The impact of inbound logistics activities on the operational performance of the postal services organization in South Africa
- Authors: Tabeni, Mvelo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: South African Post Office Postal service -- South Africa Business logistics Business logistics -- Cost effectiveness Delivery of goods -- Management Physical distribution of goods Customer services -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:797 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004577
- Description: Introduction and Relevant Details: This research investigates the impact of inbound logistics' activities on the operational performance of the business within the branches of the South African Post Office (SAPO) in the Eastern Cape Province. The study basically hypothesises a statistically significant positive correlation between inbound logistics' activities and the operational performance of the business with regards to revenue generation and operational costs in particular. A sample of 100 branch offices was randomly selected. A 50-item questionnaire was administered by mail to the branches to collect the data during September 2005, and statistical tests for correlation were conducted on at least five dependent variables; stock procurement costs, effects on revenue, number of stock variation occurrences, order variation occurrences and the stock holding effects. Results of Data Analysis: The results of 88 respondents (88%) showed the existence of the significant positive relationship between the inbound logistics activities and the operational performance of the business at the South African Post Office branches as proposed by the study. The Spearman Rank Correlation tests were above 0.7 for most of the tested variables, showing a strong relationship. The inbound logistics' activities were also found to be positively correlated to revenue generation as well as to the operational expenses of the business. Conclusion and Recommendations: The findings allowed the researcher to conclude also that whatever improvements are made to the inbound logistics will also impact on the operational performance of the business, while failures in the inbound logistics will do so negatively. Business endeavours to maximise revenue and minimise costs are directly affected by the inbound logistics' activities. The branches of the SAPO seemed to be dissatisfied with most of the services rendered by the Supply Distribution Centre (SOC) of the SAPO, and such services have negatively affected the achievement of revenue targets at the branches as well as the operational costs. Holistic approaches to developing positive perceptions in the branches together with improving service activities at the SOC are recommended. Collaborative initiatives between branches and the SOC, reviewing the lead-times and the establishment of proper structures to handle supply chain queries, enhanced by information system technology to provide accurate and up-to-date information to branches and related parties about stock order issues are required . Areas of further research highlighted include the inbound logistics' activities of the SOC and the effectiveness of company policies as a guide to Supply Chain Management (SCM).
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- Date Issued: 2006
The impact of total productive maintenance (TPM) on manufacturing performance at the Colt Section of DaimlerChrysler in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ncube, Mfowabo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Total productive maintenance , Plant maintenance -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8560 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/579 , Total productive maintenance , Plant maintenance -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Today's successful manufacturing organisations require a significant competitive advantage, hence the need to implement and develop a Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) strategy. This research paper addresses the impact of TPM on manufacturing performance at the Colt production facility (DCSA). A literature survey was undertaken into the elements and benefits of TPM. Questionaires were also sent to all levels of people at the Colt production facility for their views on TPM and the impact, they believe, it has had on manufacturing performance. In conclusion, this research paper has also led to the development of recommendations to improve TPM activities at the Colt production facility. From the research, it was shown that top management support for TPM activities is needed and that training is an essential factor for TPM's success in improving manufacturing performance.
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- Date Issued: 2006
The response of an original equipment manufacturer to the Motor Industry Development Programme: a case study
- Authors: Franse, Ricardo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Motor Industry Development Programme Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Case studies Automobile industry and trade -- Government policy -- South Africa Foreign trade regulation -- South Africa -- Case studies South Africa -- Commercial policy -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:761 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003882
- Description: On the 21st September 1995, the government introduced the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP), in compliance with the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and the World Trade Organization (WTO). Deliberate efforts by the South African government were required to promote structural changes to the domestic motor industry by opening up the economy to international competition through a programme of tariff reduction and export promotion. The integration of the South African automotive industry into global markets would have been extremely difficult, if not impossible, without the MIDP and it would thus be safe to conclude that the economic performance of the researched would have been close to impossible if it was not for the MIDP. The MIDP, as an economic policy, has been embraced by the researched company as a "vehicle" to drive corporate goals in terms of value creation for all stakeholders. The research proposition that the MIDP as an economic policy has contributed to the economic performance of the researched company is examined. In this respect, Annual and Management Accounting reports were analyzed to determine the effect the MIDP has had on the researched company over the last ten years. In addition, two semi-structured interviews were also conducted with the Strategic Finance Planning executive and the Financial Controller of the company. The results show that the MIDP has had positive spin-offs for the researched company. The same results should be valid for the other original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in the local automotive industry that have embraced the MIDP as a vehicle to create economic value added.
