Improving staff turnover in a purchasing department
- Authors: Blignaut, Fredrika Joan
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Labor turnover -- South Africa Human capital , Employees -- Recruiting Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50110 , vital:42044
- Description: The value of employees has been established as the best asset a company can have and managers/leaders plays an important role in optimising the value addition of the employee. Retaining employees and attracting them is a challenge due to skill shortages and staff turnover. The costs of staff turnover include but are not limited to recruiting, testing, selecting, training the new staff member, and mandatory overtime due to staff shortages. The indirect costs associated with such turnover are caused by the loss of valued employees, the stress of additional workloads, the loss of the social relationship and the tension of integrating new employees into the team. The objective of the study was to identify the factors that increase voluntary and involuntary turnover intent in the selected purchasing department. These factors were manager /leader’s influence, stress and satisfaction with quality of work life on turnover intent. Convenience sampling was used to distribute sixty-four questionnaires in three departments of the selected firm, namely production purchasing, general purchasing and projects. Only fifty usable questionnaires were received. The results from the descriptive statistics revealed that the participants were generally not happy with manager relations in the firm. The results however showed that this does not motivate employees to stay or leave the firm. The statistics showed that bullying is evident in the selected firm, however the mean score does not reflect high levels thereof. The Pearson correlations show a significantly positive relationship between bullying and employees leaving. The participants generally work in a stressful environment and this affected some employees negatively however Pearson’s correlations showed that work stress is not significantly related to intent to leave.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Blignaut, Fredrika Joan
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Labor turnover -- South Africa Human capital , Employees -- Recruiting Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50110 , vital:42044
- Description: The value of employees has been established as the best asset a company can have and managers/leaders plays an important role in optimising the value addition of the employee. Retaining employees and attracting them is a challenge due to skill shortages and staff turnover. The costs of staff turnover include but are not limited to recruiting, testing, selecting, training the new staff member, and mandatory overtime due to staff shortages. The indirect costs associated with such turnover are caused by the loss of valued employees, the stress of additional workloads, the loss of the social relationship and the tension of integrating new employees into the team. The objective of the study was to identify the factors that increase voluntary and involuntary turnover intent in the selected purchasing department. These factors were manager /leader’s influence, stress and satisfaction with quality of work life on turnover intent. Convenience sampling was used to distribute sixty-four questionnaires in three departments of the selected firm, namely production purchasing, general purchasing and projects. Only fifty usable questionnaires were received. The results from the descriptive statistics revealed that the participants were generally not happy with manager relations in the firm. The results however showed that this does not motivate employees to stay or leave the firm. The statistics showed that bullying is evident in the selected firm, however the mean score does not reflect high levels thereof. The Pearson correlations show a significantly positive relationship between bullying and employees leaving. The participants generally work in a stressful environment and this affected some employees negatively however Pearson’s correlations showed that work stress is not significantly related to intent to leave.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Improving the performance intent of school-based educators in the Uitenhage district
- Authors: Williams, Mark
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Performance contracts in education , Teachers -- Self-rating of , Self-evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4034 , vital:20506
- Description: Results from recent international assessments showed that the performance of South African learners in these international benchmarking assessments remained at rock bottom of the study rankings. These results not only paint a dim picture of the ability, work ethic and attitude of learners in the South African schooling system, but it also calls into question the performance intent of educators. This study becomes very important against the background that learners being taught in South African classrooms are increasingly facing stiffer competition in the market place due to the phenomenon of globalisation. The perception of the international community pertaining to the quality of teaching and learning in South African schools is bound to impact significantly on the keenness of foreign countries to engage with South Africa on a meaningful scale. The primary objective of the study is to improve the performance intent of school-based educators in the Uitenhage Education District. More specifically, the study investigates the relationship between the performance intent of educators (the dependent variable) and motivation, commitment to profession, commitment to the leader, community engagement and professional development (the independent variables). Given the constraint of distance, the sample was limited to schools in the Uitenhage Education District, and for this reason, convenience sampling was used for purposes of this study. Three hundred and sixty questionnaires were issued, of which 316 were returned (a response rate of 88%). The empirical results revealed all the independent variables impact significantly on the performance intent of educators at public schools in the Uitenhage Education District. The research findings cannot be generalised to all schools in the province because the sampled schools compose only a relatively small portion of all schools in the Eastern Cape Province. Recommendations for future research are also provided.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Williams, Mark
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Performance contracts in education , Teachers -- Self-rating of , Self-evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4034 , vital:20506
- Description: Results from recent international assessments showed that the performance of South African learners in these international benchmarking assessments remained at rock bottom of the study rankings. These results not only paint a dim picture of the ability, work ethic and attitude of learners in the South African schooling system, but it also calls into question the performance intent of educators. This study becomes very important against the background that learners being taught in South African classrooms are increasingly facing stiffer competition in the market place due to the phenomenon of globalisation. The perception of the international community pertaining to the quality of teaching and learning in South African schools is bound to impact significantly on the keenness of foreign countries to engage with South Africa on a meaningful scale. The primary objective of the study is to improve the performance intent of school-based educators in the Uitenhage Education District. More specifically, the study investigates the relationship between the performance intent of educators (the dependent variable) and motivation, commitment to profession, commitment to the leader, community engagement and professional development (the independent variables). Given the constraint of distance, the sample was limited to schools in the Uitenhage Education District, and for this reason, convenience sampling was used for purposes of this study. Three hundred and sixty questionnaires were issued, of which 316 were returned (a response rate of 88%). The empirical results revealed all the independent variables impact significantly on the performance intent of educators at public schools in the Uitenhage Education District. The research findings cannot be generalised to all schools in the province because the sampled schools compose only a relatively small portion of all schools in the Eastern Cape Province. Recommendations for future research are also provided.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Improving the performance management system in a selected firm
- Authors: Sonti, Phindile Clinton
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Employees -- Rating of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8928 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021172
- Description: The performance management system has become a vital process of retaining skilled employees, helping to improve communication between the employees and management, providing feedback to employees and clear understanding of job expectation. A performance management system assists the firm to identify the ways to improve individual and firm performance and provides the opportunity for discussion about individual career direction and growth within the firm. It provides the opportunity to set employee targets linked to the departmental targets. The performance management system is the catalyst for firms to become globally competitive and be able to meet targets. Over the years the firm has introduced a performance management system to help employees to achieve their targets, which will result in the company meeting its own objectives. The study focused on the factors that affect the performance management system. The objective of the research was to improve the performance management system of the firm. The study was conducted to assess the effect of the following independent variables on the improvement of the performance management system: leadership style, training, organisational culture, reward system and organisational communication. The sample consisted of only the employees of the firm selected for the study. One hundred and fifty (150) questionnaires were distributed, but only seventy-six (76) respondents (response rate = 50.7 percent) participated in the final study. The empirical results revealed that the three independent variables play a very important role in improving a performance management system. These three variables are organisational culture, training, and reward system. Implementing the recommendations that came from these results will go a long way to making sure that the firm will improve its performance management system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Sonti, Phindile Clinton
