Employees' perception of engagement and its influence on critical success factors
- Authors: Gardner, Kevin
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Soft drink industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Strategic planning -- Employee participation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8891 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020826
- Description: Increasing competition within the non-alcoholic, ready to drink market (NARTD) in South Africa has intensified the need for soft drink producers to identify ways in which to enhance their competitiveness. One of the most important challenges for organisations operating in this industry is to produce quality products while meeting the needs of customers, at the lowest possible cost. While a number of competitors may rely on various competitive strategies such as lower priced products, it could become increasingly challenging for others to adopt similar approaches without comprising on the quality of their products. In order to remain competitive, organisations may be required to shift their focus onto their employees as a source of competitive advantage. Research has shown that employees provide organisations with sustainable competitive advantage, more specifically, it has shown that engaged employees outperform disengaged employees. The differentiating factor for organisations in the pursuit of competitive advantage would therefore be an engaged workforce. The primary research objective of this study was to investigate employees’ perceptions of engagement within the logistics function at Coca-Cola Fortune Port Elizabeth, as well as its impact on critical success factors. A theoretical overview was conducted to appraise various definitions, engagement models, factors influencing engagement and the impact of engagement on critical success factors. The research highlighted a number of common themes of engagement which includes a reciprocal relationship between the organisation and employees, enthusiasm, involvement and motivation. This research revealed that engaged employees make positive contributions to key business outcomes such as financial performance, productivity and customer satisfaction.An empirical study was conducted by means of a survey with a questionnaire as data collecting tool. The purpose of the structured questionnaire was to validate the findings obtained from the theoretical overview and to assess employees’ perceptions of engagement, engagement factors and the impact of engagement on critical success factors. A sample comprising 112 employees was identified by means of a stratified sampling technique. A 93 per cent response rate was obtained. The key findings of the study indicated that management and employee perceptions of engagement were comparable. It also indicated that corporate communication, employee involvement strategies, relationships with management and HR policies and procedures did influence employee engagement. Furthermore, the study validated the existence of a strong positive relationship between customer satisfaction, employee attendance and productivity – as was found between employee engagement and business success at CCF. The theoretical overview in conjunction with the empirical findings yielded a hypothesised model of employee engagement as presented in Chapter One. This model could provide direction in the organisation’s attempt to improve engagement levels and ultimately in the pursuit of competitive advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gardner, Kevin
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Soft drink industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Strategic planning -- Employee participation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8891 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020826
- Description: Increasing competition within the non-alcoholic, ready to drink market (NARTD) in South Africa has intensified the need for soft drink producers to identify ways in which to enhance their competitiveness. One of the most important challenges for organisations operating in this industry is to produce quality products while meeting the needs of customers, at the lowest possible cost. While a number of competitors may rely on various competitive strategies such as lower priced products, it could become increasingly challenging for others to adopt similar approaches without comprising on the quality of their products. In order to remain competitive, organisations may be required to shift their focus onto their employees as a source of competitive advantage. Research has shown that employees provide organisations with sustainable competitive advantage, more specifically, it has shown that engaged employees outperform disengaged employees. The differentiating factor for organisations in the pursuit of competitive advantage would therefore be an engaged workforce. The primary research objective of this study was to investigate employees’ perceptions of engagement within the logistics function at Coca-Cola Fortune Port Elizabeth, as well as its impact on critical success factors. A theoretical overview was conducted to appraise various definitions, engagement models, factors influencing engagement and the impact of engagement on critical success factors. The research highlighted a number of common themes of engagement which includes a reciprocal relationship between the organisation and employees, enthusiasm, involvement and motivation. This research revealed that engaged employees make positive contributions to key business outcomes such as financial performance, productivity and customer satisfaction.An empirical study was conducted by means of a survey with a questionnaire as data collecting tool. The purpose of the structured questionnaire was to validate the findings obtained from the theoretical overview and to assess employees’ perceptions of engagement, engagement factors and the impact of engagement on critical success factors. A sample comprising 112 employees was identified by means of a stratified sampling technique. A 93 per cent response rate was obtained. The key findings of the study indicated that management and employee perceptions of engagement were comparable. It also indicated that corporate communication, employee involvement strategies, relationships with management and HR policies and procedures did influence employee engagement. Furthermore, the study validated the existence of a strong positive relationship between customer satisfaction, employee attendance and productivity – as was found between employee engagement and business success at CCF. The theoretical overview in conjunction with the empirical findings yielded a hypothesised model of employee engagement as presented in Chapter One. This model could provide direction in the organisation’s attempt to improve engagement levels and ultimately in the pursuit of competitive advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Endotracheal tube verification in the mechanically ventilated patient in a critical care unit
- Authors: Fataar, Danielle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Respirators (Medical equipment) , Critical care medicine , Intensive care units
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10020 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008057 , Respirators (Medical equipment) , Critical care medicine , Intensive care units
- Description: Critically ill patients often require assistance by means of intubation and mechanical ventilation to support their spontaneous breathing if they are unable to maintain it. Mechanical ventilation is one of the most commonly used treatment modalities in the care of the critically ill patient and up to 90% of patients world-wide require mechanical ventilation during some or most parts of their stay in critical care units Management of a patient’s airway is a critical part of patient care both in and out of hospital. Although there are many methods used in verifying the correct placement of the endotracheal tube, the need and ability to verify placement of an endotracheal tube correctly is of utmost importance, because many complications can occur should the tube be incorrectly placed. Since unrecognized oesophageal intubation can have many disastrous effects on patients, various methods for verifying correct endotracheal tube placement have been developed and considered. Some of these methods include direct visualization, end-tidal carbon dioxide measurement and oesophageal detector devices. This research study aimed to explore and describe the existing literature on the verification of endotracheal tubes in the mechanically ventilated patient in the critical- care unit. A systematic review was done in order to operationalize the primary objective. Furthermore, based on the literature collected from the systematic review, recommendations for the verification of the endotracheal tube in the mechanically ventilated patient in the critical care unit were made. Ethical considerations were maintained throughout the study and the quality of the systematic review was ensured by performing a critical appraisal of the evidence found.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Fataar, Danielle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Respirators (Medical equipment) , Critical care medicine , Intensive care units
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10020 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008057 , Respirators (Medical equipment) , Critical care medicine , Intensive care units
- Description: Critically ill patients often require assistance by means of intubation and mechanical ventilation to support their spontaneous breathing if they are unable to maintain it. Mechanical ventilation is one of the most commonly used treatment modalities in the care of the critically ill patient and up to 90% of patients world-wide require mechanical ventilation during some or most parts of their stay in critical care units Management of a patient’s airway is a critical part of patient care both in and out of hospital. Although there are many methods used in verifying the correct placement of the endotracheal tube, the need and ability to verify placement of an endotracheal tube correctly is of utmost importance, because many complications can occur should the tube be incorrectly placed. Since unrecognized oesophageal intubation can have many disastrous effects on patients, various methods for verifying correct endotracheal tube placement have been developed and considered. Some of these methods include direct visualization, end-tidal carbon dioxide measurement and oesophageal detector devices. This research study aimed to explore and describe the existing literature on the verification of endotracheal tubes in the mechanically ventilated patient in the critical- care unit. A systematic review was done in order to operationalize the primary objective. Furthermore, based on the literature collected from the systematic review, recommendations for the verification of the endotracheal tube in the mechanically ventilated patient in the critical care unit were made. Ethical considerations were maintained throughout the study and the quality of the systematic review was ensured by performing a critical appraisal of the evidence found.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Enhancing financial accountability in the acquisition of goods and services : the case of the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Safety and Liaison
- Authors: Ndaleni, Phumla
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Government spending policy -- South Africa , Finance, Public , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8342 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020657
- Description: Supply Chain Management is an aspect of the procurement process which focuses on addressing the needs of both the service provider and the end user. It has a constitutional status which enables it to contribute towards addressing past discriminatory practices. It assists in correcting the imbalances of the past in the procurement of goods and services for government. Section 217(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996) specifies that procurement must be fair, equitable, transparent, competitive and cost effective. Accountability is the most critical element in improving financial management in the public sector. The objective of the study was to highlight the need for accountability in Public Finance Management. Additionally, it was intended to assess the respective roles of the various processes involved in the acquisition of goods and services with the goal of enhancing accountability in the Eastern Cape Department of Safety and Liaison in Bhisho. The study was conducted at the Head Office of the Supply Chain Management Section and the district offices with officials who are responsible for the procurement of goods and services. In order to achieve the objectives of the research, a survey was conducted using the qualitative method to ensure greater understanding and reliability. Convenience sampling was applied as it allowed the researcher to select the sample that was convenient. Moreover, it made it easier to reach the available participants. Data was gathered by means of face-to-face interviews for the Head Office respondents and telephonic interviews for the respondents of the district offices. The study concluded with recommendations emanating from the research findings that are meant to assist in improving accountability in Supply Chain Management within the Eastern Cape Department of Safety and Liaison.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ndaleni, Phumla
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Government spending policy -- South Africa , Finance, Public , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8342 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020657
- Description: Supply Chain Management is an aspect of the procurement process which focuses on addressing the needs of both the service provider and the end user. It has a constitutional status which enables it to contribute towards addressing past discriminatory practices. It assists in correcting the imbalances of the past in the procurement of goods and services for government. Section 217(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996) specifies that procurement must be fair, equitable, transparent, competitive and cost effective. Accountability is the most critical element in improving financial management in the public sector. The objective of the study was to highlight the need for accountability in Public Finance Management. Additionally, it was intended to assess the respective roles of the various processes involved in the acquisition of goods and services with the goal of enhancing accountability in the Eastern Cape Department of Safety and Liaison in Bhisho. The study was conducted at the Head Office of the Supply Chain Management Section and the district offices with officials who are responsible for the procurement of goods and services. In order to achieve the objectives of the research, a survey was conducted using the qualitative method to ensure greater understanding and reliability. Convenience sampling was applied as it allowed the researcher to select the sample that was convenient. Moreover, it made it easier to reach the available participants. Data was gathered by means of face-to-face interviews for the Head Office respondents and telephonic interviews for the respondents of the district offices. The study concluded with recommendations emanating from the research findings that are meant to assist in improving accountability in Supply Chain Management within the Eastern Cape Department of Safety and Liaison.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Enhancing sustainability of small black businesses in the Buffalo City Municipality
