An analysis of employee retention : a study of selected local municipalities in the Sarah Baartman District Municipality
- Authors: Maholo, Lisa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal officials and employees -- Job satisfaction , Career development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personnel management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal officials and employees -- Salaries, etc. -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Affiliation (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177349 , vital:42813
- Description: The success of municipalities largely depends on the quality (skills, knowledge and experience) of individuals employed at those institutions. As key role players in the delivery of services, municipalities struggle to retain a high calibre of employees who essentially form the backbone of the public sector due to their skills, knowledge and experiences. There is a need for municipalities to create and foster an environment that encourages existing employees to remain employed. This study adopted an interpretivist research paradigm, given the study’s primary aim of gaining an in-depth understanding of employee retention as experienced by employees in the selected municipalities, together with the key influencing factors of employee retention. The qualitative research approach used a case study methodology within the Sarah Baartman District Municipality, with two category B3 and B4 municipalities selected for the study. The retention factors framework for existing employees by Munsamy and Bosch-Venter (2009) was used as the supporting theoretical structure. Respondents were selected through purposive sampling, and 16 in-depth semi-structured interviews were used to collect qualitative data. Through various content analysis techniques employed, this study identified seven employee retention factors (affiliation, career, work content, direct financial factors, external forces, work–life balance and indirect financial factors) with their associated themes. Affiliation, career and work content were identified as the three key factors which influence employee retention. Management style (relationship and interaction between employees and manager), organisational commitment and work environment were the main themes giving meaning to the affiliation factor. Training, personal growth and advancement emerged as themes related to the career factor. The work content factor was defined in terms of meaningfulness, challenges and autonomy themes. Direct and indirect financial factors, external forces, and work–life balance also emerged as factors that play a role in the retention of employees within a municipal context. Base salary and incentives were the associated themes underlying the direct financial factor. However, base salary has short-term effects on retention. Political climate and organisational reputation, municipal category and organisational structure were interrelated external forces. Flexible work arrangements, access to family, and childcare facilities give meaning to the work–life balance, while the only indirect financial factor to arise was benefits. Although some of the retention factors are clearly more influential than others, key employees attach most importance to a combination of employee retention factors that cater to their holistic needs and desires and generational differences. Therefore, the recommendations need to be implemented simultaneously. Having managers who engage employees in decisions-making and offer guidance and support, together with work environments where the physical and behavioural aspects are attended to, encourages employees to feel valued and appreciated. Municipalities should effectively communicate their mandate of ensuring adequate service delivery, which will allow employees to align their personal values to municipal objectives. Offering on-the-job training, access to career developmental programmes, evaluating job characteristics to include challenging and stimulating work and additional incentives as financial support will foster a conducive working environment for employees. Overall, municipalities face unique challenges depending on a variety of external elements such as political influence and climate. They operate in a challenging environment where they are also accountable to the community. Ultimately, municipalities must create and develop ways to acknowledge, develop and retain key employees in order to adequately deliver services. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Maholo, Lisa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal officials and employees -- Job satisfaction , Career development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personnel management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal officials and employees -- Salaries, etc. -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Affiliation (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177349 , vital:42813
- Description: The success of municipalities largely depends on the quality (skills, knowledge and experience) of individuals employed at those institutions. As key role players in the delivery of services, municipalities struggle to retain a high calibre of employees who essentially form the backbone of the public sector due to their skills, knowledge and experiences. There is a need for municipalities to create and foster an environment that encourages existing employees to remain employed. This study adopted an interpretivist research paradigm, given the study’s primary aim of gaining an in-depth understanding of employee retention as experienced by employees in the selected municipalities, together with the key influencing factors of employee retention. The qualitative research approach used a case study methodology within the Sarah Baartman District Municipality, with two category B3 and B4 municipalities selected for the study. The retention factors framework for existing employees by Munsamy and Bosch-Venter (2009) was used as the supporting theoretical structure. Respondents were selected through purposive sampling, and 16 in-depth semi-structured interviews were used to collect qualitative data. Through various content analysis techniques employed, this study identified seven employee retention factors (affiliation, career, work content, direct financial factors, external forces, work–life balance and indirect financial factors) with their associated themes. Affiliation, career and work content were identified as the three key factors which influence employee retention. Management style (relationship and interaction between employees and manager), organisational commitment and work environment were the main themes giving meaning to the affiliation factor. Training, personal growth and advancement emerged as themes related to the career factor. The work content factor was defined in terms of meaningfulness, challenges and autonomy themes. Direct and indirect financial factors, external forces, and work–life balance also emerged as factors that play a role in the retention of employees within a municipal context. Base salary and incentives were the associated themes underlying the direct financial factor. However, base salary has short-term effects on retention. Political climate and organisational reputation, municipal category and organisational structure were interrelated external forces. Flexible work arrangements, access to family, and childcare facilities give meaning to the work–life balance, while the only indirect financial factor to arise was benefits. Although some of the retention factors are clearly more influential than others, key employees attach most importance to a combination of employee retention factors that cater to their holistic needs and desires and generational differences. Therefore, the recommendations need to be implemented simultaneously. Having managers who engage employees in decisions-making and offer guidance and support, together with work environments where the physical and behavioural aspects are attended to, encourages employees to feel valued and appreciated. Municipalities should effectively communicate their mandate of ensuring adequate service delivery, which will allow employees to align their personal values to municipal objectives. Offering on-the-job training, access to career developmental programmes, evaluating job characteristics to include challenging and stimulating work and additional incentives as financial support will foster a conducive working environment for employees. Overall, municipalities face unique challenges depending on a variety of external elements such as political influence and climate. They operate in a challenging environment where they are also accountable to the community. Ultimately, municipalities must create and develop ways to acknowledge, develop and retain key employees in order to adequately deliver services. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An analysis of ways in which the South African tax system could be simplified
- Authors: Young, Gail Jeni
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , South African Revenue Service , Tax administration and procedure -- South Africa , Tax accounting -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178235 , vital:42923
- Description: It has been said that the fundamental paradox of tax simplification is that, despite consensus, almost every year tax rules become more complex. This thesis considers tax simplification measures which have been implemented internationally, in order to provide a basis for an analysis of ways in which the South African tax system could be simplified. A doctrinal methodology is applied, and an analysis is carried out of possible tax simplification measures, based on the commentary of experts in the field of tax law. Simplification measures adopted in the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States of America, Egypt, and certain European countries are discussed, together with their possible adoption in South Africa. Tax simplification has a broad scope. This research identifies four areas in which the South African tax system could simplified: the simplification of tax legislation, addressing the role of accounting in the simplification process, reducing the number of taxes currently levied, and finally addressing the complexities evident in the SARS e-filing system. This thesis illustrates several measures which could be used to address the current areas of complexity. Re-writing tax legislation to assist the understanding of taxpayers is suggested. An increase in the inclusion rate for individuals of capital gains in taxable income from 40% to 60% is suggested, to compensate for the loss of revenue due to the recommended repeal of donations tax and estate duty. Aligning tax legislation with accounting standards is identified as a possible area for simplification, as there are many similarities between the two systems. To address the usability of SARS’ e-filing platform, suggestions are made regarding the further pre-population of returns, introducing e-invoicing and providing a “sandbox” function that taxpayers could use to familiarise themselves with how e-filing works. This research highlights tax simplification as a process that needs to be prioritized in order to achieve the associated benefits. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Young, Gail Jeni
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , South African Revenue Service , Tax administration and procedure -- South Africa , Tax accounting -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178235 , vital:42923
- Description: It has been said that the fundamental paradox of tax simplification is that, despite consensus, almost every year tax rules become more complex. This thesis considers tax simplification measures which have been implemented internationally, in order to provide a basis for an analysis of ways in which the South African tax system could be simplified. A doctrinal methodology is applied, and an analysis is carried out of possible tax simplification measures, based on the commentary of experts in the field of tax law. Simplification measures adopted in the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States of America, Egypt, and certain European countries are discussed, together with their possible adoption in South Africa. Tax simplification has a broad scope. This research identifies four areas in which the South African tax system could simplified: the simplification of tax legislation, addressing the role of accounting in the simplification process, reducing the number of taxes currently levied, and finally addressing the complexities evident in the SARS e-filing system. This thesis illustrates several measures which could be used to address the current areas of complexity. Re-writing tax legislation to assist the understanding of taxpayers is suggested. An increase in the inclusion rate for individuals of capital gains in taxable income from 40% to 60% is suggested, to compensate for the loss of revenue due to the recommended repeal of donations tax and estate duty. Aligning tax legislation with accounting standards is identified as a possible area for simplification, as there are many similarities between the two systems. To address the usability of SARS’ e-filing platform, suggestions are made regarding the further pre-population of returns, introducing e-invoicing and providing a “sandbox” function that taxpayers could use to familiarise themselves with how e-filing works. This research highlights tax simplification as a process that needs to be prioritized in order to achieve the associated benefits. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Customer perceptions on Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and its possible influence on Revenue Management (RM) at a selected water board in South Africa
