Strategic architecture for quantity surveying Firms in South Africa
- Mokonenyane, Mofumahatsana Dibuseng
- Authors: Mokonenyane, Mofumahatsana Dibuseng
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Sustainable architecture , Quantity surveyors
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59521 , vital:62149
- Description: Quantity surveying firms are a crucial part of the construction industry because they are involved in the financial aspects of the projects, and their role and benefits have been documented across various studies. Furthermore, they provide services such as estimating, cost control and feasibility studies in numerous industries and these services are not limited to the construction industry. They are crucial in ensuring that the project proceeds according to budget, quality and time. Despite the noted benefits of quantity surveying firms, there has been a noticeable decline in the survival rate of the firms over the past ten years. It has been documented that several external and internal environmental factors affect the firms and thus have caused a decline in the survival rate. The volatility of internal and external forces that affect the industry has formed the basis of this study. Previous studies have failed to highlight the strategies to reduce threats and utilise opportunities. This study aims to establish common internal and external environmental factors affecting quantity surveying firms and determine these firms’ strategic architecture. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews to assess the internal and external environment and strategic nature of Quantity surveying firms. In addition, a thematic analysis was administered to identify themes. The themes that arose from the external business environment were technology, political instability, tendering irregularities, lack of availability of work and the practice of green building. The technology theme highlighted the respondents’ views of the technological environment and the role of BIM and other software. Tendering irregularities threatened prospective tenderpreneurs as the respondents viewed the process as flawed and requiring better regulation. Lack of work was highlighted as a further factor. Although not many respondents mentioned this theme, green building is an emerging theme within the South African market. Two main themes were identified in the internal business environment: fee discounting and human resources. Fee discounting refers to the reduction of fees to secure work, while human resources were highlighted as an important factor and are regarded as the fuel that keeps the organisation running. Owing to the varying nature of factors within the external and internal business environment, it was concluded that there is no formal generic strategy that can be utilised to mitigate internal and external environmental factors. The client relationships were highlighted as an important factor, while client relationships were discussed under the balanced scorecard section of the study. The two main themes derived from the balanced scorecard were the financial perspective and client relationships under customer. Increased revenue per customer and venturing into new markets were the main themes mentioned within the financial perspective. The importance of nurturing client relationships was identified as an important factor under the customer section of the balanced scorecard. iii | P a g e The findings of this study will assist the stakeholders within the built environment in determining common internal and external environmental issues facing the industry. The recommendation will assist stakeholders in establishing probable solutions that can be implemented to overcome these challenges. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mokonenyane, Mofumahatsana Dibuseng
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Sustainable architecture , Quantity surveyors
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59521 , vital:62149
- Description: Quantity surveying firms are a crucial part of the construction industry because they are involved in the financial aspects of the projects, and their role and benefits have been documented across various studies. Furthermore, they provide services such as estimating, cost control and feasibility studies in numerous industries and these services are not limited to the construction industry. They are crucial in ensuring that the project proceeds according to budget, quality and time. Despite the noted benefits of quantity surveying firms, there has been a noticeable decline in the survival rate of the firms over the past ten years. It has been documented that several external and internal environmental factors affect the firms and thus have caused a decline in the survival rate. The volatility of internal and external forces that affect the industry has formed the basis of this study. Previous studies have failed to highlight the strategies to reduce threats and utilise opportunities. This study aims to establish common internal and external environmental factors affecting quantity surveying firms and determine these firms’ strategic architecture. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews to assess the internal and external environment and strategic nature of Quantity surveying firms. In addition, a thematic analysis was administered to identify themes. The themes that arose from the external business environment were technology, political instability, tendering irregularities, lack of availability of work and the practice of green building. The technology theme highlighted the respondents’ views of the technological environment and the role of BIM and other software. Tendering irregularities threatened prospective tenderpreneurs as the respondents viewed the process as flawed and requiring better regulation. Lack of work was highlighted as a further factor. Although not many respondents mentioned this theme, green building is an emerging theme within the South African market. Two main themes were identified in the internal business environment: fee discounting and human resources. Fee discounting refers to the reduction of fees to secure work, while human resources were highlighted as an important factor and are regarded as the fuel that keeps the organisation running. Owing to the varying nature of factors within the external and internal business environment, it was concluded that there is no formal generic strategy that can be utilised to mitigate internal and external environmental factors. The client relationships were highlighted as an important factor, while client relationships were discussed under the balanced scorecard section of the study. The two main themes derived from the balanced scorecard were the financial perspective and client relationships under customer. Increased revenue per customer and venturing into new markets were the main themes mentioned within the financial perspective. The importance of nurturing client relationships was identified as an important factor under the customer section of the balanced scorecard. iii | P a g e The findings of this study will assist the stakeholders within the built environment in determining common internal and external environmental issues facing the industry. The recommendation will assist stakeholders in establishing probable solutions that can be implemented to overcome these challenges. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Residential private property valuation accuracy in south Africa: A case study of Knysna in the Western Cape province
