Requisite elements of public sector performance planning and reporting framework which support accountability
- Authors: Savenije, Maryke Aletta
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Performance -- Management -- Planning , Performance standards -- Planning Organizational effectiveness -- Evaluation -- Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23241 , vital:30467
- Description: Legislative and policy prescripts determine how the South Africa government plans for and reports on the services meant to benefit the citizens of the country. Legislators and the public should rely on an annual audits of financial and performance information to gauge the success of these services. the framework governing performance planning and reporting outlines a number of public sector reform objectives intended to enhance achievement of government's desired outcomes. Improvements in audit status over the past number of years have, however, been undermined by increasingly frequent service delivery protests, suggesting that the intentions of the framework are not realised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Savenije, Maryke Aletta
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Performance -- Management -- Planning , Performance standards -- Planning Organizational effectiveness -- Evaluation -- Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23241 , vital:30467
- Description: Legislative and policy prescripts determine how the South Africa government plans for and reports on the services meant to benefit the citizens of the country. Legislators and the public should rely on an annual audits of financial and performance information to gauge the success of these services. the framework governing performance planning and reporting outlines a number of public sector reform objectives intended to enhance achievement of government's desired outcomes. Improvements in audit status over the past number of years have, however, been undermined by increasingly frequent service delivery protests, suggesting that the intentions of the framework are not realised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Schooling and institution quality linked to earnings in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Cuthbert, Carol E
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Wages -- Effect of education on -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education, Higher -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Equality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62166 , vital:28134
- Description: Return to investment for tertiary education is not equal for all. Human Capital Theory imposes a linear pathway between education and earnings, that fails to recognise other sources of capital, ignores social returns and does not explain why socio-economic variables influence employability and earnings. Those returns, rather than simply incrementally delivering returns for additional years of education, are however heterogeneous across students, with field of study, gender and population group influencing earnings; and schooling type and university attended filtering whether one finds a job. This study utilises data from Rhodes University and the University of Fort Hare, illustrating the extreme positions within the South African education landscape, employing a Heckman selection to predict the returns on education. The regression is found to be partially successful in predicting a graduate’s ability to find a job, in the first instance, and thereafter their returns. It is crucial to analyse the heterogeneity of socio-economic parameters to understand aspects of the economy, and develop education policies to take advantage of this understanding, especially against the backdrop of the student protests being experienced in the country and the funding models proposed. Access to tertiary education, through policy inducement, such as the recent increase of the grant limit from R122 000 to R350 000, requires disaggregated returns to education to be investigated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Cuthbert, Carol E
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Wages -- Effect of education on -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education, Higher -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Equality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62166 , vital:28134
- Description: Return to investment for tertiary education is not equal for all. Human Capital Theory imposes a linear pathway between education and earnings, that fails to recognise other sources of capital, ignores social returns and does not explain why socio-economic variables influence employability and earnings. Those returns, rather than simply incrementally delivering returns for additional years of education, are however heterogeneous across students, with field of study, gender and population group influencing earnings; and schooling type and university attended filtering whether one finds a job. This study utilises data from Rhodes University and the University of Fort Hare, illustrating the extreme positions within the South African education landscape, employing a Heckman selection to predict the returns on education. The regression is found to be partially successful in predicting a graduate’s ability to find a job, in the first instance, and thereafter their returns. It is crucial to analyse the heterogeneity of socio-economic parameters to understand aspects of the economy, and develop education policies to take advantage of this understanding, especially against the backdrop of the student protests being experienced in the country and the funding models proposed. Access to tertiary education, through policy inducement, such as the recent increase of the grant limit from R122 000 to R350 000, requires disaggregated returns to education to be investigated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Strategies for loan default reduction and management among SMMEs: the Old Mutual Masisizane Fund case study
- Authors: Ngcai, Sipho
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Credit -- Management , Loans -- South Africa Small business -- Finance Small business -- Management New business enterprises -- Management Microfinance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33693 , vital:32968
- Description: The primary research objective of this study was to determine strategies for reducing loan defaulting and bad debts among the MF loan clients. The study was premised on the crucial significance of SMMEs in social and economic development. The study focused on MF with the aim of deciphering the factors that constrain loan recipients from servicing their loans leading to defaulting and bad debt. The research endeavors to contribute towards improving the ability of DFIs in general to recover loans while building the capacity of small businesses to become sustainable. The study adopted a qualitative approach and targeted eight (8) MF staff members responsible for loan administration and 15 MF loan recipients. In-depth interviews were conducted with the respondents. The interviews were transcribed and the data analysed through content analysis. The findings were aggregated in pre-determined themes as well as around emerging themes and sub-themes. The findings indicate that most MF loan recipients are identified through referrals from current and past clients, and other stakeholders; MF has a comprehensive and systematic loan application process; and MF provides support services to loan recipients. The findings also indicate that loan recipients default on payments because they lack financial management skills; sudden or sustained changes in the market; natural disasters, especially drought; and generally poor business management acumen. Other reasons for loan defaulting were caused by delays in funds disbursement by MF, ineffective monitoring mechanisms and approval of business enterprises that are not viable. The following recommendations were made: streamline the loan application process to increase effectiveness and efficiency; introduce an online loan application portal to complement and upgrade the current application process; deploy sector specialists when performing due diligence; provide business loans and grants in parallel in order to grow SMMEs while satisfying developmental needs; extend client site visits to include group meetings to facilitate peer learning and skills transfer; create a suite of capacity building and training support services for loan recipients; and develop a community of practice for DFIs to facilitate networking and information sharing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ngcai, Sipho
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Credit -- Management , Loans -- South Africa Small business -- Finance Small business -- Management New business enterprises -- Management Microfinance -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33693 , vital:32968
- Description: The primary research objective of this study was to determine strategies for reducing loan defaulting and bad debts among the MF loan clients. The study was premised on the crucial significance of SMMEs in social and economic development. The study focused on MF with the aim of deciphering the factors that constrain loan recipients from servicing their loans leading to defaulting and bad debt. The research endeavors to contribute towards improving the ability of DFIs in general to recover loans while building the capacity of small businesses to become sustainable. The study adopted a qualitative approach and targeted eight (8) MF staff members responsible for loan administration and 15 MF loan recipients. In-depth interviews were conducted with the respondents. The interviews were transcribed and the data analysed through content analysis. The findings were aggregated in pre-determined themes as well as around emerging themes and sub-themes. The findings indicate that most MF loan recipients are identified through referrals from current and past clients, and other stakeholders; MF has a comprehensive and systematic loan application process; and MF provides support services to loan recipients. The findings also indicate that loan recipients default on payments because they lack financial management skills; sudden or sustained changes in the market; natural disasters, especially drought; and generally poor business management acumen. Other reasons for loan defaulting were caused by delays in funds disbursement by MF, ineffective monitoring mechanisms and approval of business enterprises that are not viable. The following recommendations were made: streamline the loan application process to increase effectiveness and efficiency; introduce an online loan application portal to complement and upgrade the current application process; deploy sector specialists when performing due diligence; provide business loans and grants in parallel in order to grow SMMEs while satisfying developmental needs; extend client site visits to include group meetings to facilitate peer learning and skills transfer; create a suite of capacity building and training support services for loan recipients; and develop a community of practice for DFIs to facilitate networking and information sharing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Strategy implementation at the Rand Water Board
- Authors: Leaver, Brian Jeffrey
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62118 , vital:28129
