An impact assessment of the poverty alleviation projects: a case study of Thuthukani project in Dannhauser local municipality, Kwazulu Natal
- Authors: Zungu, Nomsa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9079 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008583 , Poverty -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Description: The South African government has introduced mechanisms and plans to alleviate poverty and to monitor and evaluate the impact of the policies and programmes to the reduction of poverty. In its quest to eradicate and alleviate poverty, the government has prioritized poverty alleviation in its development agenda. In efforts to fight poverty, the government has since 1994, implemented various programmes that are aimed at alleviating poverty through stimulating employment, developing skills and improving service delivery. The poverty alleviation programme is one of the strategies that was implemented by the government, as a means to eradicate poverty. At the community level, depending on the nature of the programme, efforts have been made to incorporate mechanisms which enable poor people to play an active role in deciding how the benefits from programmes are distributed. The study was based on the projects identified by the community of Amajuba district in Dannhauser area in KwaZulu Natal. The Dannhauser Municipality in partnership with the Department of Agriculture and Environmental affairs have played a vital role in this regard by supporting the establishment of the Thuthukani project in 2004. In an attempt to assess the impact of the poverty alleviation projects, this study investigated the role played by the Thuthukani project in local economic development of the Dannhauser community in the Dannhauser Municipality. Participants included the Thuthukani project members, and the extension officer from the Department of Agriculture and Environmental affairs. The study found that, indeed poverty alleviation projects play a role in local economic development since they contribute towards job creation and improvement of the socio-economic status of the local community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Zungu, Nomsa
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9079 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008583 , Poverty -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Description: The South African government has introduced mechanisms and plans to alleviate poverty and to monitor and evaluate the impact of the policies and programmes to the reduction of poverty. In its quest to eradicate and alleviate poverty, the government has prioritized poverty alleviation in its development agenda. In efforts to fight poverty, the government has since 1994, implemented various programmes that are aimed at alleviating poverty through stimulating employment, developing skills and improving service delivery. The poverty alleviation programme is one of the strategies that was implemented by the government, as a means to eradicate poverty. At the community level, depending on the nature of the programme, efforts have been made to incorporate mechanisms which enable poor people to play an active role in deciding how the benefits from programmes are distributed. The study was based on the projects identified by the community of Amajuba district in Dannhauser area in KwaZulu Natal. The Dannhauser Municipality in partnership with the Department of Agriculture and Environmental affairs have played a vital role in this regard by supporting the establishment of the Thuthukani project in 2004. In an attempt to assess the impact of the poverty alleviation projects, this study investigated the role played by the Thuthukani project in local economic development of the Dannhauser community in the Dannhauser Municipality. Participants included the Thuthukani project members, and the extension officer from the Department of Agriculture and Environmental affairs. The study found that, indeed poverty alleviation projects play a role in local economic development since they contribute towards job creation and improvement of the socio-economic status of the local community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The effectiveness of productivity improvement initiatives at the Eberspacher Port Elizabeth manufacturing plant : an empirical study
- Authors: Zerbst, Nicolaas Jacobus
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Industrial productivity , Manufacturing industries -- Labor productivity -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013009
- Description: Manufacturing in South Africa constantly face competition from both local as well as foreign entities. Productivity growth is viewed by many executives and business leaders as the key element in maintaining competitiveness in the global economy. The success of the South African manufacturing and its global competitiveness lie in its productivity. By focusing on promoting productivity, South African manufacturers will establish a source of sustained competitive gains, while labour will establish a sustainable source of income growth. The Eberspacher South Africa Port Elizabeth (ESA) is not in any way immune to the level of competition that impacts all businesses in South Africa. ESA not only competeswith other local catalytic converter companies in terms of a high level of productivity, but also with other manufacturing plants within the Eberspacher Group globally. In Eberspacher all exhaust manufacturing plants are constantly benchmarked, comparing productivity levels, quality levels, cost and delivery. This data is used not only to determine goals, but also forms a key determinant as to where any new business is placed. The internal competition encourages all manufacturing plants within Eberspacher to continously improve plant productivity within group. A company is competitive if it is able to produce products that are either cheaper or better than those of other firms. Most of ESA customers are internal final assembly plants from Europe, USA, India and China. ESA therefore constantly have to ensure that they are competitive in all aspects of business, including productivity. In ESA, the overall productivity performance of the manufacturing plant is of utmost importance to ensure the ability to supply all the customers with cost competitive products, at the right time and with zero defects. Productivity in Eberspacher is used as a vital measurement to the sourcing decision for any new business awarded to the group. The main purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of productivity improvement initiatives at the Eberspacher Port Elizabeth Manufacturing Plant.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Zerbst, Nicolaas Jacobus
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Industrial productivity , Manufacturing industries -- Labor productivity -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8782 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013009
- Description: Manufacturing in South Africa constantly face competition from both local as well as foreign entities. Productivity growth is viewed by many executives and business leaders as the key element in maintaining competitiveness in the global economy. The success of the South African manufacturing and its global competitiveness lie in its productivity. By focusing on promoting productivity, South African manufacturers will establish a source of sustained competitive gains, while labour will establish a sustainable source of income growth. The Eberspacher South Africa Port Elizabeth (ESA) is not in any way immune to the level of competition that impacts all businesses in South Africa. ESA not only competeswith other local catalytic converter companies in terms of a high level of productivity, but also with other manufacturing plants within the Eberspacher Group globally. In Eberspacher all exhaust manufacturing plants are constantly benchmarked, comparing productivity levels, quality levels, cost and delivery. This data is used not only to determine goals, but also forms a key determinant as to where any new business is placed. The internal competition encourages all manufacturing plants within Eberspacher to continously improve plant productivity within group. A company is competitive if it is able to produce products that are either cheaper or better than those of other firms. Most of ESA customers are internal final assembly plants from Europe, USA, India and China. ESA therefore constantly have to ensure that they are competitive in all aspects of business, including productivity. In ESA, the overall productivity performance of the manufacturing plant is of utmost importance to ensure the ability to supply all the customers with cost competitive products, at the right time and with zero defects. Productivity in Eberspacher is used as a vital measurement to the sourcing decision for any new business awarded to the group. The main purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of productivity improvement initiatives at the Eberspacher Port Elizabeth Manufacturing Plant.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Poverty alleviation and community participation towards development in Bahir-Dar, Amhara regional state, Ethiopia
- Authors: Worku, Askal Tilahun
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Poverty -- Ethiopia , Poor -- Services for -- Ethiopia , Community development -- Ethiopia , Economic development projects -- Ethiopia , Political participation -- Ethiopia , Economic assistance, Domestic -- Ethiopia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9143 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018801
- Description: The objective of the research was to assess the trends and forms of community participation to poverty alleviation in Bahir Dar town. The field study was limited to two projects, micro and small scale enterprise activities and credit service, however the finding and recommendation can be applied to all projects aimed to poverty alleviation and community self sustaining projects. In order to achieve the research objectives, a review of relevant literature was done. It began by reviewing definitions and concepts of poverty. The literature also over reviewed the importance of community participation to poverty alleviation efforts of a country and reviews the Ethiopian poverty reduction process. The literature further highlighted the role of community participation in achieving development goals. The data collection was done by means of focus group discussions complimented by face-to-face interviews. The data collected were analyzed thematically with the use of narrative summary and categorization in respect to the objective of the study. The findings of the study showed that there is low participation of community and therefore creating more opportunities for community participation activity and detailed study in the area is recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Worku, Askal Tilahun
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Poverty -- Ethiopia , Poor -- Services for -- Ethiopia , Community development -- Ethiopia , Economic development projects -- Ethiopia , Political participation -- Ethiopia , Economic assistance, Domestic -- Ethiopia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9143 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018801