- Authors: Didi, Mzikhaya Welcome
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Small business -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8887 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020810
- Description: Governments all over the world cannot downplay the economic role of small businesses. It is accepted world-wide that this sector of the economy alleviates unemployment, creates wealth, encourages innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit. Various factors, both internal and external, make it difficult for small businesses to reach their true potential or realise their objectives. Internal factors would refer to areas such as lack of financial acumen, operational management expertise and marketing skills. External factors such as the business environment, competition, legislation, commercial institutions, amongst others, also contribute to the downfall of small businesses. The support that small businesses require is vital at the start-up phase of the business as it lays a solid base from which to proceed. The research emanates from a high failure of Small Black Businesses in the country, with the focus being on the Buffalo City Municipality (BCM). This section of the business community has a vital role to play in the well-being of this region. According to the South African Cities Network, BCM has a high rate of unemployment. The success of Small Black businesses in the area could offer many opportunities for productive people who would otherwise be condemned to unemployment. The literature review revealed a plethora of factors that hinder the success and development of small businesses. It has therefore become important to research these factors and come up with recommendations that are going to assist small businesses and society at large. There is an outcry against insufficient government support in assisting small businesses. Due to the research being qualitative in nature, date collection was by means of a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed in such a manner as to provide responses that would assist in addressing the challenges faced by small businesses. Data analysis entailed its transcription in order to allow the researcher to make notes. The next step was to do a preliminary data analysis in order to highlight emerging issues, identify relevant data and to give direction for seeking more data. A summary all the issues was subsequently prepared for interpretation. The study revealed that the problems experienced by small businesses are both internally and externally influenced. Small businesses have it within themselves to manage and control the internally influenced problems, contrary to the externally influenced factors. The study recommends additional governmental support in terms of providing skills development, financial support, removal of red tape, eradication of corruption and so on. Commercial financial institutions also have a vital role to play by removing some of the requirements that make it difficult for small businesses to access funding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Didi, Mzikhaya Welcome
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Small business -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8887 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020810
- Description: Governments all over the world cannot downplay the economic role of small businesses. It is accepted world-wide that this sector of the economy alleviates unemployment, creates wealth, encourages innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit. Various factors, both internal and external, make it difficult for small businesses to reach their true potential or realise their objectives. Internal factors would refer to areas such as lack of financial acumen, operational management expertise and marketing skills. External factors such as the business environment, competition, legislation, commercial institutions, amongst others, also contribute to the downfall of small businesses. The support that small businesses require is vital at the start-up phase of the business as it lays a solid base from which to proceed. The research emanates from a high failure of Small Black Businesses in the country, with the focus being on the Buffalo City Municipality (BCM). This section of the business community has a vital role to play in the well-being of this region. According to the South African Cities Network, BCM has a high rate of unemployment. The success of Small Black businesses in the area could offer many opportunities for productive people who would otherwise be condemned to unemployment. The literature review revealed a plethora of factors that hinder the success and development of small businesses. It has therefore become important to research these factors and come up with recommendations that are going to assist small businesses and society at large. There is an outcry against insufficient government support in assisting small businesses. Due to the research being qualitative in nature, date collection was by means of a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed in such a manner as to provide responses that would assist in addressing the challenges faced by small businesses. Data analysis entailed its transcription in order to allow the researcher to make notes. The next step was to do a preliminary data analysis in order to highlight emerging issues, identify relevant data and to give direction for seeking more data. A summary all the issues was subsequently prepared for interpretation. The study revealed that the problems experienced by small businesses are both internally and externally influenced. Small businesses have it within themselves to manage and control the internally influenced problems, contrary to the externally influenced factors. The study recommends additional governmental support in terms of providing skills development, financial support, removal of red tape, eradication of corruption and so on. Commercial financial institutions also have a vital role to play by removing some of the requirements that make it difficult for small businesses to access funding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Enhancing the accountability of ward councillors through public participation in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Ngeni, Siphiwo Christopher
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Buffalo City -- Citizen participation , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal officials and employees -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8292 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d10186906
- Description: In terms of section 152(1)(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 local government should provide a democratic and accountable service to local communities. Therefore, elected representatives and municipal officials must be accountable for their actions. This study investigates the influence of public participation in enhancing the accountability of ward councillors in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). For the purpose of the study, the hypothesis was formulated that accountability of ward councillors is hampered by improper public participation mechanisms in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). In order to achieve the goal of this study and to test the hypothesis, it was essential to review literature on the accountability of ward councillors and public participation in local government. Primary data was obtained by interviewing ward committees and ward councillors from Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Interviews were conducted with ward councillors and ward committees in wards 13 and 14 of BCMM. The major findings of the study, inter alia, are that ward councillors give feedback to their constituencies. Ward committees are instrumental in encouraging members of the public to attending these meetings. The most popular forum for public participation is the Independent Development Planning (IDP). It was established that approachability, accessibility and visibility of both ward councillors and ward committees in the community enhance public participation. The study concludes with recommendations that will assist the BCMM to enhance the accountability of ward councillors through public participation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ngeni, Siphiwo Christopher
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Buffalo City -- Citizen participation , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal officials and employees -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8292 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d10186906
- Description: In terms of section 152(1)(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 local government should provide a democratic and accountable service to local communities. Therefore, elected representatives and municipal officials must be accountable for their actions. This study investigates the influence of public participation in enhancing the accountability of ward councillors in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). For the purpose of the study, the hypothesis was formulated that accountability of ward councillors is hampered by improper public participation mechanisms in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). In order to achieve the goal of this study and to test the hypothesis, it was essential to review literature on the accountability of ward councillors and public participation in local government. Primary data was obtained by interviewing ward committees and ward councillors from Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Interviews were conducted with ward councillors and ward committees in wards 13 and 14 of BCMM. The major findings of the study, inter alia, are that ward councillors give feedback to their constituencies. Ward committees are instrumental in encouraging members of the public to attending these meetings. The most popular forum for public participation is the Independent Development Planning (IDP). It was established that approachability, accessibility and visibility of both ward councillors and ward committees in the community enhance public participation. The study concludes with recommendations that will assist the BCMM to enhance the accountability of ward councillors through public participation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Enhancing the organisational culture at Spar Eastern Cape: a case study
- Authors: Dick, Siyolo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Corporate culture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teams in the workplace -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chain stores -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8885 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020804
- Description: SPAR Eastern Cape is a special organisation. It is an extraordinary place to work and have fun at. The organisation celebrated its twentieth “birthday” in 2013. Operating in a very difficult sector, this business has done extremely well in establishing itself as one of the leading businesses in the Eastern Cape. The success of this incredible business is driven by employees from all levels. With an extreme conviction in the apothegm that “none of us is as smart as all of us”, the organisation is built around high performance teams through a unique culture called: Amafela Ndawonye (referred to as Amafela hereafter). “Amafela” has been in operation at SPAR Eastern Cape since the organisation’s inauguration in 1993. Organisational cultures are dynamic. Organisational cultures shift, incrementally and constantly, in response to external and internal changes. Trying to assess an organisational culture is therefore complicated by the reality that one is trying to hit a moving target. However, a possibility exists that culture enhancement can be managed as a continuous process rather than big shifts (often in response to a crisis). A stable destination with regards to organisational culture should never be reached. The culture of an organisation should always be learning and developing. This prompted the researcher to ask the question, as an organisation responds to internal and external changes; can it lose its relevancy in the process? The primary objective of this research is to determine whether the commitment to the culture of “Amafela” and relevancy thereof at SPAR Eastern Cape is declining. The first step in achieving this objective was an in-depth theoretical study. The second step, and in order to achieve this objective, was an empirical survey conducted to canvas the opinions of (N= 149) respondents at SPAR Eastern Cape. The main findings of this research conducted at SPAR Eastern Cape can be summarised as follows: The organisational culture was assessed according to how respondents interpret the organisation’s existing organisational culture, and thus underlining areas in need of enhancement. In general the outcome of the survey exhibited that a large number of employees at SPAR Eastern Cape denoted that the culture of “Amafela” is still strong and is still relevant in the organisation. In this research, good to excellent levels of consistency for all eleven factors of “Amafela” were achieved. The items are therefore parallel in the test. Organisational leaders will influence the function of the people within the organisation. Moreover, leadership will set the present and future course of the company. This research articulates a correlation between leadership and “Amafela” factors. The eleven dimensions of the “Amafela” factors ranked according from favourable to less favourable. Customer focus emerged as the factor which most respondents agreed and strongly agreed with. It can be concluded then, that the culture of “Amafela Ndawonye” at SPAR Eastern Cape has the full support of the employees and is still relevant in the organization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Dick, Siyolo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Corporate culture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teams in the workplace -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chain stores -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8885 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020804