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- Date Issued: 2006
The stimulation of innovation advantage through autonomous intrapreneurship at Federal Mogul Sealing Systems South Africa
- Authors: Morgan, Beverley Ann
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Sealing (Technology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8552 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/573 , Entrepreneurship , Sealing (Technology)
- Description: In the rapidly evolving organisational landscapes of today, the quest to grow or sustain competitive advantage demands that organisational practices become more innovative, hence innovative advantage. Globalisation and technological advances drive the necessity for innovation within organisational contexts and the resultant rapid pace of change demands that organisations adopt an intrapreneurial orientation to accommodate this need for innovation. South African organisations, in particular those within the automotive sector, are faced with both unique opportunities and threats as a result of the increased impact of globalisation and the resultant open markets in the post-apartheid era. Programs offered by governmental institutions for this industry sector, such as the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP), as well as widely promoted systems such as those engendered by continuous improvement and benchmarking to achieve excellence, are successful only in attaining uniformity and incremental improvements and one-dimensional thinking methodologies. The quest for innovation advantage requires increased creative activity to assist individuals within these organisations in adopting an intrapreneurial outlook to provide proactive solutions. The literature survey has revealed that top-down controls and centralised decision-making as provided by corporate entrepreneurship, is the antithesis of intrapreneurship. Intrapreneurship is thus an autonomous process. Federal Mogul Sealing Systems (FMSS), an automotive component manufacturer within the Eastern Cape served as the basis for this study. A detailed literature review was conducted and a questionnaire was drawn up and distributed in an attempt to assess the three prevalent elements for the creation of innovation advantage through intrapreneurship as reviewed in the literature survey. The three elements were: individual intrapreneurial traits, organisational barriers and enablers of intrapreneurship and the influence of precipitating events on intrapreneurship. The research was conducted and recommendations were made based on the objectives of this study in relation to the organisation under study, FMSS.
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- Date Issued: 2006
The strategic implementation of continuous improvement tools within manufacturing plants of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Spence, Mark George
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Automobile supplies industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Production management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8752 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/611 , Automobile supplies industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Production management
- Description: Continuous improvement has long been considered a key business strategy to the success of any business that needs to be competitive and survive in a world that is continually evolving, particularly with the increased focus on meeting cost and quality targets that are set by a far more knowledgeable customer. Unfortunately, many organisations invest countless hours of their key personnel's time on training without creating a clear vision and consolidated strategic plan as to how continuous improvement will be driven in the business. Marginal elements of success are obtained, but the harnessing of these skills, as well as the true synergy that could be realized, are watered down due to the silos in which many of the activities are performed. Within the context of this dissertation, a conceptual approach to the strategic implementation of continuous improvement tools within the organization will be sought in order to enhance all facets of the business and not only the traditional arenas of the manufacturing disciplines. Murray and Roberts Foundries Group is embarking on the integration of current and new continuous improvement tools that form part of its continued improvement drive. This research was conducted with other organisations and will help shed light on Murray and Roberts Foundries Group’s way forward in the implementation of these tools to ensure long-term sustainable success. The intent of this dissertation is therefore to offer a comprehensive set of recommendations for Murray and Roberts Foundries Group’s top management in terms of its strategic implementation and the successful application of Lean manufacturing tools and techniques. In addition, areas and directions for further research are identified.
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- Date Issued: 2006
Utilising value stream mapping to improve operations at Transwerk Uitenhage
- Authors: Silo, Andile Elliot
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Production engineering , Production planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8760 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/604 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011684 , Production engineering , Production planning
- Description: Transwerk is a business uint of Transnet. It was established in 1940. Since 1940 unti 1994, Transwerk operated as the engineering section of Spoornet and was known as South African Railways. Transwerk emancipated in 1994 and had plants in all nine provinces of South Africa. In the past, trains were hauled by steam locomatives, which were manually operated. With the improvement of technology, steam locomotives were replaced by diesel locomotives. The recent technology improvement brought about electric locomotives which are more reliable than diesel locomotives.Trnaswerk has a plant in the Eastern Cape Province which is situated in Uitenhage. This plant focuses on refurbishing wagins for Spoornet. This research is about improving the refurbishing processes of Transwerk Uitenhage.
