Smart factory adoption for a dairy factory in South Africa
- Authors: Rudman, Richard
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52963 , vital:44895
- Description: Smart Factories are a key component of Industry 4.0 and have over the last few years become a relevant topic in manufacturing across all industries. The dairy industry is no different and many of the leading dairy manufacturers have adopted many Smart Factory components and technologies. These Smart Factory components and technologies have led to change in the workplace compared to the traditional way of manufacturing. With any organisational change, it is important to consider the impact that it has on the employees of the organisations and what their attitudes and perceptions towards these changes are. When understanding employees’ attitude and perceptions of changes or factors with regard to technological changes in the workplace, organisations can manage and improve the adoption of Smart Factory Adoption. There is limited research on Smart Factory adoption in the dairy manufacturing industry in South Africa. A conceptual model was proposed based on a literature study, identifying the main factors that influence the adoption of a Smart Dairy Factory. A hypothesised model was tested by conducting a research study with a sample of employees from different hierarchical levels in a dairy factory. The questionnaire was distributed to employees and management in the organisation. The results and insights obtained, determined the factors that influence the adoption of a Smart Dairy Factory in South Africa. This study identified that the independent factors of Individual Factors, Job Security, Perceived Benefits, Trust, Company Culture towards new innovations/technologies, Company Culture with employee involvement towards new innovation/technologies, Cost and Resources, Employee perceived value of Skills and Training and Organisational Skills and Training development all have a significant positive effect on Smart Dairy Adoption. The study further identified that the Job Level of employees have a significant effect on all of the factors influencing the Smart Dairy Adoption. This is a significant finding due to the fact that management, in general, is responsible for implementing Smart Factory technologies, whereas the general workforce are the ones accepting and being affected most by the change. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Determinants of domestic savings: why Africa is dissaving
- Authors: Ruiters, Caviner Glen
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52966 , vital:44888
- Description: The World Bank has emphasized the role of savings in financing domestic fixed capital formation, technology, education, employment and economic growth. Many African countries have experienced decreased savings and increased current account deficits worsened by the global financial crisis and capital outflows. This study seeks to explore the determinants of savings and determine the savings trend of African countries compared to that of the world. To this end, annual time series data for 20 representative countries from different economic groups were obtained from World Bank Indicators, International Monetary Fund (IMF), Penn World Tables and Integrated Network for Societal Conflict Research (INSCR) database over the period 2000 to 2018. The Panel ARDL/ Pooled Mean Group estimator was used to analyse the data. The main findings were that household variables, capital flow variables, human capital variables, institutional quality variables, financial and other social macroeconomic variables determine savings. Further, the speed of adjustment show causality from the explanatory variables to savings. The use of income and monetary policy dummy variables indicates that there is no difference in determinants of savings for countries with different income groups and monetary policies. It was recommended that African countries invest in education and ICT infrastructure, improve their financial systems and restructure policies on good governance and political stability as this has a significant effect on savings. The study was limited by a lack of time series data for all African countries, therefore, future research involving an increased sample size and variables were recommended. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Performance management system at a public development corporation: success factors and challenges
- Authors: Saki, David Siphosethu
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52935 , vital:44733
- Description: Public sector organisations often lack effectiveness in the implementation of an organisational strategy and seek out means of utilising a performance management system to ensure the productive implementation of its strategy (Auditor General South Africa, 2017). Therefore, it is important for organisations to utilise tools and techniques to ensure that the performance management system is efficiently implemented. Performance management is defined as a strategic and integrated approach aimed at delivering sustained success by using tools and techniques to improve the performance of people by developing the capabilities of teams and individual contributors (Armstrong, 2006). The main purpose of the study was to identify success factors that contributed to the effective implementation of a performance management system and then determine the extent to which these factors have been successfully incorporated in the performance management system at the CDC. The literature review was conducted, highlighting the process of performance management, tools and techniques, success factors and challenges in order to effectively implement a performance management system. In this study, a positive correlation between the PM purpose, success factors and tools revealed that the various success factors in relation to systems, resources, staff and measurement linked with the PM purpose. In addition, it was also revealed that the human resources component was considered as very important in driving an effective performance management system. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Human Resources Management, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Internationalisation at the Nelson Mandela University Business School