- Description: SPAR Eastern Cape is a special organisation. It is an extraordinary place to work and have fun at. The organisation celebrated its twentieth “birthday” in 2013. Operating in a very difficult sector, this business has done extremely well in establishing itself as one of the leading businesses in the Eastern Cape. The success of this incredible business is driven by employees from all levels. With an extreme conviction in the apothegm that “none of us is as smart as all of us”, the organisation is built around high performance teams through a unique culture called: Amafela Ndawonye (referred to as Amafela hereafter). “Amafela” has been in operation at SPAR Eastern Cape since the organisation’s inauguration in 1993. Organisational cultures are dynamic. Organisational cultures shift, incrementally and constantly, in response to external and internal changes. Trying to assess an organisational culture is therefore complicated by the reality that one is trying to hit a moving target. However, a possibility exists that culture enhancement can be managed as a continuous process rather than big shifts (often in response to a crisis). A stable destination with regards to organisational culture should never be reached. The culture of an organisation should always be learning and developing. This prompted the researcher to ask the question, as an organisation responds to internal and external changes; can it lose its relevancy in the process? The primary objective of this research is to determine whether the commitment to the culture of “Amafela” and relevancy thereof at SPAR Eastern Cape is declining. The first step in achieving this objective was an in-depth theoretical study. The second step, and in order to achieve this objective, was an empirical survey conducted to canvas the opinions of (N= 149) respondents at SPAR Eastern Cape. The main findings of this research conducted at SPAR Eastern Cape can be summarised as follows: The organisational culture was assessed according to how respondents interpret the organisation’s existing organisational culture, and thus underlining areas in need of enhancement. In general the outcome of the survey exhibited that a large number of employees at SPAR Eastern Cape denoted that the culture of “Amafela” is still strong and is still relevant in the organisation. In this research, good to excellent levels of consistency for all eleven factors of “Amafela” were achieved. The items are therefore parallel in the test. Organisational leaders will influence the function of the people within the organisation. Moreover, leadership will set the present and future course of the company. This research articulates a correlation between leadership and “Amafela” factors. The eleven dimensions of the “Amafela” factors ranked according from favourable to less favourable. Customer focus emerged as the factor which most respondents agreed and strongly agreed with. It can be concluded then, that the culture of “Amafela Ndawonye” at SPAR Eastern Cape has the full support of the employees and is still relevant in the organization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Enhancing vehicle dynamics through real-time tyre temperature analysis
- Authors: Stroud, Trevor
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Automobiles, Racing -- Tires -- Testing , Tires -- Performance , Motor vehicles -- Springs and suspension , Motor vehicles -- Dynamics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Mechanical Engineering)
- Identifier: vital:9638 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020599
- Description: Vehicle suspension optimisation is a complex and difficult task, as there are a variety of factors influencing the dynamic performance of a vehicle. During suspension development, the optimisation of a selected few of these factors is often to the detriment of others, as they are all inter-related. In addition, expertise in vehicle setup and suspension tuning is scarce, and is limited to experienced racing teams and large automotive manufacturers with extensive research and development capabilities. The motivation for this research was therefore to provide objective and user-friendly methodologies for vehicle suspension optimisation, in order to support student projects like Formula Student, while having relevance to the needs of the South African automotive industry and racing community. With the onset of digital data acquisition, it has become feasible to take real-time measurements of tyre temperatures, to provide information on how a tyre is performing at a specific point on the track. Measuring the tyre surface temperature can provide a useful indication on whether the tyre is loaded equally or not, and what suspension adjustments should be made to improve tyre load distribution.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Stroud, Trevor
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Automobiles, Racing -- Tires -- Testing , Tires -- Performance , Motor vehicles -- Springs and suspension , Motor vehicles -- Dynamics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech (Mechanical Engineering)
- Identifier: vital:9638 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020599
- Description: Vehicle suspension optimisation is a complex and difficult task, as there are a variety of factors influencing the dynamic performance of a vehicle. During suspension development, the optimisation of a selected few of these factors is often to the detriment of others, as they are all inter-related. In addition, expertise in vehicle setup and suspension tuning is scarce, and is limited to experienced racing teams and large automotive manufacturers with extensive research and development capabilities. The motivation for this research was therefore to provide objective and user-friendly methodologies for vehicle suspension optimisation, in order to support student projects like Formula Student, while having relevance to the needs of the South African automotive industry and racing community. With the onset of digital data acquisition, it has become feasible to take real-time measurements of tyre temperatures, to provide information on how a tyre is performing at a specific point on the track. Measuring the tyre surface temperature can provide a useful indication on whether the tyre is loaded equally or not, and what suspension adjustments should be made to improve tyre load distribution.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Ensuring high quality public safety data in participatory crowdsourcing used as a smart city initiative
- Authors: Bhana, Bhaveer
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11141 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1014673
- Description: The increase in urbanisation is making the management of city resources a difficult task. Data collected through observations of the city surroundings can be used to improve decision-making in terms of manage city resources. However, the data collected must be of quality in order to ensure that effective and efficient decisions are made. This study is focused on improving emergency and non-emergency services (city resources) by using Participatory Crowdsourcing as a data collection method (collect public safety data) utilising voice technology in the form of an advanced IVR system known as the Spoken Web. The study illustrates how Participatory Crowdsourcing can be used as a Smart City initiative by illustrating what is required to contribute to the Smart City, and developing a roadmap in the form of a model to assist decision-making when selecting the optimal Crowdsourcing initiative. A Public Safety Data Quality criteria was also developed to assess and identify the problems affecting Data Quality. This study is guided by the Design Science methodology and utilises two driving theories: the characteristics of a Smart City, and Wang and Strong’s (1996) Data Quality Framework. Five Critical Success Factors were developed to ensure high quality public safety data is collected through Participatory Crowdsourcing utilising voice technologies. These Critical Success Factors include: Relevant Public Safety Data, Public Safety Reporting Instructions, Public Safety Data Interpretation and Presentation Format, Public Safety Data Integrity and Security, and Simple Participatory Crowdsourcing System Setup.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Bhana, Bhaveer
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11141 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1014673
- Description: The increase in urbanisation is making the management of city resources a difficult task. Data collected through observations of the city surroundings can be used to improve decision-making in terms of manage city resources. However, the data collected must be of quality in order to ensure that effective and efficient decisions are made. This study is focused on improving emergency and non-emergency services (city resources) by using Participatory Crowdsourcing as a data collection method (collect public safety data) utilising voice technology in the form of an advanced IVR system known as the Spoken Web. The study illustrates how Participatory Crowdsourcing can be used as a Smart City initiative by illustrating what is required to contribute to the Smart City, and developing a roadmap in the form of a model to assist decision-making when selecting the optimal Crowdsourcing initiative. A Public Safety Data Quality criteria was also developed to assess and identify the problems affecting Data Quality. This study is guided by the Design Science methodology and utilises two driving theories: the characteristics of a Smart City, and Wang and Strong’s (1996) Data Quality Framework. Five Critical Success Factors were developed to ensure high quality public safety data is collected through Participatory Crowdsourcing utilising voice technologies. These Critical Success Factors include: Relevant Public Safety Data, Public Safety Reporting Instructions, Public Safety Data Interpretation and Presentation Format, Public Safety Data Integrity and Security, and Simple Participatory Crowdsourcing System Setup.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Entomopathogenic fungi for control of soil-borne life stages of false codling moth, Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (1912) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
- Authors: Coombes, Candice Anne
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Tortricidae , Lepidoptera , Cryptophlebia leucotreta , Insect pests -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tortricidae -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Citrus -- Diseases and pests -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entomopathogenic fungi , Fungi as biological pest control agents , Biological pest control agents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5607 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002057 , Tortricidae , Lepidoptera , Cryptophlebia leucotreta , Insect pests -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tortricidae -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Citrus -- Diseases and pests -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entomopathogenic fungi , Fungi as biological pest control agents , Biological pest control agents
- Description: False codling moth (FCM), Thaumatotibia leucotreta is an extremely important pest of citrus in South Africa and with the shift away from the use of chemicals, alternate control options are needed. One avenue of control which has only recently been investigated against the soil-borne life stages of FCM is the use of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF). In 2009, 12 entomopathogenic fungal isolates collected from South African citrus orchards showed good control potential during laboratory conducted bioassays. The aim of this study was to further analyse the potential of these isolates through concentration-dose and exposure-time response bioassays. After initial re-screening, concentration-dose response and exposure-time response sandconidial bioassays, three isolates were identified as exhibiting the greatest control potential against FCM in soil, Metarhizium anisopliae var. anisopliae (G 11 3 L6 and FCM Ar 23 B3) and Beauveria bassiana (G Ar 17 B3). Percentage mycosis was found to be directly related to fungal concentration as well as the amount of time FCM 5th instar larvae were exposed to the fungal conidia. LC50 values for the three isolates were not greater than 1.92 x 10⁶ conidia.ml⁻ₑ and at the LC₅₀, FCM 5th instar larvae would need to be exposed to the fungus for a maximum of 13 days to ensure a high mortality level. These isolates along with two commercially available EPF products were subjected to field persistence trials whereby net bags filled with a mixture of autoclaved sand and formulated fungal product were buried in an Eastern Cape citrus orchard. The viability of each isolate was measured on a monthly basis for a period of six months. All isolates were capable of persisting in the soil for six months with the collected isolates persisting far better than the commercially used isolates. Two of the isolates, G 11 3 L6 and G Ar 17 B3, were subjected to small scale laboratory application trials. Two formulations were investigated at two concentrations. For each isolate, each formulation and each concentration, FCM 5th instar larvae were applied and allowed to burrow into the soil to pupate before fungal application or after fungal application. Contact between fungi and FCM host is essential as, in contrast to pre-larval treatments, percentage mortality in post-larval treatments was low for both formulations and both isolates. For isolate G Ar 17 B3, a conidial suspension applied as a spray at a concentration of 1 x 10⁷ conidia.ml⁻ₑ obtained the highest percentage mortality (80 %). For isolate G 11 3 L6 however, both formulations performed equally well at a high, 1 x10⁷ conidia.ml⁻ₑ concentration (conidial suspension: 60 %; granular: 65 %) The results obtained thus far are promising for the control of FCM in citrus, but if these EPFs are to successfully integrate into current FCM control practices more research, some of which is discussed, is essential
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Coombes, Candice Anne
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Tortricidae , Lepidoptera , Cryptophlebia leucotreta , Insect pests -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tortricidae -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Citrus -- Diseases and pests -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entomopathogenic fungi , Fungi as biological pest control agents , Biological pest control agents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5607 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002057 , Tortricidae , Lepidoptera , Cryptophlebia leucotreta , Insect pests -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tortricidae -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Citrus -- Diseases and pests -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entomopathogenic fungi , Fungi as biological pest control agents , Biological pest control agents
- Description: False codling moth (FCM), Thaumatotibia leucotreta is an extremely important pest of citrus in South Africa and with the shift away from the use of chemicals, alternate control options are needed. One avenue of control which has only recently been investigated against the soil-borne life stages of FCM is the use of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF). In 2009, 12 entomopathogenic fungal isolates collected from South African citrus orchards showed good control potential during laboratory conducted bioassays. The aim of this study was to further analyse the potential of these isolates through concentration-dose and exposure-time response bioassays. After initial re-screening, concentration-dose response and exposure-time response sandconidial bioassays, three isolates were identified as exhibiting the greatest control potential against FCM in soil, Metarhizium anisopliae var. anisopliae (G 11 3 L6 and FCM Ar 23 B3) and Beauveria bassiana (G Ar 17 B3). Percentage mycosis was found to be directly related to fungal concentration as well as the amount of time FCM 5th instar larvae were exposed to the fungal conidia. LC50 values for the three isolates were not greater than 1.92 x 10⁶ conidia.ml⁻ₑ and at the LC₅₀, FCM 5th instar larvae would need to be exposed to the fungus for a maximum of 13 days to ensure a high mortality level. These isolates along with two commercially available EPF products were subjected to field persistence trials whereby net bags filled with a mixture of autoclaved sand and formulated fungal product were buried in an Eastern Cape citrus orchard. The viability of each isolate was measured on a monthly basis for a period of six months. All isolates were capable of persisting in the soil for six months with the collected isolates persisting far better than the commercially used isolates. Two of the isolates, G 11 3 L6 and G Ar 17 B3, were subjected to small scale laboratory application trials. Two formulations were investigated at two concentrations. For each isolate, each formulation and each concentration, FCM 5th instar larvae were applied and allowed to burrow into the soil to pupate before fungal application or after fungal application. Contact between fungi and FCM host is essential as, in contrast to pre-larval treatments, percentage mortality in post-larval treatments was low for both formulations and both isolates. For isolate G Ar 17 B3, a conidial suspension applied as a spray at a concentration of 1 x 10⁷ conidia.ml⁻ₑ obtained the highest percentage mortality (80 %). For isolate G 11 3 L6 however, both formulations performed equally well at a high, 1 x10⁷ conidia.ml⁻ₑ concentration (conidial suspension: 60 %; granular: 65 %) The results obtained thus far are promising for the control of FCM in citrus, but if these EPFs are to successfully integrate into current FCM control practices more research, some of which is discussed, is essential