- Authors: Manyonganise, Joshua Anesu
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Customer relations -- Management , Revenue management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water-supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Amatola Water (Utility) , South Africa. National Water Act, 1998
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177214 , vital:42800
- Description: The primary activity of water boards is to provide water services (bulk portable, and bulk wastewater) to other water services institutions within its respective service areas. They may perform other activities under conditions set out in the Water Services Act of 1997. Water boards’ revenues come from the municipalities they deliver services to. Not all municipalities have been paying for the services delivered to them, which led to the aim of this study being to gauge the perceptions of Water Board X and Water Board X’s customers of selected Customer Relationship Management (CRM) factors (service quality, customer involvement, customer value, information technology, and management commitment) that may possibly influence Revenue Management (RM). This could possibly assist Water Board X in the future to improve its revenue and debt collection. This thesis employed an interpretivist qualitative research methodology to explore its research aims and objectives. Open-ended semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen participants from Water Board X and four municipalities which Water Board X provides services. The data collected from the interviews were analysed manually through thematic analysis. The outcome of the interviews noted that an organisation that delivered high levels of service quality to its customers, could possibly improve its RM as the customers are of the opinion that their needs and requirements have been met and would be willing to pay for the services rendered. It was furthermore found that an organisation that involves its customers could possibly improve its RM as the organisation constantly communicates with its customers during, for example, the different stages of a project to ensure that the organisation does not deliver a project that does not meet the customers’ requirements at the end of the project life cycle. In addition the use of information technology played a pivotal in an organisation as the use of information technology assisted to develop effective methods in customer relationship management such as, data management, improving communication within the organisation, and with the customers, and the decision making. Furthermore, this study suggested the importance for an organisation to add value to the services that they deliver and for an organisation’s management to be committed to ensure that their customers’ expectations and requirements are met. The findings of the study suggest that CRM factors (service quality, customer involvement, customer value, information technology, and management commitment) could influence RM, and it is suggested that Water Board X adopts CRM strategies accordingly to improve its RM. Some of these strategies include adopting a coherent and sustainable revenue strategy through the use of appropriate tariff structures that are simple, equitable, affordable, financially sustainable, and transparent for all; showing commitment by prioritising water loss management and by properly auditing water supplies and water treatment revenue while increasing efficiency in supply and revenue recovery as this allowed Water Board X to better serve its customers, improve its financial standing, and allocate funding for water infrastructure upgrades and to adopt technologies that are on the market as these technologies can detect leakages, manage payments, control water flow and transmit data. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Department of Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Manyonganise, Joshua Anesu
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Customer relations -- Management , Revenue management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water-supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Amatola Water (Utility) , South Africa. National Water Act, 1998
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177214 , vital:42800
- Description: The primary activity of water boards is to provide water services (bulk portable, and bulk wastewater) to other water services institutions within its respective service areas. They may perform other activities under conditions set out in the Water Services Act of 1997. Water boards’ revenues come from the municipalities they deliver services to. Not all municipalities have been paying for the services delivered to them, which led to the aim of this study being to gauge the perceptions of Water Board X and Water Board X’s customers of selected Customer Relationship Management (CRM) factors (service quality, customer involvement, customer value, information technology, and management commitment) that may possibly influence Revenue Management (RM). This could possibly assist Water Board X in the future to improve its revenue and debt collection. This thesis employed an interpretivist qualitative research methodology to explore its research aims and objectives. Open-ended semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen participants from Water Board X and four municipalities which Water Board X provides services. The data collected from the interviews were analysed manually through thematic analysis. The outcome of the interviews noted that an organisation that delivered high levels of service quality to its customers, could possibly improve its RM as the customers are of the opinion that their needs and requirements have been met and would be willing to pay for the services rendered. It was furthermore found that an organisation that involves its customers could possibly improve its RM as the organisation constantly communicates with its customers during, for example, the different stages of a project to ensure that the organisation does not deliver a project that does not meet the customers’ requirements at the end of the project life cycle. In addition the use of information technology played a pivotal in an organisation as the use of information technology assisted to develop effective methods in customer relationship management such as, data management, improving communication within the organisation, and with the customers, and the decision making. Furthermore, this study suggested the importance for an organisation to add value to the services that they deliver and for an organisation’s management to be committed to ensure that their customers’ expectations and requirements are met. The findings of the study suggest that CRM factors (service quality, customer involvement, customer value, information technology, and management commitment) could influence RM, and it is suggested that Water Board X adopts CRM strategies accordingly to improve its RM. Some of these strategies include adopting a coherent and sustainable revenue strategy through the use of appropriate tariff structures that are simple, equitable, affordable, financially sustainable, and transparent for all; showing commitment by prioritising water loss management and by properly auditing water supplies and water treatment revenue while increasing efficiency in supply and revenue recovery as this allowed Water Board X to better serve its customers, improve its financial standing, and allocate funding for water infrastructure upgrades and to adopt technologies that are on the market as these technologies can detect leakages, manage payments, control water flow and transmit data. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Department of Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Economic impact of climate change on maize production in the Free State Province, South Africa
- Authors: Johnson, Richard Cowper
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Corn -- Climatic factors -- South Africa -- Free State , Climatic changes -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Free State , Climate change mitigation -- South Africa -- Free State , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Free State
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/174365 , vital:42471
- Description: Higher concentrations of CO2 in the atmosphere is a major influence on climate change globally. Climate change is caused by greenhouse gases trapping too much heat from the sun in the atmosphere and thus, altering the climate through a rise in global surface temperatures and changing precipitation patterns. CO2 is the most prominent greenhouse gas found in the atmosphere and it is reported that by the turn of the century the CO2 concentration levels will have doubled if the current rate of emissions continues. However, the increase in atmospheric levels of the gas has been found to increase the capacity of maize plants and their water use efficiency to achieve higher yields through CO2 fertilisation. Simulation experiments conducted by the Rhodes University Botany Department found that the effect of elevated levels of CO2 of double the current concentration offsets the negative effects of drought on maize. A case study was conducted on commercial maize farmers in two regions of the Free State province in South Africa to estimate the economic impact of climate change on maize production. Although production is increasing in the province, adaptation to the changing climate is key to the sustainability of production. There is a trade-off between the negative effects of higher CO2 levels changing the climate and the positive effect of CO2 fertilisation. As predicted, the economic impact of climate change is the disruption of farming practices and the increase in costs of production as a result of adapting to climate change. Using a gross margin analysis, the study found that the larger maize farmers who benefit from economies of scale are able to adapt and grow their production whilst the smaller farmers are being pushed out of the market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Johnson, Richard Cowper
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Corn -- Climatic factors -- South Africa -- Free State , Climatic changes -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Free State , Climate change mitigation -- South Africa -- Free State , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Free State
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/174365 , vital:42471
- Description: Higher concentrations of CO2 in the atmosphere is a major influence on climate change globally. Climate change is caused by greenhouse gases trapping too much heat from the sun in the atmosphere and thus, altering the climate through a rise in global surface temperatures and changing precipitation patterns. CO2 is the most prominent greenhouse gas found in the atmosphere and it is reported that by the turn of the century the CO2 concentration levels will have doubled if the current rate of emissions continues. However, the increase in atmospheric levels of the gas has been found to increase the capacity of maize plants and their water use efficiency to achieve higher yields through CO2 fertilisation. Simulation experiments conducted by the Rhodes University Botany Department found that the effect of elevated levels of CO2 of double the current concentration offsets the negative effects of drought on maize. A case study was conducted on commercial maize farmers in two regions of the Free State province in South Africa to estimate the economic impact of climate change on maize production. Although production is increasing in the province, adaptation to the changing climate is key to the sustainability of production. There is a trade-off between the negative effects of higher CO2 levels changing the climate and the positive effect of CO2 fertilisation. As predicted, the economic impact of climate change is the disruption of farming practices and the increase in costs of production as a result of adapting to climate change. Using a gross margin analysis, the study found that the larger maize farmers who benefit from economies of scale are able to adapt and grow their production whilst the smaller farmers are being pushed out of the market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Impact of sovereign credit ratings on emerging bond and stock market returns