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- Date Issued: 2006
A critical analysis of the information technology infrastructure outsource deal between Trans Hex Operations and Commsco
- Authors: Makka, Ferrandi W
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Contracting out -- Management , Information technology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8545 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1595 , Contracting out -- Management , Information technology -- South Africa
- Description: The outsourcing market for information technology services has been transformed over the last few years. Outsourcing, once inspired primarily by cost reductions, now forms part of overall company strategies in order to improve focus. Intent: The purpose of this research project is to conduct a critical analysis of the outsourcing of information technology infrastructure. In particular, this paper will focus on the process followed and on adherence to good corporate governance and business ethics. This dissertation addresses (i) the strategic reasons for outsourcing, (ii) reasons for not outsourcing, (iii) the different types of models available, (iv) the outsourcing process to follow, and (v) the risks associated with outsourcing. These five aspects were all empirically tested in Trans Hex. Findings: The main findings were that (i) no recognized formal process had been followed; (ii) the risk profile of the outsourcing company changed and (iii) a post-outsourcing review is required to determine whether the process is working as planned and to identify opportunities for improvement. Conclusion: A new approach is needed to improve the viability and success of outsourcing information technology infrastructure. Based on the present findings it is argued that a holistic approach to information technology infrastructure outsourcing should be adopted which combines several outsourcing processes into a company-specific outsourcing process framework.
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- Date Issued: 2005
A critical evaluation of the preferential procurement strategy and enterprise development strategy of a major motor manufacturer in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Makapela, Nobuntu Unathi B
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: DaimlerChrysler Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Black people -- South Africa -- Economic conditions Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:808 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007274
- Description: This research is born out of recognition of the challenges Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) in the private sector faces in South Africa, with preferential procurement being one of the components of South Africa's Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Strategy. Over the past years, South Africa has witnessed the birth of a new economy, one that allows for investment in its people, makes provision for sustainable growth through skills transfer and development, and ensures economic empowerment. The focus of this research is the Preferential Procurement strategy implemented at DaimlerChrysler South Africa (DCSA) as part of its overall Black Economic Empowerment strategy, the perceptions and expectations of how the current BEE preferential procurement strategy should work versus the perceived performance of how it is working. An official definition of Black Economic Empowerment is presented in the study, followed by barriers to growth of BEE suppliers. The aim of defining Black Economic Empowerment is to provide a good reference point against which an organization like DaimlerChrysler can assess the implementation of its preferential procurement programmes. Having discussed the above, there will be a reflection on government scorecard and a brief discussion of the two charters namely, mining and financial services charter. The study also presents the following requirements for a successful BEE corporate strategy: Strategic intent; External Balanced Scorecard; Financial Assistance; Skills development; Communication. A research methodology for conducting this study and data analysis is presented, followed by limitations of the study and recommendations for further research. It is expected that the knowledge gained from this study will help to I. Demonstrate the need to change perceptions and behaviour regarding Black Economic Empowerment. 2. Assist procurement officials to include BEE objectives into their procurement strategy. 3. Identify policy implications and assist in improving DCSA's Black Economic Empowerment Procurement strategy.
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- Date Issued: 2005
A critical investigation of plant optimization, to improve the production process of Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles in South Africa. (Jan 2004 - Sept 2004)
- Authors: Naidoo, Desalin Rajoo
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Management Motor vehicle industry -- Production control -- South Africa Production management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:737 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003857
- Description: The research thesis reflects a positive improvement to the plant efficiency through strategic optimisation planning and controlling systems. It’s important to note that the set goals of the research were achieved, with total employee buy-in contributing to the success and sustainability of these improvements. Purposive sample methods allowed for the twenty employees from a total of 172, to be interviewed for both the pre and post testing. The paradigm of the research contributed to integrative communication between brainstorming and action. The efforts of the total workforce must be commended, for strategically aligning the organizational goals and objectives to realization. The content of the thesis, show a direct relationship between the plant optimisation and the increase in the production volumes. The understanding of the downtime reports for the period specified is a direct reflection to the improvement in quality, and the reduction of the overall poor workmanship graphs indicates positively to the reduction in cost. The last value driver, on-time delivery shows a vast improvement in maintaining the customer satisfaction, when considering the increase to the production volume capacity. These improvements have made further volume increases probable, and the understanding of Ikhwezi Trucktech management to negotiate with realized information for future capacity planning.