- Authors: Sapepa, Ongeziwe Ndimentle
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52946 , vital:44896
- Description: The concept of internationalisation of higher education is a dynamic process, continuously shaped and reshaped by the international context in which it occurs. While the topic of internationalisation has been explored, internationalisation at the Nelson Mandela University Business School has not been investigated. This study will attempt to determine the Nelson Mandela University Business School’s internationalisation. This study used literature reviews to investigate the definition and elements of internationalisation. The literature review facilitated the creation of a conceptual model for internationalisation. The network theory and the social exchange theory informed the theoretical basis of this study. This research pursues a positivistic approach using quantitative methods of analysis. Accordingly, the conceptual model was tested using Likert scale data and statistical analysis. This study surveyed current and former Nelson Mandela University Business School students This study established that the independent factors of International Affiliation, African Collaboration, Research, Curriculum, Field trips, Benefits, Risks and COVID-19 were all found to exert a significant positive effect on Internationalisation. An Exploratory Factor Analysis was conducted to explore the relationships among factors and to identify any possible patterns in the factor relationships. All these factors (except for African Collaboration and Field trips) demonstrated positive correlations with Internationalisation. In this study, the statistical data, relating to these factors helped to establish the hypothesised model for Internationalisation at Nelson Mandela University Business School. The data are established as a baseline, which allows for comparisons to be made between surveys at similar higher education institutions. Internationalisation requires additional research to refine and test its suitability and validity to test internationalisation. This study further makes contribution to the network theory as well as to the social exchange theory as the findings support these theories. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Main thesis title 2021: A framework for a waterfront development in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Sethosa, Thandisizwe Theophilus
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master' theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52957 , vital:44902
- Description: Internationally, waterfront developments have become major tourist attractions and added to a city's infrastructure. This study seeks to traverse available literature to develop a conceptual framework for Waterfront Development in Nelson Mandela Bay. A framework is a systematic arrangement of ideas that are used to establish an understanding of ideas and principles that are relevant to a research study. Following the comprehensive analysis of literature that has been carried out globally, a conceptual framework was adopted as a blueprint for successful Waterfront Developments from the Port of Adelaide in South Australia. The framework essentially comprises one dependent factor, namely A successful Waterfront Development. This factor was expected to be influenced positively by the following independent factors, namely Functionality, Accessibility, Natural Environment and Culture, History and Memory. This research pursued a positivistic approach using quantitative methods of analysis. Accordingly, the researcher tested a conceptual model through the use of an online survey and statistical analysis. The hypothesised Waterfront Development Model for Nelson Mandela Bay was evaluated statistically. This includes a detailed process of the assessment of the factors via Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). The EFA produced new factors and rearranged the items allocated to different factors in accordance to best statistical fit. The study's questionnaire was distributed to the residents of Nelson Mandela Bay and was completed by a sample of 202 residents. The study sought to identify relevant factors to inform management on how to drive a successful waterfront development imperative in the city. The factor ‘Critical Success Factor’ in the hypothesised model, through the EFA process produced four additional factors namely, ‘Unique NMB Identity’, ‘Public-Private Partnership’, ‘Development Time frames’ and ‘Ownership Structure’. The factor ‘Functionality ‘in the hypothesised model, through the EFA process produced three additional factors namely, ‘Leisure Activities’, ‘Port Activities’ and ‘Residential Potential. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
The relationship between real exchange rate misalignment and economic growth in Namibia
- Authors: Shaduka, Mathilde Hishikomesho
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Namibia , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53024 , vital:44892
- Description: It has been recognised in academic and policy debates that a poorly managed exchange rate can have a devastating effect on a country’s economic growth rate. The current literature on the effect of real exchange rate misalignment on economic growth shows mixed and inconclusive results. The floating rate regime by South Africa to which Namibia’s exchange rate is fixed, contributes to exchange fluctuations that Namibia experiences. As exchange rate is one of the fundamental factors that affect economic growth, this study aims to evaluate the effect of real exchange rate misalignment on the Namibian economic growth over the period from 1990 to 2018. The study employs Equilibrium Real Exchange Rate (ERER) Model and Auto-Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) models as quantitative research methods approach for estimating the equilibrium exchange rate and establishing the relationship between