- Authors: Mkhonto, Zoyisile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Rating agencies (Finance) , Credit ratings , Bond market
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177170 , vital:42796
- Description: The primary role of credit rating agencies is to reduce asymmetric information between the parties in a lending relationship. The three major rating agencies have received extensive criticism over the years. These rating agencies have been accused of providing inaccurate ratings which ultimately led to various financial calamities. Late rating action has also been blamed for exacerbating financial and economic cycles. Moreover, there is an argument that emerging markets are unfairly rated in comparison to developed economies. Hence, the reliability and informational value of the assessments provided by credit rating agencies is met with scepticism. Despite these criticisms, rating agencies are characterised as gatekeepers to capital and credit ratings remain essential financial market indicators. Albeit, the literature regarding the impact of sovereign credit ratings on bond and stock markets is inconclusive. This study aims to add to the body of literature and provide insights into the informational value of sovereign credit ratings in emerging markets. More specifically to estimate the relationship between various sovereign credit rating announcements, and bond and stock market returns. Also, to examine whether sovereign credit ratings have a differential impact between bond and stock markets. As well as address the question does it matter who provides the rating? Using an event study, abnormal returns surrounding rating announcements from 2009 to 2019 for 24 emerging markets were analyzed. Firstly, this study concluded that sovereign credit ratings are informative. Secondly, the degree of informativeness differs between the bond and stock markets. Thirdly, an asymmetrical impact was observed between the types of rating announcements. Lastly, that it does matter which rating agency provides the rating because each agency has a unique reputation. The findings of this research have implications on how investors and portfolio managers decide on asset allocation. Furthermore, policymakers may find our investment grade analysis of value when evaluating regulatory reform. It’s recommended that future research refines the event methodology and examines country specific characteristics within each of the emerging markets. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mkhonto, Zoyisile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Rating agencies (Finance) , Credit ratings , Bond market
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177170 , vital:42796
- Description: The primary role of credit rating agencies is to reduce asymmetric information between the parties in a lending relationship. The three major rating agencies have received extensive criticism over the years. These rating agencies have been accused of providing inaccurate ratings which ultimately led to various financial calamities. Late rating action has also been blamed for exacerbating financial and economic cycles. Moreover, there is an argument that emerging markets are unfairly rated in comparison to developed economies. Hence, the reliability and informational value of the assessments provided by credit rating agencies is met with scepticism. Despite these criticisms, rating agencies are characterised as gatekeepers to capital and credit ratings remain essential financial market indicators. Albeit, the literature regarding the impact of sovereign credit ratings on bond and stock markets is inconclusive. This study aims to add to the body of literature and provide insights into the informational value of sovereign credit ratings in emerging markets. More specifically to estimate the relationship between various sovereign credit rating announcements, and bond and stock market returns. Also, to examine whether sovereign credit ratings have a differential impact between bond and stock markets. As well as address the question does it matter who provides the rating? Using an event study, abnormal returns surrounding rating announcements from 2009 to 2019 for 24 emerging markets were analyzed. Firstly, this study concluded that sovereign credit ratings are informative. Secondly, the degree of informativeness differs between the bond and stock markets. Thirdly, an asymmetrical impact was observed between the types of rating announcements. Lastly, that it does matter which rating agency provides the rating because each agency has a unique reputation. The findings of this research have implications on how investors and portfolio managers decide on asset allocation. Furthermore, policymakers may find our investment grade analysis of value when evaluating regulatory reform. It’s recommended that future research refines the event methodology and examines country specific characteristics within each of the emerging markets. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effect of sectoral foreign direct investment on sectoral growth and sectoral employment in South Africa
- Authors: Paul, Bernice Nicole
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991- , South Africa -- Economic policy , Gross domestic product -- South Africa , UNCTAD-ICTSD Project on IPRs and Sustainable Development , Unemployment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Master , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177964 , vital:42894
- Description: Over several decades past, developing countries have received increased amounts of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). This form of investment has been welcomed because of the perceived benefits attached to it. FDI is seen as an important driver of economic development for many nations. For South Africa specifically, GDP growth rates have remained less than required, unemployment rates have reached staggering levels, poverty and inequality levels are increasing and the list goes on. Considering the perceived benefits of FDI, one may argue that FDI can play a crucial role in reducing the mentioned challenges facing the nation, however, only if directed to initiatives contributing to growth and employment. The 2015 Investment Policy Framework for Sustainable Development includes an action menu promoting investment in sectors relating to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Therefore, this study is aimed at investigating the relationship between sector FDI and sector growth in addition to investigating the effect of sector FDI on sector employment over the period 2000Q1 to 2016Q4 for six of South Africa’s economic sectors. The reason for such a study is based on the premise that developing nations such as South Africa lack sound trade and industrial policies favorable to foreign investors. This then leads to the nation failing to attract higher volumes of FDI which could be used to address structural challenges facing the country. It is therefore important to identify sectors in which FDI has resulted in growth and employment so that when policies are considered, the right FDI is targeted. A comprehensive review of existing theoretical and empirical literature showed that FDI does result in economic growth for developed and developing countries, although FDI crowds out domestic investment in the short run. Literature on the effect of FDI on employment showed diverse effects. Some studies found FDI to increase employment overall, other studies found FDI to increase employment only during periods of restructuring and some studies found FDI to result in job losses. For South African sectors, the present study finds that the financial services sector receives the highest volume of South African FDI, followed by the mining and quarrying sector and the manufacturing, however, FDI in all six sectors under study is associated with increased growth and employment. This finding suggests that the financial services sector has received increased volumes of FDI as a result of financialization of the South African economy. It is this increased FDI in the financial services sector that is directed to income redistribution from the real sector to the finance sector. This study employed econometric techniques and methods of analysis to investigate the relationship between sector FDI and sector growth, and the effect of sector FDI on sector employment. Panel cointegration tests were conducted for all six sectors included in the study to establish if long run equilibrium relationships exist among integrated variables. The Johansen-Fisher panel cointegration test revealed that there is evidence of cointegration in four of the six sectors. Since cointegration was established, the study proceeded to perform the Dumitrescu-Hurlin panel causality analysis and estimate a Panel Vector Error Correction Model (VECM). Results from the causality analysis found a unidirectional causality relationship between FDI and GDP growth, while the panel VECM found FDI to have a significant effect on growth in all sectors. The Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) model employed to investigate the effect of FDI on employment found FDI to have an insignificant effect on employment in all sectors included, although the signs of the coefficients suggest that FDI is associated with increased employment and rising wages is associated with increased productivity growth. Since this study finds that FDI is associated with increased GDP growth in all six sectors under study, policy makers should devise strategies to attract FDI in sectors such as the transportation, storage and communication sector and the electricity, gas and water sector as FDI in these sectors are associated with increased growth however, they receive very low levels of FDI. There are a number of reasons for this, therefore, government institutions and policy makers should investigate the reasons for these low levels of FDI inflows into these sectors so that they can devise further strategies to address these reasons and perhaps attract higher levels of FDI into these sectors. Spillover benefits play a major role in host nations participating in FDI therefore, prior to entering into bilateral treaty agreements, policy makers should ensure that foreign investors are compelled to create jobs, offer training and qualifications etc. through their investments so that some of the SDGs can be achieved. Additionally, this study finds a positive, statistically insignificant relationship between FDI and employment. FDI may not have a significant relationship on employment due to jobless growth and capital-intensive growth rather than labor-intensive growth. Such a situation calls for government intervention. Skills shortage is a rising problem in South Africa; therefore, investors choose to employ advanced technologies rather than people. Under such circumstances, governments are encouraged to invest resources into skills development so that human capital are not completely replaced by technology. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Paul, Bernice Nicole
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991- , South Africa -- Economic policy , Gross domestic product -- South Africa , UNCTAD-ICTSD Project on IPRs and Sustainable Development , Unemployment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Master , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177964 , vital:42894