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Employees -- Rating of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8928 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021172
- Description: The performance management system has become a vital process of retaining skilled employees, helping to improve communication between the employees and management, providing feedback to employees and clear understanding of job expectation. A performance management system assists the firm to identify the ways to improve individual and firm performance and provides the opportunity for discussion about individual career direction and growth within the firm. It provides the opportunity to set employee targets linked to the departmental targets. The performance management system is the catalyst for firms to become globally competitive and be able to meet targets. Over the years the firm has introduced a performance management system to help employees to achieve their targets, which will result in the company meeting its own objectives. The study focused on the factors that affect the performance management system. The objective of the research was to improve the performance management system of the firm. The study was conducted to assess the effect of the following independent variables on the improvement of the performance management system: leadership style, training, organisational culture, reward system and organisational communication. The sample consisted of only the employees of the firm selected for the study. One hundred and fifty (150) questionnaires were distributed, but only seventy-six (76) respondents (response rate = 50.7 percent) participated in the final study. The empirical results revealed that the three independent variables play a very important role in improving a performance management system. These three variables are organisational culture, training, and reward system. Implementing the recommendations that came from these results will go a long way to making sure that the firm will improve its performance management system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Incorporating socio-economic development initiatives for community development as part of wind farm management in Cookhouse
- Authors: Zambonini, Scott John
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Economic development Wind power -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Wind power plants -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50044 , vital:41995
- Description: The purpose of this case study research was to develop a model for management of the Cookhouse Wind Farm incorporating relevant socio-economic development initiatives for community development in the Cookhouse area. As a result of the REIPPPP’s socio-economic development requirements and the multiple project overlaps of the 50km radius for the beneficiaries of wind farms, management of the Cookhouse Wind Farm face the problem of using the funding to benefit the communities in a sustainable manner. The research started with a structured literature review, followed by a qualitative case study research design using embedded units of analysis and provided a useful insight into socio-economic development in the South African wind power industry. The outcome of the study was in the form of a sustainable socio-economic development model for Cookhouse wind farm management, which highlighted the following four key focus areas: Education, Welfare, Infrastructure and Health. The study concluded with practical recommendations for relevant and sustainable socioeconomic development projects under the four key focus areas. Since the completion of the study two additional renewable energy projects have been approved (Nxuba and Golden Valley) in the same area as Cookhouse which serve to further strengthen the studies purpose.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Zambonini, Scott John
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Economic development Wind power -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Wind power plants -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50044 , vital:41995
- Description: The purpose of this case study research was to develop a model for management of the Cookhouse Wind Farm incorporating relevant socio-economic development initiatives for community development in the Cookhouse area. As a result of the REIPPPP’s socio-economic development requirements and the multiple project overlaps of the 50km radius for the beneficiaries of wind farms, management of the Cookhouse Wind Farm face the problem of using the funding to benefit the communities in a sustainable manner. The research started with a structured literature review, followed by a qualitative case study research design using embedded units of analysis and provided a useful insight into socio-economic development in the South African wind power industry. The outcome of the study was in the form of a sustainable socio-economic development model for Cookhouse wind farm management, which highlighted the following four key focus areas: Education, Welfare, Infrastructure and Health. The study concluded with practical recommendations for relevant and sustainable socioeconomic development projects under the four key focus areas. Since the completion of the study two additional renewable energy projects have been approved (Nxuba and Golden Valley) in the same area as Cookhouse which serve to further strengthen the studies purpose.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Job satisfaction levels of health care professionals in a public hospital
- Authors: Hendricks, Janine Jolene
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Job satisfaction Medical personnel -- Job satisfaction Medical personnel -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11058 , vital:26881
- Description: Health care professionals play a pivotal role in contributing towards the sustainability of a healthy economy and the standard of quality health care. It is therefore important that organisations understand what influences the job satisfaction levels of health care professionals as it could have an impact on their motivational levels and ultimately the quality of health care that is provided. The aim of this study was to assess the levels of job satisfaction amongst health care professionals in a public hospital in the Eastern Cape. Research for this study included a literature review to define what job satisfaction is and to establish a theoretical foundation to identify the factors that influence job satisfaction. Various motivational theories were explored after which Herzberg’s two-factor theory was identified to serve as a theoretical basis for investigating the job content and organisational factors that influence job satisfaction. Selected demographic factors that could possibly influence levels of job satisfaction were also identified. An empirical study, consisting of a survey with a questionnaire as measuring instrument, was conducted amongst 146 health care professionals at a public hospital in the Eastern Cape. The purpose of the questionnaire was to determine the extent to which job content factors and organisational factors that were associated with job satisfaction were present in the jobs of health care professionals in state hospitals. In addition, the purpose was also to determine whether selected demographic variables had an influence on the responses provided to the factors that were associated with job satisfaction and the job satisfaction levels of the target group. The major findings of the study indicated that all job content and organisational factors had an influence on the job satisfaction levels of health care professionals in a public hospital. Three factors namely Achievement, Responsibility and Work itself were identified to have a significant positive influence on the job satisfaction levels. Relationships between the demographic variables and the job content and organisational factors were identified. Work itself, Responsibility and Achievement were the top three factors whilst leadership/supervision, Human Resource systems and policies and Remuneration and benefits were the bottom three factors in terms of presence in the organisation and influence on the job satisfaction levels of health care professionals. Safety aspects, work environment standards, availability of resources, remuneration and benefits were amongst the major concerns highlighted. The job content factors were identified to be overall more present than the organisational factors. Recommendations were suggested to address the areas of concern that were highlighted in this study in order to ensure high levels of job satisfaction amongst the health care professionals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Hendricks, Janine Jolene
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Job satisfaction Medical personnel -- Job satisfaction Medical personnel -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11058 , vital:26881
