during which the 2014 integrated reports, sustainability reports and websites of the twelve JSE listed companies, were selected and evaluated. The aim of the thesis was to explore the responsibilities and duties of the S&E Committee; in the South African governance context as well as to assess the usefulness of disclosures made in the integrated reports regarding the social and ethics as part of corporate governance. Content analysis was used to identify the information and an interview was held with the expert in the field of social and ethics governance. Content analysis was used to identify the information and form themes and trends. A checklist was developed and used as an the evaluation tool based on the King III and Companies Act requirements on reporting of social and ethics governance. This checklist may be used as an effective tool by internal audit in carrying out an audit of the social and ethics governance. The results of the analysis were then presented to the expert in the field of social and ethics governance for comments. The results obtained indicate that most JSE listed companies conform to good corporate governance practices. However, there are areas where limited disclosure of information was found to be the case. These include the disclosure of information on sustainability, the information was not consistent and would be less helpful to stakeholders who want to analyse changes in the company‟s performance over time, especially relative to other companies. The information also did not meet the sustainability reporting criteria of sustainability context; the sustainability performance was not presented in the wider context, which limits the significant interpretative value. Future research, with the focus on sectorial disclosures, smaller companies as well as consideration of other sources of social and ethics governance information should be conducted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
An international marketing framework for Ford South Africa in Nigeria
- Authors: Adams, Pedro Duan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Export marketing -- Cross-cultural studies , Marketing -- Cross-cultural studies , Marketing -- Management -- Cross-cultural studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3869 , vital:20471
- Description: Africa is seen as the last investment frontier and according to literature will have a GDP of $1.5 trillion by the year 2016 and a population that is double the size of Europe. The rapid expansion of infrastructure and construction in African countries, such as Mozambique and Zambia has increased the demand for commercial vehicles. This has sparked unparalleled marketing opportunities for automotive manufacturers and the continent is fast attracting major players in this sector. The international marketing literature still lacks detailed studies and research into the marketing deliberations and trades in Africa. Therefore, according literature a greater representation of African culture within the international marketing literature would provide relevance and richness in the global market place and offer greater insight to organisations who are seeking to invest and expand their businesses in Africa. The management issue here is to comprehend the diversity and vastness of this region and putting together all spheres to ensure growth and creating brand loyalty. The key challenge here is for management to be able to grasp and understand not only the various cultures but also the way of doing business in such a vastly different region. It is therefore imperative for Ford Motor Company to fully understand these factors so as to take full advantage associated with entering a market early which is commonly referred as first-mover-advantage. A case in point is when General Motors entered the Chinese automotive industry in 1997 when the Chinese market was relatively small. General Motors’ enthusiasm and commitment back in 1997 was driven by a belief that China would ultimately become an economic powerhouse and emerge as one of the world’s largest automotive markets. By the year 2010 China was one of the world’s biggest automotive markets and General Motors was a dominant force in this market. Africa has all the key elements for the growth and development of a robust automotive market. By studying past experiences and outcomes from empirical studies on international marketing with emphasis on the automotive industry, it will be possible to draw lessons and experience about the potential growth of the automotive sector on the African continent. This study will also be of great significance to other automotive manufacturers and suppliers looking to expand their business and market share across Africa due to the increase of the middle class. Therefore creative strategies and thinking of how to circumvent challenges in the African cultural environment, creativity in managing bureaucracy and due diligence about business and investment opportunities will uncover unprecedented volumes of profitable business that lies untapped on the African continent. Data from the quantitative study suggest that culture, political environment, country-of-origin, competition and country infrastructure in Nigeria, are essential factors to the development of a successful international marketing strategy for Ford South Africa. This study therefore concludes that Ford Motor Company of South Africa can utilize this framework in order to gain greater market share and ultimately success in Nigeria. Recommendations were also made for future research studies that can contribute to the international marketing literature with emphasis on the African market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Adams, Pedro Duan
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Export marketing -- Cross-cultural studies , Marketing -- Cross-cultural studies , Marketing -- Management -- Cross-cultural studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3869 , vital:20471