- Description: The objective of the research was to assess the trends and forms of community participation to poverty alleviation in Bahir Dar town. The field study was limited to two projects, micro and small scale enterprise activities and credit service, however the finding and recommendation can be applied to all projects aimed to poverty alleviation and community self sustaining projects. In order to achieve the research objectives, a review of relevant literature was done. It began by reviewing definitions and concepts of poverty. The literature also over reviewed the importance of community participation to poverty alleviation efforts of a country and reviews the Ethiopian poverty reduction process. The literature further highlighted the role of community participation in achieving development goals. The data collection was done by means of focus group discussions complimented by face-to-face interviews. The data collected were analyzed thematically with the use of narrative summary and categorization in respect to the objective of the study. The findings of the study showed that there is low participation of community and therefore creating more opportunities for community participation activity and detailed study in the area is recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The entrepreneurial orientation of selected ICT SMME's
- Authors: Whittaker, Donna
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Business enterprises , Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8754 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011417 , Business enterprises , Information technology
- Description: Despite the demand for ICT skills, businesses are experiencing an ICT skills shortage. Constantly changing ICT technologies require business leaders to find qualified ICT professionals to implement new business strategies and business processes. The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector is experiencing a continued skills shortage and various initiatives have been launched to address the problem. Businesses continually struggle to find qualified and suitably skilled ICT personnel. As a result businesses have had to outsource their ICT requirements off-shore to obtain the required ICT skills and maintain their competitive advantage. In a country desperate for job creation, entrepreneurial inclination and start up of new businesses may play a pivotal role in the economic development and well being of individuals able to capitalise on the availability of ICT opportunities. Entrepreneurship is a critical factor in promoting innovation, creating employment opportunities and generating social and economic wealth in a country's economy. Sectors such as Information and Communication Technologies can be seen as archetypal entrepreneurial industries and can consequently play a key role in economic development. In the research that follows the author identifies an ICT skills shortage in South Africa. This is followed by an exploratory study that investigates the influence of psychological traits and socio-cultural variables on the entrepreneurial intent of selected ICT SMME’s in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area. The findings revealed that both psychological traits together with socio-cultural variables influence an individual’s intention to start up a business. The predominant psychological trait discovered during the research was perseverance. Family environmental issues were the dominant socio-cultural variable influencing entrepreneurial intention amongst the case study subjects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Whittaker, Donna
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Business enterprises , Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8754 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011417 , Business enterprises , Information technology
- Description: Despite the demand for ICT skills, businesses are experiencing an ICT skills shortage. Constantly changing ICT technologies require business leaders to find qualified ICT professionals to implement new business strategies and business processes. The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector is experiencing a continued skills shortage and various initiatives have been launched to address the problem. Businesses continually struggle to find qualified and suitably skilled ICT personnel. As a result businesses have had to outsource their ICT requirements off-shore to obtain the required ICT skills and maintain their competitive advantage. In a country desperate for job creation, entrepreneurial inclination and start up of new businesses may play a pivotal role in the economic development and well being of individuals able to capitalise on the availability of ICT opportunities. Entrepreneurship is a critical factor in promoting innovation, creating employment opportunities and generating social and economic wealth in a country's economy. Sectors such as Information and Communication Technologies can be seen as archetypal entrepreneurial industries and can consequently play a key role in economic development. In the research that follows the author identifies an ICT skills shortage in South Africa. This is followed by an exploratory study that investigates the influence of psychological traits and socio-cultural variables on the entrepreneurial intent of selected ICT SMME’s in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area. The findings revealed that both psychological traits together with socio-cultural variables influence an individual’s intention to start up a business. The predominant psychological trait discovered during the research was perseverance. Family environmental issues were the dominant socio-cultural variable influencing entrepreneurial intention amongst the case study subjects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
An evaluation of the factors affecting student success at a South African higher education institution : implications for management
- Authors: Watkiss, Sheralyn Ann
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- South Africa , College dropout -- Prevention , Management -- Education (Higher) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8817 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018826
- Description: The context of this study centres on Higher Education in South Africa, the role that this sector plays in terms of economic development and the implications that face Institutional management in retaining students in the Higher Education system. Central to this study is the notion that student development theory can be used as a basis towards understanding the customers of Higher Education, how to better serve the customers needs and finally, retain students in the system through more effective management practices. The education sector is growing at an increasingly rapid rate as a result of strategic goals of countries and organisations such as the United Nations promoting the notion of education for all people (Altbach, Reisberg & Rumbley, 2009). The aim of the strategic goals adopted by developing countries in particular is to enhance the human capital or skills and knowledge of its people since education is a known contributor towards economic, social and political development. Higher Education in particular is known to contribute towards the human capital and economic development of a country. The Higher Education sector in South Africa for instance contributes approximately 1.5 percent to the country‟s gross domestic product (GDP), significantly higher than other industry sectors (apart from gold and agriculture) in the country (van Heerden, Bohlmann, Giesecke, Makochekanwa, & Roos, 2007). Figure 1.1 provides a context of the relevant importance of the higher education sector towards economic growth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Watkiss, Sheralyn Ann
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- South Africa , College dropout -- Prevention , Management -- Education (Higher) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8817 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018826
- Description: The context of this study centres on Higher Education in South Africa, the role that this sector plays in terms of economic development and the implications that face Institutional management in retaining students in the Higher Education system. Central to this study is the notion that student development theory can be used as a basis towards understanding the customers of Higher Education, how to better serve the customers needs and finally, retain students in the system through more effective management practices. The education sector is growing at an increasingly rapid rate as a result of strategic goals of countries and organisations such as the United Nations promoting the notion of education for all people (Altbach, Reisberg & Rumbley, 2009). The aim of the strategic goals adopted by developing countries in particular is to enhance the human capital or skills and knowledge of its people since education is a known contributor towards economic, social and political development. Higher Education in particular is known to contribute towards the human capital and economic development of a country. The Higher Education sector in South Africa for instance contributes approximately 1.5 percent to the country‟s gross domestic product (GDP), significantly higher than other industry sectors (apart from gold and agriculture) in the country (van Heerden, Bohlmann, Giesecke, Makochekanwa, & Roos, 2007). Figure 1.1 provides a context of the relevant importance of the higher education sector towards economic growth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Assessing BEE policy's viability in advancing establishment and survival of SMMes in South Africa
- Authors: Waithaka, Stephen Kiumi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4376 , vital:20591
- Description: Black Economic Empowerment is an ideology and policy that was effected so as to streamline the inequalities that were and have been left to stand after the apartheid era in South Africa. Despite the mixed reactions that would surface as a result of the underpinnings of the policy, the main focus of the policy was and still is to provide for equality and build better business among the economic minority who in this case are the “black” people of South Africa. This report focuses on the policy and the different guidelines that have been set in place to counter the inequalities in businesses and economy with focus being on SMMEs and looking at ways in which various sections, especially the score card, with regard to exemptions to small businesses, how this aids them in achieving BEE compliance. The research accomplished this by looking at the requirements of the score card, focusing mainly on the stipulations placed on SMMEs and by the use of literary reports gathered information that would show whether the exemptions give the said enterprises added competitive advantage. The research produced a couple of findings; that although theoretically the necessity of boosting economic growth and business of one of the most productive enterprise sectors in an economy and the fact that the score card has focused infinitely on the need for SMMEs not to be fully focused on a specific cluster of criterion in the score card but more on which criterion would work best for them and which ones are easy to maneuver around to ensure maximum growth and contribution, there is the loop hole that is experienced of how this criterion is met and passed with disregard to actualization of the need to adhere to the strictness of the rules of how compliance is attained. There was also the main issue of fronting which is the falsification of ownership of a company by providing misleading information about the directors and owners of the business. The main conclusions drawn from this research are that it is important not to lose the foresight that the policy is meant to enhance and grow the economic ability of a sector and build business through which the policy makes very heavy recommendations but there are shortfalls experienced with regard to how compliance is approached putting into consideration that SMMEs have been given exemptions in the number of pillars of the score card they can apply to their business. It is also important to note that the influence and bulldozing that is expected when it comes to dealing with policies of this nature is not to be sidelined. This research aims to look at the discrepancies that are set out within the structures that hold the policy together so as to attain maximum results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Waithaka, Stephen Kiumi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4376 , vital:20591