- Description: Over several decades past, developing countries have received increased amounts of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). This form of investment has been welcomed because of the perceived benefits attached to it. FDI is seen as an important driver of economic development for many nations. For South Africa specifically, GDP growth rates have remained less than required, unemployment rates have reached staggering levels, poverty and inequality levels are increasing and the list goes on. Considering the perceived benefits of FDI, one may argue that FDI can play a crucial role in reducing the mentioned challenges facing the nation, however, only if directed to initiatives contributing to growth and employment. The 2015 Investment Policy Framework for Sustainable Development includes an action menu promoting investment in sectors relating to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Therefore, this study is aimed at investigating the relationship between sector FDI and sector growth in addition to investigating the effect of sector FDI on sector employment over the period 2000Q1 to 2016Q4 for six of South Africa’s economic sectors. The reason for such a study is based on the premise that developing nations such as South Africa lack sound trade and industrial policies favorable to foreign investors. This then leads to the nation failing to attract higher volumes of FDI which could be used to address structural challenges facing the country. It is therefore important to identify sectors in which FDI has resulted in growth and employment so that when policies are considered, the right FDI is targeted. A comprehensive review of existing theoretical and empirical literature showed that FDI does result in economic growth for developed and developing countries, although FDI crowds out domestic investment in the short run. Literature on the effect of FDI on employment showed diverse effects. Some studies found FDI to increase employment overall, other studies found FDI to increase employment only during periods of restructuring and some studies found FDI to result in job losses. For South African sectors, the present study finds that the financial services sector receives the highest volume of South African FDI, followed by the mining and quarrying sector and the manufacturing, however, FDI in all six sectors under study is associated with increased growth and employment. This finding suggests that the financial services sector has received increased volumes of FDI as a result of financialization of the South African economy. It is this increased FDI in the financial services sector that is directed to income redistribution from the real sector to the finance sector. This study employed econometric techniques and methods of analysis to investigate the relationship between sector FDI and sector growth, and the effect of sector FDI on sector employment. Panel cointegration tests were conducted for all six sectors included in the study to establish if long run equilibrium relationships exist among integrated variables. The Johansen-Fisher panel cointegration test revealed that there is evidence of cointegration in four of the six sectors. Since cointegration was established, the study proceeded to perform the Dumitrescu-Hurlin panel causality analysis and estimate a Panel Vector Error Correction Model (VECM). Results from the causality analysis found a unidirectional causality relationship between FDI and GDP growth, while the panel VECM found FDI to have a significant effect on growth in all sectors. The Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) model employed to investigate the effect of FDI on employment found FDI to have an insignificant effect on employment in all sectors included, although the signs of the coefficients suggest that FDI is associated with increased employment and rising wages is associated with increased productivity growth. Since this study finds that FDI is associated with increased GDP growth in all six sectors under study, policy makers should devise strategies to attract FDI in sectors such as the transportation, storage and communication sector and the electricity, gas and water sector as FDI in these sectors are associated with increased growth however, they receive very low levels of FDI. There are a number of reasons for this, therefore, government institutions and policy makers should investigate the reasons for these low levels of FDI inflows into these sectors so that they can devise further strategies to address these reasons and perhaps attract higher levels of FDI into these sectors. Spillover benefits play a major role in host nations participating in FDI therefore, prior to entering into bilateral treaty agreements, policy makers should ensure that foreign investors are compelled to create jobs, offer training and qualifications etc. through their investments so that some of the SDGs can be achieved. Additionally, this study finds a positive, statistically insignificant relationship between FDI and employment. FDI may not have a significant relationship on employment due to jobless growth and capital-intensive growth rather than labor-intensive growth. Such a situation calls for government intervention. Skills shortage is a rising problem in South Africa; therefore, investors choose to employ advanced technologies rather than people. Under such circumstances, governments are encouraged to invest resources into skills development so that human capital are not completely replaced by technology. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The South African income tax implications of transactions entered into to earn points for a Broad- Based Black Economic Empowerment scorecard, with reference to a selection of structures
- Authors: Jaga, Praksha
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Black Economic Empowerment (Program : South Africa) , South Africa. Income Tax Act, 1962 , Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Spendings tax -- South Africa , Tax deductions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177306 , vital:42808
- Description: This thesis discussed the South African income tax implications, in terms of the Income Tax Act, No. 58 of 1962, arising from complying with Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment requirements, and related principles established in case law. Various structures and transactions entered into for the purposes of earning points for the B-BBEE scorecard were identified. In the assessment of the deductibility of B-BBEE expenditure in terms of the preamble to section 11, section 11(a) and section 23(g) of the Act, it was highlighted that, in the South African economic environment, B-BBEE compliance represents a competitive advantage for entities. In addition, many South African organisations are required to comply with B-BBEE requirements for legal and regulatory purposes. The analysis of the deductibility of B-BBEE expenditure revealed that taxpayers that incur this expenditure would be carrying on a trade or commencing to do so. It was also concluded that B-BBEE expenditure is incurred in the production of income and would generally not be capital in nature, except in certain circumstances, in which case the Act provides certain allowances. Any deduction will only be allowed in the year of assessment in which the expenditure is actually incurred, or when the taxpayer incurs an unconditional legal obligation. This thesis explored several alternatives to achieve the requirements of the ownership element of B-BBEE and highlighted the income tax implications that arise because of these structures. It was also observed that there are a number of incentives in the Act that could be beneficial to taxpayers seeking to earn points for the remaining elements of the B-BBEE scorecard. A legal interpretive approach, in particular a doctrinal research methodology, was adopted in carrying out this research. This research concluded that the Act facilitates most of the B-BBEE transactions and structures, but due to the complex and sometimes uncertain nature of the tax consequences of B-BBEE transactions and structures, there is a need for further guidance in this area of tax law. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Jaga, Praksha
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Black Economic Empowerment (Program : South Africa) , South Africa. Income Tax Act, 1962 , Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Spendings tax -- South Africa , Tax deductions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177306 , vital:42808
- Description: This thesis discussed the South African income tax implications, in terms of the Income Tax Act, No. 58 of 1962, arising from complying with Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment requirements, and related principles established in case law. Various structures and transactions entered into for the purposes of earning points for the B-BBEE scorecard were identified. In the assessment of the deductibility of B-BBEE expenditure in terms of the preamble to section 11, section 11(a) and section 23(g) of the Act, it was highlighted that, in the South African economic environment, B-BBEE compliance represents a competitive advantage for entities. In addition, many South African organisations are required to comply with B-BBEE requirements for legal and regulatory purposes. The analysis of the deductibility of B-BBEE expenditure revealed that taxpayers that incur this expenditure would be carrying on a trade or commencing to do so. It was also concluded that B-BBEE expenditure is incurred in the production of income and would generally not be capital in nature, except in certain circumstances, in which case the Act provides certain allowances. Any deduction will only be allowed in the year of assessment in which the expenditure is actually incurred, or when the taxpayer incurs an unconditional legal obligation. This thesis explored several alternatives to achieve the requirements of the ownership element of B-BBEE and highlighted the income tax implications that arise because of these structures. It was also observed that there are a number of incentives in the Act that could be beneficial to taxpayers seeking to earn points for the remaining elements of the B-BBEE scorecard. A legal interpretive approach, in particular a doctrinal research methodology, was adopted in carrying out this research. This research concluded that the Act facilitates most of the B-BBEE transactions and structures, but due to the complex and sometimes uncertain nature of the tax consequences of B-BBEE transactions and structures, there is a need for further guidance in this area of tax law. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An online information security Aaareness model: the disclosure of personal data
- Authors: Parker, Heather Joubert
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Social media -- Psychological aspects , Social media -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Human behavior , Disclosure of information -- Psychological aspects -- Case studies , Personal information management -- Psychological aspects -- Case studies , Data protection -- Psychologial aspects -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172329 , vital:42189
- Description: Social media has revolutionized the way people send and receive information by creating a new level of interconnected communication. However, the use of the Internet and social media brings about various ways in which a user’s personal data can be put at risk. This study aims to investigate what drives the disclosure of personal information online and whether an increase in awareness of the value of personal information motivates users to safeguard their information. Fourteen university students participated in a mixed-methods experiment, where they completed a questionnaire before and after being shown the data stored about them by online platforms to determine if changes occur in their intention to disclose. Following completing the initial questionnaire, the participant viewed the personal data stored about them by Facebook, Google, and Instagram. Other online tools such as Social Profile Checker, Facebook View As, and HaveIBeenPawned were used to see the information publicly available about each participant. Together these findings were discussed in a semi-structured interview to determine the influence of attitudes, subjective norms, and awareness on the cost-benefit analysis users conduct when disclosing information online. Overall, the findings indicate that users are able to disregard their concerns due to a resigned and apathetic attitude towards privacy. Furthermore, subjective norms enhanced by FOMO further allow users to overlook potential risks to their information in order to avoid social isolation and sanction. Alternatively, an increased awareness of the personal value of information and having experienced a previous privacy violation encourage the protection of information and limited disclosure. Thus, this study provides insight into privacy and information disclosure on social media in South Africa. It reveals more insight into the cost-benefit analysis users conduct by combining the Theory of Planned Behaviour with the Privacy Calculus Model, as well as the antecedent factors of Trust in the Social Media Provider, FOMO, and Personal Valuation of Information.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Parker, Heather Joubert
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Social media -- Psychological aspects , Social media -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Human behavior , Disclosure of information -- Psychological aspects -- Case studies , Personal information management -- Psychological aspects -- Case studies , Data protection -- Psychologial aspects -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172329 , vital:42189
