Business incubation in the Eastern Cape: a case study
- Authors: Chandler, Leonard Mark
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Business incubators -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8892 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020862
- Description: Business incubation is a concept that describes a business development process that is used to grow successful, sustainable entrepreneurial ventures that will contribute to the health and wealth of local, regional and national economies. Incubators provide a place for businesses to build their foundations. Business incubators use a combination of physical space, resources and services to facilitate and develop businesses, enhance their progress, break down barriers to success, reduce risks and increase the potential for successful survival of early stage ventures., their progress, break down barriers to success, reduce risks and increase the potential for successful survival of early stage ventures. Business incubators are part of a larger value chain that connects enterprises to a vital support system. Most incubators connect their clients to local service providers (such as lawyers, corporate service providers or accountants) and establish relationships that will last after the firm leaves the incubator. Once an enterprise is ready to leave the incubator environment, it will need space to move into, which in turn, boosts property development and leasing. Because of the enhanced credibility of the business incubation process, landlords would be more confident as a stable, growing business can be a reliable tenant. The empirical object of the study is the Seda NMB ICT Incubator in Port Elizabeth. Eastern Cape. Like any other business an incubator is created to deliver a service or product for as long as possible and in this process must create value because the ultimate objective of any profit seeking business is to create wealth for its owners with due consideration of all its stakeholders (Brigham & Ehrhardt 2005:7-12). A preliminary investigation of the Seda NMB ICT Incubator raised the question whether the operation of this incubator meets the performance standards as identified in the international literature. The purpose of this study is therefore to establish whether the performance of the Seda NMB ICT Incubator is in line with generally accepted performance standards. At this stage the standards can be identified as a strategic alliance of the business (vision, mission and strategy), financing principles, management principles and human resource development and growth opportunities. The SEDA NMB ICT Incubator is financed as follows: Partly by the Department of Trade and Industry (the SEDA technology programme) and partly by the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. It is recommended that public/private partnerships should be formed to ensure the continuity of the Port Elizabeth incubator. A second recommendation is that the SEDA NMB Incubator becomes more focussed in terms of its clients it is serving. At present it is serving a wide variety of ICT clients ranging from website design, graphic art to preparing business plans for ICT businesses. The period of incubation may be too extended as some incubatees have been on the premises for more than five years. It is recommended that the SEDA NMB Incubator pays attention to the length of stay of an incubatee. The vast majority of the incubatees on the SEDA NMB Incubator premises are not compliant with business acts and regulations. Seven incubatees reported during the personal interview that they were not compliant with all the acts and regulations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Chandler, Leonard Mark
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Business incubators -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Management -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8892 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020862
- Description: Business incubation is a concept that describes a business development process that is used to grow successful, sustainable entrepreneurial ventures that will contribute to the health and wealth of local, regional and national economies. Incubators provide a place for businesses to build their foundations. Business incubators use a combination of physical space, resources and services to facilitate and develop businesses, enhance their progress, break down barriers to success, reduce risks and increase the potential for successful survival of early stage ventures., their progress, break down barriers to success, reduce risks and increase the potential for successful survival of early stage ventures. Business incubators are part of a larger value chain that connects enterprises to a vital support system. Most incubators connect their clients to local service providers (such as lawyers, corporate service providers or accountants) and establish relationships that will last after the firm leaves the incubator. Once an enterprise is ready to leave the incubator environment, it will need space to move into, which in turn, boosts property development and leasing. Because of the enhanced credibility of the business incubation process, landlords would be more confident as a stable, growing business can be a reliable tenant. The empirical object of the study is the Seda NMB ICT Incubator in Port Elizabeth. Eastern Cape. Like any other business an incubator is created to deliver a service or product for as long as possible and in this process must create value because the ultimate objective of any profit seeking business is to create wealth for its owners with due consideration of all its stakeholders (Brigham & Ehrhardt 2005:7-12). A preliminary investigation of the Seda NMB ICT Incubator raised the question whether the operation of this incubator meets the performance standards as identified in the international literature. The purpose of this study is therefore to establish whether the performance of the Seda NMB ICT Incubator is in line with generally accepted performance standards. At this stage the standards can be identified as a strategic alliance of the business (vision, mission and strategy), financing principles, management principles and human resource development and growth opportunities. The SEDA NMB ICT Incubator is financed as follows: Partly by the Department of Trade and Industry (the SEDA technology programme) and partly by the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. It is recommended that public/private partnerships should be formed to ensure the continuity of the Port Elizabeth incubator. A second recommendation is that the SEDA NMB Incubator becomes more focussed in terms of its clients it is serving. At present it is serving a wide variety of ICT clients ranging from website design, graphic art to preparing business plans for ICT businesses. The period of incubation may be too extended as some incubatees have been on the premises for more than five years. It is recommended that the SEDA NMB Incubator pays attention to the length of stay of an incubatee. The vast majority of the incubatees on the SEDA NMB Incubator premises are not compliant with business acts and regulations. Seven incubatees reported during the personal interview that they were not compliant with all the acts and regulations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Challenges faced by the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Local Government integrated development planning unit in supporting municipalities to deliver credible integrated development plans, using Sundays River Valley Municipality as a case study
- Authors: Salman, Lindile Andrew
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: City planning -- South Africa -- Sundays River Valley , Community development -- South Africa -- Sundays River Valley -- Management , Civic improvement -- South Africa -- Sundays River Valley , Local government -- South Africa -- Sundays River Valley
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8917 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021092
- Description: This Research was undertaken to explore the challenges faced by the Eastern Cape Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs Integrated Development Planning Unit to support municipalities to deliver credible Integrated Development Plans (IDPs), using Sunday’s River Valley Municipality as a case study. The legal obligation of the Department of Local Government is to support Municipalities to able them to perform their function and execute the duties allocated to them. This mandate originates from the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, Act 108 of 1996. The Provincial Department of Local Government Integrated Development Unit is therefore obliged to support and guide municipalities in the development of IDPs by mobilizing and coordinating sector departments to participate in IDP processes, and to identify and allocate funds for projects. It is suggested that the DLGTA IDP Unit is not doing enough to support municipalities so as to deliver credible IDPs, hence the wide-spread violent service delivery protests. The study aimed at establishing whether there is a direct link between the efforts or not of DLGTA to help the municipality to develop a credible IDP and service delivery protests. The IDP may be credible, but the implementation may be flawed, or funding does not flow as expected, or the people on the ground may not understand that it may take years to deliver services. The study targeted senior managers of coordinating Departments, the Sunday’s River Valley Municipality (SRVM) and IDP Managers of SRVM and the Cacadu District Municipality (CDM). The study discovered that sector departments do not participate meaningfully in IDP processes mainly because: (1) SRVM does not extend invitations to all sector departments to attend IDP meetings; (2) There is no legal obligation to participate at local level; (3) There appears to be no commitment shown by senior managers of SRVM on IDP Processes. The DLGTA IDP Unit efforts to assist SRVM to deliver credible IDPs cannot be deemed successful, because the SRVM IDP continued to receive medium rating score for four years in succession. The DLGTA IDP Unit never paid attention to the issues cited above as the cause of stagnation of SRVM IDP. The DLGTA IDP Unit was not aware that the issues cited above were the cause for the poor SRVM IDP until the researcher brought it to their attention. It is therefore recommended that the culture of participation in the IDP processes by top management of both SRVM and DLGTA should be included in the performance contracts of top management officials. It is also recommended that the Inter Governmental Relations (IGR) Framework Act be reviewed to recognize IGR IDP Structures at local level such as IDP Representative Forums. The Act currently is silent on those structures at local level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Salman, Lindile Andrew
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: City planning -- South Africa -- Sundays River Valley , Community development -- South Africa -- Sundays River Valley -- Management , Civic improvement -- South Africa -- Sundays River Valley , Local government -- South Africa -- Sundays River Valley
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8917 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021092
- Description: This Research was undertaken to explore the challenges faced by the Eastern Cape Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs Integrated Development Planning Unit to support municipalities to deliver credible Integrated Development Plans (IDPs), using Sunday’s River Valley Municipality as a case study. The legal obligation of the Department of Local Government is to support Municipalities to able them to perform their function and execute the duties allocated to them. This mandate originates from the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, Act 108 of 1996. The Provincial Department of Local Government Integrated Development Unit is therefore obliged to support and guide municipalities in the development of IDPs by mobilizing and coordinating sector departments to participate in IDP processes, and to identify and allocate funds for projects. It is suggested that the DLGTA IDP Unit is not doing enough to support municipalities so as to deliver credible IDPs, hence the wide-spread violent service delivery protests. The study aimed at establishing whether there is a direct link between the efforts or not of DLGTA to help the municipality to develop a credible IDP and service delivery protests. The IDP may be credible, but the implementation may be flawed, or funding does not flow as expected, or the people on the ground may not understand that it may take years to deliver services. The study targeted senior managers of coordinating Departments, the Sunday’s River Valley Municipality (SRVM) and IDP Managers of SRVM and the Cacadu District Municipality (CDM). The study discovered that sector departments do not participate meaningfully in IDP processes mainly because: (1) SRVM does not extend invitations to all sector departments to attend IDP meetings; (2) There is no legal obligation to participate at local level; (3) There appears to be no commitment shown by senior managers of SRVM on IDP Processes. The DLGTA IDP Unit efforts to assist SRVM to deliver credible IDPs cannot be deemed successful, because the SRVM IDP continued to receive medium rating score for four years in succession. The DLGTA IDP Unit never paid attention to the issues cited above as the cause of stagnation of SRVM IDP. The DLGTA IDP Unit was not aware that the issues cited above were the cause for the poor SRVM IDP until the researcher brought it to their attention. It is therefore recommended that the culture of participation in the IDP processes by top management of both SRVM and DLGTA should be included in the performance contracts of top management officials. It is also recommended that the Inter Governmental Relations (IGR) Framework Act be reviewed to recognize IGR IDP Structures at local level such as IDP Representative Forums. The Act currently is silent on those structures at local level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Challenges faced by uMgungundlovu District Municipality in the implementation of tourism to enhance local economic development
- Authors: Motumi, Kabelo Kenneth