- Description: Black Economic Empowerment is an ideology and policy that was effected so as to streamline the inequalities that were and have been left to stand after the apartheid era in South Africa. Despite the mixed reactions that would surface as a result of the underpinnings of the policy, the main focus of the policy was and still is to provide for equality and build better business among the economic minority who in this case are the “black” people of South Africa. This report focuses on the policy and the different guidelines that have been set in place to counter the inequalities in businesses and economy with focus being on SMMEs and looking at ways in which various sections, especially the score card, with regard to exemptions to small businesses, how this aids them in achieving BEE compliance. The research accomplished this by looking at the requirements of the score card, focusing mainly on the stipulations placed on SMMEs and by the use of literary reports gathered information that would show whether the exemptions give the said enterprises added competitive advantage. The research produced a couple of findings; that although theoretically the necessity of boosting economic growth and business of one of the most productive enterprise sectors in an economy and the fact that the score card has focused infinitely on the need for SMMEs not to be fully focused on a specific cluster of criterion in the score card but more on which criterion would work best for them and which ones are easy to maneuver around to ensure maximum growth and contribution, there is the loop hole that is experienced of how this criterion is met and passed with disregard to actualization of the need to adhere to the strictness of the rules of how compliance is attained. There was also the main issue of fronting which is the falsification of ownership of a company by providing misleading information about the directors and owners of the business. The main conclusions drawn from this research are that it is important not to lose the foresight that the policy is meant to enhance and grow the economic ability of a sector and build business through which the policy makes very heavy recommendations but there are shortfalls experienced with regard to how compliance is approached putting into consideration that SMMEs have been given exemptions in the number of pillars of the score card they can apply to their business. It is also important to note that the influence and bulldozing that is expected when it comes to dealing with policies of this nature is not to be sidelined. This research aims to look at the discrepancies that are set out within the structures that hold the policy together so as to attain maximum results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Utilizing geocaching to reduce obesity and increase tourism
- Authors: Von Solms, Woudi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Sports and tourism , Obesity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9291 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011157 , Sports and tourism , Obesity
- Description: Tourism has social and economic benefits. Economic benefits are received through tourists visiting tourist attractions. Social benefits related to benefits tourists receive personally when visiting tourist attractions. The number of individuals that are obese are constantly increasing and leads to hazardous medical conditions. The aim of this research study was to determine the extent to which geocaching can be used to increase tourism and decrease obesity. Geocaching is similar to a treasure hunt where participant use clues and a Global Positioning System device to find a treasure that are called a cache. The cache is filled with trinkets that are exchanged by participants that find the cache. Students of the second avenue campus of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University were used as respondents and given information on what geocaching involve. Three geocaches were hidden in The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World in Summerstrand, Port Elizabeth. The respondents met at The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World where a clue and map was provided. After finding the cache the respondents was asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire. The results were calculated and conclusions and recommendations were made. The primary research process was conducted over too short a period of time to conclude whether it can lead to a reduction in obesity. However geocaching experience by respondents did show that the process of geocaching involves physical exercise, which is needed for losing weight. Research also indicated that respondents would like to geocache with family and friends. Geocaching with family and friends involves support which secondary research have also proven is important to losing weight and decreasing obesity. Respondents indicated that they enjoyed geocaching and would like to geocache in their free time. The indication of enjoying geocaching, participating in geocaching during free time allows travelling for leisure purposes as to geocache travelling is necessary and the majority of geocaches is hidden at tourist attractions. The combination of travelling to tourist attractions, enjoying the experience and partaking in physical exercise with family and friends involve two of the three main aspects seen as helping to reduce obesity: enjoyable physical activity and support from family and friends. The conclusion is therefore that geocaching can be utilised to increase tourism and reduce obesity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Von Solms, Woudi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Sports and tourism , Obesity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9291 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011157 , Sports and tourism , Obesity
- Description: Tourism has social and economic benefits. Economic benefits are received through tourists visiting tourist attractions. Social benefits related to benefits tourists receive personally when visiting tourist attractions. The number of individuals that are obese are constantly increasing and leads to hazardous medical conditions. The aim of this research study was to determine the extent to which geocaching can be used to increase tourism and decrease obesity. Geocaching is similar to a treasure hunt where participant use clues and a Global Positioning System device to find a treasure that are called a cache. The cache is filled with trinkets that are exchanged by participants that find the cache. Students of the second avenue campus of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University were used as respondents and given information on what geocaching involve. Three geocaches were hidden in The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World in Summerstrand, Port Elizabeth. The respondents met at The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World where a clue and map was provided. After finding the cache the respondents was asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire. The results were calculated and conclusions and recommendations were made. The primary research process was conducted over too short a period of time to conclude whether it can lead to a reduction in obesity. However geocaching experience by respondents did show that the process of geocaching involves physical exercise, which is needed for losing weight. Research also indicated that respondents would like to geocache with family and friends. Geocaching with family and friends involves support which secondary research have also proven is important to losing weight and decreasing obesity. Respondents indicated that they enjoyed geocaching and would like to geocache in their free time. The indication of enjoying geocaching, participating in geocaching during free time allows travelling for leisure purposes as to geocache travelling is necessary and the majority of geocaches is hidden at tourist attractions. The combination of travelling to tourist attractions, enjoying the experience and partaking in physical exercise with family and friends involve two of the three main aspects seen as helping to reduce obesity: enjoyable physical activity and support from family and friends. The conclusion is therefore that geocaching can be utilised to increase tourism and reduce obesity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
An evaluation of entrepreneurial skills needed for emerging black entrepreneurs within the Western Cape
- Authors: Vilakazi, Ezekiel
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Western Cape , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Business education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8816 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018809