- Description: Social media has revolutionized the way people send and receive information by creating a new level of interconnected communication. However, the use of the Internet and social media brings about various ways in which a user’s personal data can be put at risk. This study aims to investigate what drives the disclosure of personal information online and whether an increase in awareness of the value of personal information motivates users to safeguard their information. Fourteen university students participated in a mixed-methods experiment, where they completed a questionnaire before and after being shown the data stored about them by online platforms to determine if changes occur in their intention to disclose. Following completing the initial questionnaire, the participant viewed the personal data stored about them by Facebook, Google, and Instagram. Other online tools such as Social Profile Checker, Facebook View As, and HaveIBeenPawned were used to see the information publicly available about each participant. Together these findings were discussed in a semi-structured interview to determine the influence of attitudes, subjective norms, and awareness on the cost-benefit analysis users conduct when disclosing information online. Overall, the findings indicate that users are able to disregard their concerns due to a resigned and apathetic attitude towards privacy. Furthermore, subjective norms enhanced by FOMO further allow users to overlook potential risks to their information in order to avoid social isolation and sanction. Alternatively, an increased awareness of the personal value of information and having experienced a previous privacy violation encourage the protection of information and limited disclosure. Thus, this study provides insight into privacy and information disclosure on social media in South Africa. It reveals more insight into the cost-benefit analysis users conduct by combining the Theory of Planned Behaviour with the Privacy Calculus Model, as well as the antecedent factors of Trust in the Social Media Provider, FOMO, and Personal Valuation of Information.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
Asymmetric price transmission: an empirical analysis of the relationship between UG-2 chrome ore, charge chrome, nickel and Chinese domestic 304 stainless steel cold rolled coil
- Authors: Le Roux, Simon Petrus
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Pricing , Chromium ores -- Prices -- South Africa , Nickel -- Prices -- South Africa , Austenitic stainless steel-- Prices -- China , Steel -- Prices -- South Africa , Non-Linear Autoregressive Distributive Lag (NARDL)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/171336 , vital:42049
- Description: The goal of this study was to determine whether asymmetric price transmission (APT) exists between the prices of South African UG-2 Chrome ore, Charge Chrome, Nickel and Chinese Domestic 304 Stainless steel Cold Rolled Coil prices. Monthly time series data for the period January 2009 to July 2019 was analysed. The Non-Linear Autoregressive Distributive Lag (NARDL) model was applied to test for the presence of price asymmetry between the four variables. Firstly, it was observed that the four variables are cointegrated in the long-run. Secondly, no evidence of price asymmetry was found to be present within the Stainless steel supply chain. The reason for this is most likely due to the extremely close-knit and highly concentrated nature of this industry at each level within the supply chain. The industry can be very opaque to external observers even though the distribution of pricing information is very efficient for participants within the industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Le Roux, Simon Petrus
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Pricing , Chromium ores -- Prices -- South Africa , Nickel -- Prices -- South Africa , Austenitic stainless steel-- Prices -- China , Steel -- Prices -- South Africa , Non-Linear Autoregressive Distributive Lag (NARDL)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/171336 , vital:42049
- Description: The goal of this study was to determine whether asymmetric price transmission (APT) exists between the prices of South African UG-2 Chrome ore, Charge Chrome, Nickel and Chinese Domestic 304 Stainless steel Cold Rolled Coil prices. Monthly time series data for the period January 2009 to July 2019 was analysed. The Non-Linear Autoregressive Distributive Lag (NARDL) model was applied to test for the presence of price asymmetry between the four variables. Firstly, it was observed that the four variables are cointegrated in the long-run. Secondly, no evidence of price asymmetry was found to be present within the Stainless steel supply chain. The reason for this is most likely due to the extremely close-knit and highly concentrated nature of this industry at each level within the supply chain. The industry can be very opaque to external observers even though the distribution of pricing information is very efficient for participants within the industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
The potential conflict of interest associated with the management of Rosa rubiginos L. (Rosehip) in South Africa
- Authors: Westwood, Timothy
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Invasive plants -- South Africa , Biological invasions -- Economic aspects , Rose hips -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Roses -- South Africa , Rose culture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172458 , vital:42204
- Description: Rosa rubiginosa L. is a category 1b invasive plant species in South Africa and must be controlled according to NEM:BA. However, R. rubiginosa has the potential to provide economic benefit in South Africa due to the expanding market for the shrubs fruit, rosehips. The shrub is not permitted to be cultivated in South Africa due to legislation, limiting the economic potential as the rosehips are only able to be collected from wild R. rubiginosa shrubs. In order to expand the rosehip market in South Africa a downgrade or removal of R. rubiginosa from the invasive species list would be required, as wild harvest is limited. This study aims to assess the benefits and cost associated with R. rubiginosa in order to determine whether the legislation should be altered allowing for the cultivation of the shrub in South Africa. Due to the limited literature surrounding R. rubiginosa three different questionnaires and a case study were used in order to assess the benefits and negatives associated with the shrub. Experts in the field of invasion biology were surveyed to bridge the gap in the R. rubiginosa literature. Landowners, where the shrub is abundant, were surveyed to determine the negative impacts of R. rubiginosa. Rosehip companies were surveyed in order to determine the current size and potential of the R. rubiginosa (rosehip) market. The case study looked at how a rosehip company would benefit if R. rubiginosa was allowed to be cultivated in South Africa. The study found R. rubiginosa to have great economic potential and market growth, with very little negative economic impact. The case study showed that one rosehip company would grow from 1500 tons of raw rosehip to 20 000 tons if cultivation was allowed, resulting in a growth in turnover from R57 million to R760 million ($1=R14.8). The findings in the study show that R. rubiginosa does not significantly affect landowners where it is abundant. Therefore, it is suggested that a change to the legislation should be considered allowing for the cultivation of R. rubiginosa should be implemented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Westwood, Timothy
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Invasive plants -- South Africa , Biological invasions -- Economic aspects , Rose hips -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Roses -- South Africa , Rose culture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172458 , vital:42204
- Description: Rosa rubiginosa L. is a category 1b invasive plant species in South Africa and must be controlled according to NEM:BA. However, R. rubiginosa has the potential to provide economic benefit in South Africa due to the expanding market for the shrubs fruit, rosehips. The shrub is not permitted to be cultivated in South Africa due to legislation, limiting the economic potential as the rosehips are only able to be collected from wild R. rubiginosa shrubs. In order to expand the rosehip market in South Africa a downgrade or removal of R. rubiginosa from the invasive species list would be required, as wild harvest is limited. This study aims to assess the benefits and cost associated with R. rubiginosa in order to determine whether the legislation should be altered allowing for the cultivation of the shrub in South Africa. Due to the limited literature surrounding R. rubiginosa three different questionnaires and a case study were used in order to assess the benefits and negatives associated with the shrub. Experts in the field of invasion biology were surveyed to bridge the gap in the R. rubiginosa literature. Landowners, where the shrub is abundant, were surveyed to determine the negative impacts of R. rubiginosa. Rosehip companies were surveyed in order to determine the current size and potential of the R. rubiginosa (rosehip) market. The case study looked at how a rosehip company would benefit if R. rubiginosa was allowed to be cultivated in South Africa. The study found R. rubiginosa to have great economic potential and market growth, with very little negative economic impact. The case study showed that one rosehip company would grow from 1500 tons of raw rosehip to 20 000 tons if cultivation was allowed, resulting in a growth in turnover from R57 million to R760 million ($1=R14.8). The findings in the study show that R. rubiginosa does not significantly affect landowners where it is abundant. Therefore, it is suggested that a change to the legislation should be considered allowing for the cultivation of R. rubiginosa should be implemented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
A business process model for blockchain-based South African real estate transactions
- Authors: Tilbury, Jack Laurie
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Blockchains (Databases) , Conveyancing -- Technological innovations , Real estate business -- Data processing , Real estate business -- South Africa -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/148380 , vital:38734
- Description: The real estate transaction process has been described as inefficient and technologically outdated due to numerous stakeholders and predominantly paper-based operations. Despite the apparent bottlenecks in the current process, the implementation of new technology into the real estate sector has lagged. Several attempts have been made to modernise and digitise the business process but committed integration of assisting technology has lacked attention. This study examined the applicability and potential integration of blockchain technology into the business process of South African real estate transactions. Blockchain’s novelty means that research in this space, especially within South Africa, is limited. Of the research that has been conducted, no models of the business processes for South African or blockchain-based real estate transactions have been constructed. This study provides two business process models, illustrating the two different processes. The main contribution of this paper was an integrated business process model, illustrating how the various processes and stakeholder interactions for South African blockchain-based real estate transactions are conducted on one transaction platform, common to all participating stakeholders. This platform was named the South African Blockchain Land Exchange System (SABLES), which manages and facilitates these transactions in their entirety from start to finish. This model depicts an enhanced business process that provides increased security, transparency, and speed. These benefits will be realised by those who register, adopt, and transact on the platform. Through in-depth interviews, the integrated business process model was assessed. The findings produced a final and combined thematic map, representing the main themes of the analysed interview data, namely blockchain implementation strategies, business process applicability, information technology assimilation, current transaction context, and PropTech 3.0 success factors. The discussion revealed that the current transaction process lacks technological innovation, which increases pressure on the conveyancing role. It was also revealed that there is not only a need within the industry, but a desire, for newer technologies to assist the transaction process. In order to streamline and improve efficiency, business processes should leverage digital records and data, and strive for a solution beyond digitisation, achieving digitalisation. Digitalisation recognises digital documents as official and legal documents as opposed to simply being digital back-ups. This, coupled with the business process models, represent theoretical contributions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Tilbury, Jack Laurie
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Blockchains (Databases) , Conveyancing -- Technological innovations , Real estate business -- Data processing , Real estate business -- South Africa -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/148380 , vital:38734