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- Date Issued: 2005
A development of solutions to the problems experienced by expatriates in multinational corporations
- Authors: Faas, Pamella Misiwe
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: International business enterprises -- Management , International business enterprises -- Personnel management , Employment in foreign countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8548 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/424 , International business enterprises -- Management , International business enterprises -- Personnel management , Employment in foreign countries
- Description: The objective of this study is to investigate the reasons for international assignments ending in failure, using the current models of expatriates’ premature withdrawal decisions, so as develop solutions to those problems. Studies of expatriate failure and effects of expatriate satisfaction on organisational performance have been conducted but most of them in the overseas countries. These studies revealed that the practice of employing expatriates is a strategic move on the part of the multinational corporation to increase the international experience and knowledge base of present and future managers. Even though studies on strategies that companies can use have been done extensively, research still shows that a large number of overseas assignments end in failure. Failure being described as the premature return to the home country, not being able to adjust in the host company or country and immediately living the company upon return from the assignment. It is for this reason that in the researcher decided to investigate what could be the reasons that cause the expatriates to return home early. The research will be of importance to South Africa firstly, as organisations that are operating globally will copy the business systems and processes practiced in developed countries, and later bring knowledge, skills and expertise that will help in boosting the economy of the country. Secondly, the organisation's Human Resource Management will develop practices to ensure the successful and effective retention of expertise. Expatriate failure will be reduced and the process of repatriating expatriates will be meaningful. Individuals assigned will not find it difficult to adjust in the parent company, and later take the skills they have learnt to another company. Thirdly, managers generally will understand the challenges that accompany expatriation, and be able to meet those challenges. The research becomes an investigative research as one tries to establish if there is concurrence or deviation with the current models. A sample is drawn from a list of international companies that have operations overseas. The researcher has tried to get responses from companies in all provinces of South Africa so that the sample can be fully representative. The questionnaire is used as it is a common instrument for observing data beyond the physical reach of the researcher. The questions were selected to address each of the factors affecting decisions to withdraw from the country of assignment. Responses from the expatriates have helped to develop a new model that encompasses all the factors that cause the expatriates to leave the assignment early as well to develop solutions to the problems. This will not only help the multinational corporations to save on costs, but will also ensure that the company and the expatriate benefit from international assignment.
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- Date Issued: 2005
A model for the efficient strategic management of the port of Ngqura
- Authors: Mokheseng, Mokheseng Johnny
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Strategic planning -- South Africa , Harbors -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Port Ngqura (Port Elizabeth, South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8546 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/417 , Strategic planning -- South Africa , Harbors -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Port Ngqura (Port Elizabeth, South Africa)
- Description: Ports are the backbone of the economy of countries endowed with shorelines and they spearhead foreign trade through the importation and exportation of goods to and from their domestic markets. The newly constructed Port of Ngqura will be the outlet for exports of semi-finished and finished goods produced in the Coega IDZ and will also receive raw material to be processed. Its position at the center of the world’s main trade routes, equidistant from American, European and the Pacific Rim regions makes the Coega IDZ the ideal location for any manufacturer adding value to raw materials, components and producing goods bound for the world markets. Traditionally the ports have been developed and operated by the government enterprises. Recently all these are changing in many countries all over the world, with more private participation in the development and operations of the ports. This evolution has entrusted Port Authorities in taking control over port planning, broad regulation of shipping and port operations, applying conventions, laws and rules. South Africa is no exception to these winds of change, hence the adoption of the new port bill in managing all ports in the country. The Port of Ngqura will then serve as a benchmark for all other ports, with a new management structure which will help the port to be efficient. The study addresses the model for the efficient strategic management of the Port of Ngqura. The model looks into placing the Port of Ngqura ahead of its competitors through efficiency in port management and operations. Efficient ports are catalysts, facilitators and attractors of international sea borne trade. Competitive efficiency is achieved by employing the best suited port equipments, facilities and technology to cater for customer’s needs and requirements. A successful port must be able to constantly adopt new roles in order to cope with the ever changing market environment.