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- uMgungundlovu District Municipality , Tourism -- South Africa -- uMgungundlovu District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9195 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020388
- Description: Tourism is gradually recognized and acknowledged as an important sector to drive economic growth across many nations. It is by no coincidence that the South African government took a bold decision to elevate the importance of tourism in the economy through the establishment of a dedicated tourism ministry in 2009. Tourism derives its mandate from the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 108 of 1996, which outlines tourism function as an area of concurrent competence between the three spheres of government that is national, provincial and local government. According to Tsatsire (2008:1), the new mandate given to local government post 1994 implies that local government is no longer expected to render basic services only, but is also required to serve as an agent of development. The main objective of the study is to identify the challenges faced by the municipalities in the implementation of tourism functions, using UMgungundlovu District Municipality as a case study and pursued the following specific objectives: To establish the roles and responsibilities of municipalities in tourism; To assess whether these responsibilities are adequately performed and to understand the reasons for deficiencies, if there are any; To highlight the contribution of tourism to local economic development; To ascertain the status of the implementation of the tourism strategy for the UMgungundlovu District Municipality (UMDM); To highlight the significance of the role of municipalities in achieving national and provincial tourism objectives and; To recommend appropriate actions to overcome the challenges pertaining to implementation of tourism at a local government level. The study is premised upon the acknowledgement that there are many developmental challenges facing municipalities and tourism is one of them. With tourism being recognised more and more as an essential component of local economic development, municipalities are required to play a central role in ensuring the implementation of national and provincial priorities to boost the sector’s contribution to the economy. The study explores various pieces of legislation upon which tourism mandate on local government is embedded. This has enabled to provide clarification with regards to the roles and responsibilities of local government in tourism. The connection between tourism and local economic development is succinctly discussed to ascertain the benefits of tourism and its contribution in local economy. The study took a form of qualitative research and therefore employing the use of qualitative research techniques in terms of data collection, analysis and interpretation process. Data were collected through the review and analysis of strategy documents including the Local Economic Development Strategy, Tourism Strategy and the Integrated Development Plan of UMgungundlovu District Municipality. Interviews were also conducted with the officials responsible for tourism within UMDM and other local tourism stakeholder organization within the study area including uMsunduzi Pietermaritzburg Tourism Association, Howick uMngeni Community Tourism Association, Pietermaritzburg Business Chamber of Commerce, KwaZulu Natal Department of Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism KwaZulu Natal. The methodology that was followed in the study has enabled the researcher to address all the study objectives and to compile the findings report presented in chapter four. Tourism is one of the functions of local government; however, municipalities are faced with a variety of challenges in the implementation of tourism function. Challenges that are pertinent to UMDM are discussed and articulated in this report. The study concludes by documenting the recommendations conferred by the respondents with the objective to overcome the challenges pertaining to implementation of tourism at a local government level. These recommendations are further discussed to explore practical actions on how the UMDM can overcome the identified challenges to enhance local economic development through tourism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Motumi, Kabelo Kenneth
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- uMgungundlovu District Municipality , Tourism -- South Africa -- uMgungundlovu District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9195 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020388
- Description: Tourism is gradually recognized and acknowledged as an important sector to drive economic growth across many nations. It is by no coincidence that the South African government took a bold decision to elevate the importance of tourism in the economy through the establishment of a dedicated tourism ministry in 2009. Tourism derives its mandate from the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 108 of 1996, which outlines tourism function as an area of concurrent competence between the three spheres of government that is national, provincial and local government. According to Tsatsire (2008:1), the new mandate given to local government post 1994 implies that local government is no longer expected to render basic services only, but is also required to serve as an agent of development. The main objective of the study is to identify the challenges faced by the municipalities in the implementation of tourism functions, using UMgungundlovu District Municipality as a case study and pursued the following specific objectives: To establish the roles and responsibilities of municipalities in tourism; To assess whether these responsibilities are adequately performed and to understand the reasons for deficiencies, if there are any; To highlight the contribution of tourism to local economic development; To ascertain the status of the implementation of the tourism strategy for the UMgungundlovu District Municipality (UMDM); To highlight the significance of the role of municipalities in achieving national and provincial tourism objectives and; To recommend appropriate actions to overcome the challenges pertaining to implementation of tourism at a local government level. The study is premised upon the acknowledgement that there are many developmental challenges facing municipalities and tourism is one of them. With tourism being recognised more and more as an essential component of local economic development, municipalities are required to play a central role in ensuring the implementation of national and provincial priorities to boost the sector’s contribution to the economy. The study explores various pieces of legislation upon which tourism mandate on local government is embedded. This has enabled to provide clarification with regards to the roles and responsibilities of local government in tourism. The connection between tourism and local economic development is succinctly discussed to ascertain the benefits of tourism and its contribution in local economy. The study took a form of qualitative research and therefore employing the use of qualitative research techniques in terms of data collection, analysis and interpretation process. Data were collected through the review and analysis of strategy documents including the Local Economic Development Strategy, Tourism Strategy and the Integrated Development Plan of UMgungundlovu District Municipality. Interviews were also conducted with the officials responsible for tourism within UMDM and other local tourism stakeholder organization within the study area including uMsunduzi Pietermaritzburg Tourism Association, Howick uMngeni Community Tourism Association, Pietermaritzburg Business Chamber of Commerce, KwaZulu Natal Department of Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism KwaZulu Natal. The methodology that was followed in the study has enabled the researcher to address all the study objectives and to compile the findings report presented in chapter four. Tourism is one of the functions of local government; however, municipalities are faced with a variety of challenges in the implementation of tourism function. Challenges that are pertinent to UMDM are discussed and articulated in this report. The study concludes by documenting the recommendations conferred by the respondents with the objective to overcome the challenges pertaining to implementation of tourism at a local government level. These recommendations are further discussed to explore practical actions on how the UMDM can overcome the identified challenges to enhance local economic development through tourism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Challenges facing the implementation of integrated development plan (IDP): the case of Motherwell township in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Mlele, Mzimkhulu Maxwell
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: City planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Community development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Civic improvement - South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Regional planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Motherwell (Port Elizabeth, South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9243 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021120
- Description: This research outlines the challenges facing the implementation of the IDP in the Motherwell Township. Firstly, it is the physical setting and background of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Secondly, it is the brief background on IDP. Thirdly, it is the legislative framework for the IDP implementation. Fourthly it will be the discussion on the importance of the study. It is followed by the objectives of the study and the research methodology. The discussion on the literature review is also covered. Lastly, It is the chapter on recommendations and a conclusion.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mlele, Mzimkhulu Maxwell
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: City planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Community development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Civic improvement - South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Regional planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Motherwell (Port Elizabeth, South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9243 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021120
- Description: This research outlines the challenges facing the implementation of the IDP in the Motherwell Township. Firstly, it is the physical setting and background of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Secondly, it is the brief background on IDP. Thirdly, it is the legislative framework for the IDP implementation. Fourthly it will be the discussion on the importance of the study. It is followed by the objectives of the study and the research methodology. The discussion on the literature review is also covered. Lastly, It is the chapter on recommendations and a conclusion.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Climate change mitigation strategies and its effect on economic change
- Authors: Roux, Louis Johannes
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- Economic aspects , Climate change mitigation , Global warming -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: vital:8889 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020816
- Description: Scientists started to study the relationship between changing weather patterns and the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other harmful gasses. They soon discovered compelling evidence that CO2 concentration and other gases have been increasing and it was causing temperatures to increase in certain areas on the earth, which disturb historic weather patterns. Climate change has become a very popular field of study in the modern science. Europe first introduced measures to reduce carbon emissions but it was the Kyoto in 1997 where global leaders were asked to participate in a joint protocol to reduce greenhouse gases. South Africa responded to climate change challenges in 2008 with the Long term Mitigation Scenarios (LTMS). The Integrated Resource Plan for electricity to 2030 was developed from the LTMS scenarios and after some major amendments it was accepted and promulgated by Government and has recently been included in the National Development Plan to 2030 (NDP). There are concerns about the achievability of some of the objectives listed in the NDP and this study explored the IRP2010 as the proposed strategy to meet energy demand and reduce emissions. The purpose for this study was to answer this question: Is there an optimum climate change mitigation strategy for South Africa and how can the effect thereof be simulated on economic growth? Through primary and secondary research during the study it was possible to define some 32 categories of energy producing assets that are commercially active or nearly market-ready. The characteristics of the various assets and the relevant fuel are defined in mathematical equations. It was found that the three portfolios that matched the 450TWh electricity requirement would perform substantially better than the NDP portfolio in terms of cost and similar on emissions with marginally fewer employment opportunities created. The proposed electricity strategy in this study was 390TWh and 33.5 Million tonnes of oil consumption by 2030. This strategy was substantially more affordable than the 450TWh strategy. Trends in the Supply and Use tables since 1993 were studied and then forecasted to 2030 to determine consumption levels on electricity and liquid fuel into the future. It was found that electricity demand is seriously overestimated and South Africa would end up with large excess capacity in electricity infrastructures if the NDP energy strategy (IRP2010) is implemented. It is concluded that the NDP energy strategy to 2030 is based on an incorrect electricity demand forecast. It would lead to excessive investment in an electricity infrastructure. Government has confirmed that part of the new infrastructure would be nuclear. It is also found that NDP has not clearly supported nuclear as part of the strategy. Nuclear is partly the reason why the capital requirement of the NDP portfolio is so much higher than the other portfolios. It is the conclusion of this study that South Africa do not need to invest in a nuclear build programme as the electricity demand would be adequately covered by adding the new Medupi and Kusile power stations, Ingula pump storage scheme, some wind and solar renewables, electricity from cogeneration, biogas, biomass, small hydro and imported hydro from neighbour countries. To invest in electricity capacity to generate 450TWh annually by 2030 would result in excessive energy cost, GDP growth could be up to 1% lower due to underperforming capital investments in the electricity infrastructure and higher energy cost would lead to a decline in global competitiveness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Roux, Louis Johannes