- Description: South Africa’s economy is in a phase of transformation. As part of this process, the South African government has identified the development of economic activities amongst previously disadvantaged black communities. However, this noble intent is challenged by a lack of entrepreneurial skills, which are seen as important elements in the economic development effort and necessary to achieve transformation goals and objectives (Smith, 2004). Since the apartheid era, South Africa has seen the emergence of two distinct economic sectors: a first world economy, consisting mostly of white owned and formal businesses, and a third world economy, consisting of mostly black owned and informal businesses. Economic activities of emerging entrepreneurs have been restricted to mostly the black townships and rural areas, whereas first world entrepreneurs have been actively involved in mainstream economic activities. The separation of emerging and first world entrepreneurs has resulted in a wide gap in entrepreneurial and technical skills and knowledge between the two. This imbalance has maintained a situation in which the minority of the population controls more than 80 per cent of the wealth of the country. Upon gaining independence in 1994, the new South African government embarked on the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) to redress the imbalances of the past (GEM, 2001; GEM, 2002). The government has since also adopted the Growth Employment and Redistribution (GEAR) macroeconomic strategy to grow the economy, create employment and redistribute wealth. To accelerate the implementation of GEAR, the government has passed a number of Acts, namely: The National Small Business Promotion Act (102/1996), Skills Development Act (97/1998), Affirmative Procurement Act (5/2000), Mineral and Petroleum Resources Act (28/2002) and, most recently, the Mining Charter (2003), Petroleum Charter (2003), Financial services Charter (2003), and the Information Communications Technology (ICT) Charter (2004). Small business has been seen by government as a vehicle to create employment, promote economic growth and redistribute wealth; as such the promotion of entrepreneurship has been identified as a critical aspect of GEAR. However, despite supportive legislation and programmes, South Africa’s entrepreneurship rating remains below average, as evidenced by the findings of the Global Entrepreneurial Monitor reports (GEM, 2001; GEM, 2002). The wide gap in skills and knowledge between emerging and first world entrepreneurs in South Africa is a contributing factor to the country’s poor rating – and it is expected to widen as the new knowledge economy unfolds, if corrective measures are not taken by the government or private sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Vilakazi, Ezekiel
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Western Cape , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Western Cape , Business education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8816 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018809
- Description: South Africa’s economy is in a phase of transformation. As part of this process, the South African government has identified the development of economic activities amongst previously disadvantaged black communities. However, this noble intent is challenged by a lack of entrepreneurial skills, which are seen as important elements in the economic development effort and necessary to achieve transformation goals and objectives (Smith, 2004). Since the apartheid era, South Africa has seen the emergence of two distinct economic sectors: a first world economy, consisting mostly of white owned and formal businesses, and a third world economy, consisting of mostly black owned and informal businesses. Economic activities of emerging entrepreneurs have been restricted to mostly the black townships and rural areas, whereas first world entrepreneurs have been actively involved in mainstream economic activities. The separation of emerging and first world entrepreneurs has resulted in a wide gap in entrepreneurial and technical skills and knowledge between the two. This imbalance has maintained a situation in which the minority of the population controls more than 80 per cent of the wealth of the country. Upon gaining independence in 1994, the new South African government embarked on the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) to redress the imbalances of the past (GEM, 2001; GEM, 2002). The government has since also adopted the Growth Employment and Redistribution (GEAR) macroeconomic strategy to grow the economy, create employment and redistribute wealth. To accelerate the implementation of GEAR, the government has passed a number of Acts, namely: The National Small Business Promotion Act (102/1996), Skills Development Act (97/1998), Affirmative Procurement Act (5/2000), Mineral and Petroleum Resources Act (28/2002) and, most recently, the Mining Charter (2003), Petroleum Charter (2003), Financial services Charter (2003), and the Information Communications Technology (ICT) Charter (2004). Small business has been seen by government as a vehicle to create employment, promote economic growth and redistribute wealth; as such the promotion of entrepreneurship has been identified as a critical aspect of GEAR. However, despite supportive legislation and programmes, South Africa’s entrepreneurship rating remains below average, as evidenced by the findings of the Global Entrepreneurial Monitor reports (GEM, 2001; GEM, 2002). The wide gap in skills and knowledge between emerging and first world entrepreneurs in South Africa is a contributing factor to the country’s poor rating – and it is expected to widen as the new knowledge economy unfolds, if corrective measures are not taken by the government or private sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
How the Christian church can help in building business ethics
- Authors: Venter, Johannes Machiel
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Business -- Religious aspects -- Christianity , Business ethics , Capitalism -- Religious aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8774 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012905
- Description: Research suggests that there is a relationship between religion and business ethics. When looking at the South African society and the statistics that says that 80 percent of the population is Christian but on the other hand we are confronted within this country with increasing incidents of corruption in private companies as well as in public services. Why would that be the case? This study seeks to understand if Christianity or the local church really makes an impact on the lives of its members. The research starts of by looking at behaviour in general and what constitute to good ethical decision-making. In the study on Christian ethics it becomes clear that there is a strong appeal in the Bible on ethical behaviour. The Bible goes as far as to claim that, when in a relationship with the Lord, the followers will show His character in the way they live at home and the way they behave and make ethical decisions at the workplace. This study used focus groups to research the role of the local church in changing behaviour. The study finds that Christianity per se does not change the behaviour of church members. The church members‘ definition of the church largely determines the impact the church will have on their lives. In the study on the Christian ethics it was clear that ethics were seen as something that was formed in communities and not by rules or regulations. It was not a case of people telling others what to do and what not. It was more a case of mentors that helped others to live differently in community with others. The study finds that when the local church is build on relationships and if there is a strong sense of community, the church has a huge impact on the lives of its members. This suggests that the local church should be more focused on strong and intimate relationships and not so much on the church as organisation or institute. This is also important for the businesses that will employ these members because they will make better ethical decisions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Venter, Johannes Machiel
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Business -- Religious aspects -- Christianity , Business ethics , Capitalism -- Religious aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8774 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012905
- Description: Research suggests that there is a relationship between religion and business ethics. When looking at the South African society and the statistics that says that 80 percent of the population is Christian but on the other hand we are confronted within this country with increasing incidents of corruption in private companies as well as in public services. Why would that be the case? This study seeks to understand if Christianity or the local church really makes an impact on the lives of its members. The research starts of by looking at behaviour in general and what constitute to good ethical decision-making. In the study on Christian ethics it becomes clear that there is a strong appeal in the Bible on ethical behaviour. The Bible goes as far as to claim that, when in a relationship with the Lord, the followers will show His character in the way they live at home and the way they behave and make ethical decisions at the workplace. This study used focus groups to research the role of the local church in changing behaviour. The study finds that Christianity per se does not change the behaviour of church members. The church members‘ definition of the church largely determines the impact the church will have on their lives. In the study on the Christian ethics it was clear that ethics were seen as something that was formed in communities and not by rules or regulations. It was not a case of people telling others what to do and what not. It was more a case of mentors that helped others to live differently in community with others. The study finds that when the local church is build on relationships and if there is a strong sense of community, the church has a huge impact on the lives of its members. This suggests that the local church should be more focused on strong and intimate relationships and not so much on the church as organisation or institute. This is also important for the businesses that will employ these members because they will make better ethical decisions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Evaluating motivational levels of employees in a contemporary South African organisation
- Authors: Van Wyk, Charl
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8615 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1542 , Employee motivation
- Description: The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the motivational levels of employees at CompSol, a contemporary South African organisation. Research for the study included a literature study of both the content and process theories of motivation in order to identify those factors that are important to consider when evaluating the levels of employee motivation. An empirical study was conducted after the appropriate measuring instrument was developed. The purpose of the measuring instrument was to identify the rank importance of these identified factors of motivation and to evaluate the levels of employee motivation by measuring the extent to which these factors are provided for in the organisation. A sample was selected from the target population, via cluster sampling, from the largest functional department within the organisation, namely the Claims processing department. The group’s dominant locus of control was also measured through the use of an appropriate measuring instrument. The major findings indicated that some of the factors of motivation were provided for to a great extent, while others had serious shortcomings. The findings were grouped into the different job title categories of the respondents in order to compare the overall responses of the groups, aimed at identifying trends, commonalities and differences. Findings also indicated that the majority of the participants have an external locus of control. The researcher suggested certain recommendations for those areas where findings indicated shortcomings, in an attempt to increase the overall levels of motivation within this specific functional department in the organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Van Wyk, Charl
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8615 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1542 , Employee motivation