- Authors: Qusheka, Siphokazi
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Real property -- Valuation -- Knysna , Right of property -- Knysna
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59876 , vital:62482
- Description: a Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong b Faculty of Built Environment, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia Property valuation end-users generally rely on property value opinion provided by valuers in making informed real estate investment decisions. However, the inaccuracy of valuation estimates could be attributed to the adoption of inappropriate property valuation methods and such inaccurate estimates could mislead real estate investors and stakeholders. This could result in individual loss and national loss due to the importance of the real estate sector to the national economy. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Qusheka, Siphokazi
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Real property -- Valuation -- Knysna , Right of property -- Knysna
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59876 , vital:62482
- Description: a Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong b Faculty of Built Environment, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia Property valuation end-users generally rely on property value opinion provided by valuers in making informed real estate investment decisions. However, the inaccuracy of valuation estimates could be attributed to the adoption of inappropriate property valuation methods and such inaccurate estimates could mislead real estate investors and stakeholders. This could result in individual loss and national loss due to the importance of the real estate sector to the national economy. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Implementation framework for microgrids as an energy solution to uplift rural communities in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sibulelokuhle Xulaba
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- Eastern Cape , Microgrids (Smart power grids) -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60071 , vital:62916
- Description: People in remote areas of most developing countries still face economic and environmental challenges despite our more accessible world of technology. Access to reliable and sustainable electricity is the most challenging developmental issue faced by rural communities in South Africa, as grid expansion has dwindled due to business challenges experiences by the state power producer, Eskom. Unless businesses and homeowners in unconnected areas use generators, which are costly to run and environmentally unfriendly, most will continue to remain without electricity for the foreseeable future. The purpose of this study therefore is to provide a model for the successful implementation of renewable energy microgrids to overcome poverty and promote economic development in rural areas of the Eastern Cape. The data for the study was collected from three district municipalities in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape. The province is divided into homeland and farms, with the farms that were sampled for the study situated on State-owned land. The sample group comprised small businesses operating in these rural areas. The study used a mixed-method research design, the methodology being found to be the most suitable for the study. The study uses a questionnaire-variant convergent design that consisted of a mixture of open-ended and close-ended questions. The sample group was situated in areas with limited electricity or internet access, therefore face-toface structured interviews were conducted. Meta-inference was used for data interpretation, and a combination of quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods was used to analyse the data. For the open-ended questions, thematic analysis was used, whilst descriptive statistics were used for the closed-ended questions. The study found that most businesses operating in rural areas do not have access to electricity. Those businesses which do not have electricity must make use of diesel-powered generators to continue to trade, which makes their businesses unprofitable. They spend a large proportion of their earnings purchasing fuel to achieve the desire thermal comfort for their stock, or to pump water via boreholes or piped dam structures. The study showed that implementing a renewable energy microgrids provides a viable option, supporting the literature reviewed. This will promote economic development in these areas of the Eastern Cape. Developing and enhancing the standard of living can assist in reducing the number of people migrating to urban areas whilst providing an opportunity to increase farm yields, grow rural business and change the lives of the poor for the better. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Sibulelokuhle Xulaba
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- Eastern Cape , Microgrids (Smart power grids) -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60071 , vital:62916
- Description: People in remote areas of most developing countries still face economic and environmental challenges despite our more accessible world of technology. Access to reliable and sustainable electricity is the most challenging developmental issue faced by rural communities in South Africa, as grid expansion has dwindled due to business challenges experiences by the state power producer, Eskom. Unless businesses and homeowners in unconnected areas use generators, which are costly to run and environmentally unfriendly, most will continue to remain without electricity for the foreseeable future. The purpose of this study therefore is to provide a model for the successful implementation of renewable energy microgrids to overcome poverty and promote economic development in rural areas of the Eastern Cape. The data for the study was collected from three district municipalities in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape. The province is divided into homeland and farms, with the farms that were sampled for the study situated on State-owned land. The sample group comprised small businesses operating in these rural areas. The study used a mixed-method research design, the methodology being found to be the most suitable for the study. The study uses a questionnaire-variant convergent design that consisted of a mixture of open-ended and close-ended questions. The sample group was situated in areas with limited electricity or internet access, therefore