- Description: Health care professionals play a pivotal role in contributing towards the sustainability of a healthy economy and the standard of quality health care. It is therefore important that organisations understand what influences the job satisfaction levels of health care professionals as it could have an impact on their motivational levels and ultimately the quality of health care that is provided. The aim of this study was to assess the levels of job satisfaction amongst health care professionals in a public hospital in the Eastern Cape. Research for this study included a literature review to define what job satisfaction is and to establish a theoretical foundation to identify the factors that influence job satisfaction. Various motivational theories were explored after which Herzberg’s two-factor theory was identified to serve as a theoretical basis for investigating the job content and organisational factors that influence job satisfaction. Selected demographic factors that could possibly influence levels of job satisfaction were also identified. An empirical study, consisting of a survey with a questionnaire as measuring instrument, was conducted amongst 146 health care professionals at a public hospital in the Eastern Cape. The purpose of the questionnaire was to determine the extent to which job content factors and organisational factors that were associated with job satisfaction were present in the jobs of health care professionals in state hospitals. In addition, the purpose was also to determine whether selected demographic variables had an influence on the responses provided to the factors that were associated with job satisfaction and the job satisfaction levels of the target group. The major findings of the study indicated that all job content and organisational factors had an influence on the job satisfaction levels of health care professionals in a public hospital. Three factors namely Achievement, Responsibility and Work itself were identified to have a significant positive influence on the job satisfaction levels. Relationships between the demographic variables and the job content and organisational factors were identified. Work itself, Responsibility and Achievement were the top three factors whilst leadership/supervision, Human Resource systems and policies and Remuneration and benefits were the bottom three factors in terms of presence in the organisation and influence on the job satisfaction levels of health care professionals. Safety aspects, work environment standards, availability of resources, remuneration and benefits were amongst the major concerns highlighted. The job content factors were identified to be overall more present than the organisational factors. Recommendations were suggested to address the areas of concern that were highlighted in this study in order to ensure high levels of job satisfaction amongst the health care professionals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Knowledge management strategies in engineering organisations
- Authors: Makhaba, Thembile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Organizational learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3579 , vital:20444
- Description: Engineering is believed to be one of the oldest professions and it is estimated that engineering existed 10 000 centuries B.C (Before Christ). Engineering plays an important role in making the environment safer, making daily lives more convenient and also contributes to countries’ economic developments. Engineering has advanced in such a way that it is difficult to survive without some kind of engineering these days. The same as engineering, knowledge management also dates back to biblical times just after creation. Knowledge management is not only applied in organisations, but also within communities, societies, and families. Engineering organisations rely the most on past discoveries and product information (knowledge) in order to solve engineering related problems. Due to globalisation of markets and products, shortage of skills and technological advancement, knowledge has become one of the main competitive factors of many organisations. Therefore engineering organisations need to have knowledge management strategies if they are to stay competitive. Different engineering organisations might have similar knowledge management strategies or different knowledge management strategies depending on organisational size, structure and culture and service offered or product offered. Against this background, this study sought to discover what knowledge management strategies are currently implemented in engineering organisations and recommend on strategies that can be implemented and how they can be implemented. The study is based on a review of literature on engineering, engineering organisations, knowledge and knowledge management and a structured questionnaire on knowledge management in engineering organisations. The population for the study was all engineering organisation employees and the engineering organisations in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa were sampled for the survey.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Makhaba, Thembile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Organizational learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3579 , vital:20444
- Description: Engineering is believed to be one of the oldest professions and it is estimated that engineering existed 10 000 centuries B.C (Before Christ). Engineering plays an important role in making the environment safer, making daily lives more convenient and also contributes to countries’ economic developments. Engineering has advanced in such a way that it is difficult to survive without some kind of engineering these days. The same as engineering, knowledge management also dates back to biblical times just after creation. Knowledge management is not only applied in organisations, but also within communities, societies, and families. Engineering organisations rely the most on past discoveries and product information (knowledge) in order to solve engineering related problems. Due to globalisation of markets and products, shortage of skills and technological advancement, knowledge has become one of the main competitive factors of many organisations. Therefore engineering organisations need to have knowledge management strategies if they are to stay competitive. Different engineering organisations might have similar knowledge management strategies or different knowledge management strategies depending on organisational size, structure and culture and service offered or product offered. Against this background, this study sought to discover what knowledge management strategies are currently implemented in engineering organisations and recommend on strategies that can be implemented and how they can be implemented. The study is based on a review of literature on engineering, engineering organisations, knowledge and knowledge management and a structured questionnaire on knowledge management in engineering organisations. The population for the study was all engineering organisation employees and the engineering organisations in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa were sampled for the survey.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Staff motivation and job performance in the Frere Hospital maternity ward
- Authors: Makapela, Lunathi Brian
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Employee motivation -- South Africa -- East London , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8769 , vital:26428
- Description: The topic of motivation continues to command substantial attention in the field of industrial or organisational psychology. Motivation has always been an essential factor in managing personnel and is a crucial variable in creating a high performance organization. Public administration research has largely ignored motivation as a topic, contrary to research of private sector management. Nurses represent one of the biggest profession group in South Africa's health care services and forms the vertebrae of the Primary Health Care in South Africa. South Africa has experienced large numbers of nurses immigrating to other foreign countries due to poor working conditions in South Africa. Government has a responsibility of ensuring that there is always a motivational climate in the institutions where nurses work. Several investigations have been conducted by various organisations regarding the state of South African Health Care System, due to a high rate of reported deaths in South African hospitals. Dispatch investigation team in 2005 revealed a number of findings that related to various motivational issues at the Eastern Cape Frere Hospital maternity ward. These motivational issues included but not limited shortage of nurses and doctors; use of interns on night duty without qualified doctors and anaesthetist; a cleaner confirmed to have been seen delivering a baby in the labour ward while wearing a doctor‟s coat, as well as accessing and dispensing medicine; no security to prevent people from wandering the labour ward and the entire maternity section; deaths due to negligence; inappropriate appointment of personnel, a situation causing problems for the nurses; employees complaining of work overload; absenteeism and sick leave leaving one nurse on duty at night in the nursery; lack of equipment like oxygen points, suction catheters, CPAPs and CTG machines, alleged by some nurses to be directly responsible for a number of avoidable deaths; staff shortages thus forcing inexperienced nurses to carry duties beyond their experience; detrimental shortages of labour beds; a general assistant dressed in a green nurse‟s gown rinsing blood-soaked linen before dishing up for, and serving food to patients, still wearing the same clothing. Since the Dispatch investigation and the subsequent investigations by political parties and the National Department of Health, no scientific research or investigation has been done around challenges at Frere Hospital maternity ward. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the levels of staff motivation and staff motivation levels' impact on job performance in the Frere Hospital maternity ward. In conducting this study the researcher explored five motivation theories which are amongst a group of motivational theories that have shaped worker motivation in both the public and private sectors. The study explored Maslow hierarchy of needs, Herzberg two factor theory, Vroom's expectancy theory, Locke's equity theory and Festinger‟s goal setting Theory. These theories were used with a view of gathering an understanding of staff motivation and job performance. The reasons for the researcher to choose these five motivational theories is that they are amongst the most popular theories used by scholars to measure staff motivation and performance both in the private and public sectors. These theories were also used due to their relevance to the organisation investigated. This study followed a quantitative approach and empirical study was conducted using a questionnaire with closed and open-ended questions. The empirical results from the nine sections researched showed some distinct findings, from which the following recommendations were drawn: management should consider employees' involvement during goal setting in the department; management should work towards building in job motivators into the employees’ jobs; management should ensure that there is a reputable performance reward and recognition system in place that is agreed upon with staff, instead of imposing the system; management should support nurses in ensuring that their working conditions and salaries and benefits are improved; and It is therefore the responsibility of managers to ensure that staff are always kept motivated in order to increase job performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Makapela, Lunathi Brian