- Description: Expected release date-April 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Leaver, Brian Jeffrey
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62118 , vital:28129
- Description: Expected release date-April 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Success factors of social enterprises in the education sector
- Authors: Makgato, Noko Leonard
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Social entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa Economic development -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Success in business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22629 , vital:30034
- Description: Social entrepreneurship is a complex concept with many dimensions that is not well understood in South Africa. The purpose of this research is to contribute to the limited body of knowledge leading to a better understanding of various factors of success that are at play within social enterprises in the education sector in South Africa, including characteristics of the social entrepreneurs at the helm of these ventures. For the purpose of this research, social entrepreneurship is treated as a phenomenon that occurs at the intersection of for-profit, non-profit and non-governmental organisations, without being limited to any single organisational format. Data analysed was obtained through in-depth interviews with persons in the top leadership of FIVE social enterprises, including founders and executives. From this data a composite set of success factors was developed, with the findings presented according to emerging themes and topics. The study reveals a core set of attributes related to environmental, organisational, leadership, financial and stakeholder factors that manifest in successful social enterprises. Research conclusions and recommendations based on this study were made, opportunities for further research were identified and shortcomings of this study were acknowledged.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Makgato, Noko Leonard
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Social entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa Economic development -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Success in business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22629 , vital:30034
- Description: Social entrepreneurship is a complex concept with many dimensions that is not well understood in South Africa. The purpose of this research is to contribute to the limited body of knowledge leading to a better understanding of various factors of success that are at play within social enterprises in the education sector in South Africa, including characteristics of the social entrepreneurs at the helm of these ventures. For the purpose of this research, social entrepreneurship is treated as a phenomenon that occurs at the intersection of for-profit, non-profit and non-governmental organisations, without being limited to any single organisational format. Data analysed was obtained through in-depth interviews with persons in the top leadership of FIVE social enterprises, including founders and executives. From this data a composite set of success factors was developed, with the findings presented according to emerging themes and topics. The study reveals a core set of attributes related to environmental, organisational, leadership, financial and stakeholder factors that manifest in successful social enterprises. Research conclusions and recommendations based on this study were made, opportunities for further research were identified and shortcomings of this study were acknowledged.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The audit committee’s role in preventing corporate governance failure within state owned enterprises
- Authors: Mbatha, Feziwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Government business enterprises , Corporate governance -- South Africa , Audit committees -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32311 , vital:32015
- Description: Widespread reports of the poor governance within the State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) has proliferated the media in South Africa over recent years. This progressive decline of governance structures has raised varied concerns, most of which are expressed as questions of note. For example, questions exist about the reasons why laws, regulations and policies that aim to ensure effective corporate governance practices have largely been ignored. Secondly, questions exist about the identities of those employees / executives within these enterprises, who are responsible for ensuring that good corporate governance practices are maintained within an organisation. Similarly, there is need to clarify the role of the audit committees in upholding good corporate governance practices within SOEs? This study aims to identify, describe and clarify the role(s) of the audit committee in preventing corporate governance failures within SOEs. A qualitative research methodology was utilised as the basis for collating data to develop an in depth understanding of the audit committee’s oversight responsibility within SOEs. In-depth individual interviews (n=6) were conducted with board members as well as members of the audit committee of a specifically selected SOE that had a history of compromised corporate governance practices and suffered severe financial losses. From the interpretation of the collated data, it was noted that the presence of a strong audit committee enables a more accountable environment that requires senior management to account for their actions openly and transparently. SOEs need to appreciate corporate governance as an asset to a company’s operations rather than as a poorly rationalised compliance requirement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The audit committee’s role in preventing corporate governance failure within state owned enterprises
- Authors: Mbatha, Feziwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Government business enterprises , Corporate governance -- South Africa , Audit committees -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32311 , vital:32015
- Description: Widespread reports of the poor governance within the State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) has proliferated the media in South Africa over recent years. This progressive decline of governance structures has raised varied concerns, most of which are expressed as questions of note. For example, questions exist about the reasons why laws, regulations and policies that aim to ensure effective corporate governance practices have largely been ignored. Secondly, questions exist about the identities of those employees / executives within these enterprises, who are responsible for ensuring that good corporate governance practices are maintained within an organisation. Similarly, there is need to clarify the role of the audit committees in upholding good corporate governance practices within SOEs? This study aims to identify, describe and clarify the role(s) of the audit committee in preventing corporate governance failures within SOEs. A qualitative research methodology was utilised as the basis for collating data to develop an in depth understanding of the audit committee’s oversight responsibility within SOEs. In-depth individual interviews (n=6) were conducted with board members as well as members of the audit committee of a specifically selected SOE that had a history of compromised corporate governance practices and suffered severe financial losses. From the interpretation of the collated data, it was noted that the presence of a strong audit committee enables a more accountable environment that requires senior management to account for their actions openly and transparently. SOEs need to appreciate corporate governance as an asset to a company’s operations rather than as a poorly rationalised compliance requirement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The determinants of waste separation behaviour in Uitenhage, South Africa
- Authors: Basson, Anna-Marie
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Recycling industry -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23658 , vital:30593
- Description: The value of waste as a resource, diverting waste from landfills and the need for a circular economy, was emphasised at the South African and European Colloquium on recycling hosted by PETCO, the polyethylene terephthalate company (Godfrey, 2013, p. 17). In South Africa, the recycling industry is seen as a means to provide income and skills development, and to create sustainable livelihoods. Yet, the country remains deeply entrenched in landfilling (Godfrey, 2013, p. 19). According to Zhang, Huang, Yin and Gong (2015, p. 9475) “understanding the factors that affect residents’ waste separation behaviours helps in constructing effective environmental campaigns for the community”. The focus of a waste management system should be to motivate and convince the consumer to dispose of their waste in a sustainable manner. The waste separation decision is complex and can be explained by the theory of planned behaviour and theory of reasoned action (Nguyen, Nguyen, Lobo & Dao, 2017, p. 2). The aim of this study is to identify and evaluate the factors that influence the waste separation behaviour of households in the Uitenhage area. In order to achieve this aim, secondary research (literature review) and primary research (empirical study) were conducted. The study has shown that if the residents are presented with free containers and have access to a collection service which facilitates the flow of the recyclables from the point of consumption to the point of sustainable disposal and conversion, it could motivate them to separate the waste. The only variable that was found significant in relation to household waste separation behaviour was motivation. The respondents are motivated to separate their household waste; yet, they do not separate it. The frequency distribution analysis reported that the sample was not experienced waste separators, where less than half of the sample was engaged in some waste separation activities. Yet, the respondents had a positive attitude towards the importance of waste separation and disagreed that waste separation is inconvenient. The majority of the respondents agreed that they have control over their behaviour and that the decision to separate their waste is within their control, but yet they do not separate their waste. The respondents agreed that they have the knowledge of what and how to separate waste, however, disagreed that they know where to take their separated waste. Interestingly, the respondents agreed that waste separation is The determinants of waste separation behaviour in Uitenhage, South Africa part of their moral norms; yet, they do not consider family and friends, including the municipality, to exert social pressure on them to separate their household waste. It is recommended that the municipality investigates the requirements for implementing a waste management scheme which provides containers for free and collects separated waste from households. Entrepreneurs can also play a pivotal role in bridging the gap in the waste management supply chain by establishing buy-back centres and sustainable recycling depots to facilitate the collection of separated waste for recycling. These collection services, buy-back centres and recycling depots present business opportunities and job creation potential, which will drive the economic growth in the Nelson Mandela Bay area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Basson, Anna-Marie