- Description: The real estate transaction process has been described as inefficient and technologically outdated due to numerous stakeholders and predominantly paper-based operations. Despite the apparent bottlenecks in the current process, the implementation of new technology into the real estate sector has lagged. Several attempts have been made to modernise and digitise the business process but committed integration of assisting technology has lacked attention. This study examined the applicability and potential integration of blockchain technology into the business process of South African real estate transactions. Blockchain’s novelty means that research in this space, especially within South Africa, is limited. Of the research that has been conducted, no models of the business processes for South African or blockchain-based real estate transactions have been constructed. This study provides two business process models, illustrating the two different processes. The main contribution of this paper was an integrated business process model, illustrating how the various processes and stakeholder interactions for South African blockchain-based real estate transactions are conducted on one transaction platform, common to all participating stakeholders. This platform was named the South African Blockchain Land Exchange System (SABLES), which manages and facilitates these transactions in their entirety from start to finish. This model depicts an enhanced business process that provides increased security, transparency, and speed. These benefits will be realised by those who register, adopt, and transact on the platform. Through in-depth interviews, the integrated business process model was assessed. The findings produced a final and combined thematic map, representing the main themes of the analysed interview data, namely blockchain implementation strategies, business process applicability, information technology assimilation, current transaction context, and PropTech 3.0 success factors. The discussion revealed that the current transaction process lacks technological innovation, which increases pressure on the conveyancing role. It was also revealed that there is not only a need within the industry, but a desire, for newer technologies to assist the transaction process. In order to streamline and improve efficiency, business processes should leverage digital records and data, and strive for a solution beyond digitisation, achieving digitalisation. Digitalisation recognises digital documents as official and legal documents as opposed to simply being digital back-ups. This, coupled with the business process models, represent theoretical contributions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A cloud adoption framework for South African SMEs
- Authors: Mudzamba, Ronald Ratidzo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Cloud computing , Cloud computing -- Security measures , Small business -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- Information technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Information technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Technology-Organisation-Environment (TOE) framework , Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/148574 , vital:38751
- Description: Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have been touted as key enablers to the economic development of most countries. Despite growing evidence that most SMEs fail within their initial years, ICTs have been found to add substantial value in facilitating their success. However, in most developing countries, ICT adoption by SMEs has been plagued with a plethora of challenges ranging from poor electricity supply, high ICT costs, lack of ICT expertise to lack of government support. While this might seem problematic for SMEs, the adoption and the use of cloud services mitigates some of these challenges. The problem, however, is that a limited amount of literature has provided guidance with regard to how the cloud adoption process should be carried out by SMEs. The objective of this research, was therefore, to address this by developing a framework that can be used by SMEs to guide them through the cloud adoption process. To this end, thirteen (13) semi-structured interviews were conducted across nine (9) SMEs in the Eastern Cape. The resultant interview transcripts were analysed using an established thematic approach; the result of which allowed for the development of a rich interpretive narrative about SME cloud adoption. Combined with theory from extant literature, this culminated in the development of a framework for cloud services adoption for SMEs in the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mudzamba, Ronald Ratidzo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Cloud computing , Cloud computing -- Security measures , Small business -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- Information technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Information technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Technology-Organisation-Environment (TOE) framework , Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/148574 , vital:38751
- Description: Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have been touted as key enablers to the economic development of most countries. Despite growing evidence that most SMEs fail within their initial years, ICTs have been found to add substantial value in facilitating their success. However, in most developing countries, ICT adoption by SMEs has been plagued with a plethora of challenges ranging from poor electricity supply, high ICT costs, lack of ICT expertise to lack of government support. While this might seem problematic for SMEs, the adoption and the use of cloud services mitigates some of these challenges. The problem, however, is that a limited amount of literature has provided guidance with regard to how the cloud adoption process should be carried out by SMEs. The objective of this research, was therefore, to address this by developing a framework that can be used by SMEs to guide them through the cloud adoption process. To this end, thirteen (13) semi-structured interviews were conducted across nine (9) SMEs in the Eastern Cape. The resultant interview transcripts were analysed using an established thematic approach; the result of which allowed for the development of a rich interpretive narrative about SME cloud adoption. Combined with theory from extant literature, this culminated in the development of a framework for cloud services adoption for SMEs in the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A comparative analysis of the effects of different Levels of Education on growth in African Economies
- Authors: Mkhosana, Nomathamsanqa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Economic development -- Effect of education on , Education -- Economic Aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50393 , vital:42161
- Description: The economic growth and development of a country depend on the educational opportunities available to its citizens. Education is deemed to influence economic growth via improved labour productivity particularly through knowledge and skills accumulation by promoting technological improvement and innovation. The aim of the study was to highlight the importance of each level of education on economic growth of African countries. The objective of the study was to find which level of education (primary, secondary and tertiary) has the most significant effect on economic growth. To obtain this objective, the study using two panel cointegration methods, the fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) and dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS) method applied to data covering the period of 2000 to 2017, the study aimed at sampling 10 educated economies and 10 advanced economies in Africa, since South Africa and Kenya belong in both categories, the study a total of 18 African economies. The results of the study show discrepancies, that is, primary and secondary education being most beneficial towards more advanced economies whilst only tertiary education is beneficiary towards more educated African countries. Policy implications are provided.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mkhosana, Nomathamsanqa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Economic development -- Effect of education on , Education -- Economic Aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50393 , vital:42161
- Description: The economic growth and development of a country depend on the educational opportunities available to its citizens. Education is deemed to influence economic growth via improved labour productivity particularly through knowledge and skills accumulation by promoting technological improvement and innovation. The aim of the study was to highlight the importance of each level of education on economic growth of African countries. The objective of the study was to find which level of education (primary, secondary and tertiary) has the most significant effect on economic growth. To obtain this objective, the study using two panel cointegration methods, the fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) and dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS) method applied to data covering the period of 2000 to 2017, the study aimed at sampling 10 educated economies and 10 advanced economies in Africa, since South Africa and Kenya belong in both categories, the study a total of 18 African economies. The results of the study show discrepancies, that is, primary and secondary education being most beneficial towards more advanced economies whilst only tertiary education is beneficiary towards more educated African countries. Policy implications are provided.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A comparative analysis with selected jurisdictions of structural challenges facing the South African office of the tax ombud
- Authors: Mothiba, Boitumelo Charity
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South Africa. Office of the Tax Ombud , Tax administration and procdure -- South Africa , Taxpayer advocates -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140360 , vital:37882
- Description: The Office of the Tax Ombud is critical in the protection of South African taxpayers' rights. The office has only been in existence for a little over five years and to ensure that it fulfils the purpose for which it was established, it must be properly structured. This includes that it ought to be independent from any external influence and manipulation. Any such external influence on the Tax Ombud creates the risk that the general public will lose confidence in the Tax Ombud as an independent recourse. The study, therefore, is designed to review the structure relating to the independence and powers of the South African Tax Ombud. The study assesses and evaluates the legislative safeguards of the structure of the Tax Ombud office in order to determine whether the legislative framework (the Tax Administration Act) safeguarding the Office of the Tax Ombud is adequate to ensure its independence and also to ensure a strengthened structure, without interference in the decision-making process of the office. To achieve this, a comparative analysis was made with selected foreign institutions of Tax Ombudsmen, or equivalent institutions, in order to draw from the best international practice. The study found that the structure of the Office of the Tax Ombud is relatively weak and does not fully provide the legislative powers to protect taxpayers from the well-resourced South African Revenue Service. The study also revealed that most of the institutional features in the structure of the South African Tax Ombud were found to be in line with standard international practice. The study has made recommendations aimed at strengthening the structure of the South African Tax Ombud by suggesting reforms in the legislative framework of the Tax Ombud.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mothiba, Boitumelo Charity
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: South Africa. Office of the Tax Ombud , Tax administration and procdure -- South Africa , Taxpayer advocates -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/140360 , vital:37882