- Description: Africa is seen as the last investment frontier and according to literature will have a GDP of $1.5 trillion by the year 2016 and a population that is double the size of Europe. The rapid expansion of infrastructure and construction in African countries, such as Mozambique and Zambia has increased the demand for commercial vehicles. This has sparked unparalleled marketing opportunities for automotive manufacturers and the continent is fast attracting major players in this sector. The international marketing literature still lacks detailed studies and research into the marketing deliberations and trades in Africa. Therefore, according literature a greater representation of African culture within the international marketing literature would provide relevance and richness in the global market place and offer greater insight to organisations who are seeking to invest and expand their businesses in Africa. The management issue here is to comprehend the diversity and vastness of this region and putting together all spheres to ensure growth and creating brand loyalty. The key challenge here is for management to be able to grasp and understand not only the various cultures but also the way of doing business in such a vastly different region. It is therefore imperative for Ford Motor Company to fully understand these factors so as to take full advantage associated with entering a market early which is commonly referred as first-mover-advantage. A case in point is when General Motors entered the Chinese automotive industry in 1997 when the Chinese market was relatively small. General Motors’ enthusiasm and commitment back in 1997 was driven by a belief that China would ultimately become an economic powerhouse and emerge as one of the world’s largest automotive markets. By the year 2010 China was one of the world’s biggest automotive markets and General Motors was a dominant force in this market. Africa has all the key elements for the growth and development of a robust automotive market. By studying past experiences and outcomes from empirical studies on international marketing with emphasis on the automotive industry, it will be possible to draw lessons and experience about the potential growth of the automotive sector on the African continent. This study will also be of great significance to other automotive manufacturers and suppliers looking to expand their business and market share across Africa due to the increase of the middle class. Therefore creative strategies and thinking of how to circumvent challenges in the African cultural environment, creativity in managing bureaucracy and due diligence about business and investment opportunities will uncover unprecedented volumes of profitable business that lies untapped on the African continent. Data from the quantitative study suggest that culture, political environment, country-of-origin, competition and country infrastructure in Nigeria, are essential factors to the development of a successful international marketing strategy for Ford South Africa. This study therefore concludes that Ford Motor Company of South Africa can utilize this framework in order to gain greater market share and ultimately success in Nigeria. Recommendations were also made for future research studies that can contribute to the international marketing literature with emphasis on the African market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Appraising the national road transport system in the light of the South African economic development plan
- Authors: Potgieter, Andries Hendrik
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Transportation -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3655 , vital:20450
- Description: Since the mid 70’s politicians have realized how important transport has become in the economy of South Africa and the advantages it has on growth, job creation and infrastructure. The result was involvement in the rules and regulations that govern South African transport in our country today. Economic growth has become a critical factor for the survival of economies as well as the future prospects of generations to come. The global recession which had a direct and indirect effect on South Africa has highlighted the importance. The question on how the National Development Plan could have an influence on local and national economic growth has developed as well as what the impact will be of the contribution road transport can make on the growth of the South African society and the economy. When the current road transport sector is taken into consideration, the need for a constructive plan that can assist transporters, drivers and businesses to grow and expand has been identified. The purpose of this study is thus to determine what the current economic situation in the world and in South Africa is as well as how the current political spheres are contributing to the national economy. An in-depth analysis of the National Development Plan has been done with emphasis on the effect on transport in general and the effect on road transport in South Africa. In order to accomplish this objective a detailed literature study was done which highlighted the academics information that pertains to the above mentioned topics. An empirical study that would measure the thought process and feelings about the National Development Plan and road transport has been conducted by means of a questionnaire. The results of the study have indicated that the National Development Plan could be an important tool and could have an enormous positive effect on the overall economic situation of South Africa and its citizens. In addition, the study has revealed that in the long term the effect of the plan could be to the advantage of the road transport sector. Factors that could contribute to the success would be features such as the planned improvements on the main transport corridors, upgrade of infrastructure and the controlling of environmental matters would have give a positive ring to it. On the other hand, recommendations to rectify and improve other issues such as corruption, leadership, maintenance backlogs and stricter laws and policies have been identified that are hindering businesses to grow and expand. Literature and data gained through the empirical study has indicated that the National Development Plan will improve South Africa’s economic situation. Respondents were optimistic about the plan and the overall feeling were that the plan will succeed in improving the road transport sector thus contribute to the National Development Plan objective to eliminate poverty and inequality by 2030.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Potgieter, Andries Hendrik
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Transportation -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3655 , vital:20450