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- Economic aspects , Climate change mitigation , Global warming -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: vital:8889 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020816
- Description: Scientists started to study the relationship between changing weather patterns and the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other harmful gasses. They soon discovered compelling evidence that CO2 concentration and other gases have been increasing and it was causing temperatures to increase in certain areas on the earth, which disturb historic weather patterns. Climate change has become a very popular field of study in the modern science. Europe first introduced measures to reduce carbon emissions but it was the Kyoto in 1997 where global leaders were asked to participate in a joint protocol to reduce greenhouse gases. South Africa responded to climate change challenges in 2008 with the Long term Mitigation Scenarios (LTMS). The Integrated Resource Plan for electricity to 2030 was developed from the LTMS scenarios and after some major amendments it was accepted and promulgated by Government and has recently been included in the National Development Plan to 2030 (NDP). There are concerns about the achievability of some of the objectives listed in the NDP and this study explored the IRP2010 as the proposed strategy to meet energy demand and reduce emissions. The purpose for this study was to answer this question: Is there an optimum climate change mitigation strategy for South Africa and how can the effect thereof be simulated on economic growth? Through primary and secondary research during the study it was possible to define some 32 categories of energy producing assets that are commercially active or nearly market-ready. The characteristics of the various assets and the relevant fuel are defined in mathematical equations. It was found that the three portfolios that matched the 450TWh electricity requirement would perform substantially better than the NDP portfolio in terms of cost and similar on emissions with marginally fewer employment opportunities created. The proposed electricity strategy in this study was 390TWh and 33.5 Million tonnes of oil consumption by 2030. This strategy was substantially more affordable than the 450TWh strategy. Trends in the Supply and Use tables since 1993 were studied and then forecasted to 2030 to determine consumption levels on electricity and liquid fuel into the future. It was found that electricity demand is seriously overestimated and South Africa would end up with large excess capacity in electricity infrastructures if the NDP energy strategy (IRP2010) is implemented. It is concluded that the NDP energy strategy to 2030 is based on an incorrect electricity demand forecast. It would lead to excessive investment in an electricity infrastructure. Government has confirmed that part of the new infrastructure would be nuclear. It is also found that NDP has not clearly supported nuclear as part of the strategy. Nuclear is partly the reason why the capital requirement of the NDP portfolio is so much higher than the other portfolios. It is the conclusion of this study that South Africa do not need to invest in a nuclear build programme as the electricity demand would be adequately covered by adding the new Medupi and Kusile power stations, Ingula pump storage scheme, some wind and solar renewables, electricity from cogeneration, biogas, biomass, small hydro and imported hydro from neighbour countries. To invest in electricity capacity to generate 450TWh annually by 2030 would result in excessive energy cost, GDP growth could be up to 1% lower due to underperforming capital investments in the electricity infrastructure and higher energy cost would lead to a decline in global competitiveness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Community development projects in Ingquza Hill and its impact on poverty alleviation
- Authors: Tyali, Zukiswa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9190 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020311
- Description: The fight against poverty is one of South African government priorities and challenges. Despite the large amounts of funds donated by government to poverty alleviation in South Africa almost half of the population still continue to live below the poverty line. There have been many government interventions towards projects. These projects are established in an effort to reduce poverty. However, most of these projects have had a minimal impact on the poverty level of the country. In this study, the researcher illustrated the impact of community development projects on poverty alleviation in Lubala village in Ingquza Hill Local municipality. The research methodology for the study is descriptive, sourced from available literature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Tyali, Zukiswa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9190 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020311
- Description: The fight against poverty is one of South African government priorities and challenges. Despite the large amounts of funds donated by government to poverty alleviation in South Africa almost half of the population still continue to live below the poverty line. There have been many government interventions towards projects. These projects are established in an effort to reduce poverty. However, most of these projects have had a minimal impact on the poverty level of the country. In this study, the researcher illustrated the impact of community development projects on poverty alleviation in Lubala village in Ingquza Hill Local municipality. The research methodology for the study is descriptive, sourced from available literature.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Competitive strategy implementation in microfinance organisations in Kenya
- Authors: Waweru, Ruth Wambui
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Microfinance -- Kenya , Financial institutions -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: vital:8888 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020815
- Description: Poverty is a major challenge in most developing countries. Key challenges of the government are to alleviate poverty and propel citizens toward wealth creation through development of enterprises across all sectors and to address the problem of unemployment. In Kenya, the SME sector comprises of about 99% of private sector enterprises and is prolific in employment and wealth creation. Despite this critical role played by SMEs in growing the economy, they remain outside the formal banking sector, especially in Africa. Although the number of MFOs since the 1980s has increased, the demand for financial services is largely unmet. However, MFOs are increasingly experiencing competition from new entrants and commercial banks that have developed financial models to target SMEs. MFOs are required to formulate and implement competitive strategies to enable them achieve sustainable growth and compete with commercial banks. However, strategy implementation is generally accepted as a challenge across organisations and it is often easier to formulate strategies than implementing it. Despite the need to address strategy implementation challenges across organisations, there is a greater focus by practitioners and researchers regarding strategy formulation than implementation. Consequently, this study aimed at assessing the level of strategy implementation in MFOs and factors that affect strategy implementation in MFOs. The ultimate objective was to develop a hypothetical model that could be used to improve strategy implementation in microfinance organisations in Kenya. This quantitative study used purposive sampling to select MFOs that are members of the Association of Microfinance Institutions (AMFI) in Kenya, completing a selfadministered structured questionnaire. In total, 135 MFOs were involved in this study and a total sample size of 300 managers was used in this study. This study considered fourteen factors to have an influence on the level of strategy implementation of MFOs in Kenya and hence fourteen null-hypotheses were formulated and tested. The content factors included stakeholder involvement in strategy development and the quality of strategies. The context factors included organisational structure and culture, strategic leadership and alignment of strategy to market conditions. The operational process factors included operational planning, monitoring and review of progress, teamwork, resources allocation, people-strategy fit, effective communication, strategic and management control systems and information resources. It is assumed that if all these critical strategy implementation factors are addressed, MFOs should be able improve their level of strategy implementation, ultimately leading to improved performance. The outcome factors considered were improved financial sustainability and outreach of MFOs. Advanced statistical analyses were used to analyse the data, such as factor analysis, regression and correlation analysis to assess the hypothesised relationship between the dependent and independent variables of this study. The empirical results revealed that the level of strategy implementation in MFOs in Kenya is moderate to high and content, context and operational factors do have an influence on the level of strategy implementation. However, operational factors have a more significant positive linear relationship with level of strategy implementation than the other two factors. There is also a positive relationship between the level of strategy implementation and financial sustainability and outreach by MFOs. This study has contributed to the existing body of knowledge by developing a hypothetical model that can be utilised by MFOs as well as other organisations to improve the level of strategy implementation resulting in better performance. The findings of the study can also inform strategy formulation and implementation of MFOs in Kenya, but also in other developing countries, to become more competitive. This study could also help MFOs and other organisations to put in place structures, systems, people and other resources required to attain a high level of strategy implementation. This study provides useful and practical guidelines in dealing with content, context and operational factors affecting strategy implementation in any organisational setting.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Waweru, Ruth Wambui
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Microfinance -- Kenya , Financial institutions -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: vital:8888 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020815
- Description: Poverty is a major challenge in most developing countries. Key challenges of the government are to alleviate poverty and propel citizens toward wealth creation through development of enterprises across all sectors and to address the problem of unemployment. In Kenya, the SME sector comprises of about 99% of private sector enterprises and is prolific in employment and wealth creation. Despite this critical role played by SMEs in growing the economy, they remain outside the formal banking sector, especially in Africa. Although the number of MFOs since the 1980s has increased, the demand for financial services is largely unmet. However, MFOs are increasingly experiencing competition from new entrants and commercial banks that have developed financial models to target SMEs. MFOs are required to formulate and implement competitive strategies to enable them achieve sustainable growth and compete with commercial banks. However, strategy implementation is generally accepted as a challenge across organisations and it is often easier to formulate strategies than implementing it. Despite the need to address strategy implementation challenges across organisations, there is a greater focus by practitioners and researchers regarding strategy formulation than implementation. Consequently, this study aimed at assessing the level of strategy implementation in MFOs and factors that affect strategy implementation in MFOs. The ultimate objective was to develop a hypothetical model that could be used to improve strategy implementation in microfinance organisations in Kenya. This quantitative study used purposive sampling to select MFOs that are members of the Association of Microfinance Institutions (AMFI) in Kenya, completing a selfadministered structured questionnaire. In total, 135 MFOs were involved in this study and a total sample size of 300 managers was used in this study. This study considered fourteen factors to have an influence on the level of strategy implementation of MFOs in Kenya and hence fourteen null-hypotheses were formulated and tested. The content factors included stakeholder involvement in strategy development and the quality of strategies. The context factors included organisational structure and culture, strategic leadership and alignment of strategy to market conditions. The operational process factors included operational planning, monitoring and review of progress, teamwork, resources allocation, people-strategy fit, effective communication, strategic and management control systems and information resources. It is assumed that if all these critical strategy implementation factors are addressed, MFOs should be able improve their level of strategy implementation, ultimately leading to improved performance. The outcome factors considered were improved financial sustainability and outreach of MFOs. Advanced statistical analyses were used to analyse the data, such as factor analysis, regression and correlation analysis to assess the hypothesised relationship between the dependent and independent variables of this study. The empirical results revealed that the level of strategy implementation in MFOs in Kenya is moderate to high and content, context and operational factors do have an influence on the level of strategy implementation. However, operational factors have a more significant positive linear relationship with level of strategy implementation than the other two factors. There is also a positive relationship between the level of strategy implementation and financial sustainability and outreach by MFOs. This study has contributed to the existing body of knowledge by developing a hypothetical model that can be utilised by MFOs as well as other organisations to improve the level of strategy implementation resulting in better performance. The findings of the study can also inform strategy formulation and implementation of MFOs in Kenya, but also in other developing countries, to become more competitive. This study could also help MFOs and other organisations to put in place structures, systems, people and other resources required to attain a high level of strategy implementation. This study provides useful and practical guidelines in dealing with content, context and operational factors affecting strategy implementation in any organisational setting.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Critical core competencies for effective strategic leadership in project management