face-toface structured interviews were conducted. Meta-inference was used for data interpretation, and a combination of quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods was used to analyse the data. For the open-ended questions, thematic analysis was used, whilst descriptive statistics were used for the closed-ended questions. The study found that most businesses operating in rural areas do not have access to electricity. Those businesses which do not have electricity must make use of diesel-powered generators to continue to trade, which makes their businesses unprofitable. They spend a large proportion of their earnings purchasing fuel to achieve the desire thermal comfort for their stock, or to pump water via boreholes or piped dam structures. The study showed that implementing a renewable energy microgrids provides a viable option, supporting the literature reviewed. This will promote economic development in these areas of the Eastern Cape. Developing and enhancing the standard of living can assist in reducing the number of people migrating to urban areas whilst providing an opportunity to increase farm yields, grow rural business and change the lives of the poor for the better. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Urban space production and sustainable development: a case of waterfall city in Gauteng, South Africa
- Authors: Ntakana, Khulekani
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Sustainable urban development -- Gauteng -- South Africa , Gated Communities -- Gauteng -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59633 , vital:62250
- Description: The year 1994 marked the dawn of the new, democratic South Africa. It also brought its own sets of challenges to the country. One such challenge was urban space. Regrettably, the new dispensation inherited still very much race-based urban areas. Urban space is understood to be a social outcome, the result of an historical process, an unequal accumulation of time, a presupposition, and a milieu of social production (Balbim, 2016). The distinguishing feature of urban space in South Africa is the phenomenon of exclusion, which causes deformity, and disappearance of urban structure. Exclusion has become a permanent visual reality in cities in which walled and gated communities divide the urban tissue and take up a large part of the urban space. The social action and struggle against the exclusionary process of globalisation such as the commodification and privatisation of urban space have always been on the international urban agenda. The study’s literature review suggests that government attitudes towards human settlements should change, particularly in terms of policymaking to combat the contemporary urban disparities such as fragmentation (also known as “enclave urbanism”). Fragmented cities do not function as a system but more and more as juxtaposed and uncoordinated fragments drifting apart (Bénit-Gbaffou, 2008). This has an immense impact on several sustainability influencing variables. Urban fragmentation can also have profound effects on human social dynamics and well-being by reducing the number of green spaces in cities. As loss of biodiversity continues, total core area and habitat cohesion decrease while edge density and shape complexity increase. Cities are required to be more sustainable, more accessible, and equal. Cities are now witnessing the emergence of real estate products that are far from achieving the previously mentioned goals, particularly inclusivity. Inclusivity in cities can be achieved by a contemporary urban development approach referred to as ‘inclusive urban space production’. Inclusive urban space production is a pro-poor approach that equally values and incorporates the contributions of all city stakeholders in addressing development issues, including the marginalised groups. The aim of this inquiry was, therefore, to examine factors that influence urban space production to generate a responsive urban space production model, referred to in this study as the “IUSP model”. The study also aimed at examining the role of the state and xx other stakeholders involved in the production of urban space, including the private sector and the community. Participation by all of them is essential to enhance inclusive urban space production for sustainability. A theoretical model for inclusive urban space production was developed based on an intensive literature review. Also, a concurrent partially mixed method design was employed in this inquiry. A study of Waterfall City was conducted to understand exclusive developments and their effect on the larger urban system. And a survey questionnaire was disseminated using random sampling. This was to measure the postulated model. Results from these two concurrent approaches were merged to yield the final model. The findings from the case study were analysed using ATLAS.ti and the findings from the survey questionnaire were analysed using several analyses techniques including EFA, correlation and regression. Both sets of results indicated that the intention to promote inclusive developments is predicted by seventeen dependent variables categorically presented under urban development characteristics, exclusive development enablers, inclusive development barriers, and sustainability criteria. The results of this inquiry are significant because they bring together the interdisciplinary perspectives to discern comprehensively the idea of inclusivity and sustainability in urban space production. The responsive model developed as a key product of this study aims to assist policymakers, planners, designers, landscapers, and developers as a guideline for facilitating inclusive and sustainable urban development. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Ntakana, Khulekani
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Sustainable urban development -- Gauteng -- South Africa , Gated Communities -- Gauteng -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59633 , vital:62250