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Employee motivation -- South Africa -- East London , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8769 , vital:26428
- Description: The topic of motivation continues to command substantial attention in the field of industrial or organisational psychology. Motivation has always been an essential factor in managing personnel and is a crucial variable in creating a high performance organization. Public administration research has largely ignored motivation as a topic, contrary to research of private sector management. Nurses represent one of the biggest profession group in South Africa's health care services and forms the vertebrae of the Primary Health Care in South Africa. South Africa has experienced large numbers of nurses immigrating to other foreign countries due to poor working conditions in South Africa. Government has a responsibility of ensuring that there is always a motivational climate in the institutions where nurses work. Several investigations have been conducted by various organisations regarding the state of South African Health Care System, due to a high rate of reported deaths in South African hospitals. Dispatch investigation team in 2005 revealed a number of findings that related to various motivational issues at the Eastern Cape Frere Hospital maternity ward. These motivational issues included but not limited shortage of nurses and doctors; use of interns on night duty without qualified doctors and anaesthetist; a cleaner confirmed to have been seen delivering a baby in the labour ward while wearing a doctor‟s coat, as well as accessing and dispensing medicine; no security to prevent people from wandering the labour ward and the entire maternity section; deaths due to negligence; inappropriate appointment of personnel, a situation causing problems for the nurses; employees complaining of work overload; absenteeism and sick leave leaving one nurse on duty at night in the nursery; lack of equipment like oxygen points, suction catheters, CPAPs and CTG machines, alleged by some nurses to be directly responsible for a number of avoidable deaths; staff shortages thus forcing inexperienced nurses to carry duties beyond their experience; detrimental shortages of labour beds; a general assistant dressed in a green nurse‟s gown rinsing blood-soaked linen before dishing up for, and serving food to patients, still wearing the same clothing. Since the Dispatch investigation and the subsequent investigations by political parties and the National Department of Health, no scientific research or investigation has been done around challenges at Frere Hospital maternity ward. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the levels of staff motivation and staff motivation levels' impact on job performance in the Frere Hospital maternity ward. In conducting this study the researcher explored five motivation theories which are amongst a group of motivational theories that have shaped worker motivation in both the public and private sectors. The study explored Maslow hierarchy of needs, Herzberg two factor theory, Vroom's expectancy theory, Locke's equity theory and Festinger‟s goal setting Theory. These theories were used with a view of gathering an understanding of staff motivation and job performance. The reasons for the researcher to choose these five motivational theories is that they are amongst the most popular theories used by scholars to measure staff motivation and performance both in the private and public sectors. These theories were also used due to their relevance to the organisation investigated. This study followed a quantitative approach and empirical study was conducted using a questionnaire with closed and open-ended questions. The empirical results from the nine sections researched showed some distinct findings, from which the following recommendations were drawn: management should consider employees' involvement during goal setting in the department; management should work towards building in job motivators into the employees’ jobs; management should ensure that there is a reputable performance reward and recognition system in place that is agreed upon with staff, instead of imposing the system; management should support nurses in ensuring that their working conditions and salaries and benefits are improved; and It is therefore the responsibility of managers to ensure that staff are always kept motivated in order to increase job performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Strategy formulation and implementation in non-profit organisations in the Nelson Mandela Municipality
- Authors: Butler, Lauren
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Nonprofit organizations -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8866 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020253
- Description: Literature indicates that the sustainability of Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) is important as they provide pivotal services to the community. In this study, the researcher investigates common problems associated with strategy formulation and implementation in NPOs in the Nelson Mandela Metropole. The researcher reports on the importance of strategy within all organisations and outlines a strategy process that can be used as a guide to measure strategic planning in NPOs. In pursuit of conducting qualitative research, a self-constructed questionnaire was used to perform telephonic interviews with managers of NPOs. The study yielded a low response rate, but based on the analysis of the data collected, findings indicate that the main problem is not with strategy formulation or implementation, but with the understanding of the concept of strategic planning. During the interview process, it became evident that there is a common misconception that the annual operations planning constitutes a strategic plan. A major limitation to this study was the absence of a benchmark against which to measure success. Unlike a for-profit organisation where success is measured by profit margins, NPOs have different priorities and therefore successful strategic planning differs from one organisation to another. A recommendation for managers at NPOs is that they start thinking strategically about their organisation, its planning, and methods for doing so (which is discussed in Chapter Five).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Butler, Lauren
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Nonprofit organizations -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8866 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020253
- Description: Literature indicates that the sustainability of Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) is important as they provide pivotal services to the community. In this study, the researcher investigates common problems associated with strategy formulation and implementation in NPOs in the Nelson Mandela Metropole. The researcher reports on the importance of strategy within all organisations and outlines a strategy process that can be used as a guide to measure strategic planning in NPOs. In pursuit of conducting qualitative research, a self-constructed questionnaire was used to perform telephonic interviews with managers of NPOs. The study yielded a low response rate, but based on the analysis of the data collected, findings indicate that the main problem is not with strategy formulation or implementation, but with the understanding of the concept of strategic planning. During the interview process, it became evident that there is a common misconception that the annual operations planning constitutes a strategic plan. A major limitation to this study was the absence of a benchmark against which to measure success. Unlike a for-profit organisation where success is measured by profit margins, NPOs have different priorities and therefore successful strategic planning differs from one organisation to another. A recommendation for managers at NPOs is that they start thinking strategically about their organisation, its planning, and methods for doing so (which is discussed in Chapter Five).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Survival of women in law enforcement
- Authors: Badi, Yvonne Tankiso
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Policewomen -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Women police chiefs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8860 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020179
- Description: This study seeks to investigate the underlying ideologies and practices behind the perception that women who are in command positions are unable to command and control, especially those who are in the operational environment. The study was executed in the Eastern Cape Province (Eastern Cape), in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCM). The research participants (respondents) were constituted by 33 police officers from diverse police stations within the BCM. The participants were divided according to gender, i.e. 24 females and 9 males. With regards to objectives of the study, the aim was to investigate the following issues: i) to understand factors that make women not to be accepted in their positions as SAPS' operational commanders, by their male subordinateslcolleagues and community members. ii) To understand factors that make women not to be accepted in their positions as SAPS' operational commanders, by their male subordinates/colleagues and community members, and iii) to explore strategies to utilize in making SAPS' women operational commanders, survive while managing their day-te-day respective units/components effectively and efficiently. Regarding research design, this study mainly used a qualitative research method combined with a bit of a quantitative approach. And then the data collection method involved making use of semi structured interviews to all the respondents. The results of this study show that there is still a huge difference in the number of women who are commanders compared to their male counterparts, especially in those environments that were previously regarded as male dominated. Further, despite the necessary training being provided by the SAPS to women officers, the necessary support in particular from management is still a challenge. Lastly, the argument of this study is that there is still not a fair representation of women in command positions within the SAPS, especially, in the previously male dominated environments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Badi, Yvonne Tankiso