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Recycling industry -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23658 , vital:30593
- Description: The value of waste as a resource, diverting waste from landfills and the need for a circular economy, was emphasised at the South African and European Colloquium on recycling hosted by PETCO, the polyethylene terephthalate company (Godfrey, 2013, p. 17). In South Africa, the recycling industry is seen as a means to provide income and skills development, and to create sustainable livelihoods. Yet, the country remains deeply entrenched in landfilling (Godfrey, 2013, p. 19). According to Zhang, Huang, Yin and Gong (2015, p. 9475) “understanding the factors that affect residents’ waste separation behaviours helps in constructing effective environmental campaigns for the community”. The focus of a waste management system should be to motivate and convince the consumer to dispose of their waste in a sustainable manner. The waste separation decision is complex and can be explained by the theory of planned behaviour and theory of reasoned action (Nguyen, Nguyen, Lobo & Dao, 2017, p. 2). The aim of this study is to identify and evaluate the factors that influence the waste separation behaviour of households in the Uitenhage area. In order to achieve this aim, secondary research (literature review) and primary research (empirical study) were conducted. The study has shown that if the residents are presented with free containers and have access to a collection service which facilitates the flow of the recyclables from the point of consumption to the point of sustainable disposal and conversion, it could motivate them to separate the waste. The only variable that was found significant in relation to household waste separation behaviour was motivation. The respondents are motivated to separate their household waste; yet, they do not separate it. The frequency distribution analysis reported that the sample was not experienced waste separators, where less than half of the sample was engaged in some waste separation activities. Yet, the respondents had a positive attitude towards the importance of waste separation and disagreed that waste separation is inconvenient. The majority of the respondents agreed that they have control over their behaviour and that the decision to separate their waste is within their control, but yet they do not separate their waste. The respondents agreed that they have the knowledge of what and how to separate waste, however, disagreed that they know where to take their separated waste. Interestingly, the respondents agreed that waste separation is The determinants of waste separation behaviour in Uitenhage, South Africa part of their moral norms; yet, they do not consider family and friends, including the municipality, to exert social pressure on them to separate their household waste. It is recommended that the municipality investigates the requirements for implementing a waste management scheme which provides containers for free and collects separated waste from households. Entrepreneurs can also play a pivotal role in bridging the gap in the waste management supply chain by establishing buy-back centres and sustainable recycling depots to facilitate the collection of separated waste for recycling. These collection services, buy-back centres and recycling depots present business opportunities and job creation potential, which will drive the economic growth in the Nelson Mandela Bay area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The development of a post-settlement support framework agricultural land reform projects in South Africa
- Authors: Newborn, Ryan Oscar
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Land reform -- South Africa , Land tenure -- South Africa Agricultural development projects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32883 , vital:32384
- Description: After the fall of the Apartheid regime in 1994, South Africa was presented with a myriad of reform challenges that originated due to a segregational rule. Distribution of land to those who were previously disadvantaged would become and is increasingly becoming a major challenge that the African National Congress (ANC) led government would need to address. Land reform progress and performance has become a key indicator of the African National Congress’ ability to govern after more than two decades as the majority party. The African National Congress led Government of South Africa proposed a target to redistribute thirty percent of agricultural land which was owned by the white minority by the year 2014, however as of 2012, only seven percent had been redistributed with an estimated ninety percent of the farms redistributed to black farmers no longer in commercial production (Lund, 2012). Numerous factors have been attributed to land reform failure in South Africa, including but not limited to, settlement support after receiving the land. Broadly speaking, the processes leading of land reform is categorised into two fundamental categories namely; pre-settlement project fundamentals or criteria and secondly postsettlement support. The lack of or inadequate post-settlement support systems and programs is identified as a major constraint to land reform success. This research effort is aimed at gaining an understanding of what exactly the post-settlement support programs and targeted intervention are and designing an appropriate support framework that aims to reduce land reform failures and ultimately contributing to land reform success, a more inclusive rural economy and a food secure South Africa. Lumet and Qualm quote Hall in their 2012 research as saying, “Land reform has become heavy on political rhetoric and short on detail.” Whilst the ANC led government has ended the ‘willing buyer willing seller’ policy and is looking to introduce other policies to expedite land reform settlements, a significant void exists in the detail regarding post-settlement support of land reform beneficiaries to ensure success and to maintain the productivity of the reformed farms. This study aims at creating a post-settlement support framework which will add some detail as described as lacking above. Ten research questions were formulated in which the answers to the questions collectively provide insight into the post-settlement support systems required for enhanced success. The research questions are not all directly related to the post-settlement function, but also speak to other factors that need to be adequately addressed for the post-settlement function to be framed successfully. The literature review aimed at providing a backdrop to the history of land reform policies, the success and failures thereof, but more importantly it sets the scene in which an efficient post-settlement support framework must prevail. According to the interpretivist paradigm, it is assumed “that social reality is in our minds, and is subjective and multiple” (Collis & Hussey, 2009). Social reality is therefore affected by the act of investigating it. The research involves an inductive process with a view to providing an interpretive understanding of social phenomena within a particular context” (Collis & Hussey, 2009). The research effort uses an exploratory case study method. This selected method was the best approach to use to achieve the research objectives, to answer the research questions, and to test the listed propositions. The purposeful sampling unit in this study refers to land reform projects which have been in existence for five years or longer since settlement. These black emerging farmers or farmer groups are beneficiaries of the South African governments’ land reform programme and they are therefore also beneficiaries of the post-settlement support functions. Purposeful sampling involves identifying and selecting individuals or groups of individuals that are especially knowledgeable about or experienced with a phenomenon of interest while Spradley (1979) notes the importance of availability and willingness to participate, and the ability to communicate experiences and opinions in an articulate, expressive and reflective manner.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Newborn, Ryan Oscar
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Land reform -- South Africa , Land tenure -- South Africa Agricultural development projects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32883 , vital:32384
- Description: After the fall of the Apartheid regime in 1994, South Africa was presented with a myriad of reform challenges that originated due to a segregational rule. Distribution of land to those who were previously disadvantaged would become and is increasingly becoming a major challenge that the African National Congress (ANC) led government would need to address. Land reform progress and performance has become a key indicator of the African National Congress’ ability to govern after more than two decades as the majority party. The African National Congress led Government of South Africa proposed a target to redistribute thirty percent of agricultural land which was owned by the white minority by the year 2014, however as of 2012, only seven percent had been redistributed with an estimated ninety percent of the farms redistributed to black farmers no longer in commercial production (Lund, 2012). Numerous factors have been attributed to land reform failure in South Africa, including but not limited to, settlement support after receiving the land. Broadly speaking, the processes leading of land reform is categorised into two fundamental categories namely; pre-settlement project fundamentals or criteria and secondly postsettlement support. The lack of or inadequate post-settlement support systems and programs is identified as a major constraint to land reform success. This research effort is aimed at gaining an understanding of what exactly the post-settlement support programs and targeted intervention are and designing an appropriate support framework that aims to reduce land reform failures and ultimately contributing to land reform success, a more inclusive rural economy and a food secure South Africa. Lumet and Qualm quote Hall in their 2012 research as saying, “Land reform has become heavy on political rhetoric and short on detail.” Whilst the ANC led government has ended the ‘willing buyer willing seller’ policy and is looking to introduce other policies to expedite land reform settlements, a significant void exists in the detail regarding post-settlement support of land reform beneficiaries to ensure success and to maintain the productivity of the reformed farms. This study aims at creating a post-settlement support framework which will add some detail as described as lacking above. Ten research questions were formulated in which the answers to the questions collectively provide insight into the post-settlement support systems required for enhanced success. The research questions are not all directly related to the post-settlement function, but also speak to other factors that need to be adequately addressed for the post-settlement function to be framed successfully. The literature review aimed at providing a backdrop to the history of land reform policies, the success and failures thereof, but more importantly it sets the scene in which an efficient post-settlement support framework must prevail. According to the interpretivist paradigm, it is assumed “that social reality is in our minds, and is subjective and multiple” (Collis & Hussey, 2009). Social reality is therefore affected by the act of investigating it. The research involves an inductive process with a view to providing an interpretive understanding of social phenomena within a particular context” (Collis & Hussey, 2009). The research effort uses an exploratory case study method. This selected method was the best approach to use to achieve the research objectives, to answer the research questions, and to test the listed propositions. The purposeful sampling unit in this study refers to land reform projects which have been in existence for five years or longer since settlement. These black emerging farmers or farmer groups are beneficiaries of the South African governments’ land reform programme and they are therefore also beneficiaries of the post-settlement support functions. Purposeful sampling involves identifying and selecting individuals or groups of individuals that are especially knowledgeable about or experienced with a phenomenon of interest while Spradley (1979) notes the importance of availability and willingness to participate, and the ability to communicate experiences and opinions in an articulate, expressive and reflective manner.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The development of a world-class operator framework for the Eastern Cape automotive component industry