- Description: The year 1994 marked the dawn of the new, democratic South Africa. It also brought its own sets of challenges to the country. One such challenge was urban space. Regrettably, the new dispensation inherited still very much race-based urban areas. Urban space is understood to be a social outcome, the result of an historical process, an unequal accumulation of time, a presupposition, and a milieu of social production (Balbim, 2016). The distinguishing feature of urban space in South Africa is the phenomenon of exclusion, which causes deformity, and disappearance of urban structure. Exclusion has become a permanent visual reality in cities in which walled and gated communities divide the urban tissue and take up a large part of the urban space. The social action and struggle against the exclusionary process of globalisation such as the commodification and privatisation of urban space have always been on the international urban agenda. The study’s literature review suggests that government attitudes towards human settlements should change, particularly in terms of policymaking to combat the contemporary urban disparities such as fragmentation (also known as “enclave urbanism”). Fragmented cities do not function as a system but more and more as juxtaposed and uncoordinated fragments drifting apart (Bénit-Gbaffou, 2008). This has an immense impact on several sustainability influencing variables. Urban fragmentation can also have profound effects on human social dynamics and well-being by reducing the number of green spaces in cities. As loss of biodiversity continues, total core area and habitat cohesion decrease while edge density and shape complexity increase. Cities are required to be more sustainable, more accessible, and equal. Cities are now witnessing the emergence of real estate products that are far from achieving the previously mentioned goals, particularly inclusivity. Inclusivity in cities can be achieved by a contemporary urban development approach referred to as ‘inclusive urban space production’. Inclusive urban space production is a pro-poor approach that equally values and incorporates the contributions of all city stakeholders in addressing development issues, including the marginalised groups. The aim of this inquiry was, therefore, to examine factors that influence urban space production to generate a responsive urban space production model, referred to in this study as the “IUSP model”. The study also aimed at examining the role of the state and xx other stakeholders involved in the production of urban space, including the private sector and the community. Participation by all of them is essential to enhance inclusive urban space production for sustainability. A theoretical model for inclusive urban space production was developed based on an intensive literature review. Also, a concurrent partially mixed method design was employed in this inquiry. A study of Waterfall City was conducted to understand exclusive developments and their effect on the larger urban system. And a survey questionnaire was disseminated using random sampling. This was to measure the postulated model. Results from these two concurrent approaches were merged to yield the final model. The findings from the case study were analysed using ATLAS.ti and the findings from the survey questionnaire were analysed using several analyses techniques including EFA, correlation and regression. Both sets of results indicated that the intention to promote inclusive developments is predicted by seventeen dependent variables categorically presented under urban development characteristics, exclusive development enablers, inclusive development barriers, and sustainability criteria. The results of this inquiry are significant because they bring together the interdisciplinary perspectives to discern comprehensively the idea of inclusivity and sustainability in urban space production. The responsive model developed as a key product of this study aims to assist policymakers, planners, designers, landscapers, and developers as a guideline for facilitating inclusive and sustainable urban development. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
An It risk management implementation strategy for a non-profit organisation in south africa
- Authors: Exner, Ulandi
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: ITIL (Information technology management standard) -- South Africa , Nonprofit organizations -- South africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59370 , vital:62075
- Description: All organisations, for-profit or non-profit, have strategic objectives as their raison d’être. The achievement of these objectives is challenged by the occurrence and impact of unexpected events, commonly referred to as risks. The Digital Revolution in the late 70s introduced computers and the internet and opened up a whole new way of life. It also brought new challenges, namely IT risk. IT risk is business risk. Non-profit organisations, whose main priority is to maximise its available resources to serve the needs of their stakeholders and community, do not have adequate IT risk management practices in place because it is not top of mind for them. An effective IT risk management strategy provides several enhanced capabilities for organisations. Non-profit organisations have IT risk management standards, frameworks and methodologies to choose from, but these organisations do not have the required financial means and expertise or possibly the necessary appetite to implement these frameworks successfully. The primary objective of the study is to develop a proposed IT risk management implementation strategy for non-profit organisations to aid in the management of IT risk. The design science research paradigm was used for the study. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were used to understand the current landscape of a non-profit organisation in so far as their approach to managing IT risk. The findings of the literature review and mixed method research were used to develop a proposed IT risk implementation strategy. The evaluation of the implementation strategy in terms of its effectiveness and utility will form part of a future study. The proposed implementation strategy can be considered as an instrument for the NPO to aid in the management of IT risk. The conclusion of this study contributes to the field of IT risk research of non-profit organisations in South Africa. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Exner, Ulandi
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: ITIL (Information technology management standard) -- South Africa , Nonprofit organizations -- South africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59370 , vital:62075
- Description: All organisations, for-profit or non-profit, have strategic objectives as their raison d’être. The achievement of these objectives is challenged by the occurrence and impact of unexpected events, commonly referred to as risks. The Digital Revolution in the late 70s introduced computers and the internet and opened up a whole new way of life. It also brought new challenges, namely IT risk. IT risk is business risk. Non-profit organisations, whose main priority is to maximise its available resources to serve the needs of their stakeholders and community, do not have adequate IT risk management practices in place because it is not top of mind for them. An effective IT risk management strategy provides several enhanced capabilities for organisations. Non-profit organisations have IT risk management standards, frameworks and methodologies to choose from, but these organisations do not have the required financial means and expertise or possibly the necessary appetite to implement these frameworks successfully. The primary objective of the study is to develop a proposed IT risk management implementation strategy for non-profit organisations to aid in the management of IT risk. The design science research paradigm was used for the study. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were used to understand the current landscape of a non-profit organisation in so far as their approach to managing IT risk. The findings of the literature review and mixed method research were used to develop a proposed IT risk implementation strategy. The evaluation of the implementation strategy in terms of its effectiveness and utility will form part of a future study. The proposed implementation strategy can be considered as an instrument for the NPO to aid in the management of IT risk. The conclusion of this study contributes to the field of IT risk research of non-profit organisations in South Africa. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Modular Omni-directional AGV Developmental Platform with Integrated Suspension, Power-plant and Control Systems