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Environmental sustainability leadership in South Africa: an empirical perspective
- Authors: May, Jode Joy
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Organizational change , Leadership , Business -- Environmental aspects , Strategic planning -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9320 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020766
- Description: Striking the balance between managing a successful organisation and paying attention to environmental sustainability requires excellent leadership. There are several benefits associated with being an environmentally sustainable organisation such as improved image (reputation and brand), increased customer loyalty, improved bottom line, attracting skilled experienced staff and improving the relationships with local communities. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the change leadership qualities needed to drive environmental sustainability in the South African landscape to reduce global warming reduction. The qualitative paradigm was utilised to investigate the change leadership qualities needed to affect create environmental sustainability, with focus on global warming reduction actions in the workplace. A literature review was conducted on environmental sustainability, change leadership, and leadership qualities necessary to effect change. A survey was conducted among 13 participants using an interview schedule in the Gauteng, Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa in both private and public organisations in various business sectors. Data was collected in 2013 over a four–month period by conducting face-to-face, telephonic and email interviews. The returned questionnaires were subjected to constant comparative, content and grounded theory analysis. Biographical profiles of the respondents and participating organisations were presented as case studies. Trustworthiness of the data was ascertained using data triangulation. Data was analysed in terms of the issues of environmental sustainability and change leadership. In-depth analyses were also conducted by means of provincial, business and employment sector comparisons. It was found that environmental sustainability was being addressed by the selected organisations, specifically relating to GHG emissions, energy and water saving actions. Change leaders should implement specific environmental sustainability strategies to assist in the reduction of global warming, create awareness, focus on employee involvement, report on their sustainability results and put and incentives in place to encourage environmental sustainability. In order to effect such changes, change leaders need to set targets to measure their sustainability progress. Green campaigns should be conducted internally to educate employees on the effects of global warming, and externally to inform the public about their commitment to environmental sustainability and to advise the public on courses of actions to assist in the quest to reduce global warming. It would be advisable for organisations to appoint a specific environmental sustainability team to drive these efforts. It was found that in order to bring about such changes, certain qualities were needed by change leaders to enable them to act as a change agents. Associated change leadership styles were also addressed. Change leaders should be knowledgeable in order to effectively communicate the importance of environmental sustainability. They should adopt a blend of leadership styles to drive environmental sustainability depending on the extent of change actions planned. Organisations should identify, appoint and mentor female leaders as they have the nurturing qualities that could successfully drive environmental sustainability actions. Change leaders should also preferably be personally involved in environmental sustainability as their personal values together with their job role at top leadership level could contribute towards successful implementation of environmental sustainability actions in the workplace. The study has provided general guidelines on the environmental sustainability issues necessary to address global warming reduction as well as guidelines on the change leaders qualities necessary to drive environmental sustainability actions in the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: May, Jode Joy
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Organizational change , Leadership , Business -- Environmental aspects , Strategic planning -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9320 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020766
- Description: Striking the balance between managing a successful organisation and paying attention to environmental sustainability requires excellent leadership. There are several benefits associated with being an environmentally sustainable organisation such as improved image (reputation and brand), increased customer loyalty, improved bottom line, attracting skilled experienced staff and improving the relationships with local communities. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the change leadership qualities needed to drive environmental sustainability in the South African landscape to reduce global warming reduction. The qualitative paradigm was utilised to investigate the change leadership qualities needed to affect create environmental sustainability, with focus on global warming reduction actions in the workplace. A literature review was conducted on environmental sustainability, change leadership, and leadership qualities necessary to effect change. A survey was conducted among 13 participants using an interview schedule in the Gauteng, Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa in both private and public organisations in various business sectors. Data was collected in 2013 over a four–month period by conducting face-to-face, telephonic and email interviews. The returned questionnaires were subjected to constant comparative, content and grounded theory analysis. Biographical profiles of the respondents and participating organisations were presented as case studies. Trustworthiness of the data was ascertained using data triangulation. Data was analysed in terms of the issues of environmental sustainability and change leadership. In-depth analyses were also conducted by means of provincial, business and employment sector comparisons. It was found that environmental sustainability was being addressed by the selected organisations, specifically relating to GHG emissions, energy and water saving actions. Change leaders should implement specific environmental sustainability strategies to assist in the reduction of global warming, create awareness, focus on employee involvement, report on their sustainability results and put and incentives in place to encourage environmental sustainability. In order to effect such changes, change leaders need to set targets to measure their sustainability progress. Green campaigns should be conducted internally to educate employees on the effects of global warming, and externally to inform the public about their commitment to environmental sustainability and to advise the public on courses of actions to assist in the quest to reduce global warming. It would be advisable for organisations to appoint a specific environmental sustainability team to drive these efforts. It was found that in order to bring about such changes, certain qualities were needed by change leaders to enable them to act as a change agents. Associated change leadership styles were also addressed. Change leaders should be knowledgeable in order to effectively communicate the importance of environmental sustainability. They should adopt a blend of leadership styles to drive environmental sustainability depending on the extent of change actions planned. Organisations should identify, appoint and mentor female leaders as they have the nurturing qualities that could successfully drive environmental sustainability actions. Change leaders should also preferably be personally involved in environmental sustainability as their personal values together with their job role at top leadership level could contribute towards successful implementation of environmental sustainability actions in the workplace. The study has provided general guidelines on the environmental sustainability issues necessary to address global warming reduction as well as guidelines on the change leaders qualities necessary to drive environmental sustainability actions in the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Environmentally friendly dyeing and finishing
- Authors: Dayla, Mackraj
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Dyes and dyeing -- Knit goods -- South Africa , Textile finishing -- South Africa , Bleaching industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10454 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020776
- Description: The textile industry in South Africa is a significant contributor to the chemical load that public wastewater treatment plants have to process, and the discharge of toxic substances, especially to the aquatic environment. In order to address this issue at factory level, the processes at a textile plant, JMV Textiles were chosen for investigation into the possibilities of minimization of discharges of harmful substances into the environment. The study followed the principles of cleaner production, and the processes that were investigated and revised were: The conventional peroxide bleaching process employed a peroxide stabilizer that did not biodegrade easily. The bleaching process was changed, so that the prevailing conditions in the fabric and dyebath facilitated bleaching without the addition of peroxide stabilizer, and also reduced the alkali and energy requirements. Polyester‐viscose fabric was pretreated by bleaching with hydrogen peroxide, which seemed to be unnecessarily rigorous, because polyester and viscose, unlike natural fibres, are relatively clean and have good whiteness in comparison with natural fibres. The proposed alternate pretreatment was a scour with detergent and alkali. The pretreatment for all polyester‐cotton fabrics was also a hydrogen peroxide bleach. Due to the ability of medium and dark shades to mask the natural tint of cotton fibres, a simpler alternate pretreatment, consisting of an alkaline scour with sequestering agent, was trialled. An unacceptable proportion of the dyeings on polyester was rejected for dye‐stains and dye‐marks. A possible solution exploited the properties of using the finishing auxiliary chemical to alleviate dye‐stains and dye‐marks during the dyeing stage, instead of using the chemical after dyeing. The highly toxic carrier that was used to facilitate level dyeing of polyester fibres that had unacceptable variation in their dyeing properties, was replaced by a less toxic carrier. The formulation for dyeing polyester was simplified to eliminate the auxiliary chemicals that were not essential to the dyeing process. Pale reactive dyed shades on cellulose and polyester‐cellulose were washed off only with hot water instead of detergent. The revised procedures consequential to the study, offered significant environmental benefits by reducing the concentration and volume of effluent produced, substituting a highly toxic carrier with a less toxic one and saving energy and water. Implementation of the suggested changes also offered financial benefits. The management of the factory, however, accepted and implemented some changes, but wanted further investigations for others and a phased approach to the other suggested changes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Dayla, Mackraj
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Dyes and dyeing -- Knit goods -- South Africa , Textile finishing -- South Africa , Bleaching industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10454 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020776
- Description: The textile industry in South Africa is a significant contributor to the chemical load that public wastewater treatment plants have to process, and the discharge of toxic substances, especially to the aquatic environment. In order to address this issue at factory level, the processes at a textile plant, JMV Textiles were chosen for investigation into the possibilities of minimization of discharges of harmful substances into the environment. The study followed the principles of cleaner production, and the processes that were investigated and revised were: The conventional peroxide bleaching process employed a peroxide stabilizer that did not biodegrade easily. The bleaching process was changed, so that the prevailing conditions in the fabric and dyebath facilitated bleaching without the addition of peroxide stabilizer, and also reduced the alkali and energy requirements. Polyester‐viscose fabric was pretreated by bleaching with hydrogen peroxide, which seemed to be unnecessarily rigorous, because polyester and viscose, unlike natural fibres, are relatively clean and have good whiteness in comparison with natural fibres. The proposed alternate pretreatment was a scour with detergent and alkali. The pretreatment for all polyester‐cotton fabrics was also a hydrogen peroxide bleach. Due to the ability of medium and dark shades to mask the natural tint of cotton fibres, a simpler alternate pretreatment, consisting of an alkaline scour with sequestering agent, was trialled. An unacceptable proportion of the dyeings on polyester was rejected for dye‐stains and dye‐marks. A possible solution exploited the properties of using the finishing auxiliary chemical to alleviate dye‐stains and dye‐marks during the dyeing stage, instead of using the chemical after dyeing. The highly toxic carrier that was used to facilitate level dyeing of polyester fibres that had unacceptable variation in their dyeing properties, was replaced by a less toxic carrier. The formulation for dyeing polyester was simplified to eliminate the auxiliary chemicals that were not essential to the dyeing process. Pale reactive dyed shades on cellulose and polyester‐cellulose were washed off only with hot water instead of detergent. The revised procedures consequential to the study, offered significant environmental benefits by reducing the concentration and volume of effluent produced, substituting a highly toxic carrier with a less toxic one and saving energy and water. Implementation of the suggested changes also offered financial benefits. The management of the factory, however, accepted and implemented some changes, but wanted further investigations for others and a phased approach to the other suggested changes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Establishing a fair sanction in misconduct cases
- Authors: Grigor, Francois
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa , Labor discipline -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10261 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021217