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- Date Issued: 2005
A model for the implementation of the T.A.S.K. job evaluation system at municipalities in the Eden, Overberg, and central Karoo region
- Authors: Van Rooyen, André
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Job evaluation , Municipal government -- South Africa , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9269 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/178 , Job evaluation , Municipal government -- South Africa , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Personnel management
- Description: The analysis of jobs and roles is one of the most important techniques in personnel management. It provides the information required to produce job descriptions and person- and learning / training specifications. It is of fundamental importance in organisation and job design, recruitment and selection, performance management, training management development, career management, job evaluation and the design of pay structures. These constitute most of the key processes of personnel management. In terms of the Local Government: Municipal System Act, a municipal manager, within a policy framework determined by the municipal council and subject to any applicable legislation, must - • approve a staff establishment for the municipality ; • provide a job description for each post on the staff establishment ; • attach to those posts the remuneration and other conditions of service, as may be determined in accordance with any applicable labour legislation ; and • establish a process or mechanism to regularly evaluate the staff establishment and, if necessary, review the staff establishment and the remuneration and conditions of service. The overall purpose of the research was to develop a model for the implementation of the Tuned Assessment of Skills and Knowledge (T.A.S.K.) job evaluation system at municipalities, in the Eden/Overberg/Central Karoo region. The research methodology comprised of the following steps: • a literature study on job evaluation and a discussion of the different job evaluation systems with special reference to the T.A.S.K. job evaluation system ; • the development of a model for the implementation of the T.A.S.K. job evaluation system in the Eden/Overberg/Central Karoo region ; and • the empirical data required to achieve the research objective which was obtained by means of postal and electronic questionnaires to employees of the various municipalities in the geographical area that will be covered by this research. The following recommendations are made regarding the data obtained from this study: Firstly, briefing sessions at municipalities must include employees of all levels and the following methods must also be added to the process - • Insert articles in the in-house newsletter ; and • Attach a memorandum to employees’ pay advice, informing them about the T.A.S.K. job evaluation system and later on about the progress of the process. Secondly, all disputes regarding placement must be resolved before employees are allowed to draw up their relevant job descriptions.
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- Date Issued: 2005
A study of current and potential future commuter transportation requirements in Kagiso township
- Authors: Lefutso, David
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Commuters -- South Africa -- Gauteng Urban transportation -- South Africa -- Gauteng Urban transportation -- South Africa -- Gauteng -- Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:765 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003886
- Description: This study is intended to unpack the current and potential future commuter transport requirements in Kagiso Township within the context of transport planning and the ongoing transformation of the transport sector in South Africa. In order to meet the above challenges, it was felt that an investigation of the socio-economic profile of transport users in Kagiso Township was required, which would be indicative of potential needs and requirements in terms of current and future travel infrastructure. This study is significant, as it considers the impact of socio-economic factors and transport interactions by fully examining the impact of accessibility, urban development patterns, local mobility and planning. Mogale City’s Kagiso Township was selected for in-depth study because it has seen one of the highest urbanization rates in Gauteng Province, with people from all over Gauteng relocating to this suburb, either buying relatively moderately priced housing via mortgaging or, alternatively, trying to gain access to government low-cost housing. The study investigates the connection between socio-economic characteristics of a local population (inter alia, age, gender, household size, and vehicles per household, employment status and income) and their transport requirements (travel demand forecasting), within an urban transport context. Socio-economic characteristics of a population are important in transport demand forecasting because there is a general belief in transport planning that the predisposition to travel and trip generation vary with the characteristics of the traveller. A travel demand forecasting model by Bussière and Rice (1999) is used for the purposes of simulating existing and future travel patterns. The forecasted household mobility and needs of commuters in Kagiso Township are compared with current municipal plans to see whether such plans are realistic and can address existing needs. The evaluation of the current municipal plans is included to test the responsiveness of public policy and practice towards the needs of the affected local community. This evaluation extracted information on whether the relevant municipality has identified the problems and issues affecting the local community of Kagiso Township. In addition, it assessed whether the municipality has identified possible solutions to these problems and issues and whether it has prioritised any projects to improve transportation in Kagiso Township.
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- Date Issued: 2005
A study of the barriers to career progress of women in an organisation
- Authors: Pillay, Sadeshini Shunmugan
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Glass ceiling (Employment discrimination) -- South Africa , Sex discrimination against women -- South Africa , Sex discrimination in employment -- South Africa , Women employees -- Promotions -- South Africa , Sex role in the work environment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8731 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/822 , Glass ceiling (Employment discrimination) -- South Africa , Sex discrimination against women -- South Africa , Sex discrimination in employment -- South Africa , Women employees -- Promotions -- South Africa , Sex role in the work environment -- South Africa
- Description: Due to the continual constant battle women have to face in order to progress in the workplace, it has become necessary to assess the degree of transformational change within the workplace within South Africa to try to establish just what these barriers are and how it can be overcome. To examine the main problem, three sub-problems were identified. The first sub-problem that had been identified dealt with what the women’s rights in the new South Africa. It was investigated by evaluating the situation in the New South Africa and what has changed from the past. Is there more gender equality or not. The second sub-problem looked at the barriers that women face in the workplace. It is evident that sexual harassment, male chauvinism, trying to balance work and family as well as organisational structure and culture were among the top barriers that are a hindrance to women’s advancement in the workplace. Finally, the third sub-problem investigated what the glass ceiling effect is and the effect that this has on women in the workplace. The investigation evaluated, and emphasised the difficulties that women face in order to progress in the hierarchy of not only management but other occupations as well. Results have shown that most females and males believe that the glass ceiling is prevalent in the workplace. Most people believe that women can however break through the glass ceiling but now there is a new phenomenon, “The Glass Cliff” which allows women to break through the glass ceiling but only of organisations that are already in trouble.