- Authors: Macfarlane, Alexander B. S
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Automated guided vehicle systems , Electric automobiles--Batteries--Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59500 , vital:62123
- Description: The thesis focuses on the development of an industrial automatic guided vehicle (AGV) with omni-directional capabilities. The omni-directional strategy used was the "swerve drive" system, a system whereby a wheel can be rotated about both its y axis (rolling axis) and z axis (vertical axis). Unlike most commonly used swerve drive systems that have swerve capabilities on each wheel attached to the body of the vehicle, this research seeks to reduce cost by only having swerve capabilities on two diagonal wheels. The remaining two wheels will act as castor units. AC drives are used on the system in place of more traditional DC drives, due to their cost vs capability advantage over DC and their prevalence in the industrial environment. Since an AGV is a mobile platform any power source found on it is usually derived from batteries, a DC source. Usage of DC introduces several limitations including difficulty transforming voltage levels for different systems, inability to run AC drives directly from the power source and comparably larger conduction wires. These limitations were overcome by adding a stand-alone power-plant on the AGV in the form of an inverter. The inverter transformed the DC power supplied by a battery bank from 48 volts DC to 230 volts AC. Thus, the primary focus of this research is on the development and validation of a novel two wheel omni-directional drive system that makes use of inexpensive and readily available components that have already been proven to work in industry. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Macfarlane, Alexander B. S
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Automated guided vehicle systems , Electric automobiles--Batteries--Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59500 , vital:62123
- Description: The thesis focuses on the development of an industrial automatic guided vehicle (AGV) with omni-directional capabilities. The omni-directional strategy used was the "swerve drive" system, a system whereby a wheel can be rotated about both its y axis (rolling axis) and z axis (vertical axis). Unlike most commonly used swerve drive systems that have swerve capabilities on each wheel attached to the body of the vehicle, this research seeks to reduce cost by only having swerve capabilities on two diagonal wheels. The remaining two wheels will act as castor units. AC drives are used on the system in place of more traditional DC drives, due to their cost vs capability advantage over DC and their prevalence in the industrial environment. Since an AGV is a mobile platform any power source found on it is usually derived from batteries, a DC source. Usage of DC introduces several limitations including difficulty transforming voltage levels for different systems, inability to run AC drives directly from the power source and comparably larger conduction wires. These limitations were overcome by adding a stand-alone power-plant on the AGV in the form of an inverter. The inverter transformed the DC power supplied by a battery bank from 48 volts DC to 230 volts AC. Thus, the primary focus of this research is on the development and validation of a novel two wheel omni-directional drive system that makes use of inexpensive and readily available components that have already been proven to work in industry. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
A best practice model for international Financial feasibility in property Development
- Authors: Adendorff, Ryan Gregg
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Built environment , Real estate development
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59348 , vital:62073
- Description: Property development is a sector which provides economic benefits to many countries worldwide. Such economic benefits are employment provision and GDP contribution to the economy. Interestingly, financial feasibility is one of the tools that can be used to ensure property development projects’ success. It has been therefore recognised that some of the property development entrepreneurs lack financial feasibility know-how which could position their property development businesses into a competitive edge and sustainability in this continuous fluctuating property market. Hence, the aim of this study was to examine the key factors and variable that drive financial feasibility in property development and generate a financial feasibility model which can be used by property development entrepreneurs to analyse the financial feasibility of property development projects. Based on the aim of this study, an extended review of the literature relating to property business, property development, demand planning and risk management within the built environment discipline was conducted in identifying factors affecting the perceived success of financial feasibility for property development projects internationally. The research reviewed literature in the property development industry by identifying the variables for profitability, outside advice, trend analysis and real estate strategies. The research methodology approach that was used for this study, a qualitative explanatory multi-case study where embedded unit of analysis and valuable insight was provided for the success of financial feasibility in property development internationally. Semistructured interviews were conducted with various industry experts as indicated below: • Project Manager at Property Company; • Project Manager at developer; • Development Manager; • Owner of Property Group; • Part time lecturer at NMU Built Environment; • Development consulting company CEO; vi • Trustgro Developments (Pty) Ltd: Managing Director; • Tswaranang Consulting – Managing Director; • Capelo Development Company (Property Development) Director; and • NMBM - Senior Director: Land Planning and Management. The interview questions and primary and secondary propositions were defined together with the validity and reliability of the research. The purpose of the qualitative research was to unravel key factors that determine the perceived success of international financial feasibility of property development projects. Replication logic was used to generalise the results and the findings of this research effort suggested that the following variables emerging from qualitative themes, positively influences the perceived success of the financial feasibility in property development projects: profitability, risk management, outside advice, trend analysis, property cycles and demand planning. The implication arising from this study is that the perceived success of international financial feasibility in property development projects has the following positive influencing factors: profitability, risk management, outside (specialist) advice, trends analysis, property cycles and demand planning which must be considered by property developers and investors to ensure the success of their property development interventions. The curriculum of property development and real estate management practice should equally take into account the afore-mentioned factors. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Adendorff, Ryan Gregg