- Description: The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the motivational levels of employees at CompSol, a contemporary South African organisation. Research for the study included a literature study of both the content and process theories of motivation in order to identify those factors that are important to consider when evaluating the levels of employee motivation. An empirical study was conducted after the appropriate measuring instrument was developed. The purpose of the measuring instrument was to identify the rank importance of these identified factors of motivation and to evaluate the levels of employee motivation by measuring the extent to which these factors are provided for in the organisation. A sample was selected from the target population, via cluster sampling, from the largest functional department within the organisation, namely the Claims processing department. The group’s dominant locus of control was also measured through the use of an appropriate measuring instrument. The major findings indicated that some of the factors of motivation were provided for to a great extent, while others had serious shortcomings. The findings were grouped into the different job title categories of the respondents in order to compare the overall responses of the groups, aimed at identifying trends, commonalities and differences. Findings also indicated that the majority of the participants have an external locus of control. The researcher suggested certain recommendations for those areas where findings indicated shortcomings, in an attempt to increase the overall levels of motivation within this specific functional department in the organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Strategies impacting on a motivating climate and productivity
- Van Schalkwyk, Thomas Johannes
- Authors: Van Schalkwyk, Thomas Johannes
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Employee motivation , Work environment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9422 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021238
- Description: Globalisation and the falling of trade barriers across the world have changed the way organisations conduct their business. Organisations have to become more competitive to compete against local rivals and imported products. Employees fulfil a vital role in this strategy and productive employees can enable organisations to accomplish this goal. Employees need to be motivated to contribute to the challenges of globalisation and ultimately the success of the organisation. Organisations therefore need to create a motivating climate wherein employees can perform. A number of motivational theories are recorded, but older theories make the assumption than an average human being exists. The more modern theories, which identify the relationship between dynamic variables, are more relevant but to a large extent do not consider the influence of trade unions. Trade unions are still very active in South Africa, and a combined effort by organisations and trade unions could result in a win-win outcome for both parties. Rewards and recognition drive behaviour which will result in enhanced productivity. Monetary rewards are the preferred incentive amongst employees, but the effect of training and development opportunities are often underestimated and under-utilised. Employees are generally eager to improve their skills levels, which could have a positive medium to long term impact on the organisation. Effective leadership is crucial to improved productivity and leaders have to create the environment for employees to perform. Traditional management styles are no longer effective and modern leaders have to develop their skills to achieve sustainability of the organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Van Schalkwyk, Thomas Johannes
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Employee motivation , Work environment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9422 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021238
- Description: Globalisation and the falling of trade barriers across the world have changed the way organisations conduct their business. Organisations have to become more competitive to compete against local rivals and imported products. Employees fulfil a vital role in this strategy and productive employees can enable organisations to accomplish this goal. Employees need to be motivated to contribute to the challenges of globalisation and ultimately the success of the organisation. Organisations therefore need to create a motivating climate wherein employees can perform. A number of motivational theories are recorded, but older theories make the assumption than an average human being exists. The more modern theories, which identify the relationship between dynamic variables, are more relevant but to a large extent do not consider the influence of trade unions. Trade unions are still very active in South Africa, and a combined effort by organisations and trade unions could result in a win-win outcome for both parties. Rewards and recognition drive behaviour which will result in enhanced productivity. Monetary rewards are the preferred incentive amongst employees, but the effect of training and development opportunities are often underestimated and under-utilised. Employees are generally eager to improve their skills levels, which could have a positive medium to long term impact on the organisation. Effective leadership is crucial to improved productivity and leaders have to create the environment for employees to perform. Traditional management styles are no longer effective and modern leaders have to develop their skills to achieve sustainability of the organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The impact of the implementation of E-HRM on the human resource management function
- Authors: Van Heerden, Jeanne-Marie
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Personnel management -- Technological innovations , Personnel management -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8938 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021239
- Description: The purpose of the research was to improve the use of electronic human resource management in South African businesses by investigating that there is a positive impact when implementing e-HRM on the human resource management function. The research was carried out within a South African business, whose parent business concern is based overseas and has branches operating within South Africa The research was significant as it shaped the researcher’s concern as to whether electronic human resource would be beneficial to a South African business if the business superiors decide to implement e-HRM within their business opinion and what impact it would have. The methodological components that guided the research were a structured questionnaire that was distributed by using a combination of convenience, snowball, and judgemental sampling techniques. Certain aspects highlighted in the literature review were used as the framework for the development of a questionnaire to assess how people perceive the implementation of e-HR on their working environment and if e-HR has helped the business run more efficiently and effectively. Six hypotheses were tested and all were accepted. The potential for generalisations of the findings are that given the potential that e-HRM has for the transformation of human resource, it is reasonable to expect that the sizeable changes required, both in organisation and mindset, are likely to provoke resistance from various end users. What was learned was that HR is often hindered by a multitude of manual, paper based processes and transactions, such as tax, payroll and benefits information, that are costly, prone to errors and time-consuming to manage. This makes it difficult for HR organisations to focus on higher value business in initiatives that may help to drive the profitability and efficiency of the organisations. The implication of the findings about the impact of the implementation of e-HR on the Human Resource Management function was that firms need to figure out how to make technology feasible and industrious, as managers and Human Resource professionals are responsible for redefining how work at their firms or business flow as they need to keep ahead of the information curve and therefore learn how to influence information for business results to be more efficient and effective. The theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed and recommendations based on these findings are provided.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Van Heerden, Jeanne-Marie
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Personnel management -- Technological innovations , Personnel management -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8938 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021239
- Description: The purpose of the research was to improve the use of electronic human resource management in South African businesses by investigating that there is a positive impact when implementing e-HRM on the human resource management function. The research was carried out within a South African business, whose parent business concern is based overseas and has branches operating within South Africa The research was significant as it shaped the researcher’s concern as to whether electronic human resource would be beneficial to a South African business if the business superiors decide to implement e-HRM within their business opinion and what impact it would have. The methodological components that guided the research were a structured questionnaire that was distributed by using a combination of convenience, snowball, and judgemental sampling techniques. Certain aspects highlighted in the literature review were used as the framework for the development of a questionnaire to assess how people perceive the implementation of e-HR on their working environment and if e-HR has helped the business run more efficiently and effectively. Six hypotheses were tested and all were accepted. The potential for generalisations of the findings are that given the potential that e-HRM has for the transformation of human resource, it is reasonable to expect that the sizeable changes required, both in organisation and mindset, are likely to provoke resistance from various end users. What was learned was that HR is often hindered by a multitude of manual, paper based processes and transactions, such as tax, payroll and benefits information, that are costly, prone to errors and time-consuming to manage. This makes it difficult for HR organisations to focus on higher value business in initiatives that may help to drive the profitability and efficiency of the organisations. The implication of the findings about the impact of the implementation of e-HR on the Human Resource Management function was that firms need to figure out how to make technology feasible and industrious, as managers and Human Resource professionals are responsible for redefining how work at their firms or business flow as they need to keep ahead of the information curve and therefore learn how to influence information for business results to be more efficient and effective. The theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed and recommendations based on these findings are provided.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Investigating the utilisation of enterprise risk management at East London industrial development zone