real exchange rate misalignment and Namibia’s economic growth. The ERER model reveals that the Namibian currency was overvalued over the period under review. Furthermore, the ARDL results confirm that a significant relationship exists between real exchange rate misalignment and Namibia’s economic growth. The study further shows that real exchange rate misalignment (overvaluation) negatively affects Namibia’s growth domestic product (GDP). Consequently, consistent with current literature, the study supports the view that keeping the real exchange rate at levels close to its equilibrium level or slightly below its equilibrium level can promote economic growth in developing economies such as Namibia. The study, therefore, strongly recommends that the Namibian government should consider a currency undervaluation policy in order to promote economic activities and enhance Namibia’s GDP. it is thus crucial for policymakers to effectively manage real exchange rate regularly and ensure that it does not widely deviate from its equilibrium value. The study also recommends that Namibia should diversify its products and ease the trade barriers so as to promote exports that would boost economic activities. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics Development and Tourism, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Entrepreneurship development in South Africa
- Authors: Sibara, Siphokazi Nontando
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52986 , vital:44894
- Description: The current unemployment rate in South Africa is sitting at 30%. The South African government has identified various ways of combating this high rate. Entrepreneurship has been identified as one of the tools that can be utilised by the country to assist bring down these high levels. However, it seems that even though this is the case, there has been a decline in the sustainability of entrepreneurship. As per the GEM 2018 report on entrepreneurial activity in South Africa in the age group 25 – 34 years, there has been a downward trend as it has increased back from the low 2016 levels of 6.3% to 14.5% in 2017. The study aims to explore variables that can assist to develop entrepreneurship in South Africa, thereby assisting with its sustainability. Once entrepreneurship is sustainable it can assist with creating job opportunities thereby decreasing the high levels of unemployment in the country. The study starts by asking several research questions that introduce the various variables were identified that have an impact on the development of entrepreneurship. The variables that have been identified are the following: education, national and business culture, support, business skills and competencies. The study uses these variables to investigate the path leading to entrepreneurship development in the country. A qualitative research methodology has been used to carry out the research. Participants from the Eastern Cape, East London area are identified as a sample with which to conduct interviews and collect data. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
South Africa’s auto industry trade elasticity to economic performance in BRICS countries
- Authors: Siswana, Babalwa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52980 , vital:44901
- Description: South Africa’s automotive industry is a vital element in the country’s economy. This sector has been a strategically important sector in South Africa, and it is imperative to ensure not only the sustainability of the automotive sector in the country, but also the continued growth of the industry. This study addressed the determinants of South Africa’s automotive exports to BRICS countries. The main aim of the study is to examine South Africa’s automotive industry trade elasticity to economic performance in BRICS countries. An econometric assessment was done using different estimation techniques, namely Dynamic Panel Data General Method of Moments (GMM) on annual data from 2000 to 2016, quantile regression for the same period, and ANOVA analysis. This study used eight endogenous variables in explaining determinants of South African automotive export to BRICS countries. The results from the GMM technique suggested that only four variables out of eight variables were statistically significant, namely, automotive exports lagged once, corporate tax, research and development (R&D), and real exchange rates. Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), trade openness, and R&D all reduced automotive exports in South Africa. Quantile regression provided difference compared to the GMM dynamic panel data analysis. In the panel data analysis, corporate tax was positive, while in the quantile regression only Brazil’s corporate tax had a positive effect on South African automotive exports. FDI results in panel data GMM results were the same as quantile, while other variables results were not consistence with the dynamic panel data GMM results. The ANOVA results suggested that significant differences between BRICS countries impact on South Africa’s automotive exports. The findings indicate that South African automotive exports to BRICS have been proven to be elastic in four variables., namely, automotive exports lagged once, corporate tax, research and development (R&D), and real exchange rates. The South African automotive industry implemented policies such as the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP) and the Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP); however, these policies failed to realise the targets set by the v industry. On the policies regarding automotive exports in South Africa, it is equally important to pay attention to corporate tax in South Africa as well as in other BRICS countries. BRICS economies lack policy synchronisation, hence the adverse impact on South African automotive exports. South Africa’s BRICS counterparts are knowledge-driven economies. Developing a strong human base is required in the sector. In addition, there is a need for BRICS countries to have a free trade agreement (FTA) to enhance trade amongst member states. Having free trade could help to make BRICS economic integration more meaningful to BRICS countries and the region. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Export diversification, export specialization and economic growth in G20 countries