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Built environment , Real estate development
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59348 , vital:62073
- Description: Property development is a sector which provides economic benefits to many countries worldwide. Such economic benefits are employment provision and GDP contribution to the economy. Interestingly, financial feasibility is one of the tools that can be used to ensure property development projects’ success. It has been therefore recognised that some of the property development entrepreneurs lack financial feasibility know-how which could position their property development businesses into a competitive edge and sustainability in this continuous fluctuating property market. Hence, the aim of this study was to examine the key factors and variable that drive financial feasibility in property development and generate a financial feasibility model which can be used by property development entrepreneurs to analyse the financial feasibility of property development projects. Based on the aim of this study, an extended review of the literature relating to property business, property development, demand planning and risk management within the built environment discipline was conducted in identifying factors affecting the perceived success of financial feasibility for property development projects internationally. The research reviewed literature in the property development industry by identifying the variables for profitability, outside advice, trend analysis and real estate strategies. The research methodology approach that was used for this study, a qualitative explanatory multi-case study where embedded unit of analysis and valuable insight was provided for the success of financial feasibility in property development internationally. Semistructured interviews were conducted with various industry experts as indicated below: • Project Manager at Property Company; • Project Manager at developer; • Development Manager; • Owner of Property Group; • Part time lecturer at NMU Built Environment; • Development consulting company CEO; vi • Trustgro Developments (Pty) Ltd: Managing Director; • Tswaranang Consulting – Managing Director; • Capelo Development Company (Property Development) Director; and • NMBM - Senior Director: Land Planning and Management. The interview questions and primary and secondary propositions were defined together with the validity and reliability of the research. The purpose of the qualitative research was to unravel key factors that determine the perceived success of international financial feasibility of property development projects. Replication logic was used to generalise the results and the findings of this research effort suggested that the following variables emerging from qualitative themes, positively influences the perceived success of the financial feasibility in property development projects: profitability, risk management, outside advice, trend analysis, property cycles and demand planning. The implication arising from this study is that the perceived success of international financial feasibility in property development projects has the following positive influencing factors: profitability, risk management, outside (specialist) advice, trends analysis, property cycles and demand planning which must be considered by property developers and investors to ensure the success of their property development interventions. The curriculum of property development and real estate management practice should equally take into account the afore-mentioned factors. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Infrastructure development: A framework for successful delivery of tower masts
- Authors: Wana, Sivuyise Viwe
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: telecommunication , Mobile network
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60060 , vital:62870
- Description: In the South African context, the demand for network connectivity as a basic human right has increased (BusinessTech, 2022). In urban areas with functioning telecommunication network coverage the demand has heightened while there is also significant growth in the demand for network connectivity in remote and rural areas such as villages, small towns, as well as peri-urban areas. The rising demand for network coverage as well as the initiative to recognise network coverage as a basic human right prompted the South African government to put a plan in place for the supply of free internet data to low-income households (BusinessTech, 2022). The main aim of the study was to investigate the need for the construction, upgrade, and installation of telecommunications tower mast infrastructure in areas of the Eastern Cape that have a great need for the services. This was achieved by analysing the various requirements and challenges that technical teams are faced with within the telecommunications sector, and in doing so, the study aimed to understand the ways in which the infrastructure gap among different socio-economic groups in the country may be closed. The findings of the study suggest that, although there is a demand for construction of new tower mast infrastructure, there is a greater need for improving the existing infrastructure. It is recommended that this may be done through initiatives aimed at protecting the existing infrastructure against vandals, ensuring rural communities are assisted in the use of funds obtained from the leasing of land, there are more stringent consequence management processes in place for individuals who mismanage resources obtained from tower mast infrastructure, and that infrastructure sharing and the upgrade of existing infrastructure is the best alternative in increasing network coverage for rural areas. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Wana, Sivuyise Viwe
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: telecommunication , Mobile network
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60060 , vital:62870