- Description: It is the right of every employee in South Africa not to be unfairly dismissed. According to the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 an employer may fairly dismiss an employee on the grounds of conduct, capacity or operational requirements. In addition, the employer is required to also comply with a fair procedure before effecting a dismissal. The requirement of procedural fairness is, however, not as stringent as it was under the previous dispensation established by the former Industrial Courts in terms of the earlier Labour Relations Act. The question as to whether or not a reason for dismissal is fair, is to be established by the facts of each individual case, and the suitability of dismissal as an appropriate remedy. It remains a challenge to establish if dismissal would be an appropriate sanction in a particular case of misconduct. The test is whether the award is one that a reasonable decision-maker could arrive at taking into account the evidence to be considered. It is no longer the employer’s view that is dominant, but “[u]ltimately, the commissioner’s sense of fairness is what must prevail”. The notion of fairness however applies equally to employer an employee and it involves balancing the competing and, every so often, inconsistent, interests of the employer on the one side, and the employee on the other side. The relative weight afforded to the particular interests creates very specific challenges, but nonetheless depends essentially on the overall circumstances of each individual case. Whether dismissal for misconduct is for a fair reason would established by the facts of the case, coupled with the appropriateness of dismissal as a sanction. Dismissal as a penalty should be reserved for cases involving serious misconduct and repeated disciplinary infractions. A crucial question would be whether the misconduct is of such a serious nature that it goes to the core of the employment relationship and makes any possible continued employment relationship intolerable. Additionally, apart from aspects like the importance of the rule breached and the harm caused by the employee’s breach, certain considerations should also be accounted, like length of service disciplinary history, and the employee’s personal circumstances, as well as the particular circumstances surrounding the infringement. Dishonest conduct by an employee that destroys the goodwill, trust and confidence an employer holds towards an employee, would normally be deemed as a significant breach which may justify a sanction of dismissal. The test is whether or not the misconduct was of such serious nature that it would make a continued employment relationship intolerable; “whether or not respondent’s actions had the effect of rendering the continuation of the relationship of employer and employee intolerable”. It still remains for the employer to present evidence that a continued relationship would be intolerable and not to merely liken serious misconduct with such a finding. Relatively recent case law seems to suggest that employers are entitled to a strict attitude towards dishonesty as a ground for dismissal. The objective of the CCMA Guidelines on Misconduct Arbitrations, effective from 1 January 2012, is to ensure that arbitrators issue consistent awards on dismissals involving misconduct. The questions that the guidelines seek to address are, inter alia, (i) how an arbitrator should conduct the proceedings; (ii) the valuation of evidence for the purpose of making an award; (iii) assessing the procedural fairness of a dismissal; (iv) assessing the substantive fairness of a dismissal; and (v) determining the remedy for an unfair dismissal. The Guidelines are peremptory in that arbitrators will have to take them into account and will have to provide an explanation if they deviate. It is undoubtedly a useful tool in guiding employers on what they need to present to commissioners at arbitration.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Grigor, Francois
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa , Labor discipline -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10261 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021217
- Description: It is the right of every employee in South Africa not to be unfairly dismissed. According to the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 an employer may fairly dismiss an employee on the grounds of conduct, capacity or operational requirements. In addition, the employer is required to also comply with a fair procedure before effecting a dismissal. The requirement of procedural fairness is, however, not as stringent as it was under the previous dispensation established by the former Industrial Courts in terms of the earlier Labour Relations Act. The question as to whether or not a reason for dismissal is fair, is to be established by the facts of each individual case, and the suitability of dismissal as an appropriate remedy. It remains a challenge to establish if dismissal would be an appropriate sanction in a particular case of misconduct. The test is whether the award is one that a reasonable decision-maker could arrive at taking into account the evidence to be considered. It is no longer the employer’s view that is dominant, but “[u]ltimately, the commissioner’s sense of fairness is what must prevail”. The notion of fairness however applies equally to employer an employee and it involves balancing the competing and, every so often, inconsistent, interests of the employer on the one side, and the employee on the other side. The relative weight afforded to the particular interests creates very specific challenges, but nonetheless depends essentially on the overall circumstances of each individual case. Whether dismissal for misconduct is for a fair reason would established by the facts of the case, coupled with the appropriateness of dismissal as a sanction. Dismissal as a penalty should be reserved for cases involving serious misconduct and repeated disciplinary infractions. A crucial question would be whether the misconduct is of such a serious nature that it goes to the core of the employment relationship and makes any possible continued employment relationship intolerable. Additionally, apart from aspects like the importance of the rule breached and the harm caused by the employee’s breach, certain considerations should also be accounted, like length of service disciplinary history, and the employee’s personal circumstances, as well as the particular circumstances surrounding the infringement. Dishonest conduct by an employee that destroys the goodwill, trust and confidence an employer holds towards an employee, would normally be deemed as a significant breach which may justify a sanction of dismissal. The test is whether or not the misconduct was of such serious nature that it would make a continued employment relationship intolerable; “whether or not respondent’s actions had the effect of rendering the continuation of the relationship of employer and employee intolerable”. It still remains for the employer to present evidence that a continued relationship would be intolerable and not to merely liken serious misconduct with such a finding. Relatively recent case law seems to suggest that employers are entitled to a strict attitude towards dishonesty as a ground for dismissal. The objective of the CCMA Guidelines on Misconduct Arbitrations, effective from 1 January 2012, is to ensure that arbitrators issue consistent awards on dismissals involving misconduct. The questions that the guidelines seek to address are, inter alia, (i) how an arbitrator should conduct the proceedings; (ii) the valuation of evidence for the purpose of making an award; (iii) assessing the procedural fairness of a dismissal; (iv) assessing the substantive fairness of a dismissal; and (v) determining the remedy for an unfair dismissal. The Guidelines are peremptory in that arbitrators will have to take them into account and will have to provide an explanation if they deviate. It is undoubtedly a useful tool in guiding employers on what they need to present to commissioners at arbitration.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Establishing a transformative institutional culture at a comprehensive South African university: the role of the arts
- Authors: Barry, Michael Peter
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Multicultural education -- South Africa , Education -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Educational change , Cultural pluralism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9561 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013069
- Description: Universities in South Africa have emerged from an exceptionally fragmented and divided past and are responding to this by reconceptualising and restructuring their institutional governance structures. This is been done through the introduction of policies and strategies aimed at transforming institutional landscapes and creating environments that are conducive to meeting the demands and pressures of a transformed SA. Previous studies have indicated that there is a need for institutional transformation and change at newly merged universities in SA. However, very little is known about the possible role the arts could play in institutional change and transformation processes and what Badat refers to, when referencing the process of institutional transformation, as “the dissolution of existing social relations and institutions, policies and practices, and their re-creation and consolidation into something substantially new” (2009:456). The goal of this research study is to explore the views, opinions and perceptions of key stakeholders and decision-makers at a comprehensive South African university, in this case, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), in order to gain their insights into the role the arts could play in creating and consolidating a transformative institutional culture at a merged university in SA. The data was obtained from semi-structured interviews with 16 key decision-makers and stakeholders at NMMU. Based on the thematic data analysis, the responses from these key stakeholders indicate that there is wide support for the arts to play a role in the establishment of a transformative institutional culture and it appears that not only should the arts play a role, they should play a central role.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Barry, Michael Peter
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Multicultural education -- South Africa , Education -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Educational change , Cultural pluralism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9561 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013069
- Description: Universities in South Africa have emerged from an exceptionally fragmented and divided past and are responding to this by reconceptualising and restructuring their institutional governance structures. This is been done through the introduction of policies and strategies aimed at transforming institutional landscapes and creating environments that are conducive to meeting the demands and pressures of a transformed SA. Previous studies have indicated that there is a need for institutional transformation and change at newly merged universities in SA. However, very little is known about the possible role the arts could play in institutional change and transformation processes and what Badat refers to, when referencing the process of institutional transformation, as “the dissolution of existing social relations and institutions, policies and practices, and their re-creation and consolidation into something substantially new” (2009:456). The goal of this research study is to explore the views, opinions and perceptions of key stakeholders and decision-makers at a comprehensive South African university, in this case, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), in order to gain their insights into the role the arts could play in creating and consolidating a transformative institutional culture at a merged university in SA. The data was obtained from semi-structured interviews with 16 key decision-makers and stakeholders at NMMU. Based on the thematic data analysis, the responses from these key stakeholders indicate that there is wide support for the arts to play a role in the establishment of a transformative institutional culture and it appears that not only should the arts play a role, they should play a central role.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Euryops floribundus encroachment in Eastern Cape communal rangelands: indigenous and scientific understanding of effects on range
- Authors: Gxasheka, Masibonge
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Euryops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa - Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Pasture Science)
- Identifier: vital:11585 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016203 , Euryops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa - Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The study was conducted in Eastern Cape Province to 1) investigate local people’s knowledge and perceptions on Euryops floribundus and 2) landscape distribution and effect of Euryops floribundus on herbaceous vegetation and soil. A total of 90 households who own livestock were randomly selected from the three communal areas, namely; Tsengiwe, Upper Mnxe and Manzimdaka for household surveys and group discussions. For landscape study, a total of about 5 ha of land were selected at Upper Mnxe communal area. Selection criteria included the presence of E. floribundus and different landscape gradients. A total of four 50mx50 plots were marked along the landscape gradients: Bottom, Middle, and Upper Slope and upland positions. To study the effect of E. floribundus invasion on the herbaceous vegetation and soil, a total of 4 ha communal land was selected in an accessible area which had a largely flat terrain. The area was selected to have adjacent sites with no invasion (< 5% shrub cover), light (5-15% shrub cover), moderate (>15-35) and heavy invasions (>35% shrub cover) of E. floribundus. The average household size in the study area was 6.8± 0.7. All people in the three communal areas unanimously ranked sheep as the most important species for their livelihood, but the ranking of cattle and goat varied among the communal areas. All elder groups agreed that Europs floribundus decreases both the quantity and quality of herbaceous forage as well as livestock production. Moreover, invaded patches create more bare areas which are responsible for the loss of top fertile soils and the formation of rills and gullies. The result showed that the total density of E. floribundus significantly increased from the topland (2301 plants ha-1) moving to the bottomland (4888 plants ha-1). Canopy cover was significantly lowest in the topland (17.9%), but the remaining gradients had similar cover. Grass dry matter yield was higher in the bottomlands and sloppy gradients than the toplands. Soil organic carbon was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the flat than the sloppy terrain. Soils from higher elevations (toplands and upper sloppy) had significantly higher N than the lower elevations (bottomlands and Middle sloppy). The lowest dry matter was observed at low invasion and non-invaded sites. Soil chemical properties were generally different from all density levels. In conclusion, E. floribundus encroachment was found to be major cause of decline in the peoples’ livelihood because as this reduces the vegetation diversity and livestock production, both of which are the major of their livelihoods.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gxasheka, Masibonge
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Euryops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa - Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Pasture Science)