- Description: Since the mid 70’s politicians have realized how important transport has become in the economy of South Africa and the advantages it has on growth, job creation and infrastructure. The result was involvement in the rules and regulations that govern South African transport in our country today. Economic growth has become a critical factor for the survival of economies as well as the future prospects of generations to come. The global recession which had a direct and indirect effect on South Africa has highlighted the importance. The question on how the National Development Plan could have an influence on local and national economic growth has developed as well as what the impact will be of the contribution road transport can make on the growth of the South African society and the economy. When the current road transport sector is taken into consideration, the need for a constructive plan that can assist transporters, drivers and businesses to grow and expand has been identified. The purpose of this study is thus to determine what the current economic situation in the world and in South Africa is as well as how the current political spheres are contributing to the national economy. An in-depth analysis of the National Development Plan has been done with emphasis on the effect on transport in general and the effect on road transport in South Africa. In order to accomplish this objective a detailed literature study was done which highlighted the academics information that pertains to the above mentioned topics. An empirical study that would measure the thought process and feelings about the National Development Plan and road transport has been conducted by means of a questionnaire. The results of the study have indicated that the National Development Plan could be an important tool and could have an enormous positive effect on the overall economic situation of South Africa and its citizens. In addition, the study has revealed that in the long term the effect of the plan could be to the advantage of the road transport sector. Factors that could contribute to the success would be features such as the planned improvements on the main transport corridors, upgrade of infrastructure and the controlling of environmental matters would have give a positive ring to it. On the other hand, recommendations to rectify and improve other issues such as corruption, leadership, maintenance backlogs and stricter laws and policies have been identified that are hindering businesses to grow and expand. Literature and data gained through the empirical study has indicated that the National Development Plan will improve South Africa’s economic situation. Respondents were optimistic about the plan and the overall feeling were that the plan will succeed in improving the road transport sector thus contribute to the National Development Plan objective to eliminate poverty and inequality by 2030.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Assessing Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality's urban resilience
- Authors: Gatang'i, Rebecca Nyangige
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , City planning -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7637 , vital:22273
- Description: The quest for resilient cities has emerged as a strategy to mitigate and adapt the problems created by urban population growth and rapid urbanisation. Resilience has increasingly become an important urban policy discourse that challenge cities to reflect on their adaptive capacity to function in the face of adversity. Urban resilience in particular, amplifies the concern that urban spaces are the hub of heightened complexities of diverse risks. Across the globe, the concept of resilience is gaining momentum with many academic researchers discussing this phenomenon. In South Africa, the concept has been sparingly incorporated in a number of literatures with little focus on local government entities such as municipalities. In order to close this gap in the literature, and in response to the increasing use of the concept locally, this study explores the extent to which factors of resilience resonate within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality urban management practices. Based on the exploration of a wide array of literature from various disciplinary areas, this study examines the concept of urbanisation and the related challenges. It also critically explores the concept of resilience, its application in urban management as well as the attributes of the adaptive capacities that enable urban resilience. This research adopts the City Resilience Framework and Index developed by Arup in partnership with the Rockefeller Foundation to assess the levels of resilience in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The framework identifies four main dimensions used to measure resilience: People’s health and wellbeing, Organisation of the economy and society, Place of urban systems and services and Knowledge inherent in leadership and strategy. These dimensions form the basis of an integrative framework that provides an alternative lense through which cities can understand their unique attributes that contribute to their resilience. This research highlights the levels of resilience within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and outlines practical implications for Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s management which can also be applied in other cities. This research adopts a positivist approach and applies statistical empirical measures using a quantitative analysis process. The research instrument in the form of a questionnaire was administered to the target population for data collection. Using the conceptual framework, the researcher applied statistical analysis to derive relationships amongst the variables to determine the degree of resilience in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality using the four main dimensions of the framework. The findings of the study show the varying levels of resilience within NMBM’s practices. NMBM’s principal success areas include; providing basic houses, ensuring water and sanitation facilities, instituting effective labour policies, providing skills development and training facilities especially to the youth, enabling a conducive atmosphere for business development and the presence of an integrated development strategy. However, not much has been done in providing sufficient public health facilities, alternative energy sources, access to financial services, ensuring food security, enabling continuity of projects and activities through a funded budget, providing emergency medical services in the event of a disaster, high levels of corruption and insufficient deterrents to crime. Overall, the results show that NMBM has made good strides in enabling high level of resilience in its day to day operations. The findings of this study suggest that urban resilience is a continuous process that facilitates engagement leading to a dialogue and deeper understanding of a city.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Gatang'i, Rebecca Nyangige
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , City planning -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7637 , vital:22273