- Authors: Jowah, Enoch Larry
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Leadership -- Psychological aspects , Project management , Core competencies , Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9305 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1017230
- Description: Project management is undeniably the fastest growing discipline as organizations move into the euphoria of projectification of their operations. Though projects have been a part of human life since time immemorial, there is a sudden realisation of the effectiveness of the methods used in project management. The enrolment of students studying for project management in tertiary institutions has shown tremendous increase. Yet the project execution process is mired by high failure rates and absence of clarity on the necessary skills required for effective project execution. The authority-gap in project management presents political and operational conflicts, and new innovative ways of authority-gap reduction need to be identified and taught in training programs. Simultaneously there is a realisation by both academics and practitioners that there is a difference between managers and leaders. Extensive studies on leadership have not allowed for a one-stop-leadership-style to be used in leadership of any form, let alone project leadership. In fact there is no standard definition of leadership as this has been heavily contextualized and thereby disallowing the creation of a universal definition. No cast-in-stone leadership styles are known and thereby leaving the research on leadership to concentrate on critical competencies required for effective leadership of projects. This study seeks to establish the core competencies needed by the project leaders and other practitioners to reduce the failure rate and maximise the benefits currently sought after by organisations. Studies have shown that the matrix structure within which the embedded projects work is a contributing factor to the failure of projects. Because projects are executed by people, it would be the proper utilisation of people’s talents and competencies that are expected to yield favourable results. Thus, whilst the matrix structure creates the authority-gap that presents a problem for effective project execution, management-by-projects still remains the best way known to add economic value to performance and productivity. The study therefore focuses on those characteristics of project leaders that will most likely make the difference in the way people perform in the workplace. The research findings emphasised the importance of empowerment of project managers and the development of their interpersonal skills of the project leader with special emphasis on extroversion, genuineness of senior management, and the responsiveness of the project leaders as important requirements for effective authority- gap reduction. These critical competencies will therefore facilitate the project execution process and enhance the empowered project leader’s ability to reduce the high project failure rate and high cost overruns. These competencies apply specifically to the human element as it relates to the role of the project leader and the interaction with the team members, this new knowledge needs to be introduced into training programs and project practitioners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Jowah, Enoch Larry
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Leadership -- Psychological aspects , Project management , Core competencies , Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9305 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1017230
- Description: Project management is undeniably the fastest growing discipline as organizations move into the euphoria of projectification of their operations. Though projects have been a part of human life since time immemorial, there is a sudden realisation of the effectiveness of the methods used in project management. The enrolment of students studying for project management in tertiary institutions has shown tremendous increase. Yet the project execution process is mired by high failure rates and absence of clarity on the necessary skills required for effective project execution. The authority-gap in project management presents political and operational conflicts, and new innovative ways of authority-gap reduction need to be identified and taught in training programs. Simultaneously there is a realisation by both academics and practitioners that there is a difference between managers and leaders. Extensive studies on leadership have not allowed for a one-stop-leadership-style to be used in leadership of any form, let alone project leadership. In fact there is no standard definition of leadership as this has been heavily contextualized and thereby disallowing the creation of a universal definition. No cast-in-stone leadership styles are known and thereby leaving the research on leadership to concentrate on critical competencies required for effective leadership of projects. This study seeks to establish the core competencies needed by the project leaders and other practitioners to reduce the failure rate and maximise the benefits currently sought after by organisations. Studies have shown that the matrix structure within which the embedded projects work is a contributing factor to the failure of projects. Because projects are executed by people, it would be the proper utilisation of people’s talents and competencies that are expected to yield favourable results. Thus, whilst the matrix structure creates the authority-gap that presents a problem for effective project execution, management-by-projects still remains the best way known to add economic value to performance and productivity. The study therefore focuses on those characteristics of project leaders that will most likely make the difference in the way people perform in the workplace. The research findings emphasised the importance of empowerment of project managers and the development of their interpersonal skills of the project leader with special emphasis on extroversion, genuineness of senior management, and the responsiveness of the project leaders as important requirements for effective authority- gap reduction. These critical competencies will therefore facilitate the project execution process and enhance the empowered project leader’s ability to reduce the high project failure rate and high cost overruns. These competencies apply specifically to the human element as it relates to the role of the project leader and the interaction with the team members, this new knowledge needs to be introduced into training programs and project practitioners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Critical factors for business success in co-operatives
- Authors: Mpongoshe, Lukhanyiso
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Success in business -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8842 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020041
- Description: Many countries that have achieved economic development have a dynamic co-operative sector which contributes substantially to the development of these economies. From a global perspective, co-operatives have been proven to be flexible in meeting a wide variety of social and economic human needs such as job creation, alleviation of poverty and building of communities. With the drive to decrease poverty in South Africa, there has been an increased interest to support co-operatives with the intention to provide employment, social development and building communities/ community care. It seems, however, that South Africa has not yet reached the same momentum in the co-operatives movement as elsewhere in the world and the economy is still characterized by a high unemployment rate and a low growth rate (Van der Walt, 2002). This study is an attempt to determine the factors for business success in co-operatives by assessing the strengths and weaknesses of co-operative businesses within the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape. The study includes an extensive literature review on the nature and prevalence of co-operatives in South Africa where challenges faced by South African co-operatives and particularly those in the Eastern Cape Province, are indicated. It also highlights international best practice and reveals that for co-operative success, apart for functioning by the International Seven Cooperative Principles, knowledge and expertise in business management are absolutely necessary so that co-operatives can be profitable and sustainable. With this knowledge, an adapted form of the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) Small Business Assessment Tool was used to formulate the questionnaire and to review business management literature. A survey conducted involved fifty-one co-operative members on the database of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Business Unit. The opinions of the respondents were compared with the guidelines provided by the literature in the study in order to identify the strengths and weaknesses of these co-operatives, which then determine the critical success factors for business success in co-operatives. The empirical results show that the co-operative members understand co-operative principles and function through them. They have a fairly general knowledge of business management. The results also show significantly positive correlations between Marketing Management, Financial Management, Operations Management, Human Resources Management and General Management, on the one hand, and the business success of co-operatives, on the other hand. This indicates that these respondents recognize the importance of these business functions in the success of their businesses. However, failures and weaknesses experienced in these areas lead to the recommendations that they need to be mentored as they cannot put this knowledge into application, and secondly, they need financial assistance and support to sustain the co-operative businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mpongoshe, Lukhanyiso
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Success in business -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8842 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020041
- Description: Many countries that have achieved economic development have a dynamic co-operative sector which contributes substantially to the development of these economies. From a global perspective, co-operatives have been proven to be flexible in meeting a wide variety of social and economic human needs such as job creation, alleviation of poverty and building of communities. With the drive to decrease poverty in South Africa, there has been an increased interest to support co-operatives with the intention to provide employment, social development and building communities/ community care. It seems, however, that South Africa has not yet reached the same momentum in the co-operatives movement as elsewhere in the world and the economy is still characterized by a high unemployment rate and a low growth rate (Van der Walt, 2002). This study is an attempt to determine the factors for business success in co-operatives by assessing the strengths and weaknesses of co-operative businesses within the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape. The study includes an extensive literature review on the nature and prevalence of co-operatives in South Africa where challenges faced by South African co-operatives and particularly those in the Eastern Cape Province, are indicated. It also highlights international best practice and reveals that for co-operative success, apart for functioning by the International Seven Cooperative Principles, knowledge and expertise in business management are absolutely necessary so that co-operatives can be profitable and sustainable. With this knowledge, an adapted form of the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) Small Business Assessment Tool was used to formulate the questionnaire and to review business management literature. A survey conducted involved fifty-one co-operative members on the database of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Business Unit. The opinions of the respondents were compared with the guidelines provided by the literature in the study in order to identify the strengths and weaknesses of these co-operatives, which then determine the critical success factors for business success in co-operatives. The empirical results show that the co-operative members understand co-operative principles and function through them. They have a fairly general knowledge of business management. The results also show significantly positive correlations between Marketing Management, Financial Management, Operations Management, Human Resources Management and General Management, on the one hand, and the business success of co-operatives, on the other hand. This indicates that these respondents recognize the importance of these business functions in the success of their businesses. However, failures and weaknesses experienced in these areas lead to the recommendations that they need to be mentored as they cannot put this knowledge into application, and secondly, they need financial assistance and support to sustain the co-operative businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Determining the factors that influence customer service excellence in the South African retail sector