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Policewomen -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Women police chiefs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8860 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020179
- Description: This study seeks to investigate the underlying ideologies and practices behind the perception that women who are in command positions are unable to command and control, especially those who are in the operational environment. The study was executed in the Eastern Cape Province (Eastern Cape), in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCM). The research participants (respondents) were constituted by 33 police officers from diverse police stations within the BCM. The participants were divided according to gender, i.e. 24 females and 9 males. With regards to objectives of the study, the aim was to investigate the following issues: i) to understand factors that make women not to be accepted in their positions as SAPS' operational commanders, by their male subordinateslcolleagues and community members. ii) To understand factors that make women not to be accepted in their positions as SAPS' operational commanders, by their male subordinates/colleagues and community members, and iii) to explore strategies to utilize in making SAPS' women operational commanders, survive while managing their day-te-day respective units/components effectively and efficiently. Regarding research design, this study mainly used a qualitative research method combined with a bit of a quantitative approach. And then the data collection method involved making use of semi structured interviews to all the respondents. The results of this study show that there is still a huge difference in the number of women who are commanders compared to their male counterparts, especially in those environments that were previously regarded as male dominated. Further, despite the necessary training being provided by the SAPS to women officers, the necessary support in particular from management is still a challenge. Lastly, the argument of this study is that there is still not a fair representation of women in command positions within the SAPS, especially, in the previously male dominated environments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Sustainable training support framework for the wind power industry in South Africa
- Authors: Barton, Cayleigh Ann
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Wind power industry -- South Africa Wind power industry -- Technological innovations , Energy development Renewable energy sources
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50020 , vital:41985
- Description: South Africa has emerged as one of the most important renewable energy markets as reflected by the USD 5.5 billion invested in South Africa in 2014 (Merger’s Alliance, 2015). As the opportunity exists for South Africa to take advantage of its above average natural wind resources, the main purpose of the case study research effort was therefore to develop a theoretical sustainable training framework in support of the rapidly growing wind power industry in South Africa. The proposed location for a sustainable training support framework is at the NMMU Business School and Leadership Academy, strategically located in the Eastern Cape. In addition, the NMMU Business School and Leadership Academy has satellite offices all around South Africa, thus creating accessible training and education solutions to most parts of the country. The case study research approach was qualitative in nature, thus providing valuable insight into the case study phenomenon. The researcher focused on a single context, namely the wind power industry in South Africa, and within a single case of the establishment of a sustainable training support framework at the NMMU Business School and Leadership Academy. The embedded, multiple units of analysis comprised of a purposive sample of strategic individuals operating within the South African wind power sector, socio-economic development, education and training industries. In staying within the research design, the case study made use of an in-depth interview process in order to address the research propositions of the case study. The investigative interview questions were fully supported by secondary sources of information. The case study provided valuable insight into the unique South African wind power industry setting, with a focus on education and training in line with the REIPPPP minimum threshold and targets for socio-economic development and job creation. The researcher experienced a lack of responses from industry experts who were contacted for interviews. This lack of response could be considered as a limitation in validating the outcome of the study. The South African wind power industry is one of the most thriving markets in the world (Merger’s Alliance, 2015) and due to its fledging nature; research on the topic under discussion is not readily available. Thus, the research effort provided relevant information regarding the unique setting of the South African wind power industry and added value through the proposition of a sustainable training support framework strategically located at the NMMU Business School.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Barton, Cayleigh Ann
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Wind power industry -- South Africa Wind power industry -- Technological innovations , Energy development Renewable energy sources
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50020 , vital:41985
- Description: South Africa has emerged as one of the most important renewable energy markets as reflected by the USD 5.5 billion invested in South Africa in 2014 (Merger’s Alliance, 2015). As the opportunity exists for South Africa to take advantage of its above average natural wind resources, the main purpose of the case study research effort was therefore to develop a theoretical sustainable training framework in support of the rapidly growing wind power industry in South Africa. The proposed location for a sustainable training support framework is at the NMMU Business School and Leadership Academy, strategically located in the Eastern Cape. In addition, the NMMU Business School and Leadership Academy has satellite offices all around South Africa, thus creating accessible training and education solutions to most parts of the country. The case study research approach was qualitative in nature, thus providing valuable insight into the case study phenomenon. The researcher focused on a single context, namely the wind power industry in South Africa, and within a single case of the establishment of a sustainable training support framework at the NMMU Business School and Leadership Academy. The embedded, multiple units of analysis comprised of a purposive sample of strategic individuals operating within the South African wind power sector, socio-economic development, education and training industries. In staying within the research design, the case study made use of an in-depth interview process in order to address the research propositions of the case study. The investigative interview questions were fully supported by secondary sources of information. The case study provided valuable insight into the unique South African wind power industry setting, with a focus on education and training in line with the REIPPPP minimum threshold and targets for socio-economic development and job creation. The researcher experienced a lack of responses from industry experts who were contacted for interviews. This lack of response could be considered as a limitation in validating the outcome of the study. The South African wind power industry is one of the most thriving markets in the world (Merger’s Alliance, 2015) and due to its fledging nature; research on the topic under discussion is not readily available. Thus, the research effort provided relevant information regarding the unique setting of the South African wind power industry and added value through the proposition of a sustainable training support framework strategically located at the NMMU Business School.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The behavioural and attitudinal outcomes of outsourcing
- Authors: Ramohai, Thakane Thabitha
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Contracting out -- South Africa Industrial management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10329 , vital:26653
- Description: The study sought to investigate the impact outsourcing had on behaviours and attitudes of remaining employees after outsourcing. It was important to investigate this problem as there was a growing perception that outsourcing could reduce organisational commitment, employee engagement, job performance and threatens career factors in the company. The objective of the study was to contribute towards the understanding of outsourcing as a business strategy in order for managers to implement it and manage it accordingly. The sample consisted of a 100 junior to senior staff members from different companies in South Africa that have recently gone through outsourcing. There were one hundred and five (105) questionnaires issued, but only hundred (100) usable questionnaires were returned (95.2 percent response rate).The empirical results showed that there was a significantly positive correlation between outsourcing (the independent variable) and organisational commitment, employee engagement, job performance and career factors (the dependent variables). The descriptive statistics showed that most employees did not have a positive experience of outsourcing. Males and females did not differ with regard to their perceptions about their experiences of outsourcing. Furthermore, the experience of outsourcing and its outcomes were also not significantly differently experienced across other demographic categories such as age, tenure, job experience and education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ramohai, Thakane Thabitha