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- Date Issued: 2005
A study of the use of value based management (VBM) by multinational entities in the Eastern Cape motor industry cluster (ECMIC)
- Authors: Blouw, Mbuyiselo Edwin
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Corporations -- Valuation , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8550 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/421 , Corporations -- Valuation , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa
- Description: Management’s response to shareholders’ return on investment as a priority occurs in an increasingly dynamic environment. Accompanying these activities is the need to realign responsibilities and to allocate scarce resources effectively. This is done in order to ensure that companies achieve global competitiveness and increase shareholders’ return on investment. Against this backdrop, local industry needs to find new methods or strategies in order to achieve world-class competitiveness, and to be able to access foreign investment. One way to achieve these goals is through Value Based Management (VBM). The objective of this study is to evaluate the strategic intent of Multinational Entities in applying VBM to increase shareholders’ return on investment. Based on the study, certain factors are critical to ensure the success of VBM. A postal survey to managers in the motor manufacturing and component manufacturing companies was conducted to check the managers’ familiarity with VBM, and their scope, and usage of VBM; and, based on the finding, to evaluate the impact of VBM on companies’ results. The empirical finding was compared with a literature review, and the following findings were made: There is a strong understanding and application of the VBM principle on the part of local entities with Foreign Direct Investment (FDI); Departmental performance is critical to an entity’s overall performance; Based on the study, 23 per cent of the respondents use Economic Value Added (EVA) as an internal reporting measure, and an average of 19 per cent use other metrics; A total of 89 per cent of respondents indicated that they strongly agree with the use of incentives for motivation. The above-mentioned points were covered by means of 4-M framework ― that is: Measurement, Management, Motivation, and Mindset.
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- Date Issued: 2005
A study to analyse the organisational wellness present in a Port Elizabeth-based pharmaceutical company with the intent of developing and implementing an organisational wellness programme
- Authors: Sam, Nerine Carmel
- Date: 2005
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10929 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/185
- Description: South African employees have found a wide range of stressors prevalent in their working experience. The impact of these stressors on the lives of the employees adversely affects the organisational effectiveness of any organisation. The 21st century business world has become more stressful and risky because of the daily workplace demands, coupled with internal competitive challenges, placed on employees. The effect of this stress on employees is seen in an increase in absenteeism, a loss in employee productivity, increased insurance premiums, reduced workforce efficiency and an increase in training and employment costs. As a result, organisations are compelled to commit their management team to ensuring their employees health and wellness. This can be achieved through the implementation of a structured wellness programme or policy. This study's intention, forming the main problem, was to determine the wellness programmes that would be required by the pharmaceutical company, Bodene (Pty) Ltd, in order to enhance, maintain and develop its organisational wellness. This resulted in the development of a wellness programme. The approach taken to resolve this problem began with an intensive literature survey to determine the critical wellness factors that literature indicated as necessary for employees to be successful and happy in their work environments and outside of them. This was followed by an empirical study undertaken within the Small Volume Parenteral department of the organisation. The study was undertaken by the administration of a structured employee questionnaire to blue collar workers and a select number of middle managers in order to determine the level of wellness present amongst the employees. In addition, a structured management questionnaire was administered to the Sister-on-site and the Industrial Relations manager in order to determine whether any wellness programmes currently existed within the organisation, the extent to which they had been implemented, the extent to which they are successful within the organisation and the role, if any, that management play in actively promoting employee wellness. Among the main findings, on the negative side, the study revealed that employees within the department are close-lipped when it comes to revealing information of a personal nature. This has resulted in a difficulty in assessing their sexual and financial wellness, in particular. With regards to management, findings revealed that the employees felt that there is not enough trust between the employee and management. It was also indicated that management is not as open as possible with the employees. In addition, employees indicated that they felt that there was a lack of communication among team members as well as various forms of discrimination existing in the organisation. On the positive side, the study has indicated that a respect for all cultures exists within the organisation. It has also indicated that a minimal amount of conflict is experienced between superiors and subordinates and that the majority of employees feel a sense of belonging within the organisation. Findings from the literature survey undertaken and the empirical study done within the organisation were integrated and a coherent organisational wellness programme was developed. The organisational wellness programme has been recommended to the management of Bodene (Pty) Ltd. If the programme is considered viable, it will be implemented within the organisation.