- Authors: Boshoff, Waldo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Lean manufacturing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Manufacturing processes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21757 , vital:29760
- Description: This treatise evaluates the environment in which a world-class operator within the Eastern Cape automotive component industry is expected to work, and the skills and knowledge the operator requires to function effectively. Using both qualitative interviews and a quantitative survey four basic domains of skills and knowledge were identified: manufacturing principles, shop floor skills, shop floor knowledge and generic skills. Based on these results, a framework of required content to be included in the training and developing of a world class operator for the Eastern Cape automotive component industry is developed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Boshoff, Waldo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Lean manufacturing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Manufacturing processes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21757 , vital:29760
- Description: This treatise evaluates the environment in which a world-class operator within the Eastern Cape automotive component industry is expected to work, and the skills and knowledge the operator requires to function effectively. Using both qualitative interviews and a quantitative survey four basic domains of skills and knowledge were identified: manufacturing principles, shop floor skills, shop floor knowledge and generic skills. Based on these results, a framework of required content to be included in the training and developing of a world class operator for the Eastern Cape automotive component industry is developed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The effectiveness of corporate social investment in addressing social challenges in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan area
- Authors: Mokoena, Lehlohonolo Edward
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Community development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Corporations -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22736 , vital:30069
- Description: This study investigated the effectiveness of corporate social investment in addressing social challenges in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Area. The study findings indicate that Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) conducts corporate social investment programmes in the Uitenhage and Kwanobuhle communities. The study discovered that VWSA CSI programmes contribute to education, youth development, and enterprise development. Participants in this study gave responses that indicated their perceptions on the existence of these social programmes. The community also indicated its involvement and benefit in the VWSA CSI programmes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mokoena, Lehlohonolo Edward
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Community development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Corporations -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22736 , vital:30069
- Description: This study investigated the effectiveness of corporate social investment in addressing social challenges in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Area. The study findings indicate that Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) conducts corporate social investment programmes in the Uitenhage and Kwanobuhle communities. The study discovered that VWSA CSI programmes contribute to education, youth development, and enterprise development. Participants in this study gave responses that indicated their perceptions on the existence of these social programmes. The community also indicated its involvement and benefit in the VWSA CSI programmes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The external factors used to define the perceived success of software projects
- Authors: Coetzee, Jehan Pieter
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Project management , Management information systems Customer relations -- Management -- Data processing Business information services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21722 , vital:29741
- Description: The purpose of this quantitative research was to improve the way success of software projects is measured. This was done by identifying and exploring external factors that serve as success criteria. It is postulated that by understanding these factors, organisations will be able to focus their resource efforts on the most prevalent factors that they can use to judge software project success. This will ensure project success and ultimately create a competitive advantage for the organisation. The research started off with a structured literature review. This was followed by a research design based on a quantitative questionnaire presenting embedded units of analysis. The results provided a useful insight into the factors that are used to define the success of software projects. The outcome of the study is in the form of a model which highlights the following variables applied to define software project success: system quality, information quality, user satisfaction, net benefits and the traditional variables of time, budget and specification.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Coetzee, Jehan Pieter
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Project management , Management information systems Customer relations -- Management -- Data processing Business information services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21722 , vital:29741
- Description: The purpose of this quantitative research was to improve the way success of software projects is measured. This was done by identifying and exploring external factors that serve as success criteria. It is postulated that by understanding these factors, organisations will be able to focus their resource efforts on the most prevalent factors that they can use to judge software project success. This will ensure project success and ultimately create a competitive advantage for the organisation. The research started off with a structured literature review. This was followed by a research design based on a quantitative questionnaire presenting embedded units of analysis. The results provided a useful insight into the factors that are used to define the success of software projects. The outcome of the study is in the form of a model which highlights the following variables applied to define software project success: system quality, information quality, user satisfaction, net benefits and the traditional variables of time, budget and specification.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The fourth industrial revolution: assessing the intelligences of engineers in the South African automotive industry
- Authors: Kapp, Jaco
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Technological innovations -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Artificial intelligence , Emotional intelligence , Automobile industry and trade -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22288 , vital:29937
- Description: The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is a new phenomenon that will impact human society drastically. It is complex, highly dynamic and constantly evolving at an everincreasing pace. To date the majority of research on the topic of the 4IR is focused on technological and scientific topics, with little to no work done on the human behavioural aspects such as intelligence. At the commencement of this paper only one other author published papers on the intelligences that are required to cope with the disruption associated with the 4IR. This paper is therefore the first known study paper which aims to determine the level of physical-, contextual-, emotional- and inspired intelligence of engineers in the South African automotive industry. Two comprehensive literature reviews were performed in this study. The first literature review aimed to create the context of this study by describing the historical significance, impact, drivers, critical emerging technologies and likely manufacturing scenarios of the 4IR. The second literature review investigated the theories of intelligence including the single factor approach as well as the theory of multiple intelligences. Additionally, the 4IR intelligence proposition is described and the application thereof in this study justified. A mixed method empirical study, consisting of 101 respondents, was conducted. Descriptive statistics were used to comprehensively describe the level of awareness, timeframe, emerging technologies and likely manufacturing scenarios. Furthermore, the thematic analysis of open-ended responses was used to identify the potential positive and negative implications associated with the 4IR. After the level and importance of the four intelligence components were established, inferential statistical tests were performed to establish the relationship between the four intelligences as well as to identify any deviance in the responses based on demographic variables. The study concludes by making various managerial recommendations that could be applied by managers in the automotive sector in order for their companies to survive and prosper in the disruption to be caused by the 4IR. As it is clear that the 4IR will have an impact upon the South African automotive industry in the very near future, it is of the utmost importance that this topic be included into the organisations’ strategic dialogues as a matter of urgency. This study found the level of perceived intelligence of South African engineers to be high. Additionally, this cohort indicated a heightened level of awareness and in-depth knowledge surrounding the 4IR. Therefore, this study recommends that organisations leverage these strategic resources to their fullest benefit. Joint 4IR task teams should be setup comprising of engineers and individuals from other departments such as Information Technology (IT) and Human Resources (HR). These teams should spearhead pilot projects in line with the advances associated with the 4IR. Management should further take into cognisance, monitor and pro-actively investigate the possible behavioural and psychological implications associated with the increased use of technology. It is therefore recommended that regular surveys, open dialogues and possible voluntary psychometric evaluations be conducted wherever these new technologies are piloted. This study also found that the 4IR might lead to the loss of unskilled jobs which would have a broader socio-economic impact. In sharp contrast to popular belief, humans will still play an important role in the 4IR and as such organisations should, therefore, openly commit to educating and upskilling their lower skilled employees in line with the needs of the 4IR as this would be mutually beneficial for the organisation and employees. This would demonstrate the companies’ long-term commitment to their lesser skilled employees and reassure them of their job security, thereby reducing the risk of job losses and potential industrial action.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Kapp, Jaco