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Contracting out -- South Africa Industrial management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10329 , vital:26653
- Description: The study sought to investigate the impact outsourcing had on behaviours and attitudes of remaining employees after outsourcing. It was important to investigate this problem as there was a growing perception that outsourcing could reduce organisational commitment, employee engagement, job performance and threatens career factors in the company. The objective of the study was to contribute towards the understanding of outsourcing as a business strategy in order for managers to implement it and manage it accordingly. The sample consisted of a 100 junior to senior staff members from different companies in South Africa that have recently gone through outsourcing. There were one hundred and five (105) questionnaires issued, but only hundred (100) usable questionnaires were returned (95.2 percent response rate).The empirical results showed that there was a significantly positive correlation between outsourcing (the independent variable) and organisational commitment, employee engagement, job performance and career factors (the dependent variables). The descriptive statistics showed that most employees did not have a positive experience of outsourcing. Males and females did not differ with regard to their perceptions about their experiences of outsourcing. Furthermore, the experience of outsourcing and its outcomes were also not significantly differently experienced across other demographic categories such as age, tenure, job experience and education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The effect of occupational health and safety programmes in the growth of small businesses in Gauteng province, South Africa
- Authors: Myeni, Sibongiseni Selby
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Gauteng -- Growth , Industrial safety -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8846 , vital:26435
- Description: Introduction: Managers in small businesses are faced with a dilemma of meeting the requirements of health and safety legislation and trying to grow their businesses. It is important that they understand the business value of occupational health and safety programs. For them to allocate resources to occupational health and safety programs they need to understand if there are any economic benefits attached to such programs. Thus this study was designed to investigate the benefits of occupational health services on economic performance and growth of small businesses in Gauteng, South Africa. Method: This was a descriptive quantitative study. A self administered structured questionnaire was developed and distributed to 200 small businesses in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Thirty completed questionnaires were received back, representing a response rate of 15%. Data was analysed by the NMMU Unit for Statistical Consultation, using STATISTICA. Results: Economic performance moderately correlated with the presence of occupational health and safety professionals. It moderately correlated with the categories of occupational health and safety professionals in a small business. The level of knowledge, awareness, attitude and perception on occupational health and safety was rated high. Eighty three percent (83%) of the respondents had a clear understanding of their responsibility in terms of the health and safety function at work. The level of employee engagement was rated high with seventy six percent (76%) of respondents reporting that they get recognition for their work, and eighty six percent (86%) indicated that they were happy with the relationship they had with their boss. There was a difference between managers and employees in terms of how they view economic performance and growth of their companies. Conclusion: The presence of occupational health and safety professionals as well as different categories of occupational health and safety professionals are factors of importance in the economic performance and growth of small businesses in Gauteng, Republic of South Africa. The weak correlation between economic performance and growth of small businesses requires a further study with a bigger sample size.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Myeni, Sibongiseni Selby
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Gauteng -- Growth , Industrial safety -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8846 , vital:26435
- Description: Introduction: Managers in small businesses are faced with a dilemma of meeting the requirements of health and safety legislation and trying to grow their businesses. It is important that they understand the business value of occupational health and safety programs. For them to allocate resources to occupational health and safety programs they need to understand if there are any economic benefits attached to such programs. Thus this study was designed to investigate the benefits of occupational health services on economic performance and growth of small businesses in Gauteng, South Africa. Method: This was a descriptive quantitative study. A self administered structured questionnaire was developed and distributed to 200 small businesses in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Thirty completed questionnaires were received back, representing a response rate of 15%. Data was analysed by the NMMU Unit for Statistical Consultation, using STATISTICA. Results: Economic performance moderately correlated with the presence of occupational health and safety professionals. It moderately correlated with the categories of occupational health and safety professionals in a small business. The level of knowledge, awareness, attitude and perception on occupational health and safety was rated high. Eighty three percent (83%) of the respondents had a clear understanding of their responsibility in terms of the health and safety function at work. The level of employee engagement was rated high with seventy six percent (76%) of respondents reporting that they get recognition for their work, and eighty six percent (86%) indicated that they were happy with the relationship they had with their boss. There was a difference between managers and employees in terms of how they view economic performance and growth of their companies. Conclusion: The presence of occupational health and safety professionals as well as different categories of occupational health and safety professionals are factors of importance in the economic performance and growth of small businesses in Gauteng, Republic of South Africa. The weak correlation between economic performance and growth of small businesses requires a further study with a bigger sample size.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The influence of online travel agent performance on customer satisfaction levels at a selected hotel
- Authors: Le Roux, Ignus
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Consumer satisfaction , Travel agents , Tourism -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3105 , vital:20399
- Description: Tourism is an international industry; constant evolution is taking place in the marketing of tourism products and the expectation levels of hotel guests. Online Travel Agents have become more dominant in recent years. This dominance has been assisted by travellers’ more frequent use of the internet to search for information, by the bundling of heterogeneous products and by these agents’ use of the social media. Guest satisfaction levels and expectations are impacted by changes in lifestyle, reasons for travel and the information accessed prior to making their reservations. The basis of this study was establishing the impact of the information supplied by Online Travel Agents on guest satisfaction levels at The Monarch Hotel. The evolution and function of the tourism distribution channel and the factors affecting guest satisfaction and its measurement were explored.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The influence of online travel agent performance on customer satisfaction levels at a selected hotel
- Authors: Le Roux, Ignus
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Consumer satisfaction , Travel agents , Tourism -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3105 , vital:20399
- Description: Tourism is an international industry; constant evolution is taking place in the marketing of tourism products and the expectation levels of hotel guests. Online Travel Agents have become more dominant in recent years. This dominance has been assisted by travellers’ more frequent use of the internet to search for information, by the bundling of heterogeneous products and by these agents’ use of the social media. Guest satisfaction levels and expectations are impacted by changes in lifestyle, reasons for travel and the information accessed prior to making their reservations. The basis of this study was establishing the impact of the information supplied by Online Travel Agents on guest satisfaction levels at The Monarch Hotel. The evolution and function of the tourism distribution channel and the factors affecting guest satisfaction and its measurement were explored.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The relationship between organisational culture, transformational leadership and organisational change outcomes in private intensive care units
- Authors: Jordan, Portia Janine
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Corporate culture , Organizational change , Leadership , Organizational effectiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6401 , vital:21082