- Identifier: vital:11585 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016203 , Euryops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa - Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The study was conducted in Eastern Cape Province to 1) investigate local people’s knowledge and perceptions on Euryops floribundus and 2) landscape distribution and effect of Euryops floribundus on herbaceous vegetation and soil. A total of 90 households who own livestock were randomly selected from the three communal areas, namely; Tsengiwe, Upper Mnxe and Manzimdaka for household surveys and group discussions. For landscape study, a total of about 5 ha of land were selected at Upper Mnxe communal area. Selection criteria included the presence of E. floribundus and different landscape gradients. A total of four 50mx50 plots were marked along the landscape gradients: Bottom, Middle, and Upper Slope and upland positions. To study the effect of E. floribundus invasion on the herbaceous vegetation and soil, a total of 4 ha communal land was selected in an accessible area which had a largely flat terrain. The area was selected to have adjacent sites with no invasion (< 5% shrub cover), light (5-15% shrub cover), moderate (>15-35) and heavy invasions (>35% shrub cover) of E. floribundus. The average household size in the study area was 6.8± 0.7. All people in the three communal areas unanimously ranked sheep as the most important species for their livelihood, but the ranking of cattle and goat varied among the communal areas. All elder groups agreed that Europs floribundus decreases both the quantity and quality of herbaceous forage as well as livestock production. Moreover, invaded patches create more bare areas which are responsible for the loss of top fertile soils and the formation of rills and gullies. The result showed that the total density of E. floribundus significantly increased from the topland (2301 plants ha-1) moving to the bottomland (4888 plants ha-1). Canopy cover was significantly lowest in the topland (17.9%), but the remaining gradients had similar cover. Grass dry matter yield was higher in the bottomlands and sloppy gradients than the toplands. Soil organic carbon was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the flat than the sloppy terrain. Soils from higher elevations (toplands and upper sloppy) had significantly higher N than the lower elevations (bottomlands and Middle sloppy). The lowest dry matter was observed at low invasion and non-invaded sites. Soil chemical properties were generally different from all density levels. In conclusion, E. floribundus encroachment was found to be major cause of decline in the peoples’ livelihood because as this reduces the vegetation diversity and livestock production, both of which are the major of their livelihoods.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Euthanasia: a modern legal perspective
- Authors: Welgemoed, Marc
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Right to die -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Terminally ill -- Legal status, laws, etc. -- South Africa , Euthanasia -- South Africa Assisted suicide -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45849 , vital:39222
- Description: Euthanasia and assisted suicide is currently illegal in South Africa and amounts to murder. Despite the fact that South Africa has a Constitution, including a Bill of Rights, as well as strong lobbying in favour of the legalization of euthanasia, no legal changes have been effected. Other issues closely intricated with euthanasia, like the so-called “living wills” and palliative care, where an increase of medication can possibly shorten the lifespan of a patient (“double-effect”-medication), are also problematic at the moment. The South African Law Commission has made recommendations regarding the legalization of euthanasia and assisted suicide, as well as the validity of living wills and “double-effect” palliative care practices as far back as 1997, but to present none of the recommendations had been adhered to. The only indication in favour of the toleration of euthanasia and assisted suicide is that the courts have handed down lenient sentences in cases of this nature. In this treatise the legal position in South Africa is compared to that applicable in the Netherlands and in Canada in an attempt to see whether or not South Africa can learn something from these countries as far as the development of its own legal system, relating to euthanasia, is concerned. The Termination of End of Life Decisions and Assisted Suicide Act is applicable in the Netherlands and legalizes euthanasia and assisted suicide subject to strict requirements being complied with. Although euthanasia is illegal in Canada, the courts have recently shown a noteworthy human rights approach that almost resulted in the legal position in the province of British Columbia being changed. It will be submitted that South Africa must take thorough note of these two foreign legal systems, as well as of the recommendations of the South African Law Commission and the Bill of Rights, especially the rights to life, dignity, equality and freedom and security of the person.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Welgemoed, Marc
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Right to die -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Terminally ill -- Legal status, laws, etc. -- South Africa , Euthanasia -- South Africa Assisted suicide -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45849 , vital:39222
- Description: Euthanasia and assisted suicide is currently illegal in South Africa and amounts to murder. Despite the fact that South Africa has a Constitution, including a Bill of Rights, as well as strong lobbying in favour of the legalization of euthanasia, no legal changes have been effected. Other issues closely intricated with euthanasia, like the so-called “living wills” and palliative care, where an increase of medication can possibly shorten the lifespan of a patient (“double-effect”-medication), are also problematic at the moment. The South African Law Commission has made recommendations regarding the legalization of euthanasia and assisted suicide, as well as the validity of living wills and “double-effect” palliative care practices as far back as 1997, but to present none of the recommendations had been adhered to. The only indication in favour of the toleration of euthanasia and assisted suicide is that the courts have handed down lenient sentences in cases of this nature. In this treatise the legal position in South Africa is compared to that applicable in the Netherlands and in Canada in an attempt to see whether or not South Africa can learn something from these countries as far as the development of its own legal system, relating to euthanasia, is concerned. The Termination of End of Life Decisions and Assisted Suicide Act is applicable in the Netherlands and legalizes euthanasia and assisted suicide subject to strict requirements being complied with. Although euthanasia is illegal in Canada, the courts have recently shown a noteworthy human rights approach that almost resulted in the legal position in the province of British Columbia being changed. It will be submitted that South Africa must take thorough note of these two foreign legal systems, as well as of the recommendations of the South African Law Commission and the Bill of Rights, especially the rights to life, dignity, equality and freedom and security of the person.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Evaluating integrated participatory planning in a decentralised governance system: the case of Yei River County, Southern Sudan
- Authors: Matata, Khamis Charles
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Decentralization in government -- South Sudan , Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Sudan , Local government -- South Sudan , Political participation -- South Sudan , Human services -- South Sudan , Sustainable development -- South Sudan , Economic development -- South Sudan , South Sudan -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11656 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006985 , Decentralization in government -- South Sudan , Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Sudan , Local government -- South Sudan , Political participation -- South Sudan , Human services -- South Sudan , Sustainable development -- South Sudan , Economic development -- South Sudan , South Sudan -- Politics and government
- Description: Local government is an important level of participatory democracy, where communities play an active role not only as the electorate, but also as end-users and consumers, and thereby holding their municipal councils accountable for their actions. Given the above statement, the interim Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan 2011, entrusts local government with the provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner. It also provides for the promotion of social and economic development and the promotion of a safe and healthy environment. This also entails the need for a commitment to service delivery hence, public representatives and public officials must take seriously their obligation to render services to the people that could be in the form of ensuring that refuse gets collected, electricity being supplied and other services rendered which better the general welfare of citizens. There are several definitions of public participation, but it can be defined as a process of empowering citizens by involving them in making decisions on all issues that concern them, which can be political, social or economic. The main aim of this study was to, investigate and identify the nature and extent of integrated participatory planning in Yei River County and the extent to which opportunities for public participation are accessible to the communities. The study sought to investigate: How different stakeholders in the community in Yei River County make use of public participation opportunities during the integrated participatory planning process? As such, the main objectives of the study were to; to assess the existing integrated participatory planning practices in Yei River County, to examine and evaluate how the existing integrated participatory planning practices influence service delivery in Yei River County and lastly to identify the barriers to effective integrated participatory planning in YRC and advance recommendations for improvement. Purposive and snowball sampling methods were used and data was collected from a sample of two hundred and twenty-six (226) public officials, comprising of Local Government officials, County councillors and members of the public. Results from the data collected using open and close-ended questionnaires, showed that public participation is very important in local government planning as it leads to incorporation of public suggestions and interests in the development strategies. The results further showed that public meetings and workshops were the only public participation mechanisms being used by Yei River County. The study therefore recommended among other things that, Yei River County should strengthen public participation in integrated participatory planning by providing adequate skilled human resources and establishing structures, as well as public participation mechanisms at the Payam and Boma levels. It was also recommended that the communities needed to utilise all available mechanisms of participation to ensure maximum participation during the integrated participatory planning processes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Matata, Khamis Charles
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Decentralization in government -- South Sudan , Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Sudan , Local government -- South Sudan , Political participation -- South Sudan , Human services -- South Sudan , Sustainable development -- South Sudan , Economic development -- South Sudan , South Sudan -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11656 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006985 , Decentralization in government -- South Sudan , Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Sudan , Local government -- South Sudan , Political participation -- South Sudan , Human services -- South Sudan , Sustainable development -- South Sudan , Economic development -- South Sudan , South Sudan -- Politics and government
- Description: Local government is an important level of participatory democracy, where communities play an active role not only as the electorate, but also as end-users and consumers, and thereby holding their municipal councils accountable for their actions. Given the above statement, the interim Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan 2011, entrusts local government with the provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner. It also provides for the promotion of social and economic development and the promotion of a safe and healthy environment. This also entails the need for a commitment to service delivery hence, public representatives and public officials must take seriously their obligation to render services to the people that could be in the form of ensuring that refuse gets collected, electricity being supplied and other services rendered which better the general welfare of citizens. There are several definitions of public participation, but it can be defined as a process of empowering citizens by involving them in making decisions on all issues that concern them, which can be political, social or economic. The main aim of this study was to, investigate and identify the nature and extent of integrated participatory planning in Yei River County and the extent to which opportunities for public participation are accessible to the communities. The study sought to investigate: How different stakeholders in the community in Yei River County make use of public participation opportunities during the integrated participatory planning process? As such, the main objectives of the study were to; to assess the existing integrated participatory planning practices in Yei River County, to examine and evaluate how the existing integrated participatory planning practices influence service delivery in Yei River County and lastly to identify the barriers to effective integrated participatory planning in YRC and advance recommendations for improvement. Purposive and snowball sampling methods were used and data was collected from a sample of two hundred and twenty-six (226) public officials, comprising of Local Government officials, County councillors and members of the public. Results from the data collected using open and close-ended questionnaires, showed that public participation is very important in local government planning as it leads to incorporation of public suggestions and interests in the development strategies. The results further showed that public meetings and workshops were the only public participation mechanisms being used by Yei River County. The study therefore recommended among other things that, Yei River County should strengthen public participation in integrated participatory planning by providing adequate skilled human resources and establishing structures, as well as public participation mechanisms at the Payam and Boma levels. It was also recommended that the communities needed to utilise all available mechanisms of participation to ensure maximum participation during the integrated participatory planning processes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Evaluating social media participation for successful marketing and communication by selected private game reserves, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Booth, Tara
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social media -- Economic aspects , Online social networks -- Economic aspects , Game reserves -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Marketing , Internet marketing -- Economic aspects , Social media -- Marketing , Tourism -- Marketing , Communication in management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:843 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015692