- Description: The quest for resilient cities has emerged as a strategy to mitigate and adapt the problems created by urban population growth and rapid urbanisation. Resilience has increasingly become an important urban policy discourse that challenge cities to reflect on their adaptive capacity to function in the face of adversity. Urban resilience in particular, amplifies the concern that urban spaces are the hub of heightened complexities of diverse risks. Across the globe, the concept of resilience is gaining momentum with many academic researchers discussing this phenomenon. In South Africa, the concept has been sparingly incorporated in a number of literatures with little focus on local government entities such as municipalities. In order to close this gap in the literature, and in response to the increasing use of the concept locally, this study explores the extent to which factors of resilience resonate within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality urban management practices. Based on the exploration of a wide array of literature from various disciplinary areas, this study examines the concept of urbanisation and the related challenges. It also critically explores the concept of resilience, its application in urban management as well as the attributes of the adaptive capacities that enable urban resilience. This research adopts the City Resilience Framework and Index developed by Arup in partnership with the Rockefeller Foundation to assess the levels of resilience in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The framework identifies four main dimensions used to measure resilience: People’s health and wellbeing, Organisation of the economy and society, Place of urban systems and services and Knowledge inherent in leadership and strategy. These dimensions form the basis of an integrative framework that provides an alternative lense through which cities can understand their unique attributes that contribute to their resilience. This research highlights the levels of resilience within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and outlines practical implications for Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s management which can also be applied in other cities. This research adopts a positivist approach and applies statistical empirical measures using a quantitative analysis process. The research instrument in the form of a questionnaire was administered to the target population for data collection. Using the conceptual framework, the researcher applied statistical analysis to derive relationships amongst the variables to determine the degree of resilience in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality using the four main dimensions of the framework. The findings of the study show the varying levels of resilience within NMBM’s practices. NMBM’s principal success areas include; providing basic houses, ensuring water and sanitation facilities, instituting effective labour policies, providing skills development and training facilities especially to the youth, enabling a conducive atmosphere for business development and the presence of an integrated development strategy. However, not much has been done in providing sufficient public health facilities, alternative energy sources, access to financial services, ensuring food security, enabling continuity of projects and activities through a funded budget, providing emergency medical services in the event of a disaster, high levels of corruption and insufficient deterrents to crime. Overall, the results show that NMBM has made good strides in enabling high level of resilience in its day to day operations. The findings of this study suggest that urban resilience is a continuous process that facilitates engagement leading to a dialogue and deeper understanding of a city.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Assessing Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality's urban resilience
- Authors: Gatang'i, Rebecca Nyangige
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: City planning -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7639 , vital:22272
- Description: The quest for resilient cities has emerged as a strategy to mitigate and adapt the problems created by urban population growth and rapid urbanisation. Resilience has increasingly become an important urban policy discourse that challenge cities to reflect on their adaptive capacity to function in the face of adversity. Urban resilience in particular, amplifies the concern that urban spaces are the hub of heightened complexities of diverse risks. Across the globe, the concept of resilience is gaining momentum with many academic researchers discussing this phenomenon. In South Africa, the concept has been sparingly incorporated in a number of literatures with little focus on local government entities such as municipalities. In order to close this gap in the literature, and in response to the increasing use of the concept locally, this study explores the extent to which factors of resilience resonate within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality urban management practices. Based on the exploration of a wide array of literature from various disciplinary areas, this study examines the concept of urbanisation and the related challenges. It also critically explores the concept of resilience, its application in urban management as well as the attributes of the adaptive capacities that enable urban resilience. This research adopts the City Resilience Framework and Index developed by Arup in partnership with the Rockefeller Foundation to assess the levels of resilience in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The framework identifies four main dimensions used to measure resilience: People’s health and wellbeing, Organisation of the economy and society, Place of urban systems and services and Knowledge inherent in leadership and strategy. These dimensions form the basis of an integrative framework that provides an alternative lense through which cities can understand their unique attributes that contribute to their resilience. This research highlights the levels of resilience within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and outlines practical implications for Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s management which can also be applied in other cities. This research adopts a positivist approach and applies statistical empirical measures using a quantitative analysis process. The research instrument in the form of a questionnaire was administered to the target population for data collection. Using the conceptual framework, the researcher applied statistical analysis to derive relationships amongst the variables to determine the degree of resilience in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality using the four main dimensions of the framework. The findings of the study show the varying levels of resilience within NMBM’s practices. NMBM’s principal success areas include; providing basic houses, ensuring water and sanitation facilities, instituting effective labour policies, providing skills development and training facilities especially to the youth, enabling a conducive atmosphere for business development and the presence of an integrated development strategy. However, not much has been done in providing sufficient public health facilities, alternative energy sources, access to financial services, ensuring food security, enabling continuity of projects and activities through a funded budget, providing emergency medical services in the event of a disaster, high levels of corruption and insufficient deterrents to crime. Overall, the results show that NMBM has made good strides in enabling high level of resilience in its day to day operations. The findings of this study suggest that urban resilience is a continuous process that facilitates engagement leading to a dialogue and deeper understanding of a city.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Gatang'i, Rebecca Nyangige