- Authors: Nzo, Yolisa Nomfundo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Retail trade -- Customer services -- South Africa -- Centurion , Relationship marketing -- South Africa -- Centurion , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Centurion , Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa -- Centurion , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Centurion
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8776 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012956
- Description: Customer service excellence (CSE) is the common thread that binds all businesses; as without customers no trade can take place. The South African retail sector is one of the drivers of the economy and it is important that CSE is continuously monitored to ensure that standards of excellence are maintained. What remains unknown and unmeasured is the impact of the employees and the organisation on CSE. The retail sector is dependent on its customer facing employees to be the face and character of the store. Investment in advertising and other media exposure must ultimately be tested when a consumer visits a store and experiences the CSE on the ground and in real time. The investment for the retailer becomes worthwhile if the real face of the company reflects the promises made in the media; and that is in the hands of the men and women who work in the stores. This study sought to find out the impact of employees and organisations in the Centurion mall based retail stores on CSE. Literature was reviewed and quantitative and qualitative research methods was undertaken by means of questionnaires that were distributed to the staff and management of national branded stores in the malls around Centurion. The results obtained were then discussed in terms of each variable tested. The study found that organisational commitment, employee education and employee training have a strong relationship to customer service excellence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Nzo, Yolisa Nomfundo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Retail trade -- Customer services -- South Africa -- Centurion , Relationship marketing -- South Africa -- Centurion , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Centurion , Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa -- Centurion , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Centurion
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8776 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012956
- Description: Customer service excellence (CSE) is the common thread that binds all businesses; as without customers no trade can take place. The South African retail sector is one of the drivers of the economy and it is important that CSE is continuously monitored to ensure that standards of excellence are maintained. What remains unknown and unmeasured is the impact of the employees and the organisation on CSE. The retail sector is dependent on its customer facing employees to be the face and character of the store. Investment in advertising and other media exposure must ultimately be tested when a consumer visits a store and experiences the CSE on the ground and in real time. The investment for the retailer becomes worthwhile if the real face of the company reflects the promises made in the media; and that is in the hands of the men and women who work in the stores. This study sought to find out the impact of employees and organisations in the Centurion mall based retail stores on CSE. Literature was reviewed and quantitative and qualitative research methods was undertaken by means of questionnaires that were distributed to the staff and management of national branded stores in the malls around Centurion. The results obtained were then discussed in terms of each variable tested. The study found that organisational commitment, employee education and employee training have a strong relationship to customer service excellence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Determining the impact of leadership on the success of entrepreneurs
- Authors: Mtshibe, Nomaswazi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Leadership , Success in business , Entrepreneurship -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8920 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021108
- Description: The Eastern Cape Province has been cited as the second poorest province in South Africa. The impact of entrepreneurship on the economy, with respect to socio-economic development, has placed increased pressure on entrepreneurs to operate effectively. Moreover, entrepreneurs are required to adopt and adapt to leadership practices that lead to business success. Business success is largely dependent on the leader. The importance of this study may, thus, be attributed to the need for entrepreneurs to possess the necessary leadership attributes for the efficient running of a business. The primary objective of this study was to improve the success rate of entrepreneurs in the Eastern Cape Province. This was done by determining the impact of selected leadership attributes on the success of entrepreneurs. More specifically, this study investigated how the success of entrepreneurs is influenced by leadership attributes (the dependent variable), namely, leadership style, vision, networking, risk-taking and ethics (the independent variables). In order to achieve the research objectives, the researcher used the inferential statistical approach, specifically, hypothesis testing. The first step was to conduct a literature review on factors that influence entrepreneurs. This entailed the barriers to success, critical success factors, the impact of the SMME sector on the economy, as well as the selected leadership attributes. Secondly, the quantitative research method was used to assess the perceptions of entrepreneurs with regards to the influence of the leadership attributes on their businesses. This was done through an empirical survey, namely a self-administered questionnaire that was distributed to a sample of 100 entrepreneurs who are based in the Eastern Cape Province and have been operating for a minimum of three years. Out of the envisaged 100 respondents, 89 questionnaires were completed (89% response rate). The data obtained from the empirical survey was then analysed statistically and the descriptive statistics were presented by using graphs and tables. The results of the empirical survey revealed that although all the above-mentioned independent variables contribute towards increasing the success rate of entrepreneurs, networking and ethics exert the most significant influence. Based on the findings of the literature review and the results of the empirical survey, this study made recommendations on areas of improvement for entrepreneurs in order to increase their success rate. Suggestions were also made for possible future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mtshibe, Nomaswazi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Leadership , Success in business , Entrepreneurship -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8920 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021108
- Description: The Eastern Cape Province has been cited as the second poorest province in South Africa. The impact of entrepreneurship on the economy, with respect to socio-economic development, has placed increased pressure on entrepreneurs to operate effectively. Moreover, entrepreneurs are required to adopt and adapt to leadership practices that lead to business success. Business success is largely dependent on the leader. The importance of this study may, thus, be attributed to the need for entrepreneurs to possess the necessary leadership attributes for the efficient running of a business. The primary objective of this study was to improve the success rate of entrepreneurs in the Eastern Cape Province. This was done by determining the impact of selected leadership attributes on the success of entrepreneurs. More specifically, this study investigated how the success of entrepreneurs is influenced by leadership attributes (the dependent variable), namely, leadership style, vision, networking, risk-taking and ethics (the independent variables). In order to achieve the research objectives, the researcher used the inferential statistical approach, specifically, hypothesis testing. The first step was to conduct a literature review on factors that influence entrepreneurs. This entailed the barriers to success, critical success factors, the impact of the SMME sector on the economy, as well as the selected leadership attributes. Secondly, the quantitative research method was used to assess the perceptions of entrepreneurs with regards to the influence of the leadership attributes on their businesses. This was done through an empirical survey, namely a self-administered questionnaire that was distributed to a sample of 100 entrepreneurs who are based in the Eastern Cape Province and have been operating for a minimum of three years. Out of the envisaged 100 respondents, 89 questionnaires were completed (89% response rate). The data obtained from the empirical survey was then analysed statistically and the descriptive statistics were presented by using graphs and tables. The results of the empirical survey revealed that although all the above-mentioned independent variables contribute towards increasing the success rate of entrepreneurs, networking and ethics exert the most significant influence. Based on the findings of the literature review and the results of the empirical survey, this study made recommendations on areas of improvement for entrepreneurs in order to increase their success rate. Suggestions were also made for possible future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Determining the impact of leadership on the success of entrepreneurs
- Authors: Mtshibe, Nomaswazi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Leadership , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8852 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020126
- Description: The Eastern Cape Province has been cited as the second poorest province in South Africa. The impact of entrepreneurship on the economy, with respect to socio-economic development, has placed increased pressure on entrepreneurs to operate effectively. Moreover, entrepreneurs are required to adopt and adapt to leadership practices that lead to business success. Business success is largely dependent on the leader. The importance of this study may, thus, be attributed to the need for entrepreneurs to possess the necessary leadership attributes for the efficient running of a business. The primary objective of this study was to improve the success rate of entrepreneurs in the Eastern Cape Province. This was done by determining the impact of selected leadership attributes on the success of entrepreneurs. More specifically, this study investigated how the success of entrepreneurs is influenced by leadership attributes (the dependent variable), namely, leadership style, vision, networking, risk-taking and ethics (the independent variables). In order to achieve the research objectives, the researcher used the inferential statistical approach, specifically, hypothesis testing. The first step was to conduct a literature review on factors that influence entrepreneurs. This entailed the barriers to success, critical success factors, the impact of the SMME sector on the economy, as well as the selected leadership attributes. Secondly, the quantitative research method was used to assess the perceptions of entrepreneurs with regards to the influence of the leadership attributes on their businesses. This was done through an empirical survey, namely a self-administered questionnaire that was distributed to a sample of 100 entrepreneurs who are based in the Eastern Cape Province and have been operating for a minimum of three years. Out of the envisaged 100 respondents, 89 questionnaires were completed (89% response rate). The data obtained from the empirical survey was then analysed statistically and the descriptive statistics were presented by using graphs and tables. The results of the empirical survey revealed that although all the above-mentioned independent variables contribute towards increasing the success rate of entrepreneurs, networking and ethics exert the most significant influence. Based on the findings of the literature review and the results of the empirical survey, this study made recommendations on areas of improvement for entrepreneurs in order to increase their success rate. Suggestions were also made for possible future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mtshibe, Nomaswazi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Leadership , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8852 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020126
- Description: The Eastern Cape Province has been cited as the second poorest province in South Africa. The impact of entrepreneurship on the economy, with respect to socio-economic development, has placed increased pressure on entrepreneurs to operate effectively. Moreover, entrepreneurs are required to adopt and adapt to leadership practices that lead to business success. Business success is largely dependent on the leader. The importance of this study may, thus, be attributed to the need for entrepreneurs to possess the necessary leadership attributes for the efficient running of a business. The primary objective of this study was to improve the success rate of entrepreneurs in the Eastern Cape Province. This was done by determining the impact of selected leadership attributes on the success of entrepreneurs. More specifically, this study investigated how the success of entrepreneurs is influenced by leadership attributes (the dependent variable), namely, leadership style, vision, networking, risk-taking and ethics (the independent variables). In order to achieve the research objectives, the researcher used the inferential statistical approach, specifically, hypothesis testing. The first step was to conduct a literature review on factors that influence entrepreneurs. This entailed the barriers to success, critical success factors, the impact of the SMME sector on the economy, as well as the selected leadership attributes. Secondly, the quantitative research method was used to assess the perceptions of entrepreneurs with regards to the influence of the leadership attributes on their businesses. This was done through an empirical survey, namely a self-administered questionnaire that was distributed to a sample of 100 entrepreneurs who are based in the Eastern Cape Province and have been operating for a minimum of three years. Out of the envisaged 100 respondents, 89 questionnaires were completed (89% response rate). The data obtained from the empirical survey was then analysed statistically and the descriptive statistics were presented by using graphs and tables. The results of the empirical survey revealed that although all the above-mentioned independent variables contribute towards increasing the success rate of entrepreneurs, networking and ethics exert the most significant influence. Based on the findings of the literature review and the results of the empirical survey, this study made recommendations on areas of improvement for entrepreneurs in order to increase their success rate. Suggestions were also made for possible future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Developing a business model for growth in social enterprise : a case study of a hybrid organisation