- Description: Social media has become one of the defining features of the technological advances known as Web 2.0. As social media has increased in popularity, so businesses are expected to participate. Social media platforms enable businesses to widely broadcast a message as well as interact directly with individual customers. Customers are also able to interact directly with one another and share information and reviews about products and services offered. This suits the tourism industry particularly well. Internationally, research has shown that individuals use social media and other online tools to research potential holiday destinations. In addition social media is used during travel to share snapshots and commentary as well as after travel, through reviews and recommendations on platforms such as TripAdvisor. However, few studies have investigated how tourism destinations use social media to attract new clients and retain existing clients. Very little research has been done on tourism and social media in South Africa despite the importance of this industry to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This study focused on four-star establishments within the photographic wildlife tourism industry in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. An initial survey of social media participation was carried out within the framework set out by Chan and Guillet (2011); this was then followed up with interviews with selected managers. Results showed that, in general, Private Game Reserves (PGRs) had embraced social media as a communication and marketing platform; despite concerns raised about the lack of control over content as well as poor understanding of the influence social media might have on the bottom line. TripAdvisor, Facebook and Twitter were the most commonly used platforms due to management familiarity with the platform and their ease of use. Few lodges utilised blogs or content sites such as YouTube and management cited time commitments associated with this type of platform as a reason for non-participation. However, although most PGRs or lodges had a profile on social media, this did not always mean active participation. Frequently, lodges began updating but gradually stopped after a few months. It was noted however that only one of the lodges interviewed retained an individual whose sole responsibility was social media; generally lodges did not feel that a dedicated person was necessary. This may result in a lack of time available on the part of the individual responsible or simply be a case of not understanding the platform or how to use it effectively. However, none of the PGRs with poor social media participation responded to interview requests and therefore it was not possible to determine the reasons for their poor participation. Among those lodges that actively participated, most succeed in retaining fans and followers through consistent posting of relevant and interesting content as well as customised responses that encouraged fans or followers’ interaction. However, there did not appear to be any evidence of using social media to learn about fans and followers in order to better customise the lodge offerings. This may not be necessary in this type of industry as PGRs sell a specific product and have a limited ability to customise offerings. In addition, there may be other sources of market information which lodges prefer to use. Special offers, competitions and promotions had limited success on social media. Generally, lodges used social media to promote links to a dedicated competition or promotions page. In conclusion, the managers interviewed felt strongly that social media had made a measureable impact on the tourism industry and was a channel that was here to stay. Further research around the best practice and most effective use will enable PGRs to develop and maintain effective strategies for social media participation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Booth, Tara
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social media -- Economic aspects , Online social networks -- Economic aspects , Game reserves -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Marketing , Internet marketing -- Economic aspects , Social media -- Marketing , Tourism -- Marketing , Communication in management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:843 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015692
- Description: Social media has become one of the defining features of the technological advances known as Web 2.0. As social media has increased in popularity, so businesses are expected to participate. Social media platforms enable businesses to widely broadcast a message as well as interact directly with individual customers. Customers are also able to interact directly with one another and share information and reviews about products and services offered. This suits the tourism industry particularly well. Internationally, research has shown that individuals use social media and other online tools to research potential holiday destinations. In addition social media is used during travel to share snapshots and commentary as well as after travel, through reviews and recommendations on platforms such as TripAdvisor. However, few studies have investigated how tourism destinations use social media to attract new clients and retain existing clients. Very little research has been done on tourism and social media in South Africa despite the importance of this industry to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This study focused on four-star establishments within the photographic wildlife tourism industry in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. An initial survey of social media participation was carried out within the framework set out by Chan and Guillet (2011); this was then followed up with interviews with selected managers. Results showed that, in general, Private Game Reserves (PGRs) had embraced social media as a communication and marketing platform; despite concerns raised about the lack of control over content as well as poor understanding of the influence social media might have on the bottom line. TripAdvisor, Facebook and Twitter were the most commonly used platforms due to management familiarity with the platform and their ease of use. Few lodges utilised blogs or content sites such as YouTube and management cited time commitments associated with this type of platform as a reason for non-participation. However, although most PGRs or lodges had a profile on social media, this did not always mean active participation. Frequently, lodges began updating but gradually stopped after a few months. It was noted however that only one of the lodges interviewed retained an individual whose sole responsibility was social media; generally lodges did not feel that a dedicated person was necessary. This may result in a lack of time available on the part of the individual responsible or simply be a case of not understanding the platform or how to use it effectively. However, none of the PGRs with poor social media participation responded to interview requests and therefore it was not possible to determine the reasons for their poor participation. Among those lodges that actively participated, most succeed in retaining fans and followers through consistent posting of relevant and interesting content as well as customised responses that encouraged fans or followers’ interaction. However, there did not appear to be any evidence of using social media to learn about fans and followers in order to better customise the lodge offerings. This may not be necessary in this type of industry as PGRs sell a specific product and have a limited ability to customise offerings. In addition, there may be other sources of market information which lodges prefer to use. Special offers, competitions and promotions had limited success on social media. Generally, lodges used social media to promote links to a dedicated competition or promotions page. In conclusion, the managers interviewed felt strongly that social media had made a measureable impact on the tourism industry and was a channel that was here to stay. Further research around the best practice and most effective use will enable PGRs to develop and maintain effective strategies for social media participation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Evaluating the effect of microalgae biomass on the combustion of coal
- Authors: Ejesieme, Obialo Vitus
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Co-combustion , Coal -- Combustion , Biomass -- Combustion
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10435 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020641
- Description: In this work the combustion characteristics of coal, charcoal, microalgae biomass and blends between these three components were evaluated by means of non-isothermal thermogravimetry. Blends between coal, charcoal and microalgae biomass were made according to the specifications of a D-optimal mixture design so as to be able to model interactions between the three components with maximum precision despite multiple constraints built into the design. These constraints specified that coal can have a minimum value of 70 mass percent in any blend, while microalgae can have a maximum value of 20 mass percent. While coal and charcoal were blended by mixing the two respective dry components, microalgae biomass was incorporated into the blends by first absorbing microalgae onto fine coal from concentrated slurry of the microalgae in water. The microalgae in these blends were therefore intimately associated with the coal. This approach differed substantially from the normal practice of preparing coal – biomass blends (which are usually dry-mixed as for coal – charcoal blends). Proximate analyses of the starting materials showed that the microalgae biomass has a significantly higher volatile matter: fixed carbon content than both coal and charcoal, which should improve the combustion of these materials by providing a more stable combustion flame. Analyses of the thermogravimetric data obtained showed that coal and charcoal have much simpler combustion profiles than microalgae biomass for which five different thermal events could be observed in the DTG combustion profile. Qualitative kinetic analyses showed that the combustion of coal and charcoal follows first-order kinetics, but for microalgae biomass combustion, the first two combustion stages appear to follow first-order kinetics. The TG and DTG profiles for coal, charcoal, microalgae and blends of these three components were used to derive values for the so-called comprehensive combustion property index (S-value), which provides a combined measure of the ease of ignition, rate of combustion, and burn-out temperature. The S-values so obtained were used as response variable for the construction of a response surface model in the experimental domain investigated. Following statistical validation of the response surface model, the model was used to predict an optimum S-value or a blend that would display optimum combustion behaviour. Two optimum blends were obtained from the optimisation process, one in which only charcoal is added to coal, and one in which only microalgae is added to coal. Adding both charcoal and microalgae produced an antagonistic effect compared to when only one of these are used. Qualitative kinetic analyses of the combustion data of blends indicate that blends of coal and charcoal combust in a manner similar to the individual components (hence following first-order kinetics), but blends of coal and microalgae follow more complex kinetics despite the fact that the combustion profile is visibly more simple compared to the combustion profile for microalgae alone.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ejesieme, Obialo Vitus
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Co-combustion , Coal -- Combustion , Biomass -- Combustion
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10435 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020641
- Description: In this work the combustion characteristics of coal, charcoal, microalgae biomass and blends between these three components were evaluated by means of non-isothermal thermogravimetry. Blends between coal, charcoal and microalgae biomass were made according to the specifications of a D-optimal mixture design so as to be able to model interactions between the three components with maximum precision despite multiple constraints built into the design. These constraints specified that coal can have a minimum value of 70 mass percent in any blend, while microalgae can have a maximum value of 20 mass percent. While coal and charcoal were blended by mixing the two respective dry components, microalgae biomass was incorporated into the blends by first absorbing microalgae onto fine coal from concentrated slurry of the microalgae in water. The microalgae in these blends were therefore intimately associated with the coal. This approach differed substantially from the normal practice of preparing coal – biomass blends (which are usually dry-mixed as for coal – charcoal blends). Proximate analyses of the starting materials showed that the microalgae biomass has a significantly higher volatile matter: fixed carbon content than both coal and charcoal, which should improve the combustion of these materials by providing a more stable combustion flame. Analyses of the thermogravimetric data obtained showed that coal and charcoal have much simpler combustion profiles than microalgae biomass for which five different thermal events could be observed in the DTG combustion profile. Qualitative kinetic analyses showed that the combustion of coal and charcoal follows first-order kinetics, but for microalgae biomass combustion, the first two combustion stages appear to follow first-order kinetics. The TG and DTG profiles for coal, charcoal, microalgae and blends of these three components were used to derive values for the so-called comprehensive combustion property index (S-value), which provides a combined measure of the ease of ignition, rate of combustion, and burn-out temperature. The S-values so obtained were used as response variable for the construction of a response surface model in the experimental domain investigated. Following statistical validation of the response surface model, the model was used to predict an optimum S-value or a blend that would display optimum combustion behaviour. Two optimum blends were obtained from the optimisation process, one in which only charcoal is added to coal, and one in which only microalgae is added to coal. Adding both charcoal and microalgae produced an antagonistic effect compared to when only one of these are used. Qualitative kinetic analyses of the combustion data of blends indicate that blends of coal and charcoal combust in a manner similar to the individual components (hence following first-order kinetics), but blends of coal and microalgae follow more complex kinetics despite the fact that the combustion profile is visibly more simple compared to the combustion profile for microalgae alone.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Evaluating the effectiveness of the business funding model in developing small, micro and medium sized enterprises (SMMEs) with particular reference to OR Tambo District Municipality
- Authors: Yalezo, Bhasela
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- Finance -- South Africa -- OR Tambo Municipality , New business enterprises -- Finance -- OR Tambo Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9078 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008480 , Small business -- Finance -- South Africa -- OR Tambo Municipality , New business enterprises -- Finance -- OR Tambo Municipality