- Description: In the South African context, the demand for network connectivity as a basic human right has increased (BusinessTech, 2022). In urban areas with functioning telecommunication network coverage the demand has heightened while there is also significant growth in the demand for network connectivity in remote and rural areas such as villages, small towns, as well as peri-urban areas. The rising demand for network coverage as well as the initiative to recognise network coverage as a basic human right prompted the South African government to put a plan in place for the supply of free internet data to low-income households (BusinessTech, 2022). The main aim of the study was to investigate the need for the construction, upgrade, and installation of telecommunications tower mast infrastructure in areas of the Eastern Cape that have a great need for the services. This was achieved by analysing the various requirements and challenges that technical teams are faced with within the telecommunications sector, and in doing so, the study aimed to understand the ways in which the infrastructure gap among different socio-economic groups in the country may be closed. The findings of the study suggest that, although there is a demand for construction of new tower mast infrastructure, there is a greater need for improving the existing infrastructure. It is recommended that this may be done through initiatives aimed at protecting the existing infrastructure against vandals, ensuring rural communities are assisted in the use of funds obtained from the leasing of land, there are more stringent consequence management processes in place for individuals who mismanage resources obtained from tower mast infrastructure, and that infrastructure sharing and the upgrade of existing infrastructure is the best alternative in increasing network coverage for rural areas. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Post Pandemic Professional Practice: Dynamics and How Spatial Design, Functionality and Perceptions are Adapting
- Authors: King, Kirsty
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Built Environment -- South Africa , Pattern perception
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59476 , vital:62121
- Description: On 23 March 2020, the onset of the Covid 19 Pandemic in South Africa brought with it anxiety, uncertainty and volatility. Change was forced upon everyday life in an unprecedented way. The aim of this study was to determine how professional practices in the built environment are adapting to the forced changes from the perspective of spatial design, functionality and perception. By means of literature reviews and survey responses, insight can be obtained as to the effect of the forced changes on professional practices in South Africa. The effect of the changes and how they are being adapted to, and implemented within the built environment, becomes important, in order to fully understand such changes, from the point-of-view of quality-control mechanisms, skills and knowledge transfer and communication. A mixed-use research approach was used to gather the data; and the outcome of the study aims to identify how the forced change fully affected work-place practices and the people in them. An initial pilot questionnaire was circulated to a small group of professionals in the built environment. Following this, a web-based survey was distributed via the professional-practice governing bodies to Architects, Engineers and Quantity Surveyors within South Africa. Both professionally registered and candidate professionals were invited to participate in the survey. A low response rate of 31% was received. The data from the 47 respondents were captured on the data base. The data were then analysed by the researcher; and by a semantic approach, themes and trends were identified and assumptions were made, based on the results. The respondents identified with the forced changes; and it has emerged that the forced changes are only implemented when necessary or legislated. It was also evident that the remote working environment is not conducive to productive work flow, skills development and quality control in the built-environment sector. The study further makes recommendations, based on the objectives identified. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: King, Kirsty
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Built Environment -- South Africa , Pattern perception
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59476 , vital:62121
- Description: On 23 March 2020, the onset of the Covid 19 Pandemic in South Africa brought with it anxiety, uncertainty and volatility. Change was forced upon everyday life in an unprecedented way. The aim of this study was to determine how professional practices in the built environment are adapting to the forced changes from the perspective of spatial design, functionality and perception. By means of literature reviews and survey responses, insight can be obtained as to the effect of the forced changes on professional practices in South Africa. The effect of the changes and how they are being adapted to, and implemented within the built environment, becomes important, in order to fully understand such changes, from the point-of-view of quality-control mechanisms, skills and knowledge transfer and communication. A mixed-use research approach was used to gather the data; and the outcome of the study aims to identify how the forced change fully affected work-place practices and the people in them. An initial pilot questionnaire was circulated to a small group of professionals in the built environment. Following this, a web-based survey was distributed via the professional-practice governing bodies to Architects, Engineers and Quantity Surveyors within South Africa. Both professionally registered and candidate professionals were invited to participate in the survey. A low response rate of 31% was received. The data from the 47 respondents were captured on the data base. The data were then analysed by the researcher; and by a semantic approach, themes and trends were identified and assumptions were made, based on the results. The respondents identified with the forced changes; and it has emerged that the forced changes are only implemented when necessary or legislated. It was also evident that the remote working environment is not conducive to productive work flow, skills development and quality control in the built-environment sector. The study further makes recommendations, based on the objectives identified. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Exploring the Methodologies Used by Construction Project Managers in South Africa
- Authors: Ferreira, Ruan
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Construction -- South Africa , Project Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59381 , vital:62076