- Authors: Tutani, Luvo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Risk management , Decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8773 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012651 , Risk management , Decision making
- Description: The aim of this study was to suggest ways to use enterprise risk management (ERM) effectively towards achieving strategic objectives at East London Industrial Development Zone. The results of the research will contribute to the set of tools which business can utilise in effective business planning and achieve sustainability of enterprises. Enterprise risk management provides stakeholders with reasonable assurance that management has taken due care in drawing up strategies aligned with their appetite for risk. The objective was to investigate the utilisation of Enterprise Risk Management at East London Industrial Development Zone. The literature review revealed shortcomings of the traditional risk management strategy. Examples of the shortcomings are its preoccupation with hazard risks and its disconnection with other functions in an organisation. ERM has emerged as the organisation wide approach to the handling of risk. Effectively integrated with strategy-setting and performance management, ERM strengthens opportunity-seeking behaviour by helping directors and managers develop the confidence that they truly understand the risks inherent in the organization’s strategy and have the capabilities in place to manage and monitor those risks. The assessment of risks after the strategy formulation process results in defective risk management. The result could be strategic objectives that are unrealistic and risk management that is just an appendage to performance management. The empirical study consisted of face-to-face interviews using semi-structured questionnaires. The respondents were Business Unit Managers at East London Industrial Development Zone who advised on current practice of ERM in the organization. The main findings of the empirical investigation revealed that ERM started with organisational survival in mind but ended up being a compliance activity. Also, ERM is under-resourced as there are no dedicated ERM financial and human resources. The organization’s unstructured and informal approach to ERM could place the strategic objectives at risk. Recommendations conclude the investigation and address the shortcomings and improvements that can be made to the utilisation of ERM within the organization. The recommendations are ensuring strong commitment towards ERM and widening the participation of all employees in ERM; developing an ERM road map; allocation of resources to ERM initiative; development of a business case for ERM; training of all managers and all employees on ERM; and focusing on low-hanging return, which may result in quicker realisation of the value added by ERM to the organization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Tutani, Luvo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Risk management , Decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8773 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012651 , Risk management , Decision making
- Description: The aim of this study was to suggest ways to use enterprise risk management (ERM) effectively towards achieving strategic objectives at East London Industrial Development Zone. The results of the research will contribute to the set of tools which business can utilise in effective business planning and achieve sustainability of enterprises. Enterprise risk management provides stakeholders with reasonable assurance that management has taken due care in drawing up strategies aligned with their appetite for risk. The objective was to investigate the utilisation of Enterprise Risk Management at East London Industrial Development Zone. The literature review revealed shortcomings of the traditional risk management strategy. Examples of the shortcomings are its preoccupation with hazard risks and its disconnection with other functions in an organisation. ERM has emerged as the organisation wide approach to the handling of risk. Effectively integrated with strategy-setting and performance management, ERM strengthens opportunity-seeking behaviour by helping directors and managers develop the confidence that they truly understand the risks inherent in the organization’s strategy and have the capabilities in place to manage and monitor those risks. The assessment of risks after the strategy formulation process results in defective risk management. The result could be strategic objectives that are unrealistic and risk management that is just an appendage to performance management. The empirical study consisted of face-to-face interviews using semi-structured questionnaires. The respondents were Business Unit Managers at East London Industrial Development Zone who advised on current practice of ERM in the organization. The main findings of the empirical investigation revealed that ERM started with organisational survival in mind but ended up being a compliance activity. Also, ERM is under-resourced as there are no dedicated ERM financial and human resources. The organization’s unstructured and informal approach to ERM could place the strategic objectives at risk. Recommendations conclude the investigation and address the shortcomings and improvements that can be made to the utilisation of ERM within the organization. The recommendations are ensuring strong commitment towards ERM and widening the participation of all employees in ERM; developing an ERM road map; allocation of resources to ERM initiative; development of a business case for ERM; training of all managers and all employees on ERM; and focusing on low-hanging return, which may result in quicker realisation of the value added by ERM to the organization.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Improving service quality and operations at a South African private healthcare clinic through the implimentation of lean principles
- Theunissen, Dirkie Petra Stephanie
- Authors: Theunissen, Dirkie Petra Stephanie
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Hospital care -- South Africa -- Quality control , Hospital care -- South Africa -- Cost effectiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9313 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019943
- Description: Although open to debate, it is something of an undisputed fact and has been since the days of Florence Nightingale, that hospital management is frustrated with recurring problems - many of them due to broken processes. Hospitals are places of phenomenal healing and heroic care. However, as with any human-led endeavour, there are problems. (Grunden (2009)). A first time use of the word ‘lean’ generally begs some explaination as it is not a commonly used word. The simplest way to explain the word is by way of the introduction of the concept known as ‘lean management’. Lean management is a methodology which allows hospitals to advance the quality of patient care by reducing errors and waiting times. Lean is a system of reinforcement of hospital business for the long term thereby reducing costs and risk. Kanban (2009) states that lean is a toolset; a management system and a viewpoint that can change the way hospitals are structured and managed. Lean helps managers to comprehend and identify broken systems and to improve these in small parts, while employees aid in finding solutions for broken systems. This proposal analyses the effect lean tools have had within Arwyp Medical Centre in Kempton Park, South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Theunissen, Dirkie Petra Stephanie
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Hospital care -- South Africa -- Quality control , Hospital care -- South Africa -- Cost effectiveness
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9313 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019943
- Description: Although open to debate, it is something of an undisputed fact and has been since the days of Florence Nightingale, that hospital management is frustrated with recurring problems - many of them due to broken processes. Hospitals are places of phenomenal healing and heroic care. However, as with any human-led endeavour, there are problems. (Grunden (2009)). A first time use of the word ‘lean’ generally begs some explaination as it is not a commonly used word. The simplest way to explain the word is by way of the introduction of the concept known as ‘lean management’. Lean management is a methodology which allows hospitals to advance the quality of patient care by reducing errors and waiting times. Lean is a system of reinforcement of hospital business for the long term thereby reducing costs and risk. Kanban (2009) states that lean is a toolset; a management system and a viewpoint that can change the way hospitals are structured and managed. Lean helps managers to comprehend and identify broken systems and to improve these in small parts, while employees aid in finding solutions for broken systems. This proposal analyses the effect lean tools have had within Arwyp Medical Centre in Kempton Park, South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The impact of human resource management practices on the psychological contract during a psychological recession
- Theron, Anthonie Van Straaten
- Authors: Theron, Anthonie Van Straaten
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Psychology, Industrial , Contracts -- Psychological aspects , Organisational behaviour
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8772 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012611 , Psychology, Industrial , Contracts -- Psychological aspects , Organisational behaviour
- Description: The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of Human Resource Management (HRM) practices on the psychological contracts of employees who have been negatively impacted by the widespread psychological recession. The psychological contract that exists between employees and organisations is brittle due to the psychological recession, which is defined as an emotional state in which employees feel extremely vulnerable to economic hardship. This contributes to a negative and cynical view of the present and an even bleaker view of the future. Breach of the psychological contract has severe negative consequences for employees and organisations. These include reduced employee well-being, trust levels, various organisational citizenship behaviours, increased cynical attitudes toward the organisation, and stronger intention to quit. The target population for the present study consisted of all permanent support staff working at an organisation that has recently went through a large-scale retrenchment exercise (n=52). A self-administered questionnaire was distributed amongst employees. The findings suggest that when the harsh effects of the psychological recession increase, employees are more likely to engage in various destructive behaviours at work due to breach and violation of their psychological contracts. Furthermore, the results indicated that an increase in the number of progressive HRM practices correlated with a decrease in breach and violation of the psychological contract. It was further revealed that the widespread psychological recession may make the employment relationship brittle and prone to breach and violation. The findings suggest that through the effective development and application of many explicit HRM practices, employees’ psychological contracts may become less fragile to breach and violation during a psychological recession.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Theron, Anthonie Van Straaten