- Description: A great deal of taxpayers’ money has gone to a lot of SMME development initiatives. Despite this effort over the past 17 years, South Africa (SA) lags behind other developing countries, in promoting the growth and sustainability of SMMEs. The impact and achievements of government initiatives have fallen disappointingly short of aspiration (Business Development in South Africa. 2009. Occasional paper). Aims and Objectives: •To evaluate and reflect on the OR Tambo District Municipality SMME funding model and establish whether it has made the desired impact. •Determine if funds that have been channelled by the SA government to SMMEs for business expansion, start-ups, grants, and special industry development have yielded quantifiable results and •Assess the private funding institutions in assisting destitute entrepreneurs in the OR Tambo District municipality. Research methodology: The study was conducted using qualitative research and a questionnaire was used as a data collection tool. The researcher was able to get valuable information on stakeholders in the SMME sector. The stakeholders (SMMEs and funders), formed the core research sample. Results: findings suggest that the OR Tambo Municipality has a funding gap and the current funding model both from public and private funders is not effective in developing SMMEs in the municipality. The overwhelming majority of SMMEs agreed that there is a funding gap between funders and enterprises that seek funding in the ORTDM. “Financing gap” terminology, Underhill Corporate Solutions (UCS) (2011:52) defines it as, ‘a sizeable share of economically significant SMEs cannot obtain financing from banks, capital markets or other finance suppliers.’ About 90 percent of the interviewed SMMEs agreed that there is huge funding gap and 10 percent disputed this and said that there is no funding gap; rather, it’s a funding mismatch between the funders and SMMEs which needs to be tackled by all SMMEs stakeholders. The funding model needs to be revamped so it can also be accessible to start-ups, the unemployed, people with less business management experience and limited skills, and to all sectors of the economy. Various recommendations and suggestions for further research are made based on the research findings. Conclusion: The study has shown that the current SMME funding model is not effective and does not assist in developing SMMEs in ORTDM. The research findings depict the funding plight of SMMEs in South Africa; the SMME plight in ORTDM is more real than imaginary. 70 percent of SMMEs expressed less confidence in government SMMEs agencies in terms of assistance. The bigger portion of SMMEs felt that the funds channelled to government agencies were not providing significant assistance in developing SMMEs in ORTDM. Recommendations: The conclusive response from the sample, reflect structural challenges in the current funding model. About 70 percent of funding institution`s officials said “yes”, the low yield on SMME growth is a matter of funding. The funds which were meant to fund SMMEs for one reason or the other do not reach SMMEs which are looking for funding. Hence the funds channelled in the sector in the last 17 years have not yielded the desired results. 40 percent interviewed government officials conceded that there is serious political meddling in funding SMMEs in the whole province and ORTDM could not be an exception to this rule. 80 percent of interviewed SMMEs in ORTDM said funding was their main problem, and the other 20 percent indicated that their problem was not a matter of funding. The public and the private sector must revise the current funding model or devise another funding model that will: •bridge the existing current funding gap, •distribute the SMME allocated budget and achieve maximum efficiency in budget allocation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Yalezo, Bhasela
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- Finance -- South Africa -- OR Tambo Municipality , New business enterprises -- Finance -- OR Tambo Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9078 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008480 , Small business -- Finance -- South Africa -- OR Tambo Municipality , New business enterprises -- Finance -- OR Tambo Municipality
- Description: A great deal of taxpayers’ money has gone to a lot of SMME development initiatives. Despite this effort over the past 17 years, South Africa (SA) lags behind other developing countries, in promoting the growth and sustainability of SMMEs. The impact and achievements of government initiatives have fallen disappointingly short of aspiration (Business Development in South Africa. 2009. Occasional paper). Aims and Objectives: •To evaluate and reflect on the OR Tambo District Municipality SMME funding model and establish whether it has made the desired impact. •Determine if funds that have been channelled by the SA government to SMMEs for business expansion, start-ups, grants, and special industry development have yielded quantifiable results and •Assess the private funding institutions in assisting destitute entrepreneurs in the OR Tambo District municipality. Research methodology: The study was conducted using qualitative research and a questionnaire was used as a data collection tool. The researcher was able to get valuable information on stakeholders in the SMME sector. The stakeholders (SMMEs and funders), formed the core research sample. Results: findings suggest that the OR Tambo Municipality has a funding gap and the current funding model both from public and private funders is not effective in developing SMMEs in the municipality. The overwhelming majority of SMMEs agreed that there is a funding gap between funders and enterprises that seek funding in the ORTDM. “Financing gap” terminology, Underhill Corporate Solutions (UCS) (2011:52) defines it as, ‘a sizeable share of economically significant SMEs cannot obtain financing from banks, capital markets or other finance suppliers.’ About 90 percent of the interviewed SMMEs agreed that there is huge funding gap and 10 percent disputed this and said that there is no funding gap; rather, it’s a funding mismatch between the funders and SMMEs which needs to be tackled by all SMMEs stakeholders. The funding model needs to be revamped so it can also be accessible to start-ups, the unemployed, people with less business management experience and limited skills, and to all sectors of the economy. Various recommendations and suggestions for further research are made based on the research findings. Conclusion: The study has shown that the current SMME funding model is not effective and does not assist in developing SMMEs in ORTDM. The research findings depict the funding plight of SMMEs in South Africa; the SMME plight in ORTDM is more real than imaginary. 70 percent of SMMEs expressed less confidence in government SMMEs agencies in terms of assistance. The bigger portion of SMMEs felt that the funds channelled to government agencies were not providing significant assistance in developing SMMEs in ORTDM. Recommendations: The conclusive response from the sample, reflect structural challenges in the current funding model. About 70 percent of funding institution`s officials said “yes”, the low yield on SMME growth is a matter of funding. The funds which were meant to fund SMMEs for one reason or the other do not reach SMMEs which are looking for funding. Hence the funds channelled in the sector in the last 17 years have not yielded the desired results. 40 percent interviewed government officials conceded that there is serious political meddling in funding SMMEs in the whole province and ORTDM could not be an exception to this rule. 80 percent of interviewed SMMEs in ORTDM said funding was their main problem, and the other 20 percent indicated that their problem was not a matter of funding. The public and the private sector must revise the current funding model or devise another funding model that will: •bridge the existing current funding gap, •distribute the SMME allocated budget and achieve maximum efficiency in budget allocation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Evaluating the Efficacy of Poverty Eradication Strategies and Interventions: Department Of Human Settlement (King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality, Eastern Cape)
- Authors: Sentiwe, Maxwell
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11715 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015269
- Description: Poverty in the Eastern Cape KSD Municipality remains widespread and deep due to South Africa’s Apartheid history, poverty is intergenerational and structural. The commitment by the South African government to poverty reduction has been expressed in recent years through various national, provincial and local policy interventions. As such since 1994 the South African government has introduced a large number of interventions to address poverty in its various manifestations, not least income poverty, human capital poverty, service poverty, asset poverty. Former president of South Africa, Mr Thabo Mbeki in 2004 said “Endemic and widespread poverty continues to disfigure the face of our country, it will always be impossible for us to say that we have fully restored the dignity of all our people as long as this situation persists, for this reason the struggle to eradicate poverty has been and will continue to be a cornerstone of the national effort to build the new South Africa”. The ANC led government has committed itself to meeting the Millennium Development Goals by 2015. These goals aim at addressing extreme poverty in its many dimensions, including income, poverty, hunger, disease, adequate shelter and exclusion, to promote gender equality, education, and environmental sustainability. South African government has sought to address poverty from many angles, like The Reconstruction and Development Programme Policy Framework of 1994 which seeks to address poverty through five key programmes namely, Meeting basic needs, Developing our human resources, Building the economy, Democratizing the state and society, and Implementing the RDP. (RDP 1994). Interventions have varied from child support and disability grants, housing, water and electricity. There has been little means of appreciating the overall magnitude or significance of these attempts. Despite what appears to be overall progress in the fight against poverty, it is also generally recognized that there remain pockets of enduring poverty that government is struggling to eradicate. In particular, there is evidence that those residing in deep rural areas have tended to see fewer improvements across the board, be they access to improved services or amenities. At this point in time it appears somewhat fluid, in the sense that different statements package the elements differently, sometimes omitting one and including something else and this is evidence of a lack of coherence in government’s anti-poverty strategies. The unjust state of rural areas in the Eastern Cape has remained unchanged since 1994. Political analyst, Dr Somadoda Fikeni said even with rural development being national government’s priority, there has been no massive shift of resources from urban cities to the rural. “The fixation is on urban development, leaving the rural to fend off diseases, unemployment and pathetic leaving conditions”. The Eastern Cape OR Tambo district’s poverty rate is higher than the provincial and national averages, with an estimated 1,183,517 people living in poverty, According to the community survey report conducted in 2207 has determined the housing backlog showing the OR Tambo as the largest area of need by 36% and the largest part is the KSD Municipality with an average growth rate of -1.67, number of people in poverty from year 2000 to 2010 and average growth rate of -2.42 of poverty rate. Eastern Cape government have undertaken a series of programmes to address poverty, however programmes implemented since 1994 have not yielded the desired impact in eradicating poverty.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Sentiwe, Maxwell
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11715 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015269
- Description: Poverty in the Eastern Cape KSD Municipality remains widespread and deep due to South Africa’s Apartheid history, poverty is intergenerational and structural. The commitment by the South African government to poverty reduction has been expressed in recent years through various national, provincial and local policy interventions. As such since 1994 the South African government has introduced a large number of interventions to address poverty in its various manifestations, not least income poverty, human capital poverty, service poverty, asset poverty. Former president of South Africa, Mr Thabo Mbeki in 2004 said “Endemic and widespread poverty continues to disfigure the face of our country, it will always be impossible for us to say that we have fully restored the dignity of all our people as long as this situation persists, for this reason the struggle to eradicate poverty has been and will continue to be a cornerstone of the national effort to build the new South Africa”. The ANC led government has committed itself to meeting the Millennium Development Goals by 2015. These goals aim at addressing extreme poverty in its many dimensions, including income, poverty, hunger, disease, adequate shelter and exclusion, to promote gender equality, education, and environmental sustainability. South African government has sought to address poverty from many angles, like The Reconstruction and Development Programme Policy Framework of 1994 which seeks to address poverty through five key programmes namely, Meeting basic needs, Developing our human resources, Building the economy, Democratizing the state and society, and Implementing the RDP. (RDP 1994). Interventions have varied from child support and disability grants, housing, water and electricity. There has been little means of appreciating the overall magnitude or significance of these attempts. Despite what appears to be overall progress in the fight against poverty, it is also generally recognized that there remain pockets of enduring poverty that government is struggling to eradicate. In particular, there is evidence that those residing in deep rural areas have tended to see fewer improvements across the board, be they access to improved services or amenities. At this point in time it appears somewhat fluid, in the sense that different statements package the elements differently, sometimes omitting one and including something else and this is evidence of a lack of coherence in government’s anti-poverty strategies. The unjust state of rural areas in the Eastern Cape has remained unchanged since 1994. Political analyst, Dr Somadoda Fikeni said even with rural development being national government’s priority, there has been no massive shift of resources from urban cities to the rural. “The fixation is on urban development, leaving the rural to fend off diseases, unemployment and pathetic leaving conditions”. The Eastern Cape OR Tambo district’s poverty rate is higher than the provincial and national averages, with an estimated 1,183,517 people living in poverty, According to the community survey report conducted in 2207 has determined the housing backlog showing the OR Tambo as the largest area of need by 36% and the largest part is the KSD Municipality with an average growth rate of -1.67, number of people in poverty from year 2000 to 2010 and average growth rate of -2.42 of poverty rate. Eastern Cape government have undertaken a series of programmes to address poverty, however programmes implemented since 1994 have not yielded the desired impact in eradicating poverty.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013