- Description: In order for organisations to grow and maintain their competitive advantage, change has become the norm. The healthcare industry and especially private healthcare organisations, is no exception. Organisational change often implies a change in organisational culture. The concept of culture refers to the ways of thinking, values and ideas of things rather than the concrete, objective and more visible part of the organisation. Organisational culture is not to be viewed in isolation as culture and leadership are intertwined. Leaders shape cultures and their fundamental role is affecting others and making changes that increase organisational efficiency and performance. Patient safety, cost-effective care based on the best available evidence and patient satisfaction are top priorities of healthcare organisations, especially intensive care units where critically ill patients are cared for. Alignment of the organisational culture and leadership with a hospital‘s vision, namely to deliver quality patient care, is thus essential. A positivistic research paradigm, with a quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual approach was used to conduct the study. The study explored whether transformational organisational culture, leadership and desired organisational change outcomes existed in private intensive care units in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan and East London areas. It aimed at exploring the relationship between selected demographic variables, culture, leadership and organisational change outcomes. Lastly, the relationship between organisational culture and leadership (independent variables) and organisational change outcomes (dependent variable) was explored. The sample comprised 130 professional nurses who were selected from all the adult intensive care units in the private healthcare industry in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan and East London areas. A structured questionnaire with a Cronbach‘s alpha of more than 0.8 was used to collect data. The empirical results indicated that transformational leadership and a conducive organisational culture existed in the private intensive care units sampled. However, it was found that innovation and innovative care practices could be improved. Care practices were not necessarily aligned with the latest, available innovative techniques, procedures and practices. Reflective practices and in-service training to improve care practices and encourage and promote innovative care practices were not always optimised. Recommendations related to the findings were made for managers, as well as for research, education and practice. Ethical principles were maintained throughout the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Jordan, Portia Janine
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Corporate culture , Organizational change , Leadership , Organizational effectiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6401 , vital:21082
- Description: In order for organisations to grow and maintain their competitive advantage, change has become the norm. The healthcare industry and especially private healthcare organisations, is no exception. Organisational change often implies a change in organisational culture. The concept of culture refers to the ways of thinking, values and ideas of things rather than the concrete, objective and more visible part of the organisation. Organisational culture is not to be viewed in isolation as culture and leadership are intertwined. Leaders shape cultures and their fundamental role is affecting others and making changes that increase organisational efficiency and performance. Patient safety, cost-effective care based on the best available evidence and patient satisfaction are top priorities of healthcare organisations, especially intensive care units where critically ill patients are cared for. Alignment of the organisational culture and leadership with a hospital‘s vision, namely to deliver quality patient care, is thus essential. A positivistic research paradigm, with a quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual approach was used to conduct the study. The study explored whether transformational organisational culture, leadership and desired organisational change outcomes existed in private intensive care units in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan and East London areas. It aimed at exploring the relationship between selected demographic variables, culture, leadership and organisational change outcomes. Lastly, the relationship between organisational culture and leadership (independent variables) and organisational change outcomes (dependent variable) was explored. The sample comprised 130 professional nurses who were selected from all the adult intensive care units in the private healthcare industry in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan and East London areas. A structured questionnaire with a Cronbach‘s alpha of more than 0.8 was used to collect data. The empirical results indicated that transformational leadership and a conducive organisational culture existed in the private intensive care units sampled. However, it was found that innovation and innovative care practices could be improved. Care practices were not necessarily aligned with the latest, available innovative techniques, procedures and practices. Reflective practices and in-service training to improve care practices and encourage and promote innovative care practices were not always optimised. Recommendations related to the findings were made for managers, as well as for research, education and practice. Ethical principles were maintained throughout the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The status of vaccine availability and associated factors in Tshwane government clinics
- Authors: Ngcobo, Ntombenhle Judith
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Health facilities -- Materials management -- South Africa -- City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality , Inventory shortages -- South Africa -- City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8967 , vital:26447
- Description: Vaccines have greatly contributed to the control of vaccine preventable diseases. The adoption of the Decade of Vaccines (DoV) by the World Health Assembly in 2011 is an indication of how the global community values the benefits of vaccines. Efforts by many countries to introduce new vaccines are a significant move towards attaining this vision. However, new vaccines put strain on vaccine supply chains. The immunization programme in South Africa has similar challenges, with indications of vaccine stock outs in clinics since the introduction of three new vaccines in 2009. This study set out to establish the status of availability of vaccines in Tshwane government clinics and associated factors. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of randomly selected government clinics in Tshwane health district of Gauteng province. Data was collected using a structured measurement instrument during a visit to each of the participating clinics. Data was collated and analysed using excel based software. Results: A total of 31 clinics participated. In the preceding 12 months, clinics experienced vaccine stock outs, especially of the 3 new vaccines: pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV), rotavirus (RV) vaccine and Pentaxim ®. These were also out of stock for a long duration; for over 2 weeks in a majority of clinics. The causes of vaccine stock outs were: poor management of stock, depot out of stock, unreliable deliveries, lack of pharmacy assistants, and limited fridge capacity. Further burdening the situation is the emergency ordering system that does not function effectively. Conclusion: Significant vaccine shortages occur in Tshwane government clinics. It is recommended that the vaccine supply chain should be restructured and overhauled with the use of advances in technology. Urgent measures should be taken to address the identified causes of stock outs including ensuring reliable deliveries of stock and emergency orders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ngcobo, Ntombenhle Judith
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Health facilities -- Materials management -- South Africa -- City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality , Inventory shortages -- South Africa -- City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8967 , vital:26447
- Description: Vaccines have greatly contributed to the control of vaccine preventable diseases. The adoption of the Decade of Vaccines (DoV) by the World Health Assembly in 2011 is an indication of how the global community values the benefits of vaccines. Efforts by many countries to introduce new vaccines are a significant move towards attaining this vision. However, new vaccines put strain on vaccine supply chains. The immunization programme in South Africa has similar challenges, with indications of vaccine stock outs in clinics since the introduction of three new vaccines in 2009. This study set out to establish the status of availability of vaccines in Tshwane government clinics and associated factors. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of randomly selected government clinics in Tshwane health district of Gauteng province. Data was collected using a structured measurement instrument during a visit to each of the participating clinics. Data was collated and analysed using excel based software. Results: A total of 31 clinics participated. In the preceding 12 months, clinics experienced vaccine stock outs, especially of the 3 new vaccines: pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV), rotavirus (RV) vaccine and Pentaxim ®. These were also out of stock for a long duration; for over 2 weeks in a majority of clinics. The causes of vaccine stock outs were: poor management of stock, depot out of stock, unreliable deliveries, lack of pharmacy assistants, and limited fridge capacity. Further burdening the situation is the emergency ordering system that does not function effectively. Conclusion: Significant vaccine shortages occur in Tshwane government clinics. It is recommended that the vaccine supply chain should be restructured and overhauled with the use of advances in technology. Urgent measures should be taken to address the identified causes of stock outs including ensuring reliable deliveries of stock and emergency orders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The success factors of SMME's in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Ngcwangu, Sivuyo
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6369 , vital:21079