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- Date Issued: 2005
A study towards the implementation of a fire service operational structure in the Eden District Municipality area
- Authors: Van Rooyen, Zanda
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Fire departments -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Eden District Municipality (Western Cape, South Africa) , Fire prevention -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Fire stations -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8597 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/408 , Fire departments -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Eden District Municipality (Western Cape, South Africa) , Fire prevention -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Fire stations -- South Africa -- Western Cape
- Description: The Eden District Municipality (EDM) is a local authority whose area of responsibility covers the Garden Route and also includes the Klein Karoo. The boundaries are from Storms River in the east, to Swellendam in the west and the Swartberg Mountains in the north. The EDM covers a very big area with seven big municipalities to consider and work with. Five of the municipalities, Langeberg, Mossel Bay, Knysna, George and Oudtshoorn have their own fire fighting services. The EDM fire fighting serves mainly the rural area. This is very costly due to the large distance required to travel to a fire, whereas the local municipalities are operating in their own towns. The new municipal boundaries include the rural areas, but the municipalities cannot service the rural areas because they do not as yet charge rates in the rural areas and therefore there is no revenue for the fire fighting service. They operate on the basis of verbal working agreements that make coordination of fire fighting very difficult. The fire fighting functions of the EDM as a category C municipality and the local municipalities as category B municipalities have been specified in the Municipal Structure Act. The allocation (division) of functions and powers relating to fire fighting service between the district municipality and local municipalities as determined by the Municipal Structure Act (Act 117 of 1998) has not been done. Due to the lack of invested capital, the resources are in a bad state. Some of the services have no capacity to attend to chemical fires or hazardous substance emergencies. Internationally, private fire fighting services can be contracted by government departments. These private fire fighting services are very large and the areas that they serve are extensive. These services have their own personnel structures functioning in an organisational structure that serves them well. These private services are very cost-effective and can therefore offer reasonable rates. Based on an investigation of various fire fighting services and different structures, the proposed structure for fire fighting in the EDM area will be a combination of structures. The diverse nature of the area will make the location of a sectoral structure and extension of its capacity difficult, and several factors that will impact on an new structure must be kept in mind. If all works well it will be relatively easy to achieve the five operations performance objectives envisaged for restructuring namely quality, speed, dependability, flexibility and cost.
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- Date Issued: 2005
An analysis of key factors responsible for and influencing the rate of employee absenteeism in the construction sector with specific reference to the Ngqura Harbour project
- Authors: Koen-Müller, Magdel
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Absenteeism (Labor) -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9263 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/152 , Absenteeism (Labor) -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: Absenteeism places huge financial burdens on organisations and has a detrimental effect on productivity. Aware of the direct and indirect costs associated with absenteeism, management must determine what factors are responsible for the absenteeism and how these factors can be rectified in order to reduce the rate of employee absenteeism in the organisation. The study’s main aims were firstly to determine which key factors are responsible for employees being absent from work and secondly, how they can be rectified in order to reduce absenteeism. From the data that was obtained from the literature study stress, substance abuse, lack of job commitment and organisational factors account for some reasons given for absenteeism. Employee absenteeism may also be partly due to not enough emphasis being placed on career development, staff retention and salaries. Other causes of absenteeism include personal responsibilities, lack of motivation and low morale in the workplace. Only recently have managers become aware of the true impact which alcohol and substance abuse have on organisations. More productivity is lost through on-the-job absenteeism than due to any other single factor. On-the-job absenteeism is difficult to define and very difficult to identify. Such absenteeism includes the presence of employees at work while they are sick but incapable of performing to their true capabilities – this often occurring on Mondays or Fridays or the day after payday. With current staff retention programs, mergers and joint ventures, organisations now demand the same level of production with fewer employees. This has given rise to an increase in the level of stress employees experience, which led to stress becoming a key factor responsible for absenteeism. When managing absenteeism the implementation of a proper measurement system is essential. This will enable the company to determine the extent of their absenteeism. An evaluation and comparison of these statistics over a period of time will also shed light on the nature of the absenteeism. These will result in the proactive handling of a company’s absenteeism. This is also the first step away from the acceptance of absenteeism and subsequently the nurturing of an absence culture. Employers can take a number of steps to reduce absenteeism, such as giving responsibility for absence management to senior or human resource managers rather than line managers, introducing return to work interviews, introducing discipline procedures and others. The great majority of absence management solutions completely overlook organisational factors, instead focusing on individual, claim processing and health-related factors in the quest to reduce lost productive days. Absence management programs should focus on organisational (not individual) drivers of absence to encourage a present and committed workforce. Absenteeism will never be eradicated, but through careful management organisations can reduce the absentee rate and the effect it has on the organization.