- Authors: Olivier, Grant Jerome
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social entrepreneurship , Business planning , Free enterprise -- Social aspects , Small business -- Growth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8854 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020137
- Description: The Intshona Group of Companies operates in South Africa as a hybrid agribusiness combining entrepreneurial principles with a philosophy of social upliftment in Africa. This research views Intshona through the lens of social entrepreneurship theory, a hybrid research field with a dominant theme being the need for growth and scaling of impact, but which is seen as fragmented, containing ambiguities and lagging practice. In this research, a case study of Intshona is developed based on questionnaires and interviews with the organisation’s management, a concerned NGO, social beneficiaries as well as employees. The result is a two-way flow of knowledge integrating elements of existing social enterprise theory with Intshona’s business practices, building on a generic model of entrepreneurship and culminating in a business model for growth in a social enterprise. The research delivers strategic directives for Intshona for its future growth, presents a case study for addition to the body of knowledge on social entrepreneurship and concludes with suggestions for further research to continue developing theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Olivier, Grant Jerome
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social entrepreneurship , Business planning , Free enterprise -- Social aspects , Small business -- Growth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8854 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020137
- Description: The Intshona Group of Companies operates in South Africa as a hybrid agribusiness combining entrepreneurial principles with a philosophy of social upliftment in Africa. This research views Intshona through the lens of social entrepreneurship theory, a hybrid research field with a dominant theme being the need for growth and scaling of impact, but which is seen as fragmented, containing ambiguities and lagging practice. In this research, a case study of Intshona is developed based on questionnaires and interviews with the organisation’s management, a concerned NGO, social beneficiaries as well as employees. The result is a two-way flow of knowledge integrating elements of existing social enterprise theory with Intshona’s business practices, building on a generic model of entrepreneurship and culminating in a business model for growth in a social enterprise. The research delivers strategic directives for Intshona for its future growth, presents a case study for addition to the body of knowledge on social entrepreneurship and concludes with suggestions for further research to continue developing theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Development of a co-operative stakeholder framework for employment growth in the South African automotive sector
- Authors: Smith, Owen Christo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- South Africa , Job creation -- South Africa , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8884 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020799
- Description: Manufacturing has been identified by the Department of Trade and Industry as an important sector to drive economic growth in South Africa. The automotive manufacturing sector in particular has seen significant support from the DTI in the form of incentives to produce motor vehicles and components. South Africa is faced with a high unemployment rate and one of the strategies of the Government is to drive economic growth by supporting the automotive manufacturing sector. One of the spill-over targets is to increase employment creation in the industry. The automotive manufacturing sector consists of a diverse list of stakeholders representing motor vehicle manufacturers, component manufacturers, labour unions, government departments and industry associations. The Motor Industry Development Programme delivered significant progress in the number of vehicles produced in South Africa and the biggest growth was in the export of vehicles. Employment creation on the other hand did not see the same levels of growth as motor vehicle and component production. The purpose of this study was to identify and clarify what the variables are that influence employment creation and to develop a co-operation framework that would guide the automotive cluster stakeholders to work on employment creation initiatives as a collective. The survey questionnaire results representing the perception of managers showed that: - DTI Incentives schemes linked to employment creation; - Productivity, Technology and employment; - The role of competitiveness in the auto cluster; - Labour Union Collective bargaining; - Investment climate and infrastructure; - Education and skills development; does have an influence on employment creation in the automotive cluster.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Smith, Owen Christo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cooperative societies -- South Africa , Job creation -- South Africa , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8884 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020799
- Description: Manufacturing has been identified by the Department of Trade and Industry as an important sector to drive economic growth in South Africa. The automotive manufacturing sector in particular has seen significant support from the DTI in the form of incentives to produce motor vehicles and components. South Africa is faced with a high unemployment rate and one of the strategies of the Government is to drive economic growth by supporting the automotive manufacturing sector. One of the spill-over targets is to increase employment creation in the industry. The automotive manufacturing sector consists of a diverse list of stakeholders representing motor vehicle manufacturers, component manufacturers, labour unions, government departments and industry associations. The Motor Industry Development Programme delivered significant progress in the number of vehicles produced in South Africa and the biggest growth was in the export of vehicles. Employment creation on the other hand did not see the same levels of growth as motor vehicle and component production. The purpose of this study was to identify and clarify what the variables are that influence employment creation and to develop a co-operation framework that would guide the automotive cluster stakeholders to work on employment creation initiatives as a collective. The survey questionnaire results representing the perception of managers showed that: - DTI Incentives schemes linked to employment creation; - Productivity, Technology and employment; - The role of competitiveness in the auto cluster; - Labour Union Collective bargaining; - Investment climate and infrastructure; - Education and skills development; does have an influence on employment creation in the automotive cluster.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Disaster risk reduction in Namibia (flooding): responses and best practices
- Authors: Van der Ross, Nolan Lloyd
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Flood damage prevention -- Risk assessment , delete
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9241 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021114
- Description: This study was undertaken in order to obtain an understanding of how Namibia in general, and the education sector in particular, deal with flood emergencies. The goal of the National Policy for Disaster Risk Management in Namibia (2009) is “to contribute to the attainment of sustainable development in line with Namibia’s Vision 2030 through strengthening national capacities to significantly reduce disaster risk and built community resilience to disasters” (Republic of Namibia, 2009). This goal was the starting point for determining the extent to which the Ministry of Education complies with these national standards, and for gauging, in the light of responses to flood emergencies so far, the Ministry’s preparedness and response capacities, in line with international frameworks that Namibia has ratified. This qualitative study is situated within the theory of resilience, and sustainable resilience particularly. To obtain some of the information sought, a non-probability sampling method was used to ‘hand-pick’ subjects within the Ministry of Education to be interviewed at their respective locations, nationally and regionally. Five education officials who were intimately involved in past responses to flood emergencies were interviewed – three in Oshana and Ohangwena Regions, and two at Head Office in Windhoek – by means of a semi-structured interview. In addition, a literature review was conducted. The conclusions drawn from both the literature review and the information obtained from the respondents accord with the research problem identified: the Ministry of Education does not appear to be adequately prepared for, and does not assign the necessary priority to deal with, flood emergencies in particular. Possible recommendations for uptake within the Ministry of Education include: mainstreaming Disaster Risk Reduction at all decentralized levels; sensitizing all education officials, school community members and relevant stakeholders to policy frameworks and accountability structures to strengthen resilience within school communities; deeming costed contingency planning a priority, and hence strengthening links between decentralized regional structures; and continuously monitoring implementation of designed interventions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Van der Ross, Nolan Lloyd
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Flood damage prevention -- Risk assessment , delete
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9241 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021114
- Description: This study was undertaken in order to obtain an understanding of how Namibia in general, and the education sector in particular, deal with flood emergencies. The goal of the National Policy for Disaster Risk Management in Namibia (2009) is “to contribute to the attainment of sustainable development in line with Namibia’s Vision 2030 through strengthening national capacities to significantly reduce disaster risk and built community resilience to disasters” (Republic of Namibia, 2009). This goal was the starting point for determining the extent to which the Ministry of Education complies with these national standards, and for gauging, in the light of responses to flood emergencies so far, the Ministry’s preparedness and response capacities, in line with international frameworks that Namibia has ratified. This qualitative study is situated within the theory of resilience, and sustainable resilience particularly. To obtain some of the information sought, a non-probability sampling method was used to ‘hand-pick’ subjects within the Ministry of Education to be interviewed at their respective locations, nationally and regionally. Five education officials who were intimately involved in past responses to flood emergencies were interviewed – three in Oshana and Ohangwena Regions, and two at Head Office in Windhoek – by means of a semi-structured interview. In addition, a literature review was conducted. The conclusions drawn from both the literature review and the information obtained from the respondents accord with the research problem identified: the Ministry of Education does not appear to be adequately prepared for, and does not assign the necessary priority to deal with, flood emergencies in particular. Possible recommendations for uptake within the Ministry of Education include: mainstreaming Disaster Risk Reduction at all decentralized levels; sensitizing all education officials, school community members and relevant stakeholders to policy frameworks and accountability structures to strengthen resilience within school communities; deeming costed contingency planning a priority, and hence strengthening links between decentralized regional structures; and continuously monitoring implementation of designed interventions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Effects of poor solid waste management on sustainable development in informal settlement
- Authors: Mgwebi, Alicia Zoliswa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal -- Management , Refuse and refuse disposal -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9244 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021135
- Description: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of poor solid waste disposal on a sustainable environment/development in the Mzamomhle urban informal settlement. According to Coffey & Coad, (2010) informal or squatter urban communities pay no municipal taxes, because of their informal status, and this fact has often been used as the principal argument against providing these communities with municipal services.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mgwebi, Alicia Zoliswa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal -- Management , Refuse and refuse disposal -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9244 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021135