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Technological innovations -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Artificial intelligence , Emotional intelligence , Automobile industry and trade -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22288 , vital:29937
- Description: The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is a new phenomenon that will impact human society drastically. It is complex, highly dynamic and constantly evolving at an everincreasing pace. To date the majority of research on the topic of the 4IR is focused on technological and scientific topics, with little to no work done on the human behavioural aspects such as intelligence. At the commencement of this paper only one other author published papers on the intelligences that are required to cope with the disruption associated with the 4IR. This paper is therefore the first known study paper which aims to determine the level of physical-, contextual-, emotional- and inspired intelligence of engineers in the South African automotive industry. Two comprehensive literature reviews were performed in this study. The first literature review aimed to create the context of this study by describing the historical significance, impact, drivers, critical emerging technologies and likely manufacturing scenarios of the 4IR. The second literature review investigated the theories of intelligence including the single factor approach as well as the theory of multiple intelligences. Additionally, the 4IR intelligence proposition is described and the application thereof in this study justified. A mixed method empirical study, consisting of 101 respondents, was conducted. Descriptive statistics were used to comprehensively describe the level of awareness, timeframe, emerging technologies and likely manufacturing scenarios. Furthermore, the thematic analysis of open-ended responses was used to identify the potential positive and negative implications associated with the 4IR. After the level and importance of the four intelligence components were established, inferential statistical tests were performed to establish the relationship between the four intelligences as well as to identify any deviance in the responses based on demographic variables. The study concludes by making various managerial recommendations that could be applied by managers in the automotive sector in order for their companies to survive and prosper in the disruption to be caused by the 4IR. As it is clear that the 4IR will have an impact upon the South African automotive industry in the very near future, it is of the utmost importance that this topic be included into the organisations’ strategic dialogues as a matter of urgency. This study found the level of perceived intelligence of South African engineers to be high. Additionally, this cohort indicated a heightened level of awareness and in-depth knowledge surrounding the 4IR. Therefore, this study recommends that organisations leverage these strategic resources to their fullest benefit. Joint 4IR task teams should be setup comprising of engineers and individuals from other departments such as Information Technology (IT) and Human Resources (HR). These teams should spearhead pilot projects in line with the advances associated with the 4IR. Management should further take into cognisance, monitor and pro-actively investigate the possible behavioural and psychological implications associated with the increased use of technology. It is therefore recommended that regular surveys, open dialogues and possible voluntary psychometric evaluations be conducted wherever these new technologies are piloted. This study also found that the 4IR might lead to the loss of unskilled jobs which would have a broader socio-economic impact. In sharp contrast to popular belief, humans will still play an important role in the 4IR and as such organisations should, therefore, openly commit to educating and upskilling their lower skilled employees in line with the needs of the 4IR as this would be mutually beneficial for the organisation and employees. This would demonstrate the companies’ long-term commitment to their lesser skilled employees and reassure them of their job security, thereby reducing the risk of job losses and potential industrial action.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The impact of leadership on job satisfaction at a specific bank in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Wyngaard, Shaun Peter
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Leadership , Bank employees Job satisfaction , Labor turnover , Transformational leadership , Bank management South Africa Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62050 , vital:28099
- Description: This study aimed at investigating the relationship between leadership and employee job satisfaction in the banking sector of South Africa. The study drew from the fact that there is a growing emphasis in organisations to reduce employee turnover by keeping their employees satisfied. The ultimate performance, effectiveness and competitiveness of an organisation are directly related to an organisation’s ability to keep its employees optimally productive and satisfied. Numerous research studies have been conducted on transformational, transactional and passive-avoidant leadership to determine the significance of their respective relationship with the job satisfaction of employees in different scenarios. Results show that the transformational leadership style has a significant relationship with job satisfaction; while the transactional leadership style or the passive-avoidant style are applied according to changing circumstances. The study adopted a quantitative approach, using online questionnaires as an instrument for collecting primary data. The target population of the study was 380 bank employees, and the target sample was 218; 121 questionnaires were completed and used as the actual final sample. Questionnaires were completed from managers and employees of the selected bank, with the two population groups being investigated using different scales. SPSS was used in analysing the collected data. The findings of this research showed that the leadership styles under investigation have a direct impact on the job satisfaction of employees. Transformational leadership was found to have a significant positive relationship with job satisfaction, while the relationship between transactional leadership and job satisfaction was positive but moderate. A significant negative relationship was found between passive-avoidant leadership and job satisfaction. It is thus the responsibility of the financial institution under investigation to highlight the significant links and benefits of this leadership style to its management to ensure increased job satisfaction and lower turnover of employees in the institution. Literature explored in this study supported the close link between the different leadership styles and job satisfaction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Wyngaard, Shaun Peter
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Leadership , Bank employees Job satisfaction , Labor turnover , Transformational leadership , Bank management South Africa Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62050 , vital:28099
- Description: This study aimed at investigating the relationship between leadership and employee job satisfaction in the banking sector of South Africa. The study drew from the fact that there is a growing emphasis in organisations to reduce employee turnover by keeping their employees satisfied. The ultimate performance, effectiveness and competitiveness of an organisation are directly related to an organisation’s ability to keep its employees optimally productive and satisfied. Numerous research studies have been conducted on transformational, transactional and passive-avoidant leadership to determine the significance of their respective relationship with the job satisfaction of employees in different scenarios. Results show that the transformational leadership style has a significant relationship with job satisfaction; while the transactional leadership style or the passive-avoidant style are applied according to changing circumstances. The study adopted a quantitative approach, using online questionnaires as an instrument for collecting primary data. The target population of the study was 380 bank employees, and the target sample was 218; 121 questionnaires were completed and used as the actual final sample. Questionnaires were completed from managers and employees of the selected bank, with the two population groups being investigated using different scales. SPSS was used in analysing the collected data. The findings of this research showed that the leadership styles under investigation have a direct impact on the job satisfaction of employees. Transformational leadership was found to have a significant positive relationship with job satisfaction, while the relationship between transactional leadership and job satisfaction was positive but moderate. A significant negative relationship was found between passive-avoidant leadership and job satisfaction. It is thus the responsibility of the financial institution under investigation to highlight the significant links and benefits of this leadership style to its management to ensure increased job satisfaction and lower turnover of employees in the institution. Literature explored in this study supported the close link between the different leadership styles and job satisfaction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The impact of performance and reward on employee engagement
- Dwane, Ithembekil’Inkosi Den-Boy
- Authors: Dwane, Ithembekil’Inkosi Den-Boy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Employee motivation Employees -- Attitudes Management -- Employee participation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/29940 , vital:30797