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- Date Issued: 2005
An analysis of strategies driving, and the successes achieved after the conversion of agricultural co-operatives to alternative business forms in South Africa
- Authors: Neser, Marius
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Agriculture, Cooperative -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:10921 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/146 , Agriculture, Cooperative -- South Africa
- Description: During the period 1994 to 2004, the Registrar of Co-operatives, situated in Pretoria (South Africa), considered applications and subsequently de-registered 102 agricultural and non-agricultural South African co-operatives, which then converted to alternative business forms. This research was conducted to determine the strategies driving co-operatives to convert to alternative business forms in South Africa, and to evaluate the level of success achieved in a specific case. During the research, the changing legislation relating to co-operatives was identified as one of the main drivers to convert, although during pilot testing, the respondents submitted capital forming or growth restrictions as main drivers for conversions. The main concerns about the impact of changing legislation were about voting rights changing to a one-person-one-vote, which, according to the respondents, could affect control within the co-operative. Financial ratio analysis to determine liquidity, debt management and profitability of a specific converted case was conducted by disseminating and processing data by means of Microsoft Excel spreadsheets. In the selected case the conversion did not guarantee success, and the financial figures showed that a conversion did not have immediate impact, although the last three years of the 10-year period analysed showed signs of a positive growth on the return on total assets (ROA). External influences, especially legislation in the broad sense, and specifically regarding Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE), Employment Equity and Labour practise may have serious impact on the choice of business form the prospective entrepreneur decides upon, or the existing enterprise bases its decisions on as to its future business form.
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- Date Issued: 2005
An assessment of strategies used to retain nurses in selected hospitals in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipal area
- Authors: Zweni, Sisilo Sylvia
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropole , Nurses -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropole , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropole
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9260 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/147 , Employee retention -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropole , Nurses -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropole , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Metropole
- Description: The harsh realities currently facing public hospitals such as budget cuts, understaffing and poor working conditions, have resulted in nurses experiencing low morale and finding it increasingly difficult to stay in the public health sector. The obvious targeting of South African nurses by recruitment agencies with job offers to work overseas is causing a massive skills’ drain that the country cannot afford. The situation is further compounded by the fact that the government is freezing posts of those nurses who have resigned. Consequently, nurses who are currently working in these hospitals have to cope with unreasonable workloads. Public hospitals are nowadays faced with the challenge of delivering quality health care within the constraints of gross staff shortages, and an increasingly competitive global health environment. The main objective of this study was to identify strategies that can be implemented by hospitals in order to reduce turnover, thereby enhancing retention of staff. Interviews were conducted with the matrons-in-charge of the hospitals under study to investigate strategies that are in place to improve retention. Secondary data regarding staff turnover in the hospitals under study was collected and analysed. It emerged that there are no concrete strategies in place to lower turnover. Hospitals are indeed experiencing staff turnover and posts that were vacated by those nurses that have resigned are frozen. The literature survey revealed three strategies that can be utilised to retain employees, namely, motivation strategies, effective leadership strategies and human resources strategies. Based on various literature reviews, it was concluded that the three strategies are interrelated. The empirical survey was conducted at the three selected hospitals, to determine the extent to which the retention strategies identified in the literature survey are being utilised. All three are invariably used in the hospitals. It is evident that the leadership behaviour in these hospitals affects the level of motivation of employees. The extent to which some of the human resources strategies are utilised invariably leads to low morale and dissatisfaction among employees. Lastly, research findings were assessed with the aim of drawing conclusions so that appropriate recommendations could be made. Recommendations focused on the retention strategies that can be implemented to boost morale of employees and enhance retention.
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- Date Issued: 2005