- Authors: Siswana, Sinesipho
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52951 , vital:44898
- Description: This study sought out to empirically investigate whether it is export diversification or export concentration that would help achieve and sustain higher economic growth in the G20 countries using data over the period of 1995 to 2017. The empirical analysis uses the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model within a Pooled Mean Group (PMG) to evaluate the existence of a long run cointegration and as a baseline for examining whether the relationship between export diversification (concentration) and growth is nonlinear through a Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model. The ARDL model confirms that the is a long run cointegration between the variables where both export diversification and concentration have a positive impact on growth. On the other hand, the NARDL model confirms that the relationship between export diversification and growth in the G20 countries is a nonlinear where a positive change in diversification has a negative effect on growth, while negative changes have a positive effect, thus, diversification has a negative effect on growth. The NARDL results for concentration do not confirm any nonlinearities, this implies that both positive and negative changes in concentration have negative and statistically insignificant effects on growth. Both the panel ARDL and panel NARDL model are superior models that can account and correct any serial autocorrelation that may exist, thus making the results robust enough. Seemingly, that both export diversification and concentration have a negative effect on growth and this effect may be attributed to the sample being a mixture of developed and developing economies, the study further analysed the effect on to sub-samples (G7 and non-G7). The results for the G7 panel show that there is no evidence of a nonlinear relationship between growth and concentration, as a positive change has a positive effect and a negative change has a negative effect. Overall, the G7 NARDL results are show that concentration will accelerate growth in developed economies in the long run more than diversification. The results for the non-G7 panel the NARDL results show that there is a linear relationship between export diversification (concentration) and growth. The overall, results of the study suggest, that for the G20 countries developmental levels need to be considered in order to know the correct export composition strategy to adopt in order to accelerate growth. With that said, in developed countries like the G7 export concentration would be beneficial in accelerating growth, while in developing countries like the non-G7 countries export diversification would accelerate growth. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Export diversification, export specialization and economic growth in G20 countries
- Authors: Siswana, Sinesipho
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: International economic relations , Macroeconomics , Economics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52621 , vital:43693
- Description: This study sought out to empirically investigate whether it is export diversification or export concentration that would help achieve and sustain higher economic growth in the G20 countries using data over the period of 1995 to 2017. The empirical analysis uses the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model within a Pooled Mean Group (PMG) to evaluate the existence of a long run cointegration and as a baseline for examining whether the relationship between export diversification (concentration) and growth is nonlinear through a Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model. The ARDL model confirms that the is a long run cointegration between the variables where both export diversification and concentration have a positive impact on growth. On the other hand, the NARDL model confirms that the relationship between export diversification and growth in the G20 countries is a nonlinear where a positive change in diversification has a negative effect on growth, while negative changes have a positive effect, thus, diversification has a negative effect on growth. The NARDL results for concentration do not confirm any nonlinearities, this implies that both positive and negative changes in concentration have negative and statistically insignificant effects on growth. Both the panel ARDL and panel NARDL model are superior models that can account and correct any serial autocorrelation that may exist, thus making the results robust enough. Seemingly, that both export diversification and concentration have a negative effect on growth and this effect may be attributed to the sample being a mixture of developed and developing economies, the study further analysed the effect on to sub-samples (G7 and non-G7). The results for the G7 panel show that there is no evidence of a nonlinear relationship between growth and concentration, as a positive change has a positive effect and a negative change has a negative effect. Overall, the G7 NARDL results are show that concentration will accelerate growth in developed economies in the long run more than diversification. The results for the non-G7 panel the NARDL results show that there is a linear relationship between export diversification (concentration) and growth. The overall, results of the study suggest, that for the G20 countries developmental levels need to be considered in order to know the correct export composition strategy to adopt in order to accelerate growth. With that said, in developed countries like the G7 export concentration would be beneficial in accelerating growth, while in developing countries like the non-G7 countries export diversification would accelerate growth. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Economics, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Fiscal consolidation framework: tax compliance and behavioural response in the South African context