- Description: The Office of the Tax Ombud is critical in the protection of South African taxpayers' rights. The office has only been in existence for a little over five years and to ensure that it fulfils the purpose for which it was established, it must be properly structured. This includes that it ought to be independent from any external influence and manipulation. Any such external influence on the Tax Ombud creates the risk that the general public will lose confidence in the Tax Ombud as an independent recourse. The study, therefore, is designed to review the structure relating to the independence and powers of the South African Tax Ombud. The study assesses and evaluates the legislative safeguards of the structure of the Tax Ombud office in order to determine whether the legislative framework (the Tax Administration Act) safeguarding the Office of the Tax Ombud is adequate to ensure its independence and also to ensure a strengthened structure, without interference in the decision-making process of the office. To achieve this, a comparative analysis was made with selected foreign institutions of Tax Ombudsmen, or equivalent institutions, in order to draw from the best international practice. The study found that the structure of the Office of the Tax Ombud is relatively weak and does not fully provide the legislative powers to protect taxpayers from the well-resourced South African Revenue Service. The study also revealed that most of the institutional features in the structure of the South African Tax Ombud were found to be in line with standard international practice. The study has made recommendations aimed at strengthening the structure of the South African Tax Ombud by suggesting reforms in the legislative framework of the Tax Ombud.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A comparative study of the tax measures for persons with disabilities in South Africa with those of Canada and the Republic of Ireland
- Authors: Currie, Natasha
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: People with disabilities -- Taxation -- South Africa , People with disabilities -- Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , People with disabilities -- Taxation -- Canada , People with disabilities -- Taxation -- Law and legislation -- Ireland , People with disabilities -- Taxation -- Ireland
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/170746 , vital:41956
- Description: Literature indicates that tax relief measures for persons with disabilities are important as they align with the principle of equity in the allocation of the tax burden. They are a government intervention that assists in decreasing the financial burden of medical care for persons with disabilities. The right of persons with disabilities to an adequate standard of living is contained in the landmark Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Optional Protocol, a treaty of the United Nations, which South Africa ratified in 2007. The objective of the research was to provide a comparative study of tax relief measures for persons with disabilities in South Africa with those of Canada and the Republic of Ireland, with a view to identifying potential areas for improvement in South Africa. The requisite information was primarily collected through an extensive analysis of the tax legislation in the jurisdictions. The research found that tax relief measures for persons with disabilities and their families in South Africa are limited when compared with those of Canada and the Republic of Ireland. The comparative study identifies a number of potential tax relief measures for implementation in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Currie, Natasha
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: People with disabilities -- Taxation -- South Africa , People with disabilities -- Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , People with disabilities -- Taxation -- Canada , People with disabilities -- Taxation -- Law and legislation -- Ireland , People with disabilities -- Taxation -- Ireland
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/170746 , vital:41956
- Description: Literature indicates that tax relief measures for persons with disabilities are important as they align with the principle of equity in the allocation of the tax burden. They are a government intervention that assists in decreasing the financial burden of medical care for persons with disabilities. The right of persons with disabilities to an adequate standard of living is contained in the landmark Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Optional Protocol, a treaty of the United Nations, which South Africa ratified in 2007. The objective of the research was to provide a comparative study of tax relief measures for persons with disabilities in South Africa with those of Canada and the Republic of Ireland, with a view to identifying potential areas for improvement in South Africa. The requisite information was primarily collected through an extensive analysis of the tax legislation in the jurisdictions. The research found that tax relief measures for persons with disabilities and their families in South Africa are limited when compared with those of Canada and the Republic of Ireland. The comparative study identifies a number of potential tax relief measures for implementation in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A critical analysis of selected clauses in selected Double Tax Agreements (DTAs) with South Africa
- Authors: Ndzimakhwe, Vusumzi Allen
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Double taxation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49986 , vital:41967
- Description: The purpose of this treatise was to analyse selected clauses in selected double taxation agreements with South Africa. An integrative literature review research method was used. The study commenced with an overview of double tax agreements from both an international and South African perspective. This was followed by a critical analysis of the Mutual Agreement Procedures, the Most-Favoured Nation clause and the Non-discrimination obligation. Selected court cases domestic and foreign court cases were used to illustrate the gaps that sometimes exist between revenue authorities’ and taxpayers’ understanding of the clauses being studied. An analysis was then performed of the measures and their appropriateness that South Africa can implement to close the loopholes arising from the selected clauses. This was informed by the action plans suggested by the OECD and the Davis Tax Committee on base erosion and profit shifting. The study then concluded with a synopsis of the key findings of the selected clauses and their recommendations. Finally recommendations were made for areas of further research which might assist in closing the loopholes arising from the words employed within double tax agreements and the intention of the legislature/the executive can be closed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Ndzimakhwe, Vusumzi Allen
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Double taxation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49986 , vital:41967
- Description: The purpose of this treatise was to analyse selected clauses in selected double taxation agreements with South Africa. An integrative literature review research method was used. The study commenced with an overview of double tax agreements from both an international and South African perspective. This was followed by a critical analysis of the Mutual Agreement Procedures, the Most-Favoured Nation clause and the Non-discrimination obligation. Selected court cases domestic and foreign court cases were used to illustrate the gaps that sometimes exist between revenue authorities’ and taxpayers’ understanding of the clauses being studied. An analysis was then performed of the measures and their appropriateness that South Africa can implement to close the loopholes arising from the selected clauses. This was informed by the action plans suggested by the OECD and the Davis Tax Committee on base erosion and profit shifting. The study then concluded with a synopsis of the key findings of the selected clauses and their recommendations. Finally recommendations were made for areas of further research which might assist in closing the loopholes arising from the words employed within double tax agreements and the intention of the legislature/the executive can be closed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A critical analysis of the administrative issues related to the Health Promotion Levy in South Africa
- Authors: Herbst, Tamryn
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Health promotion -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48158 , vital:40515
- Description: The purpose of the treatise was to examine the administrative issues that have arisen related to the implementation of the Health Promotion Levy (HPL) in South Africa, and to identify solutions to these issues. The study commenced with a review of what the HPL is and how it is levied. This was followed by a comparative analysis of issues that have been experienced by four countries, as well as any potential issues that have been identified by the four countries. The HPL is often referred to as sugar tax in many jurisdictions, and was referred to as HPL for the purposes of this treatise. A review was then performed of the solutions that were implemented by these countries in responding to the administrative issues that were identified, as well as guidelines issued by the World Health Organisation for the implementation of this levy. The likelihood of these issues arising in South Africa’s implementation of the Health Promotion Levy was examined based on these comparisons. It was found that the issues experienced by other countries in the implementation of the HPL have been experienced in South Africa, or may be relevant in a South African context. Following this, the solutions implemented by other countries and recommended by the World Health Organisation were analysed to determine if these solutions are practical in a South African context. Many of the solutions implemented by the countries analysed, are relevant in a South African context and have, in fact, already been implemented in South Africa The conclusion reached was that South Africa has been successful in administering the implementation of the HPL and that the administrative costs of the implementation and administration of the HPL are outweighed by the benefits of the health awareness raised by the implementation of the HPL.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Herbst, Tamryn
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Health promotion -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48158 , vital:40515
- Description: The purpose of the treatise was to examine the administrative issues that have arisen related to the implementation of the Health Promotion Levy (HPL) in South Africa, and to identify solutions to these issues. The study commenced with a review of what the HPL is and how it is levied. This was followed by a comparative analysis of issues that have been experienced by four countries, as well as any potential issues that have been identified by the four countries. The HPL is often referred to as sugar tax in many jurisdictions, and was referred to as HPL for the purposes of this treatise. A review was then performed of the solutions that were implemented by these countries in responding to the administrative issues that were identified, as well as guidelines issued by the World Health Organisation for the implementation of this levy. The likelihood of these issues arising in South Africa’s implementation of the Health Promotion Levy was examined based on these comparisons. It was found that the issues experienced by other countries in the implementation of the HPL have been experienced in South Africa, or may be relevant in a South African context. Following this, the solutions implemented by other countries and recommended by the World Health Organisation were analysed to determine if these solutions are practical in a South African context. Many of the solutions implemented by the countries analysed, are relevant in a South African context and have, in fact, already been implemented in South Africa The conclusion reached was that South Africa has been successful in administering the implementation of the HPL and that the administrative costs of the implementation and administration of the HPL are outweighed by the benefits of the health awareness raised by the implementation of the HPL.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A critical analysis of the South African turnover tax system
- Authors: Chiromo, Samuel John
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Small business -- Taxation -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Turnover tax -- South Africa , Government aid to small business -- South Africa , Tax incentives -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/166103 , vital:41329
- Description: The objective of the turnover tax system is to reduce the administrative burden on micro businesses and to contribute positively to boosting these businesses and the economic growth of South Africa. The over-arching goal of this research was to analyse the South African turnover tax to investigate to what extent the turnover tax system complies with generally accepted principles of a good tax system. The research was conducted within an interpretative post-positivism paradigm, applied a qualitative research methodology, and a doctrinal research method. A detailed review of the literature was conducted to establish the nature of South African turnover tax system and the extent of its compliance with generally accepted principles of a good tax system. The literature review included an in-depth analysis of the South African turnover tax system, an in-depth analysis of generally accepted principles of a good tax system, and an investigation of the extent to which turnover tax system complies with various elements of the principles of a good tax system. It was found in this study that the turnover tax system does not comply with certain of the elements of generally accepted principles of a good tax system and the study proposed several recommendations for the improvement of the turnover tax system. These recommendations include the establishment of training initiatives for micro business owners, reviewing the regulations pertaining to turnover tax and providing digital administration of turnover tax.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Chiromo, Samuel John