- Description: In today’s increasing competitive environment employees look for organisations that best meet their expectations. Few barriers prevent mobility of employees between companies, therefore employees may easily change from one organisation to another should they feel that they are not fully challenged and engaged. In a global environment where maintaining competitive advantage is of paramount importance, it is essential to develop effective retention strategies. In order to retain employees companies must try to offer an engaging environment to employees in order to satisfy these expectations in a different way from their competitors with a compelling value and attempts to increase performance and engagement amongst their employees. Nonetheless, employers are more aware now of the importance of an engaged workforce as a way of gaining competitive advantage in these challenging times, where employee attrition is high. Therefore retaining skilled and talented employees has become one of the major challenges faced by all sectors in South Africa, especially the financial sector as a whole. In order to alleviate this challenge companies have developed a robust performance management system and reward initiatives that enhance engagement. This study aimed to explore the impact of performance and reward on employee engagement, and to contribute to the human resource management science literature. The study also aimed to make recommendations on the management factors that determine these variables. The literature review explored traditional and emerging concepts, importance of employee engagement, types and characteristics of engaged II employees. The researcher further elaborated on the literature by including engagement factors, barriers and models. The second chapter of the literature then covered the concept of performance (individual and team) in detail and the concept of reward (extrinsic and intrinsic). From the literature review a performance, reward and engagement questionnaire was designed to find empirical responses to these challenges. The study adopted a quantitative approach (N = 275) testing the relationship of performance and reward (extrinsic and intrinsic) on the dependent variable, employee engagement. The study also entailed a cross sectional design approach. Minitab version 18 was used to conduct the statistical analysis. The findings support a strong correlation between the performance and employee engagement. The findings also indicate that there is a strong correlation between reward (extrinsic and intrinsic) and employee engagement across all employees. From the research findings there is also a strong correlation between the performance and employee engagement. The findings also indicate that there is a strong correlation between reward (extrinsic and intrinsic) and employee engagement across all employees that formed part of this research. The main findings also include some insights for organisations to consider and recommendations for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Dwane, Ithembekil’Inkosi Den-Boy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Employee motivation Employees -- Attitudes Management -- Employee participation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/29940 , vital:30797
- Description: In today’s increasing competitive environment employees look for organisations that best meet their expectations. Few barriers prevent mobility of employees between companies, therefore employees may easily change from one organisation to another should they feel that they are not fully challenged and engaged. In a global environment where maintaining competitive advantage is of paramount importance, it is essential to develop effective retention strategies. In order to retain employees companies must try to offer an engaging environment to employees in order to satisfy these expectations in a different way from their competitors with a compelling value and attempts to increase performance and engagement amongst their employees. Nonetheless, employers are more aware now of the importance of an engaged workforce as a way of gaining competitive advantage in these challenging times, where employee attrition is high. Therefore retaining skilled and talented employees has become one of the major challenges faced by all sectors in South Africa, especially the financial sector as a whole. In order to alleviate this challenge companies have developed a robust performance management system and reward initiatives that enhance engagement. This study aimed to explore the impact of performance and reward on employee engagement, and to contribute to the human resource management science literature. The study also aimed to make recommendations on the management factors that determine these variables. The literature review explored traditional and emerging concepts, importance of employee engagement, types and characteristics of engaged II employees. The researcher further elaborated on the literature by including engagement factors, barriers and models. The second chapter of the literature then covered the concept of performance (individual and team) in detail and the concept of reward (extrinsic and intrinsic). From the literature review a performance, reward and engagement questionnaire was designed to find empirical responses to these challenges. The study adopted a quantitative approach (N = 275) testing the relationship of performance and reward (extrinsic and intrinsic) on the dependent variable, employee engagement. The study also entailed a cross sectional design approach. Minitab version 18 was used to conduct the statistical analysis. The findings support a strong correlation between the performance and employee engagement. The findings also indicate that there is a strong correlation between reward (extrinsic and intrinsic) and employee engagement across all employees. From the research findings there is also a strong correlation between the performance and employee engagement. The findings also indicate that there is a strong correlation between reward (extrinsic and intrinsic) and employee engagement across all employees that formed part of this research. The main findings also include some insights for organisations to consider and recommendations for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The impact of technology on job redesign
- Authors: Merchant, Amelia Sarwal
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Work design , Job analysis Job enrichment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32006 , vital:31908
- Description: The primary objective of this study was to establish the impact of cognitive technology on job redesign. The study was prompted by the uncertainty on employee job security and satisfaction introduced by leaps in technological development. The study adopted a qualitative approach and targeted business, human resources and IT executives to provide insights on the adoption of cognitive technology and its impact on employees and business profitability. Data were collected through in-depth interviews guided by semi-structured interview guides. Content analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings indicate that cognitive technology creates new jobs that require employees to have more advanced skills; challenges employees and companies to collaborate in order to transition to higher levels of efficiency and productivity; and enables employees to advance their careers. Cognitive technology also enables companies to seek improved strategies for job redesign and staff retention. The findings also indicate that employees can be anxious and fearful about job security; companies may lack the capacity or resources to support employees to upskill; and employees may seek alternative employment opportunities. When introducing cognitive technology and conducting the inevitable job redesign the following recommendations were made: Companies should develop change management programs to assure that all employees are on board; Develop a clear roadmap for the roll-out of activities associated with cognitive technology and job redesign; and establish support structures and resources to assist staff to acquire new skills to transition from old to new roles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Merchant, Amelia Sarwal
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Work design , Job analysis Job enrichment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32006 , vital:31908
- Description: The primary objective of this study was to establish the impact of cognitive technology on job redesign. The study was prompted by the uncertainty on employee job security and satisfaction introduced by leaps in technological development. The study adopted a qualitative approach and targeted business, human resources and IT executives to provide insights on the adoption of cognitive technology and its impact on employees and business profitability. Data were collected through in-depth interviews guided by semi-structured interview guides. Content analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings indicate that cognitive technology creates new jobs that require employees to have more advanced skills; challenges employees and companies to collaborate in order to transition to higher levels of efficiency and productivity; and enables employees to advance their careers. Cognitive technology also enables companies to seek improved strategies for job redesign and staff retention. The findings also indicate that employees can be anxious and fearful about job security; companies may lack the capacity or resources to support employees to upskill; and employees may seek alternative employment opportunities. When introducing cognitive technology and conducting the inevitable job redesign the following recommendations were made: Companies should develop change management programs to assure that all employees are on board; Develop a clear roadmap for the roll-out of activities associated with cognitive technology and job redesign; and establish support structures and resources to assist staff to acquire new skills to transition from old to new roles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The impact of the ISO 9001:2015 on organisational change in South African organisations
- Authors: Pearson, Dean Warren
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Organizational change -- South Africa , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa Organizational behavior -- South Africa Leadership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34476 , vital:33384
- Description: In order for organisations to grow and maintain their competitive advantage, change has become the norm. Quality management systems are increasingly being deployed as a means to maintain this advantage, and enhance the quality of product and service offerings. The implementation of the latest publication of ISO9001:2015 requires organisations to have a more holistic overview and understanding of leadership requirements, planning as well as the organisational context they operate in. A positivistic research paradigm, with a quantitative, explorative and deductive approach was used to conduct the study. The study explored the requirements of change in organisations implementing the latest publication of ISO9001:2015 within the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan area. It aimed at exploring the relationship between selected demographic variables, and the variables of the study. Lastly, the relationship between organisational context, planning and leadership (independent variables) and organisational change (dependent variable) were explored. The sample comprised of 81 organisations that were based in the Eastern Cape having their quality management systems based on the ISO9001 structure. A structured questionnaire with a Cronbach‘s alpha of more than 0.8 was used to collect data and distributed to lower, middle and upper level managers within these selected organisations. The empirical results indicated that the variables under study were prevalent in the organisations currently ISO9001 certified and in the process of implementing the latest version of the standard. However, the sizes of the studied organisations were found to present the most noteworthy differences, highlighting the current and future requirements for successful organisational change. Recommendations related to the findings were made for managers, as well as for research, and industry. Ethical principles were maintained throughout the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Pearson, Dean Warren