- Authors: Tshabalala, Nomonde
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52993 , vital:44897
- Description: Recent unfavourable macroeconomic and socio-economic conditions have placed South Africa’s economy in a difficult fiscal situation with rapidly growing public debt and large government deficits. South Africa’s government expenditure cuts and tax hikes have not achieved the goal of Public debt reduction and economic growth has been shrinking, recorded to have shrunk by an annualised 0.6% in 2019. Fiscal policy is a mix of government spending and tax and this study reviewed the tax side of fiscal policy and its effectiveness in reducing government debt, the study further explored the behavioural factors that influence taxpayers’ decisions to comply with tax and the strategies that can be used to increase compliance and improve tax administration and collection by the South African Revenue Services (SARS). This study employed the ordered logistic model to compare the behaviour of South African citizens towards tax compliance and tax evasion. findings revealed that the perceptions, attitudes, and behaviour of South African citizens have generally shifted from a society that values tax compliance to a nation that justifies cheating on taxes. The main behavioural factors that shape perception and behaviour towards tax compliance and tax evasion were found to be amongst others demographic factors such as age, level of education, employment status, social class, income level, and ethnic group. In addition to demographic factors, the level of confidence and patriotism have proved to be important variables that shape taxpayers’ compliance decision. Regarding the aforementioned variables, the study found that the level of confidence in the government has significantly reduced as well as the degree of patriotism. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Disruptive technology in the wool industry: an impact analysis with specific reference to sustainable wool brokers services In South Africa
- Authors: Van Niekerk, Christiaan Petrus Jamneck
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Disruptive technologies , Wool industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53013 , vital:44903
- Description: Significant research has been conducted on the sustainability, productivity, maintenance, improvement and the development of the agricultural sector. For this reason, there is increasingly more technology that is being adapted and used in the agricultural arena. New technology (Disruptive technology) in the wool value chain has the ability to significantly disrupt the typical business models of wool brokers in South Africa, and as a result, key uncertainties exist with regard to its future sustainability. This study investigated the importance of sustainable disruptive technology that is implementable at wool brokers in South Africa. This was done through secondary research, creating a proposed conceptual business framework that would make use of various disruptive technologies such as; digital wool auction, RFID and blockchain technology to enhance interventions that are needed to create sustainability amongst wool brokers in South Africa. The enhanced proposed sustainability is created through by creating socio efficiencies, environmental efficiencies and operational efficiencies in the form of safety, Traceability and Operational efficiencies as Intervening Variables. Questionnaire statements were developed by the researcher from the literature review that was conducted and consulting experts in the field of the agriculture fibre industry and also in the wider sphere of agriculture. The instrument used in this study was used to measure the hypothesised models based on the influence of independent variables of a disruptive nature on the interventions that would allow for the perceived sustainability for wool brokers in South Africa. From the data analysis of the feedback received, a Revised Proposed Framework to enhance the sustainability of Wool Brokers in South Africa using disruptive Technology was created. From the research it is evident that new technology, such as disruptive technology, in the wool value chain has the ability to significantly disrupt the typical business models of wool brokers in South Africa and, as a result, address the demands of the end consumer to ensure the future sustainability of wool brokers. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Nelson Mandela University Business School, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Investigating financing options for business success
- Authors: Vena, Sindile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53002 , vital:44908
- Description: The study sought to examine the extent to which the financing options chosen by entrepreneurs will have an impact on business success. The investigator adopted the progression of the ventures along the business life cycle stages as a benchmark for assessing success. The study focused primarily on small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in the Eastern Cape Information Communication Technologies (ICT) sector. An empirical study, using an online survey was conducted amongst 50 small business owners/ business representative within the ICT sector in the Eastern Cape Province. Key results revealed that the financial support of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) and personal savings have played a key role in the success of ICT SMMEs throughout the business life cycle phases. This occurs after an ICT SMME has advanced successfully over the startup stage and aims for success in the development phase. The empirical finding revealed that for these SMMEs to attain success at this stage, they should finance their business investment projects utilising financing and credit trade in the form of bank loans, families, relatives and friends. According to the empirical finding in chapter five, the abovementioned financing options are only substantially linked to good advancement