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: City planning -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7639 , vital:22272
- Description: The quest for resilient cities has emerged as a strategy to mitigate and adapt the problems created by urban population growth and rapid urbanisation. Resilience has increasingly become an important urban policy discourse that challenge cities to reflect on their adaptive capacity to function in the face of adversity. Urban resilience in particular, amplifies the concern that urban spaces are the hub of heightened complexities of diverse risks. Across the globe, the concept of resilience is gaining momentum with many academic researchers discussing this phenomenon. In South Africa, the concept has been sparingly incorporated in a number of literatures with little focus on local government entities such as municipalities. In order to close this gap in the literature, and in response to the increasing use of the concept locally, this study explores the extent to which factors of resilience resonate within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality urban management practices. Based on the exploration of a wide array of literature from various disciplinary areas, this study examines the concept of urbanisation and the related challenges. It also critically explores the concept of resilience, its application in urban management as well as the attributes of the adaptive capacities that enable urban resilience. This research adopts the City Resilience Framework and Index developed by Arup in partnership with the Rockefeller Foundation to assess the levels of resilience in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The framework identifies four main dimensions used to measure resilience: People’s health and wellbeing, Organisation of the economy and society, Place of urban systems and services and Knowledge inherent in leadership and strategy. These dimensions form the basis of an integrative framework that provides an alternative lense through which cities can understand their unique attributes that contribute to their resilience. This research highlights the levels of resilience within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and outlines practical implications for Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s management which can also be applied in other cities. This research adopts a positivist approach and applies statistical empirical measures using a quantitative analysis process. The research instrument in the form of a questionnaire was administered to the target population for data collection. Using the conceptual framework, the researcher applied statistical analysis to derive relationships amongst the variables to determine the degree of resilience in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality using the four main dimensions of the framework. The findings of the study show the varying levels of resilience within NMBM’s practices. NMBM’s principal success areas include; providing basic houses, ensuring water and sanitation facilities, instituting effective labour policies, providing skills development and training facilities especially to the youth, enabling a conducive atmosphere for business development and the presence of an integrated development strategy. However, not much has been done in providing sufficient public health facilities, alternative energy sources, access to financial services, ensuring food security, enabling continuity of projects and activities through a funded budget, providing emergency medical services in the event of a disaster, high levels of corruption and insufficient deterrents to crime. Overall, the results show that NMBM has made good strides in enabling high level of resilience in its day to day operations. The findings of this study suggest that urban resilience is a continuous process that facilitates engagement leading to a dialogue and deeper understanding of a city.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Build-Operate and Transfer (BOT) as a method of private provisioning of public infrastructure
- Authors: Madungandaba, Ruth Tshweu
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) , Build-operate-transfer (Public contracts) , Public goods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8425 , vital:26355
- Description: BOT scheme method of public infrastructure provisioning by the private sector is one of the most popular PPP methods which in most cases is applied as an automatic choice without performing feasibility studies. It helps the governments to provide infrastructure and services with minimal impact on the governmental budget while allowing it to leverage the latest technology and efficient managerial skill that resides with the private sector. The study that was conducted revealed that BOT scheme has a potential of being the best modality of if applied properly. This modality has a potential of creating a breeding group for corruption at the same time. It also revealed that the application of due processes will not necessarily deter corruption, lack of and exclusion of important stakeholders such as the citizens. The findings of the study revealed that the ruling party in the government can abuse its power in pursuit of its own mission which will not necessarily be in the interest of the public or the other political parties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Madungandaba, Ruth Tshweu
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) , Build-operate-transfer (Public contracts) , Public goods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8425 , vital:26355
- Description: BOT scheme method of public infrastructure provisioning by the private sector is one of the most popular PPP methods which in most cases is applied as an automatic choice without performing feasibility studies. It helps the governments to provide infrastructure and services with minimal impact on the governmental budget while allowing it to leverage the latest technology and efficient managerial skill that resides with the private sector. The study that was conducted revealed that BOT scheme has a potential of being the best modality of if applied properly. This modality has a potential of creating a breeding group for corruption at the same time. It also revealed that the application of due processes will not necessarily deter corruption, lack of and exclusion of important stakeholders such as the citizens. The findings of the study revealed that the ruling party in the government can abuse its power in pursuit of its own mission which will not necessarily be in the interest of the public or the other political parties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Change management: transformational issues in South-African rugby