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Small business -- Taxation -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Turnover tax -- South Africa , Government aid to small business -- South Africa , Tax incentives -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/166103 , vital:41329
- Description: The objective of the turnover tax system is to reduce the administrative burden on micro businesses and to contribute positively to boosting these businesses and the economic growth of South Africa. The over-arching goal of this research was to analyse the South African turnover tax to investigate to what extent the turnover tax system complies with generally accepted principles of a good tax system. The research was conducted within an interpretative post-positivism paradigm, applied a qualitative research methodology, and a doctrinal research method. A detailed review of the literature was conducted to establish the nature of South African turnover tax system and the extent of its compliance with generally accepted principles of a good tax system. The literature review included an in-depth analysis of the South African turnover tax system, an in-depth analysis of generally accepted principles of a good tax system, and an investigation of the extent to which turnover tax system complies with various elements of the principles of a good tax system. It was found in this study that the turnover tax system does not comply with certain of the elements of generally accepted principles of a good tax system and the study proposed several recommendations for the improvement of the turnover tax system. These recommendations include the establishment of training initiatives for micro business owners, reviewing the regulations pertaining to turnover tax and providing digital administration of turnover tax.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A framework for supplier selection in the Nelson Mandela Bay retail industry
- Authors: Mavela, A
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Business logistics -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48905 , vital:41169
- Description: The success of business firms operating in the retail industry is largely dependent on the performance rendered by their supply base. Choosing the incorrect supplier could have dire consequences for the retailer’s performance, as suppliers are generally considered an extension of the retailer. Organisations base their operational expertise on the key performance objectives of cost, service, quality, speed, dependability and flexibility, which becomes the basis of their selection criteria when evaluating suppliers. The primary objective of this study was to develop a framework that guides retailers in their supplier selection process with the ultimate goal of formulating strategies to improve Nelson Mandela Bay’s (NMB’s) retail performance. In support of the primary objective, it was necessary to identify the current supplier selection criteria used in the NMB retail industry and the challenges that retailers face when selecting suppliers. The study set out to assess the effects of utilising established supplier selection criteria on retailers’ performance, as well as to identify strategies that retailers should employ to improve their performance. A quantitative research approach was utilised to collect data from a sample of 248 retailers and procurement and logistics managers. The empirical findings of the study identified flexibility, timeous delivery and reliability as the most important supplier selection criteria identified by retailers in NMB. The findings also revealed that utilising established supplier selection criteria has a significantly positive effect on retailers’ performance. Lack of collaboration between suppliers and retailers, lack of transparency between suppliers and retailers and suppliers’ limited knowledge of the criteria by which they are judged were identified as the most significant challenges facing retailers in NMB. The empirical findings also identified an increase in a retailer’s competitive advantage and revenue as the benefits of utilising supplier selection criteria to improve a retailer’s performance. The conclusions and implications of the empirical findings are provided and recommendations made. The study advances a framework to assist in guiding the retailers and procurement and logistics managers, retail researchers and policy makers when selecting suppliers. The study suggests that retailers should identify the most important supplier selection criteria, inform potential suppliers of the importance v of those criteria, select suppliers based on those criteria and utilise those criteria to evaluate the suppliers’ performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mavela, A
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Business logistics -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48905 , vital:41169
- Description: The success of business firms operating in the retail industry is largely dependent on the performance rendered by their supply base. Choosing the incorrect supplier could have dire consequences for the retailer’s performance, as suppliers are generally considered an extension of the retailer. Organisations base their operational expertise on the key performance objectives of cost, service, quality, speed, dependability and flexibility, which becomes the basis of their selection criteria when evaluating suppliers. The primary objective of this study was to develop a framework that guides retailers in their supplier selection process with the ultimate goal of formulating strategies to improve Nelson Mandela Bay’s (NMB’s) retail performance. In support of the primary objective, it was necessary to identify the current supplier selection criteria used in the NMB retail industry and the challenges that retailers face when selecting suppliers. The study set out to assess the effects of utilising established supplier selection criteria on retailers’ performance, as well as to identify strategies that retailers should employ to improve their performance. A quantitative research approach was utilised to collect data from a sample of 248 retailers and procurement and logistics managers. The empirical findings of the study identified flexibility, timeous delivery and reliability as the most important supplier selection criteria identified by retailers in NMB. The findings also revealed that utilising established supplier selection criteria has a significantly positive effect on retailers’ performance. Lack of collaboration between suppliers and retailers, lack of transparency between suppliers and retailers and suppliers’ limited knowledge of the criteria by which they are judged were identified as the most significant challenges facing retailers in NMB. The empirical findings also identified an increase in a retailer’s competitive advantage and revenue as the benefits of utilising supplier selection criteria to improve a retailer’s performance. The conclusions and implications of the empirical findings are provided and recommendations made. The study advances a framework to assist in guiding the retailers and procurement and logistics managers, retail researchers and policy makers when selecting suppliers. The study suggests that retailers should identify the most important supplier selection criteria, inform potential suppliers of the importance v of those criteria, select suppliers based on those criteria and utilise those criteria to evaluate the suppliers’ performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A Social Media Method for Eliciting Millennials’ Worldviews on the Coastal and Marine Environment
- Authors: Okuah, Obrukevwe Anehwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Millennialism -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48588 , vital:40893
- Description: A lack of involvement by participants with traditional data collection methods for research has led to insufficient data regarding millennials’ worldviews on the coastal and marine environment. Understanding millennial worldviews could provide insights for policy interventions for sustainable use of the marine and coastal environment. The aim of this research is to design, develop and evaluate an appropriate social media method to elicit millennials’ worldviews on the coastal and marine environment. The methodology used for the research was Design Science Research (DSR), which is a legitimate approach to conducting research in the field of Information Systems. The methods used were a literature review, interviews with social media experts and Social Media Influencers (SMIs), and a focus group discussion with researchers from the field of social sciences. The proposed artefact (the method) can be used to provide guidance to researchers for engaging and eliciting opinions and worldviews of millennials on social media. The method includes a Social Media Influencer Model that illustrates the relationship between SMIs’ characteristics and techniques for engaging the public, and a Social Media Analytics (SMA) Process model that can guide researchers through the steps of eliciting worldviews from the public. Although there are several SMA techniques that can be used, the proposed method uses sentiment analysis as an SMA technique for deriving sentiments from social media data. The method was evaluated by researchers who require a social media method for eliciting millennials worldviews. The findings confirmed some of the techniques identified in literature as well as some additional techniques and processes. It was also evident that using this method could assist researchers for data collection and specifically to obtain worldviews on the marine and coastal environment. The contribution of this study is an artefact that fulfils the need for a social media method for data collection that is more convenient for researchers and millennials and can guide researchers through the steps of eliciting worldviews from the public.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Okuah, Obrukevwe Anehwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Millennialism -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48588 , vital:40893
- Description: A lack of involvement by participants with traditional data collection methods for research has led to insufficient data regarding millennials’ worldviews on the coastal and marine environment. Understanding millennial worldviews could provide insights for policy interventions for sustainable use of the marine and coastal environment. The aim of this research is to design, develop and evaluate an appropriate social media method to elicit millennials’ worldviews on the coastal and marine environment. The methodology used for the research was Design Science Research (DSR), which is a legitimate approach to conducting research in the field of Information Systems. The methods used were a literature review, interviews with social media experts and Social Media Influencers (SMIs), and a focus group discussion with researchers from the field of social sciences. The proposed artefact (the method) can be used to provide guidance to researchers for engaging and eliciting opinions and worldviews of millennials on social media. The method includes a Social Media Influencer Model that illustrates the relationship between SMIs’ characteristics and techniques for engaging the public, and a Social Media Analytics (SMA) Process model that can guide researchers through the steps of eliciting worldviews from the public. Although there are several SMA techniques that can be used, the proposed method uses sentiment analysis as an SMA technique for deriving sentiments from social media data. The method was evaluated by researchers who require a social media method for eliciting millennials worldviews. The findings confirmed some of the techniques identified in literature as well as some additional techniques and processes. It was also evident that using this method could assist researchers for data collection and specifically to obtain worldviews on the marine and coastal environment. The contribution of this study is an artefact that fulfils the need for a social media method for data collection that is more convenient for researchers and millennials and can guide researchers through the steps of eliciting worldviews from the public.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020