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Organizational change -- South Africa , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa Organizational behavior -- South Africa Leadership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34476 , vital:33384
- Description: In order for organisations to grow and maintain their competitive advantage, change has become the norm. Quality management systems are increasingly being deployed as a means to maintain this advantage, and enhance the quality of product and service offerings. The implementation of the latest publication of ISO9001:2015 requires organisations to have a more holistic overview and understanding of leadership requirements, planning as well as the organisational context they operate in. A positivistic research paradigm, with a quantitative, explorative and deductive approach was used to conduct the study. The study explored the requirements of change in organisations implementing the latest publication of ISO9001:2015 within the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan area. It aimed at exploring the relationship between selected demographic variables, and the variables of the study. Lastly, the relationship between organisational context, planning and leadership (independent variables) and organisational change (dependent variable) were explored. The sample comprised of 81 organisations that were based in the Eastern Cape having their quality management systems based on the ISO9001 structure. A structured questionnaire with a Cronbach‘s alpha of more than 0.8 was used to collect data and distributed to lower, middle and upper level managers within these selected organisations. The empirical results indicated that the variables under study were prevalent in the organisations currently ISO9001 certified and in the process of implementing the latest version of the standard. However, the sizes of the studied organisations were found to present the most noteworthy differences, highlighting the current and future requirements for successful organisational change. Recommendations related to the findings were made for managers, as well as for research, and industry. Ethical principles were maintained throughout the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The impact of the LRA amendments 2015 - section 198 on labour flexibility in the nelson Mandela Bay automotive component manufacturing industry
- Authors: Badenhorst, Petri
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employment agencies -- South Africa , Labor market -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23360 , vital:30535
- Description: For many years businesses have been capitalising on the benefits that employees employed on a temporary basis through temporary employment services (labour brokers) has had to offer in terms of labour flexibility. Following the passing of the amended Labour Relations Act of South Africa in early 2015, much attention has been given to section 198 as this section aims to further regulate the use temporary employment. The main objective of this paper consists in studying the impact that the recent amendments to section 198 of the Labour Relations Act have had on labour flexibility in the Nelson Mandela Bay automotive component manufacturing industry. The paper examines how businesses have historically benefitted from the use of temporary labour, how these benefits are slowly being removed, and how businesses are responding to mitigate the risks associated with this legislative change whilst becoming compliant. As the topic being researched is still very recent, with certain legal aspects remaining to be fully tested in the courts, it is hoped that that this study will provide sufficient information to assist all the stakeholders of businesses to make more informative decisions in the future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Badenhorst, Petri
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employment agencies -- South Africa , Labor market -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23360 , vital:30535
- Description: For many years businesses have been capitalising on the benefits that employees employed on a temporary basis through temporary employment services (labour brokers) has had to offer in terms of labour flexibility. Following the passing of the amended Labour Relations Act of South Africa in early 2015, much attention has been given to section 198 as this section aims to further regulate the use temporary employment. The main objective of this paper consists in studying the impact that the recent amendments to section 198 of the Labour Relations Act have had on labour flexibility in the Nelson Mandela Bay automotive component manufacturing industry. The paper examines how businesses have historically benefitted from the use of temporary labour, how these benefits are slowly being removed, and how businesses are responding to mitigate the risks associated with this legislative change whilst becoming compliant. As the topic being researched is still very recent, with certain legal aspects remaining to be fully tested in the courts, it is hoped that that this study will provide sufficient information to assist all the stakeholders of businesses to make more informative decisions in the future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The influence of the state IT agency’s current performance-based rewards on employee motivation
- Authors: Lucwaba, Pamela Xolewa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employee motivation , Incentive awards Employees -- Rating of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22574 , vital:30008
- Description: Organisational success originates from employees’ willingness to use their abilities and skills so that an organisation continues to achieve its strategic objectives and thus remains competitive. The organisation’s task is to encourage and nourish these motivated employee inputs by putting effective rewards in place (Markova and Ford, 2011, p. 813.). In view of this, the purpose of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of the State IT Agency’s official performance-based rewards and to establish whether these rewards enhance employee motivation. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The study targeted all 86 employees occupying non-managerial positions (Job level A1 – D1) at the State IT Agency – Eastern Cape. The study thus included the entire population. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Collected data was analysed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) for descriptive and inferential statistics. The results of the study were presented in frequency tables, cross-tabulations, histogram and line charts. The study revealed that intrinsically motivated employees are also motivated by financial and non-financial rewards. The research also showed that a statistically significant relationship exists between the number of years in the current position and employee motivation. This study’s results further revealed low levels of employee motivation as well as job dissatisfaction amongst the employees, dissatisfaction with the rewards provided by the organisation and that the State IT Agency is not providing employees with motivational factors perceived by employees as motivational. The study thus concluded that when the State IT Agency rewards outstanding employee performance with a performance-based bonus and a salary increase such employees’ motivation levels should be enhanced. It was recommended that the State IT Agency should design a total rewards strategy for the purpose of maximising the impact of various rewards on employee motivation. The State IT Agency should also focus on eliminating factors leading to employee dissatisfaction before implementing the proposed total rewards strategy because dissatisfied employees cannot be motivated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Lucwaba, Pamela Xolewa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employee motivation , Incentive awards Employees -- Rating of
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22574 , vital:30008
- Description: Organisational success originates from employees’ willingness to use their abilities and skills so that an organisation continues to achieve its strategic objectives and thus remains competitive. The organisation’s task is to encourage and nourish these motivated employee inputs by putting effective rewards in place (Markova and Ford, 2011, p. 813.). In view of this, the purpose of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of the State IT Agency’s official performance-based rewards and to establish whether these rewards enhance employee motivation. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The study targeted all 86 employees occupying non-managerial positions (Job level A1 – D1) at the State IT Agency – Eastern Cape. The study thus included the entire population. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Collected data was analysed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) for descriptive and inferential statistics. The results of the study were presented in frequency tables, cross-tabulations, histogram and line charts. The study revealed that intrinsically motivated employees are also motivated by financial and non-financial rewards. The research also showed that a statistically significant relationship exists between the number of years in the current position and employee motivation. This study’s results further revealed low levels of employee motivation as well as job dissatisfaction amongst the employees, dissatisfaction with the rewards provided by the organisation and that the State IT Agency is not providing employees with motivational factors perceived by employees as motivational. The study thus concluded that when the State IT Agency rewards outstanding employee performance with a performance-based bonus and a salary increase such employees’ motivation levels should be enhanced. It was recommended that the State IT Agency should design a total rewards strategy for the purpose of maximising the impact of various rewards on employee motivation. The State IT Agency should also focus on eliminating factors leading to employee dissatisfaction before implementing the proposed total rewards strategy because dissatisfied employees cannot be motivated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The influence of transformational and transcendental leadership on the engagement and job performance of employees in SMME’s
- Authors: Govender, Roxanne
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Performance -- Management Job satisfaction -- South Africa --Port Elizabeth Leadership -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22167 , vital:29865