- Description: This study aimed to determine the prevalent project management methodologies (PMMs) are adopted within the South African construction industry. The insight obtained from this study will enhance awareness of the type of methodologies adopted by construction project managers. Moreover, through implementation of these methodologies, control can be enhanced, and the unknown managed. The predominant project management methodology used by construction project managers in South Africa is unknown. A quantitative research approach was used, and an online questionnaire was sent to the South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP). The questionnaire was then administered and sent to the entire population of registered construction project managers (CPMs). The data from 103 respondents were captured onto a database and then statistically analysed to determine the predominant PMMs adopted by CPMs as well as their effect on project success. The study revealed that lean methodology is most widely adopted by CPMs, followed by the critical path method and Waterfall methodology. CPMs strive to reduce waste throughout the building process and organise that materials are only on site when required. Furthermore, a high level of PMM is adopted during the project life cycle phases. As a result, it can favourably impact projects and lead to project success. Adopting PMMs will result in improved control of project goals and scope, a shorter time of project execution, improved and efficient decision making, a higher degree of client satisfaction, and improved knowledge management and information exchange. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Ferreira, Ruan
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Construction -- South Africa , Project Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59381 , vital:62076
- Description: This study aimed to determine the prevalent project management methodologies (PMMs) are adopted within the South African construction industry. The insight obtained from this study will enhance awareness of the type of methodologies adopted by construction project managers. Moreover, through implementation of these methodologies, control can be enhanced, and the unknown managed. The predominant project management methodology used by construction project managers in South Africa is unknown. A quantitative research approach was used, and an online questionnaire was sent to the South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP). The questionnaire was then administered and sent to the entire population of registered construction project managers (CPMs). The data from 103 respondents were captured onto a database and then statistically analysed to determine the predominant PMMs adopted by CPMs as well as their effect on project success. The study revealed that lean methodology is most widely adopted by CPMs, followed by the critical path method and Waterfall methodology. CPMs strive to reduce waste throughout the building process and organise that materials are only on site when required. Furthermore, a high level of PMM is adopted during the project life cycle phases. As a result, it can favourably impact projects and lead to project success. Adopting PMMs will result in improved control of project goals and scope, a shorter time of project execution, improved and efficient decision making, a higher degree of client satisfaction, and improved knowledge management and information exchange. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Factors that impact the use of digital learning in higher education
- Authors: Mtshabe Mxolisi
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Education, Higher , Blended learning , Communication of technical information
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59576 , vital:62174
- Description: Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have significantly changed the way they execute their pedagogical processes. This is so, mainly because of the innovations and developments in the ICT sector. HEIs have always succeeded in the implementation of ICT tools for the facilitation of the process of teaching and learning; however, they have faced many challenges related to the utilisation of these tools. Digital learning is among the ICT tools considered by the majority of HEIs to be relevant at this age of digitisation. ICT has introduced a variety of tools, not only for teaching and learning environments, but also for socialisation. These tools include social media tools that are used to achieve different activities in response to the demands of society. In making a comparison between social media and pedagogical tools, there is a huge gap in the level of usage of the two. Social media is much more being used than digital learning and this brings major concerns because users seem to be more interested in social media tools to perform academic activities, than in digital learning. This study has explored the factors that could play a role in digital learning and social media usage in HEIs. The study employed quantitative research methods and a survey was developed and distributed to former university students. The purpose of the study was to formulate a checklist that will inform the factors that impact the use of digital learning in HEIs. At the conclusion of the study, the checklist was formulated and recommendations were made. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mtshabe Mxolisi
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Education, Higher , Blended learning , Communication of technical information
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59576 , vital:62174
- Description: Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have significantly changed the way they execute their pedagogical processes. This is so, mainly because of the innovations and developments in the ICT sector. HEIs have always succeeded in the implementation of ICT tools for the facilitation of the process of teaching and learning; however, they have faced many challenges related to the utilisation of these tools. Digital learning is among the ICT tools considered by the majority of HEIs to be relevant at this age of digitisation. ICT has introduced a variety of tools, not only for teaching and learning environments, but also for socialisation. These tools include social media tools that are used to achieve different activities in response to the demands of society. In making a comparison between social media and pedagogical tools, there is a huge gap in the level of usage of the two. Social media is much more being used than digital learning and this brings major concerns because users seem to be more interested in social media tools to perform academic activities, than in digital learning. This study has explored the factors that could play a role in digital learning and social media usage in HEIs. The study employed quantitative research methods and a survey was developed and distributed to former university students. The purpose of the study was to formulate a checklist that will inform the factors that impact the use of digital learning in HEIs. At the conclusion of the study, the checklist was formulated and recommendations were made. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- «
- ‹
- 1
- ›
- »