- Authors: Erasmus, Innis
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Organizational change -- Management Sports administration , Rugby football -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46320 , vital:39547
- Description: The history of the sport rugby evolved from a football game more than a century ago, in England, in a town called Rugby when a young boy by the name of William Webb Ellis picked up the ball and ran to score a try. In the last two decades in South Africa the transformation process in getting more players of colour in the national team has become a real big issue. The fast changing society since 1995, the year in which the Springboks won their first Rugby World Cup, is according to government and critics not represented in the senior national side. Change management is a business management approach to implement procedures to deal with changes and to be able to reach the desired future state by profiting from the changing opportunities. SARU wants to address these issues and changes with their Strategic Transformational Plan. The purpose of this treatise was to study the perception of the junior players on the changes in rugby and the STP. The key drivers which will have influences on change management within the sport organisation were examined by the research. With the research objectives in mind a literature review was performed to create and develop a hypothesized model, which could be tested by the design of a measuring instrument which collected quantitative data for statistical results and analysis. The interpretation of the results of the research showed that Engagement, Coaching and Mentoring, Medical and Healthcare, Education/Schooling and Culture have positive associations and influences on change management. Transformational plans, Conditioning and nutrition’s relationship with change management and influences were accepted for the null hypotheses. Finally, change management and the various issues of transformation in SA Rugby showed to be valuable, measurable to a certain extent, and its recommendations actionable. The practical significant differences between the perceptions of the race groups (White, Coloured and African) illustrated valuable information for future communications and possible studies. This study and its proposed model on change management was a benefit to all the stakeholders and sport organisation going through changes and transformation in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Erasmus, Innis
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Organizational change -- Management Sports administration , Rugby football -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46320 , vital:39547
- Description: The history of the sport rugby evolved from a football game more than a century ago, in England, in a town called Rugby when a young boy by the name of William Webb Ellis picked up the ball and ran to score a try. In the last two decades in South Africa the transformation process in getting more players of colour in the national team has become a real big issue. The fast changing society since 1995, the year in which the Springboks won their first Rugby World Cup, is according to government and critics not represented in the senior national side. Change management is a business management approach to implement procedures to deal with changes and to be able to reach the desired future state by profiting from the changing opportunities. SARU wants to address these issues and changes with their Strategic Transformational Plan. The purpose of this treatise was to study the perception of the junior players on the changes in rugby and the STP. The key drivers which will have influences on change management within the sport organisation were examined by the research. With the research objectives in mind a literature review was performed to create and develop a hypothesized model, which could be tested by the design of a measuring instrument which collected quantitative data for statistical results and analysis. The interpretation of the results of the research showed that Engagement, Coaching and Mentoring, Medical and Healthcare, Education/Schooling and Culture have positive associations and influences on change management. Transformational plans, Conditioning and nutrition’s relationship with change management and influences were accepted for the null hypotheses. Finally, change management and the various issues of transformation in SA Rugby showed to be valuable, measurable to a certain extent, and its recommendations actionable. The practical significant differences between the perceptions of the race groups (White, Coloured and African) illustrated valuable information for future communications and possible studies. This study and its proposed model on change management was a benefit to all the stakeholders and sport organisation going through changes and transformation in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Consumer decision-making processes for scholar transportation in South African cities: the case of Johannesburg and Pretoria
- Authors: Letsholonyane, Nelly
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Johannesburg Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Pretoria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13283 , vital:27171
- Description: Scholar transport in South Africa remains an area that needs to be addressed in the interest of all communities, rich and poor alike. The National Development Plan 2030, provides a clarion call for nation building to develop highly knowledgeable South African citizens for building innovative capacity for the nation as a whole(NDP, 2014).
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Letsholonyane, Nelly
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Johannesburg Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Pretoria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13283 , vital:27171
- Description: Scholar transport in South Africa remains an area that needs to be addressed in the interest of all communities, rich and poor alike. The National Development Plan 2030, provides a clarion call for nation building to develop highly knowledgeable South African citizens for building innovative capacity for the nation as a whole(NDP, 2014).
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2016