from the development phase onto the expansion phase. In addition, suggestions have been made to the ICT SMME management to include BBBEE finance, personal savings, bank loans, families, relatives and friends and trade credit as suitable funding choices for the ICT SMME's life cycle. The recommendations made included that proponents of the BBBEE legislation underpinning the enterprise development and supplier development, should intentionally pressure the private sector to comply with this legislation, as compliance will increase the pool of capital available to SMMEs.The chances of receiving these forms of support would therefore improve the probabilites of sucess for ICT SMMEs. Moreover, personal financing is crucial to successful progress for ICT SMMEs along the business life cycle. It is recommended that startup owners should always exercise iv saving in their personal capacity. In the early stages, the owner's capital will still be valuable as "seed financing" for start-up businesses., when all the other options of external funding are not available. Moreover, SMMEs should continuously explore the other financing options, such as bank loans, families, relatives and friends and trade credit only when their business goals are achieving success at the development stage. The study calls upon academia to consider performing descriptive studies to look at these findings. Through setting a concise financing approach for SMMEs in the ICT sector, SMMEs may help to close the distance between themselves and access to various financing options and supportive organisations. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
The relationship between workplace well-being and authentic leadership
- Authors: Vezile, Sindile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52971 , vital:44900
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between authentic leadership and employee well-being. Data was collected from an online questionnaire survey sent to 141 Special Economic Zone employees who worked as non-managerial employees. Ninety-four employees responded. The collected data was analysed using statistical tools from SPSS 20. Subsequently, descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations and correlations were used to summarise information for demographic variables, authentic leadership and well-being. In addition, ANOVA was used to determine sub-group differences. First, it has been shown that project managers were seen by their subordinates as trustworthy leaders. Second, there was a connection between authentic leadership and well-being in the workplace. Third, it was discovered that all aspects of ethical leadership, apart from Work Intrusion (IoW), had a relationship with organisational well-being. Fourth, it has shown that males and females experience different levels of job satisfaction and feel differently about respect for the organisation. Keywords: Well- , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Evaluation of local economic development in Jinja City-Uganda
- Authors: Wambi, Brian Dan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Uganda , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53041 , vital:44905
- Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the implementation of Local Economic Development in Jinja city of Uganda. The research examined the process of service delivery, strategies of implementing Local Economic Development as well as the impact of the initiated development projects to the people. The results showed that the implementation of Local Economic Development in Jinja city can positively change the citizen’s social and economic status hence an improvement in their livelihood and standards of living. Also, implementation of Local Economic Development can grow domestic businesses and enhance local trade, as well as improve service delivery to the people. The study holds practical implications that Local Economic Development can reduce poverty rates in Jinja city through advancement of industrialisation, elevation of tourism, development of the mining sector, and promotion of fishing and agriculture activities to create jobs for the people. The results of this research hold significant theoretical implications that predictions and explanations based on the studied models in this report can be well replicated in the Ugandan context provided that suitable local content is used instead of imported content. Methodologically a systematic literature review of available published, reviewed articles was carried out, a random sample was used to select the studied articles in this research. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
A systematic review of research into working capital management in South Africa
- Authors: Watson, Storm Brandon
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52995 , vital:44906
- Description: This study is set out to apply mixed methods approach to a systematic review of research into working capital management in South Africa. Research into working capital management has primarily focused on the effect it has on a business’s profitability, liquidity and performance. There is, however, limited research on the topic working capital management in South Africa and, as such, the primary objective of this study is to review research outputs on working capital management in South Africa. The purpose is to identify research gaps in the current body of knowledge by means of the development of a recommendation’s framework. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Main thesis title 2021: Evaluating the incentive to move freight distribution from road to rail
- Authors: Williams, John Steven
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52953 , vital:44909