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Psychology, Industrial , Contracts -- Psychological aspects , Organisational behaviour
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8772 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012611 , Psychology, Industrial , Contracts -- Psychological aspects , Organisational behaviour
- Description: The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of Human Resource Management (HRM) practices on the psychological contracts of employees who have been negatively impacted by the widespread psychological recession. The psychological contract that exists between employees and organisations is brittle due to the psychological recession, which is defined as an emotional state in which employees feel extremely vulnerable to economic hardship. This contributes to a negative and cynical view of the present and an even bleaker view of the future. Breach of the psychological contract has severe negative consequences for employees and organisations. These include reduced employee well-being, trust levels, various organisational citizenship behaviours, increased cynical attitudes toward the organisation, and stronger intention to quit. The target population for the present study consisted of all permanent support staff working at an organisation that has recently went through a large-scale retrenchment exercise (n=52). A self-administered questionnaire was distributed amongst employees. The findings suggest that when the harsh effects of the psychological recession increase, employees are more likely to engage in various destructive behaviours at work due to breach and violation of their psychological contracts. Furthermore, the results indicated that an increase in the number of progressive HRM practices correlated with a decrease in breach and violation of the psychological contract. It was further revealed that the widespread psychological recession may make the employment relationship brittle and prone to breach and violation. The findings suggest that through the effective development and application of many explicit HRM practices, employees’ psychological contracts may become less fragile to breach and violation during a psychological recession.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Exploring the limited participation of SMMEs in communal business practices
- Authors: Tembo, Theophilus Tawanda
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14455 , vital:27637
- Description: Corporate Social responsibility (CSR) has evidently moved beyond the jurisdictions of academia and begun its ascension to the top of the corporate agenda. CSR is no longer considered a ‗by the way‘ but as a concept to be aligned to a company‘s strategy. The participation of businesses in CSR activities is especially vital in the developing world where the socio-economic needs of the communities are vast. Companies realise they cannot succeed in communities that fail, and CSR is seen as the most direct way to improve communities. With the immense importance of small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in any economy, this study explores their limited participation in CSR, which will later be redefined as Communal Business Practices (CBP). An in-depth interview between the author and the manager/owner of a SMME was used to isolate four factors upon which the sub-problems were developed. These factors were Pressure from the Public, Resource Constraints, Scale of Activity, and Visibility. A questionnaire built on these factors was developed and distributed to various SMME managers /owners in Gauteng, Eastern Cape, and Western Cape provinces to explore their opinions on the participation of SMMEs in CBPs. Of the 97% of respondents who believed it was their responsibility to empower their communities, only 43% said they participated in CBPs. It was discovered that SMMEs do not feel pressure from the public to partake in CBPs like their larger counterparts. Instead resource constraints were identified as the most common barrier to SMME participation in CBPs. On the issue of visibility, most SMMEs felt they were not visible enough to benefit from improved legitimacy and reputational effects as larger companies do. On the problem of scale of activity, respondents felt it is proportional to the scale of CBP participation but not a barrier to participation The author concludes the study by putting forward some recommendations to increase the participation of SMMEs in social responsibility activities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Tembo, Theophilus Tawanda
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business -- South Africa Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14455 , vital:27637
- Description: Corporate Social responsibility (CSR) has evidently moved beyond the jurisdictions of academia and begun its ascension to the top of the corporate agenda. CSR is no longer considered a ‗by the way‘ but as a concept to be aligned to a company‘s strategy. The participation of businesses in CSR activities is especially vital in the developing world where the socio-economic needs of the communities are vast. Companies realise they cannot succeed in communities that fail, and CSR is seen as the most direct way to improve communities. With the immense importance of small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in any economy, this study explores their limited participation in CSR, which will later be redefined as Communal Business Practices (CBP). An in-depth interview between the author and the manager/owner of a SMME was used to isolate four factors upon which the sub-problems were developed. These factors were Pressure from the Public, Resource Constraints, Scale of Activity, and Visibility. A questionnaire built on these factors was developed and distributed to various SMME managers /owners in Gauteng, Eastern Cape, and Western Cape provinces to explore their opinions on the participation of SMMEs in CBPs. Of the 97% of respondents who believed it was their responsibility to empower their communities, only 43% said they participated in CBPs. It was discovered that SMMEs do not feel pressure from the public to partake in CBPs like their larger counterparts. Instead resource constraints were identified as the most common barrier to SMME participation in CBPs. On the issue of visibility, most SMMEs felt they were not visible enough to benefit from improved legitimacy and reputational effects as larger companies do. On the problem of scale of activity, respondents felt it is proportional to the scale of CBP participation but not a barrier to participation The author concludes the study by putting forward some recommendations to increase the participation of SMMEs in social responsibility activities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
An evaluation of the effectiveness, of agricultural projects to alleviate poverty in Motherwell in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro
- Authors: Teki, Unathi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Evaluation , Poverty -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Motherwell (Port Elizabeth, South Africa) -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9138 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018688
- Description: Poverty is one of the major problems that Republic of South Africa is dealing with at the particular moment and the lack of unemployment makes it even worse. According to the South African Government, they are trying their best level to decrease the level of poverty. Yet according to the standard of living of the poor people nothing has been seen that make a difference on the way these community members are affected by the poverty. This chapter will outline the structure of this study pertaining on how the information will be gathered, what is going to be collected, who will be involved, where would this study be focused, which area and which department will take part in order to address the answers to the above topic. It will also give the background of why these projects were created.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Teki, Unathi
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Evaluation , Poverty -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Motherwell (Port Elizabeth, South Africa) -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9138 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018688
- Description: Poverty is one of the major problems that Republic of South Africa is dealing with at the particular moment and the lack of unemployment makes it even worse. According to the South African Government, they are trying their best level to decrease the level of poverty. Yet according to the standard of living of the poor people nothing has been seen that make a difference on the way these community members are affected by the poverty. This chapter will outline the structure of this study pertaining on how the information will be gathered, what is going to be collected, who will be involved, where would this study be focused, which area and which department will take part in order to address the answers to the above topic. It will also give the background of why these projects were created.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Relationship marketing in retail banks: superannuated concept?
- Authors: Tait, Madele
- Subjects: Relationship marketing , Banks and banking , f-sa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Lectures
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20923 , vital:29418
- Description: All business is based on relationships. The firm only has to make them meaningful for its customers – provided that the customers want this (Grönroos 1994). Relationship marketing concerns the facilitation and managing of the relationships between the business and its customers and was developed as a response to the realisation that businesses were spending vast resources in time and money to attract new customers but very little on retaining existing ones. Relationship marketing is particularly relevant when a customer has alternative service providers to choose from, when the customer makes the selection decision and when there is an ongoing desire or need for a product or service, such as in the banking industry (Morgan & Hunt 1999).
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tait, Madele
- Subjects: Relationship marketing , Banks and banking , f-sa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Lectures
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20923 , vital:29418
- Description: All business is based on relationships. The firm only has to make them meaningful for its customers – provided that the customers want this (Grönroos 1994). Relationship marketing concerns the facilitation and managing of the relationships between the business and its customers and was developed as a response to the realisation that businesses were spending vast resources in time and money to attract new customers but very little on retaining existing ones. Relationship marketing is particularly relevant when a customer has alternative service providers to choose from, when the customer makes the selection decision and when there is an ongoing desire or need for a product or service, such as in the banking industry (Morgan & Hunt 1999).