- Description: The purpose of this study was to assess the level of transformational and transcendental leadership adopted by SMME owners, and to investigate the subsequent influence on the engagement and job performance of employees working in SMME’s in Port Elizabeth. These small, medium and micro enterprises (SMME’s) were selected as they play a fundamental role in South Africa’s economy. These organisations drive innovation, facilitate job creation and foster economic growth. However, these SMME’s are facing an increased failure rate which has an impact on continuity for the foreseeable future. A significant reason for the increased failure rate has been identified as poor leadership practice which significantly influences the engagement and job performance of employees in SMME’s. To address and solve this problem, the research design and methodology followed a quantitative approach. A quantitative approach was deemed to be the most appropriate when the objectives and nature of the study were revised. The population was identified to be all employees working for the small, medium and micro-sized enterprises conducting business in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape Province. The sample for this study was selected using judgement and convenience sampling as it was inexpensive and respondents were more available which enabled a larger sample size quicker (Wegner, 2016, p.161). A cross-sectional study then supplemented these sampling methods. Lastly, an empirical study was conducted to test the hypotheses formulated in Figure 1.1. The findings from the empirical study indicated that transformational leadership significantly influenced engagement and trancendental leadership significantly influenced job performance. The findings also indicated that the demographic variables in the study had no influence on the level of transformational and transcendental leadership that SMME owners and management exhibit in the workplace. The majority of respondents agreed that a high level of transformational and transcendental leadership was currently being exhibited by SMME owners and management. Recommendations were made in an effort to improve the current levels of transformational and transcendental leadership of SMME owners and management. There would be a subsequent impact on the engagement and job performance of employees. When employees are satisfied, there is a greater sense of responsibility and integrity which results in greater job performance. There is also a positive ripple effect on the performance of the organisation. This paints a positive picture for South Africa’s economy and SMME continuity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Govender, Roxanne
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Performance -- Management Job satisfaction -- South Africa --Port Elizabeth Leadership -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22167 , vital:29865
- Description: The purpose of this study was to assess the level of transformational and transcendental leadership adopted by SMME owners, and to investigate the subsequent influence on the engagement and job performance of employees working in SMME’s in Port Elizabeth. These small, medium and micro enterprises (SMME’s) were selected as they play a fundamental role in South Africa’s economy. These organisations drive innovation, facilitate job creation and foster economic growth. However, these SMME’s are facing an increased failure rate which has an impact on continuity for the foreseeable future. A significant reason for the increased failure rate has been identified as poor leadership practice which significantly influences the engagement and job performance of employees in SMME’s. To address and solve this problem, the research design and methodology followed a quantitative approach. A quantitative approach was deemed to be the most appropriate when the objectives and nature of the study were revised. The population was identified to be all employees working for the small, medium and micro-sized enterprises conducting business in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape Province. The sample for this study was selected using judgement and convenience sampling as it was inexpensive and respondents were more available which enabled a larger sample size quicker (Wegner, 2016, p.161). A cross-sectional study then supplemented these sampling methods. Lastly, an empirical study was conducted to test the hypotheses formulated in Figure 1.1. The findings from the empirical study indicated that transformational leadership significantly influenced engagement and trancendental leadership significantly influenced job performance. The findings also indicated that the demographic variables in the study had no influence on the level of transformational and transcendental leadership that SMME owners and management exhibit in the workplace. The majority of respondents agreed that a high level of transformational and transcendental leadership was currently being exhibited by SMME owners and management. Recommendations were made in an effort to improve the current levels of transformational and transcendental leadership of SMME owners and management. There would be a subsequent impact on the engagement and job performance of employees. When employees are satisfied, there is a greater sense of responsibility and integrity which results in greater job performance. There is also a positive ripple effect on the performance of the organisation. This paints a positive picture for South Africa’s economy and SMME continuity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The key drivers of grain commodity prices in South Africa: a market intelligence approach
- Mbhele, Dadewabo Babongile Pearl
- Authors: Mbhele, Dadewabo Babongile Pearl
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Marketing research -- South Africa , Commodity exchanges -- South Africa Grain -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22725 , vital:30068
- Description: Grain forms a staple part of the majority of the global populations’ diets and it is used a raw material for animal feed in many countries. The envisaged increase in population in years to come can be expected to increase the demand of grain globally. Grain production is expected to fulfil energy requirements since developed countries are increasingly utilising grain as an alternative energy source to reduce the negative environmental effects caused by energy derived from fossil fuels. The grain value chain in South Africa consists of grain producers, input suppliers, millers and processors, as well as traders and speculators. The majority of the grain producers in South Africa are commercial farmers who play an important role in the economy of the country. South Africa trades their grain commodities on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange where grain prices are controlled by different social, economic and political factors. This gives rise to grain commodity price volatility because of its sensitivity to market changes. This study focuses on the difficulty faced by the grain producers and stakeholders in the value chain, like traders and speculators, who are exposed to price related risks as a result of the volatility of the grain commodity. It presents the current mitigation strategies that are available to hedge against these risks. Research shows that the current mitigation strategies are not being fully utilised by the grain producers because of their lack of skills and the time to search through and make sense of the datasets on the abundance of factors that influence the grain commodities market. This study presents a market intelligence approach as a solution to the grain volatility price risk. Market intelligence is utilised to enable the prediction of grain prices and to discover the factors that are driving the market at different periods. This is achieved by utilising neural networks and relative importance statistical techniques. In this study, it was found that the impact of the different factors changes from time to time. It proposed a technique for making sense of the changes in the prices of grain commodities. A framework for the implementation of market intelligence to mitigate against price volatility risks is proposed as an output of this study. The impact of the findings of this study to the grain producers and stakeholders in the value chain is that they can have insight on which factor is driving the market at a given period. This would enable then to adjust their activities and enable increased profitability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mbhele, Dadewabo Babongile Pearl
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Marketing research -- South Africa , Commodity exchanges -- South Africa Grain -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22725 , vital:30068
- Description: Grain forms a staple part of the majority of the global populations’ diets and it is used a raw material for animal feed in many countries. The envisaged increase in population in years to come can be expected to increase the demand of grain globally. Grain production is expected to fulfil energy requirements since developed countries are increasingly utilising grain as an alternative energy source to reduce the negative environmental effects caused by energy derived from fossil fuels. The grain value chain in South Africa consists of grain producers, input suppliers, millers and processors, as well as traders and speculators. The majority of the grain producers in South Africa are commercial farmers who play an important role in the economy of the country. South Africa trades their grain commodities on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange where grain prices are controlled by different social, economic and political factors. This gives rise to grain commodity price volatility because of its sensitivity to market changes. This study focuses on the difficulty faced by the grain producers and stakeholders in the value chain, like traders and speculators, who are exposed to price related risks as a result of the volatility of the grain commodity. It presents the current mitigation strategies that are available to hedge against these risks. Research shows that the current mitigation strategies are not being fully utilised by the grain producers because of their lack of skills and the time to search through and make sense of the datasets on the abundance of factors that influence the grain commodities market. This study presents a market intelligence approach as a solution to the grain volatility price risk. Market intelligence is utilised to enable the prediction of grain prices and to discover the factors that are driving the market at different periods. This is achieved by utilising neural networks and relative importance statistical techniques. In this study, it was found that the impact of the different factors changes from time to time. It proposed a technique for making sense of the changes in the prices of grain commodities. A framework for the implementation of market intelligence to mitigate against price volatility risks is proposed as an output of this study. The impact of the findings of this study to the grain producers and stakeholders in the value chain is that they can have insight on which factor is driving the market at a given period. This would enable then to adjust their activities and enable increased profitability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018