- Description: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of poor solid waste disposal on a sustainable environment/development in the Mzamomhle urban informal settlement. According to Coffey & Coad, (2010) informal or squatter urban communities pay no municipal taxes, because of their informal status, and this fact has often been used as the principal argument against providing these communities with municipal services.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Employees' perception of engagement and its influence on critical success factors
- Authors: Gardner, Kevin
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Soft drink industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Strategic planning -- Employee participation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8891 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020826
- Description: Increasing competition within the non-alcoholic, ready to drink market (NARTD) in South Africa has intensified the need for soft drink producers to identify ways in which to enhance their competitiveness. One of the most important challenges for organisations operating in this industry is to produce quality products while meeting the needs of customers, at the lowest possible cost. While a number of competitors may rely on various competitive strategies such as lower priced products, it could become increasingly challenging for others to adopt similar approaches without comprising on the quality of their products. In order to remain competitive, organisations may be required to shift their focus onto their employees as a source of competitive advantage. Research has shown that employees provide organisations with sustainable competitive advantage, more specifically, it has shown that engaged employees outperform disengaged employees. The differentiating factor for organisations in the pursuit of competitive advantage would therefore be an engaged workforce. The primary research objective of this study was to investigate employees’ perceptions of engagement within the logistics function at Coca-Cola Fortune Port Elizabeth, as well as its impact on critical success factors. A theoretical overview was conducted to appraise various definitions, engagement models, factors influencing engagement and the impact of engagement on critical success factors. The research highlighted a number of common themes of engagement which includes a reciprocal relationship between the organisation and employees, enthusiasm, involvement and motivation. This research revealed that engaged employees make positive contributions to key business outcomes such as financial performance, productivity and customer satisfaction.An empirical study was conducted by means of a survey with a questionnaire as data collecting tool. The purpose of the structured questionnaire was to validate the findings obtained from the theoretical overview and to assess employees’ perceptions of engagement, engagement factors and the impact of engagement on critical success factors. A sample comprising 112 employees was identified by means of a stratified sampling technique. A 93 per cent response rate was obtained. The key findings of the study indicated that management and employee perceptions of engagement were comparable. It also indicated that corporate communication, employee involvement strategies, relationships with management and HR policies and procedures did influence employee engagement. Furthermore, the study validated the existence of a strong positive relationship between customer satisfaction, employee attendance and productivity – as was found between employee engagement and business success at CCF. The theoretical overview in conjunction with the empirical findings yielded a hypothesised model of employee engagement as presented in Chapter One. This model could provide direction in the organisation’s attempt to improve engagement levels and ultimately in the pursuit of competitive advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gardner, Kevin
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Soft drink industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Strategic planning -- Employee participation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8891 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020826
- Description: Increasing competition within the non-alcoholic, ready to drink market (NARTD) in South Africa has intensified the need for soft drink producers to identify ways in which to enhance their competitiveness. One of the most important challenges for organisations operating in this industry is to produce quality products while meeting the needs of customers, at the lowest possible cost. While a number of competitors may rely on various competitive strategies such as lower priced products, it could become increasingly challenging for others to adopt similar approaches without comprising on the quality of their products. In order to remain competitive, organisations may be required to shift their focus onto their employees as a source of competitive advantage. Research has shown that employees provide organisations with sustainable competitive advantage, more specifically, it has shown that engaged employees outperform disengaged employees. The differentiating factor for organisations in the pursuit of competitive advantage would therefore be an engaged workforce. The primary research objective of this study was to investigate employees’ perceptions of engagement within the logistics function at Coca-Cola Fortune Port Elizabeth, as well as its impact on critical success factors. A theoretical overview was conducted to appraise various definitions, engagement models, factors influencing engagement and the impact of engagement on critical success factors. The research highlighted a number of common themes of engagement which includes a reciprocal relationship between the organisation and employees, enthusiasm, involvement and motivation. This research revealed that engaged employees make positive contributions to key business outcomes such as financial performance, productivity and customer satisfaction.An empirical study was conducted by means of a survey with a questionnaire as data collecting tool. The purpose of the structured questionnaire was to validate the findings obtained from the theoretical overview and to assess employees’ perceptions of engagement, engagement factors and the impact of engagement on critical success factors. A sample comprising 112 employees was identified by means of a stratified sampling technique. A 93 per cent response rate was obtained. The key findings of the study indicated that management and employee perceptions of engagement were comparable. It also indicated that corporate communication, employee involvement strategies, relationships with management and HR policies and procedures did influence employee engagement. Furthermore, the study validated the existence of a strong positive relationship between customer satisfaction, employee attendance and productivity – as was found between employee engagement and business success at CCF. The theoretical overview in conjunction with the empirical findings yielded a hypothesised model of employee engagement as presented in Chapter One. This model could provide direction in the organisation’s attempt to improve engagement levels and ultimately in the pursuit of competitive advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Enhancing sustainability of small black businesses in the Buffalo City Municipality
- Authors: Didi, Mzikhaya Welcome
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Small business -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8887 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020810
- Description: Governments all over the world cannot downplay the economic role of small businesses. It is accepted world-wide that this sector of the economy alleviates unemployment, creates wealth, encourages innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit. Various factors, both internal and external, make it difficult for small businesses to reach their true potential or realise their objectives. Internal factors would refer to areas such as lack of financial acumen, operational management expertise and marketing skills. External factors such as the business environment, competition, legislation, commercial institutions, amongst others, also contribute to the downfall of small businesses. The support that small businesses require is vital at the start-up phase of the business as it lays a solid base from which to proceed. The research emanates from a high failure of Small Black Businesses in the country, with the focus being on the Buffalo City Municipality (BCM). This section of the business community has a vital role to play in the well-being of this region. According to the South African Cities Network, BCM has a high rate of unemployment. The success of Small Black businesses in the area could offer many opportunities for productive people who would otherwise be condemned to unemployment. The literature review revealed a plethora of factors that hinder the success and development of small businesses. It has therefore become important to research these factors and come up with recommendations that are going to assist small businesses and society at large. There is an outcry against insufficient government support in assisting small businesses. Due to the research being qualitative in nature, date collection was by means of a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed in such a manner as to provide responses that would assist in addressing the challenges faced by small businesses. Data analysis entailed its transcription in order to allow the researcher to make notes. The next step was to do a preliminary data analysis in order to highlight emerging issues, identify relevant data and to give direction for seeking more data. A summary all the issues was subsequently prepared for interpretation. The study revealed that the problems experienced by small businesses are both internally and externally influenced. Small businesses have it within themselves to manage and control the internally influenced problems, contrary to the externally influenced factors. The study recommends additional governmental support in terms of providing skills development, financial support, removal of red tape, eradication of corruption and so on. Commercial financial institutions also have a vital role to play by removing some of the requirements that make it difficult for small businesses to access funding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Didi, Mzikhaya Welcome
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Small business -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8887 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020810
- Description: Governments all over the world cannot downplay the economic role of small businesses. It is accepted world-wide that this sector of the economy alleviates unemployment, creates wealth, encourages innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit. Various factors, both internal and external, make it difficult for small businesses to reach their true potential or realise their objectives. Internal factors would refer to areas such as lack of financial acumen, operational management expertise and marketing skills. External factors such as the business environment, competition, legislation, commercial institutions, amongst others, also contribute to the downfall of small businesses. The support that small businesses require is vital at the start-up phase of the business as it lays a solid base from which to proceed. The research emanates from a high failure of Small Black Businesses in the country, with the focus being on the Buffalo City Municipality (BCM). This section of the business community has a vital role to play in the well-being of this region. According to the South African Cities Network, BCM has a high rate of unemployment. The success of Small Black businesses in the area could offer many opportunities for productive people who would otherwise be condemned to unemployment. The literature review revealed a plethora of factors that hinder the success and development of small businesses. It has therefore become important to research these factors and come up with recommendations that are going to assist small businesses and society at large. There is an outcry against insufficient government support in assisting small businesses. Due to the research being qualitative in nature, date collection was by means of a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed in such a manner as to provide responses that would assist in addressing the challenges faced by small businesses. Data analysis entailed its transcription in order to allow the researcher to make notes. The next step was to do a preliminary data analysis in order to highlight emerging issues, identify relevant data and to give direction for seeking more data. A summary all the issues was subsequently prepared for interpretation. The study revealed that the problems experienced by small businesses are both internally and externally influenced. Small businesses have it within themselves to manage and control the internally influenced problems, contrary to the externally influenced factors. The study recommends additional governmental support in terms of providing skills development, financial support, removal of red tape, eradication of corruption and so on. Commercial financial institutions also have a vital role to play by removing some of the requirements that make it difficult for small businesses to access funding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Enhancing the organisational culture at Spar Eastern Cape: a case study
- Authors: Dick, Siyolo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Corporate culture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teams in the workplace -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chain stores -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8885 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020804