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Leveraging shop floor management to create an organization of self managed people at SA canopy
- Authors: Swart, Jacques
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Industrial management -- South Africa , Production management -- South Africa , Teams in the workplace -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8785 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013753
- Description: All world class manufacturing organizations have shop floor management in place. Shop floor management principles and tools are utilised to plan and to react in out of control conditions. Shop floor management is also utilised to involve people in decision making and to encourage continuous improvement. Various shop floor management principles exist and are applied differently depending on the nature of the business, however all these principles are present in all the companies researched. SA Canopy currently applies very little or no shop floor management principles. To be able to achieve its objectives and mission set by the new shareholders, shop floor excellence must be achieved. The objective of the study was to establish shop floor management principles utilised by the automotive industry as well as best in class organizations. To achieve this, a comprehensive literature study was performed on shop floor management. A questionnaire and audit schedule was designed based on guidelines in the literature study in order to establish what shop floor management principles are being utilised in the industry. The researcher used random sampling methods in distributing the questionnaire. An internal audit of the companies was conducted to support the responses in from the questionnaires. The opinions of the various respondents were compared with the guidelines provided in the literature survey in order to indentify shop floor management principles which would be suitable for SA Canopy. The following main recommendations were made: In order for SA canopy to achieve its objectives the company needs to develop a mission statement for everyone to work towards; SA Canopy needs to become more customer and supplier orientated. This will improve the overall performance of the business in respect of cost, quality and output; It is important that SA Canopy promotes teamwork so as to create a culture of continuous improvement; Problem solving skills need to be developed in the organization; Roles of Supervision need to be clearly defined and development programmes need to be put in place for supervision; A management process similar to the “Plan, Do, Check, Action “needs to be put in place to ensure effective actioning and monitoring of improvements and performance of stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Swart, Jacques
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Industrial management -- South Africa , Production management -- South Africa , Teams in the workplace -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8785 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013753
- Description: All world class manufacturing organizations have shop floor management in place. Shop floor management principles and tools are utilised to plan and to react in out of control conditions. Shop floor management is also utilised to involve people in decision making and to encourage continuous improvement. Various shop floor management principles exist and are applied differently depending on the nature of the business, however all these principles are present in all the companies researched. SA Canopy currently applies very little or no shop floor management principles. To be able to achieve its objectives and mission set by the new shareholders, shop floor excellence must be achieved. The objective of the study was to establish shop floor management principles utilised by the automotive industry as well as best in class organizations. To achieve this, a comprehensive literature study was performed on shop floor management. A questionnaire and audit schedule was designed based on guidelines in the literature study in order to establish what shop floor management principles are being utilised in the industry. The researcher used random sampling methods in distributing the questionnaire. An internal audit of the companies was conducted to support the responses in from the questionnaires. The opinions of the various respondents were compared with the guidelines provided in the literature survey in order to indentify shop floor management principles which would be suitable for SA Canopy. The following main recommendations were made: In order for SA canopy to achieve its objectives the company needs to develop a mission statement for everyone to work towards; SA Canopy needs to become more customer and supplier orientated. This will improve the overall performance of the business in respect of cost, quality and output; It is important that SA Canopy promotes teamwork so as to create a culture of continuous improvement; Problem solving skills need to be developed in the organization; Roles of Supervision need to be clearly defined and development programmes need to be put in place for supervision; A management process similar to the “Plan, Do, Check, Action “needs to be put in place to ensure effective actioning and monitoring of improvements and performance of stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Talent management by the East London IDZ to lever the competitive edge
- Authors: Swana, Leonard Sandile
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign , Ability -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8795 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015982
- Description: Talent in the field of attraction of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is scarce in South Africa, especially in the Eastern Cape, due to the history of exclusion of South Africa from world economic participation, prior to 1994. In order for the ELIDZ to achieve its mandate of FDI attraction, job creation and economic growth, talent management has to be a key aspect in the boardroom discussions and strategic planning sessions. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effective use of talent management by the East London IDZ to leverage the competitive edge of the ELIDZ in the business of attracting Foreign Direct Investment into South Africa, and also of competing against the world’s Economic Processing Zones (EPZ’s) and Free Trade Zones (FTZ’s). According to Holbeche (2009:166), talent consists of those individuals who can make a difference to organisational performance, either through their immediate contribution, or, in the longer term, by demonstrating the highest level of potential. For the purpose of this study, talent management is defined as the systematic attraction, identification, development, engagement / retention and deployment of those individuals with high potential who are of particular value to an organisation. The literature reviewed pointed out very clearly that organisations that have properly developed, implemented and managed talent management strategies enjoy high levels of motivation, innovation and creativity, lesser levels of staff turn-over, high employee performance, superior productivity and mostly a competitive advantage in their league. The East London IDZ study response enjoyed a rate of 40 out of 54 employees who received questionnaires and returned them by the due date. The responses represented a total of 74.1 percent, and this level of response is attributed to the fact that by the end of May 2011, the ELIDZ had just undergone an Organisational Re-structuring. The current status quo of the ELIDZ, based on the views as reflected in this study ,is very compromising for an organisation that aims to compete in the global space for the attraction and retention of foreign direct investment (FDI’s), and the global competitiveness based on the talent available. The overall picture depicted by the empirical results suggests that there are critical gaps for which the ELIDZ Executive Management and Board need to craft solutions, if competitiveness is going to be taken seriously in the near and long-term future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Swana, Leonard Sandile
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign , Ability -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8795 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015982
- Description: Talent in the field of attraction of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is scarce in South Africa, especially in the Eastern Cape, due to the history of exclusion of South Africa from world economic participation, prior to 1994. In order for the ELIDZ to achieve its mandate of FDI attraction, job creation and economic growth, talent management has to be a key aspect in the boardroom discussions and strategic planning sessions. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effective use of talent management by the East London IDZ to leverage the competitive edge of the ELIDZ in the business of attracting Foreign Direct Investment into South Africa, and also of competing against the world’s Economic Processing Zones (EPZ’s) and Free Trade Zones (FTZ’s). According to Holbeche (2009:166), talent consists of those individuals who can make a difference to organisational performance, either through their immediate contribution, or, in the longer term, by demonstrating the highest level of potential. For the purpose of this study, talent management is defined as the systematic attraction, identification, development, engagement / retention and deployment of those individuals with high potential who are of particular value to an organisation. The literature reviewed pointed out very clearly that organisations that have properly developed, implemented and managed talent management strategies enjoy high levels of motivation, innovation and creativity, lesser levels of staff turn-over, high employee performance, superior productivity and mostly a competitive advantage in their league. The East London IDZ study response enjoyed a rate of 40 out of 54 employees who received questionnaires and returned them by the due date. The responses represented a total of 74.1 percent, and this level of response is attributed to the fact that by the end of May 2011, the ELIDZ had just undergone an Organisational Re-structuring. The current status quo of the ELIDZ, based on the views as reflected in this study ,is very compromising for an organisation that aims to compete in the global space for the attraction and retention of foreign direct investment (FDI’s), and the global competitiveness based on the talent available. The overall picture depicted by the empirical results suggests that there are critical gaps for which the ELIDZ Executive Management and Board need to craft solutions, if competitiveness is going to be taken seriously in the near and long-term future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011