- Description: South Africa’s uncompetitive freight logistics system is severely hampering the country’s competitiveness and the current disproportionate reliance on the road freight sector is a main contributing factor. The need for a modal shift from road to rail has long been advocated as a necessity to correct this freight logistics imbalance. This study aims to gain a better understanding of the incentives needed to move freight distribution from road to rail within shorter distance corridors and specifically the Port Elizabeth- Gauteng corridor. Specifically, it evaluates the incentives needed, the importance of cost, distance and whether special capabilities are required to achieve such a move. Empirical data were collected with an online survey and distributed via the Road freight Association (RFA) to transport operators and micro operators within South Africa. Statistical analysis was used to analyse the main research and sub-questions through descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis and Pearson correlation. The results showed that a mostly strong positive correlation exists between the measured variables in this study while also indicating a significant relationship between the independent variables and moving freight distribution from road to rail. These results proved that all the factors are related to each other and that implementing a move of freight from road to rail would need to include the consideration of all these factors. The study concludes that moving freight distribution from road to rail will be possible if incentives regarding cost rebates or subsidies amongst others are taken into account and included in additional future legislation or more practical implementation plans. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciencence, NMU Business School, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
Challenges faced by state owned entities and economic development in South Africa
- Authors: Willie, Ntsikelelo Mike Mncedi
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52976 , vital:44907
- Description: Background: State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) play a vital role in government activities and the delivery of basic services to the people. The Government is active in the key sectors, such as, services, utilities, transportation and construction. Presumably, the distribution of basic resources and infrastructure development is to some extent dependent on SOEs. South Africa is inundated with challenges in SOE’s, such as, lack of service delivery, poor financial management, less growth, massive unemployment, corruption and low business confidence. These are a threat to economic and financial sustainability of a country. Twenty years into democracy, South Africa’s SOEs environment had many scandals in both private and public sectors. SOEs such as SABC, Eskom, and Transnet had their share of malpractice, fraud and corruption in management and at board level. These incidents call for interrogation at all levels as the impact undermines political, economic stability and growth prospects. One of today’s core challenges is to justify the existence of some of the SOEs in our economy. Looking at South Africa, most of the SOEs financial performances are severely deteriorating. Due to their financial constraints, they receive a bailout from government to enable them to continue to operate. Aim: This study identified specific governance challenges faced by SOEs and economic development in South Africa, over the period of 10 years (2014 - 2018). The study made recommendations to restore good governance in SOEs. Setting: This study reviewed articles and literature on the challenges faced by SOEs and economic development in South Africa. Primary sources for the document review took the form of newspapers, various official reports and ongoing records of SOEs activities, government departments, student transcripts, mission statements, annual reports, policy, manuals, student handbooks, and strategic plans, and press releases, theses from academic institutions, trade journals, business journals, government publications and business review publications. Secondary sources used were published books and journal articles. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04
The role of stakeholders in developing entrepreneurs in the bunkering industry: the case of Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Yibe, Luthando
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Oil transfer operations -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Small business -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54849 , vital:48033
- Description: In July 2014 the South African government launched an oceans economy growth and development program called Operation Phakisa: Ocean Economy. The oceans economy is one of the sectors that is identified by the South African government where entrepreneurship can play a meaningful role in contributing to South Africa’s economic growth. Shipping is regarded as a critical operation within the export and import activities of any country . About 30 000 vessels sail along the coast of South Africa each year and approximately 13 000 vessels visit South African ports annually. Bunker replenishment is identified as a critical component within the operation of ships. In 2016 the first offshore bunkering operations were in launched in the Nelson Mandela Bay ports to revitalise the bunkering business. The aim of the study is to provide insight into how entrepreneurs can recognise value in business models, the application of the business model framework and how stakeholders can play a role in developing entrepreneurs in the bunkering sector. A survey using interviews was conducted amongst key stakeholders in the bunkering industry in the Nelson Mandela Bay region. Six themes were formulated, and these themes formed the basis of the interview structure. The themes focused amongst on challenges faced by entrepreneurs, access to funding, impact of industry regulations, government programmes and support available to entrepreneurs and the application of business model and innovation. The findings revealed that whilst Small Medium Enterprises faced several challenges in entering the industry, the support provided by key stakeholders and the application of a business model is key if entrepreneurs are to be successful in the bunkering industry. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciencess, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-04