- Description: The important role played by small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in economic development has long been recognised by government at various levels in South Africa. The passing of the National Small Business Act, 1996 (Act 102 of 1996), and more significantly its Amendment Act of 2004 (Act 29 of 2004) which called into existence the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), as well as a range of strategies headed by the current Integrated Strategy on the Promotion of Entrepreneurship and Small Enterprises of 2005 bear testimony to a commitment on the part of the nation to small enterprise growth. There is vast research pertaining challenges facing small medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) as well as factors that have a positive impact on the growth and success of these enterprises. This primary objective of this study was to identify successful SMMEs in the New Brighton Township, Port Elizabeth and investigate factors that have enabled them to maintain their stability over the years. Also, this study will investigated causes of SMME failure with the aim of providing possible solutions to these challenges. After a comprehensive literature review on SMMEs, the following variables were identified as possibly having an influence on the growth and profitability of small enterprises. These are: Entrepreneurial orientation; Customer focus; Human resources; Record keeping; Access to funding; External support; Training and education; Access to markets. These variables were used to construct research hypotheses and a conceptual model which could be used to address challenges faced by SMMEs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ngcwangu, Sivuyo
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6369 , vital:21079
- Description: The important role played by small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in economic development has long been recognised by government at various levels in South Africa. The passing of the National Small Business Act, 1996 (Act 102 of 1996), and more significantly its Amendment Act of 2004 (Act 29 of 2004) which called into existence the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), as well as a range of strategies headed by the current Integrated Strategy on the Promotion of Entrepreneurship and Small Enterprises of 2005 bear testimony to a commitment on the part of the nation to small enterprise growth. There is vast research pertaining challenges facing small medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) as well as factors that have a positive impact on the growth and success of these enterprises. This primary objective of this study was to identify successful SMMEs in the New Brighton Township, Port Elizabeth and investigate factors that have enabled them to maintain their stability over the years. Also, this study will investigated causes of SMME failure with the aim of providing possible solutions to these challenges. After a comprehensive literature review on SMMEs, the following variables were identified as possibly having an influence on the growth and profitability of small enterprises. These are: Entrepreneurial orientation; Customer focus; Human resources; Record keeping; Access to funding; External support; Training and education; Access to markets. These variables were used to construct research hypotheses and a conceptual model which could be used to address challenges faced by SMMEs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Understanding workplace bullying in SMME's of South Africa
- Authors: Bruère, Hildé
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Bullying in the workplace -- South Africa , Business enterprises -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8844 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020092
- Description: Workplace bullying is a modern day problem which employers cannot afford to ignore. The impact on both the business (or organisation) and individual is of such a nature that research is needed to understand it better and to determine the extent to which it is present in the business or organisation. Research thus far covered the prevalence, consequences and causes of bullying in the organisation. Various methods to counteract and prevent it have been investigated, but with reference to the South African context knowledge is lacking. This study focuses on workplace bullying in SMMEs as very little research has been done in this field. The purpose of this study is to be able to provide a framework for managers as to how to deal, prevent and minimise workplace bullying in SMMEs of South Africa. A convenient sample was selected and information was gathered by means of a questionnaire. A quantitative study was executed and the prevalence of bullying in the SMMEs was established and a number of independent variables were tested. The independent variables researched were managerial training, awareness training, a corporate anti-bullying policy, risk assessment and mediation. The main findings were that bullying in SMMEs is indeed prevalent, but that the independent variables did not deliver significant correlations. The practical implications for managers are that strategies and tools used in larger organisations are not applicable in SMMEs. The workplace environment of the SMME is unique and different methods and tools must be identified and applied in combatting workplace bullying. The contribution of this study is that managers in South Africa across the broad industrial spectrum must realise that bullying is prevalent and that corporate policies and measures must be put in place to address it. It can no longer be ignored and further research on the subject must be encouraged.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Bruère, Hildé
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Bullying in the workplace -- South Africa , Business enterprises -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8844 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020092
- Description: Workplace bullying is a modern day problem which employers cannot afford to ignore. The impact on both the business (or organisation) and individual is of such a nature that research is needed to understand it better and to determine the extent to which it is present in the business or organisation. Research thus far covered the prevalence, consequences and causes of bullying in the organisation. Various methods to counteract and prevent it have been investigated, but with reference to the South African context knowledge is lacking. This study focuses on workplace bullying in SMMEs as very little research has been done in this field. The purpose of this study is to be able to provide a framework for managers as to how to deal, prevent and minimise workplace bullying in SMMEs of South Africa. A convenient sample was selected and information was gathered by means of a questionnaire. A quantitative study was executed and the prevalence of bullying in the SMMEs was established and a number of independent variables were tested. The independent variables researched were managerial training, awareness training, a corporate anti-bullying policy, risk assessment and mediation. The main findings were that bullying in SMMEs is indeed prevalent, but that the independent variables did not deliver significant correlations. The practical implications for managers are that strategies and tools used in larger organisations are not applicable in SMMEs. The workplace environment of the SMME is unique and different methods and tools must be identified and applied in combatting workplace bullying. The contribution of this study is that managers in South Africa across the broad industrial spectrum must realise that bullying is prevalent and that corporate policies and measures must be put in place to address it. It can no longer be ignored and further research on the subject must be encouraged.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Using experience from previous failed implementations to improve future lean implementation strategy
- Authors: Hiles, Charmelle Amanda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing -- Management Production planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11047 , vital:26880
- Description: The main objective of the study was to ascertain the presence of the identified critical success factors for lean sustainability in a chemical manufacturing company in Port Elizabeth. The critical success factors that formed part of the research included leadership involvement and commitment, management involvement and commitment, employee engagement and organisational culture. The methodology used was one of a positivistic approach. A questionnaire was utilized and the responses were analyzed using various statistical methods. Based on the results from the analysis, recommendations and conclusions could be drawn. The inferential results of the study indicated that all the critical success factors identified for this study were present within the organisation. However, there were still a large percentage of respondents that remained neutral across all the questions which could indicate reasons why previous attempts in lean implementation failed. The recommendations provided were based on the findings of the study. An implementation strategy was identified and outlined. This strategy and recommendations will assist in providing a sound platform for a sustainable lean initiative within the organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Using experience from previous failed implementations to improve future lean implementation strategy
- Authors: Hiles, Charmelle Amanda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing -- Management Production planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11047 , vital:26880
- Description: The main objective of the study was to ascertain the presence of the identified critical success factors for lean sustainability in a chemical manufacturing company in Port Elizabeth. The critical success factors that formed part of the research included leadership involvement and commitment, management involvement and commitment, employee engagement and organisational culture. The methodology used was one of a positivistic approach. A questionnaire was utilized and the responses were analyzed using various statistical methods. Based on the results from the analysis, recommendations and conclusions could be drawn. The inferential results of the study indicated that all the critical success factors identified for this study were present within the organisation. However, there were still a large percentage of respondents that remained neutral across all the questions which could indicate reasons why previous attempts in lean implementation failed. The recommendations provided were based on the findings of the study. An implementation strategy was identified and outlined. This strategy and recommendations will assist in providing a sound platform for a sustainable lean initiative within the organisation.
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- Date Issued: 2015