- Description: SPAR Eastern Cape is a special organisation. It is an extraordinary place to work and have fun at. The organisation celebrated its twentieth “birthday” in 2013. Operating in a very difficult sector, this business has done extremely well in establishing itself as one of the leading businesses in the Eastern Cape. The success of this incredible business is driven by employees from all levels. With an extreme conviction in the apothegm that “none of us is as smart as all of us”, the organisation is built around high performance teams through a unique culture called: Amafela Ndawonye (referred to as Amafela hereafter). “Amafela” has been in operation at SPAR Eastern Cape since the organisation’s inauguration in 1993. Organisational cultures are dynamic. Organisational cultures shift, incrementally and constantly, in response to external and internal changes. Trying to assess an organisational culture is therefore complicated by the reality that one is trying to hit a moving target. However, a possibility exists that culture enhancement can be managed as a continuous process rather than big shifts (often in response to a crisis). A stable destination with regards to organisational culture should never be reached. The culture of an organisation should always be learning and developing. This prompted the researcher to ask the question, as an organisation responds to internal and external changes; can it lose its relevancy in the process? The primary objective of this research is to determine whether the commitment to the culture of “Amafela” and relevancy thereof at SPAR Eastern Cape is declining. The first step in achieving this objective was an in-depth theoretical study. The second step, and in order to achieve this objective, was an empirical survey conducted to canvas the opinions of (N= 149) respondents at SPAR Eastern Cape. The main findings of this research conducted at SPAR Eastern Cape can be summarised as follows: The organisational culture was assessed according to how respondents interpret the organisation’s existing organisational culture, and thus underlining areas in need of enhancement. In general the outcome of the survey exhibited that a large number of employees at SPAR Eastern Cape denoted that the culture of “Amafela” is still strong and is still relevant in the organisation. In this research, good to excellent levels of consistency for all eleven factors of “Amafela” were achieved. The items are therefore parallel in the test. Organisational leaders will influence the function of the people within the organisation. Moreover, leadership will set the present and future course of the company. This research articulates a correlation between leadership and “Amafela” factors. The eleven dimensions of the “Amafela” factors ranked according from favourable to less favourable. Customer focus emerged as the factor which most respondents agreed and strongly agreed with. It can be concluded then, that the culture of “Amafela Ndawonye” at SPAR Eastern Cape has the full support of the employees and is still relevant in the organization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Dick, Siyolo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Corporate culture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Teams in the workplace -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chain stores -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8885 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020804
- Description: SPAR Eastern Cape is a special organisation. It is an extraordinary place to work and have fun at. The organisation celebrated its twentieth “birthday” in 2013. Operating in a very difficult sector, this business has done extremely well in establishing itself as one of the leading businesses in the Eastern Cape. The success of this incredible business is driven by employees from all levels. With an extreme conviction in the apothegm that “none of us is as smart as all of us”, the organisation is built around high performance teams through a unique culture called: Amafela Ndawonye (referred to as Amafela hereafter). “Amafela” has been in operation at SPAR Eastern Cape since the organisation’s inauguration in 1993. Organisational cultures are dynamic. Organisational cultures shift, incrementally and constantly, in response to external and internal changes. Trying to assess an organisational culture is therefore complicated by the reality that one is trying to hit a moving target. However, a possibility exists that culture enhancement can be managed as a continuous process rather than big shifts (often in response to a crisis). A stable destination with regards to organisational culture should never be reached. The culture of an organisation should always be learning and developing. This prompted the researcher to ask the question, as an organisation responds to internal and external changes; can it lose its relevancy in the process? The primary objective of this research is to determine whether the commitment to the culture of “Amafela” and relevancy thereof at SPAR Eastern Cape is declining. The first step in achieving this objective was an in-depth theoretical study. The second step, and in order to achieve this objective, was an empirical survey conducted to canvas the opinions of (N= 149) respondents at SPAR Eastern Cape. The main findings of this research conducted at SPAR Eastern Cape can be summarised as follows: The organisational culture was assessed according to how respondents interpret the organisation’s existing organisational culture, and thus underlining areas in need of enhancement. In general the outcome of the survey exhibited that a large number of employees at SPAR Eastern Cape denoted that the culture of “Amafela” is still strong and is still relevant in the organisation. In this research, good to excellent levels of consistency for all eleven factors of “Amafela” were achieved. The items are therefore parallel in the test. Organisational leaders will influence the function of the people within the organisation. Moreover, leadership will set the present and future course of the company. This research articulates a correlation between leadership and “Amafela” factors. The eleven dimensions of the “Amafela” factors ranked according from favourable to less favourable. Customer focus emerged as the factor which most respondents agreed and strongly agreed with. It can be concluded then, that the culture of “Amafela Ndawonye” at SPAR Eastern Cape has the full support of the employees and is still relevant in the organization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Environmental sustainability leadership in South Africa: an empirical perspective
- Authors: May, Jode Joy
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Organizational change , Leadership , Business -- Environmental aspects , Strategic planning -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9320 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020766
- Description: Striking the balance between managing a successful organisation and paying attention to environmental sustainability requires excellent leadership. There are several benefits associated with being an environmentally sustainable organisation such as improved image (reputation and brand), increased customer loyalty, improved bottom line, attracting skilled experienced staff and improving the relationships with local communities. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the change leadership qualities needed to drive environmental sustainability in the South African landscape to reduce global warming reduction. The qualitative paradigm was utilised to investigate the change leadership qualities needed to affect create environmental sustainability, with focus on global warming reduction actions in the workplace. A literature review was conducted on environmental sustainability, change leadership, and leadership qualities necessary to effect change. A survey was conducted among 13 participants using an interview schedule in the Gauteng, Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa in both private and public organisations in various business sectors. Data was collected in 2013 over a four–month period by conducting face-to-face, telephonic and email interviews. The returned questionnaires were subjected to constant comparative, content and grounded theory analysis. Biographical profiles of the respondents and participating organisations were presented as case studies. Trustworthiness of the data was ascertained using data triangulation. Data was analysed in terms of the issues of environmental sustainability and change leadership. In-depth analyses were also conducted by means of provincial, business and employment sector comparisons. It was found that environmental sustainability was being addressed by the selected organisations, specifically relating to GHG emissions, energy and water saving actions. Change leaders should implement specific environmental sustainability strategies to assist in the reduction of global warming, create awareness, focus on employee involvement, report on their sustainability results and put and incentives in place to encourage environmental sustainability. In order to effect such changes, change leaders need to set targets to measure their sustainability progress. Green campaigns should be conducted internally to educate employees on the effects of global warming, and externally to inform the public about their commitment to environmental sustainability and to advise the public on courses of actions to assist in the quest to reduce global warming. It would be advisable for organisations to appoint a specific environmental sustainability team to drive these efforts. It was found that in order to bring about such changes, certain qualities were needed by change leaders to enable them to act as a change agents. Associated change leadership styles were also addressed. Change leaders should be knowledgeable in order to effectively communicate the importance of environmental sustainability. They should adopt a blend of leadership styles to drive environmental sustainability depending on the extent of change actions planned. Organisations should identify, appoint and mentor female leaders as they have the nurturing qualities that could successfully drive environmental sustainability actions. Change leaders should also preferably be personally involved in environmental sustainability as their personal values together with their job role at top leadership level could contribute towards successful implementation of environmental sustainability actions in the workplace. The study has provided general guidelines on the environmental sustainability issues necessary to address global warming reduction as well as guidelines on the change leaders qualities necessary to drive environmental sustainability actions in the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: May, Jode Joy
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Organizational change , Leadership , Business -- Environmental aspects , Strategic planning -- Environmental aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9320 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020766
- Description: Striking the balance between managing a successful organisation and paying attention to environmental sustainability requires excellent leadership. There are several benefits associated with being an environmentally sustainable organisation such as improved image (reputation and brand), increased customer loyalty, improved bottom line, attracting skilled experienced staff and improving the relationships with local communities. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the change leadership qualities needed to drive environmental sustainability in the South African landscape to reduce global warming reduction. The qualitative paradigm was utilised to investigate the change leadership qualities needed to affect create environmental sustainability, with focus on global warming reduction actions in the workplace. A literature review was conducted on environmental sustainability, change leadership, and leadership qualities necessary to effect change. A survey was conducted among 13 participants using an interview schedule in the Gauteng, Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa in both private and public organisations in various business sectors. Data was collected in 2013 over a four–month period by conducting face-to-face, telephonic and email interviews. The returned questionnaires were subjected to constant comparative, content and grounded theory analysis. Biographical profiles of the respondents and participating organisations were presented as case studies. Trustworthiness of the data was ascertained using data triangulation. Data was analysed in terms of the issues of environmental sustainability and change leadership. In-depth analyses were also conducted by means of provincial, business and employment sector comparisons. It was found that environmental sustainability was being addressed by the selected organisations, specifically relating to GHG emissions, energy and water saving actions. Change leaders should implement specific environmental sustainability strategies to assist in the reduction of global warming, create awareness, focus on employee involvement, report on their sustainability results and put and incentives in place to encourage environmental sustainability. In order to effect such changes, change leaders need to set targets to measure their sustainability progress. Green campaigns should be conducted internally to educate employees on the effects of global warming, and externally to inform the public about their commitment to environmental sustainability and to advise the public on courses of actions to assist in the quest to reduce global warming. It would be advisable for organisations to appoint a specific environmental sustainability team to drive these efforts. It was found that in order to bring about such changes, certain qualities were needed by change leaders to enable them to act as a change agents. Associated change leadership styles were also addressed. Change leaders should be knowledgeable in order to effectively communicate the importance of environmental sustainability. They should adopt a blend of leadership styles to drive environmental sustainability depending on the extent of change actions planned. Organisations should identify, appoint and mentor female leaders as they have the nurturing qualities that could successfully drive environmental sustainability actions. Change leaders should also preferably be personally involved in environmental sustainability as their personal values together with their job role at top leadership level could contribute towards successful implementation of environmental sustainability actions in the workplace. The study has provided general guidelines on the environmental sustainability issues necessary to address global warming reduction as well as guidelines on the change leaders qualities necessary to drive environmental sustainability actions in the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013