Data quality issues in electronic health records for large-scale databases
- Authors: Saiod, Abdul Kader
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electronic Health Records , Electronic Health Records--organization & administration Database management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44940 , vital:38190
- Description: Data Quality (DQ) in Electronic Health Records (EHRs) is one of the core functions that play a decisive role to improve the healthcare service quality. The DQ issues in EHRs are a noticeable trend to improve the introduction of an adaptive framework for interoperability and standards in Large-Scale Databases (LSDB) management systems. Therefore, large data communications are challenging in the traditional approaches to satisfy the needs of the consumers, as data is often not capture directly into the Database Management Systems (DBMS) in a seasonably enough fashion to enable their subsequent uses. In addition, large data plays a vital role in containing plenty of treasures for all the fields in the DBMS. EHRs technology provides portfolio management systems that allow HealthCare Organisations (HCOs) to deliver a higher quality of care to their patients than that which is possible with paper-based records. EHRs are in high demand for HCOs to run their daily services as increasing numbers of huge datasets occur every day. Efficient EHR systems reduce the data redundancy as well as the system application failure and increase the possibility to draw all necessary reports. However, one of the main challenges in developing efficient EHR systems is the inherent difficulty to coherently manage data from diverse heterogeneous sources. It is practically challenging to integrate diverse data into a global schema, which satisfies the need of users. The efficient management of HER systems using an existing DBMS present challenges because of incompatibility and sometimes inconsistency of data structures. As a result, no common methodological approach is currently in existence to effectively solve every data integration problem. The challenges of the DQ issue raised the need to find an efficient way to integrate large EHRs from diverse heterogeneous sources. To handle and align a large dataset efficiently, the hybrid algorithm method with the logical combination of Fuzzy-Ontology along with a large-scale EHRs analysis platform has shown the results in term of improved accuracy. This study investigated and addressed the raised DQ issues to interventions to overcome these barriers and challenges, including the provision of EHRs as they pertain to DQ and has combined features to search, extract, filter, clean and integrate data to ensure that users can coherently create new consistent data sets. The study researched the design of a hybrid method based on Fuzzy-Ontology with performed mathematical simulations based on the Markov Chain Probability Model. The similarity measurement based on dynamic Hungarian algorithm was followed by the Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, which will increase the quality of service over HCOs in adaptive frameworks.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Saiod, Abdul Kader
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electronic Health Records , Electronic Health Records--organization & administration Database management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44940 , vital:38190
- Description: Data Quality (DQ) in Electronic Health Records (EHRs) is one of the core functions that play a decisive role to improve the healthcare service quality. The DQ issues in EHRs are a noticeable trend to improve the introduction of an adaptive framework for interoperability and standards in Large-Scale Databases (LSDB) management systems. Therefore, large data communications are challenging in the traditional approaches to satisfy the needs of the consumers, as data is often not capture directly into the Database Management Systems (DBMS) in a seasonably enough fashion to enable their subsequent uses. In addition, large data plays a vital role in containing plenty of treasures for all the fields in the DBMS. EHRs technology provides portfolio management systems that allow HealthCare Organisations (HCOs) to deliver a higher quality of care to their patients than that which is possible with paper-based records. EHRs are in high demand for HCOs to run their daily services as increasing numbers of huge datasets occur every day. Efficient EHR systems reduce the data redundancy as well as the system application failure and increase the possibility to draw all necessary reports. However, one of the main challenges in developing efficient EHR systems is the inherent difficulty to coherently manage data from diverse heterogeneous sources. It is practically challenging to integrate diverse data into a global schema, which satisfies the need of users. The efficient management of HER systems using an existing DBMS present challenges because of incompatibility and sometimes inconsistency of data structures. As a result, no common methodological approach is currently in existence to effectively solve every data integration problem. The challenges of the DQ issue raised the need to find an efficient way to integrate large EHRs from diverse heterogeneous sources. To handle and align a large dataset efficiently, the hybrid algorithm method with the logical combination of Fuzzy-Ontology along with a large-scale EHRs analysis platform has shown the results in term of improved accuracy. This study investigated and addressed the raised DQ issues to interventions to overcome these barriers and challenges, including the provision of EHRs as they pertain to DQ and has combined features to search, extract, filter, clean and integrate data to ensure that users can coherently create new consistent data sets. The study researched the design of a hybrid method based on Fuzzy-Ontology with performed mathematical simulations based on the Markov Chain Probability Model. The similarity measurement based on dynamic Hungarian algorithm was followed by the Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, which will increase the quality of service over HCOs in adaptive frameworks.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A strategy to motivate continued instructor usage of learning management systems (LMSS) in higher learning institutions of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Siwela, Ndukuyenkosi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Web-based instruction , Computer systems Organizational learning -- Zimbabwe Internet in education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47259 , vital:39837
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop a strategy to motivate continued usage of Learning Management Systems in higher learning institutions of Zimbabwe. A related goal was to identify unique challenges experienced by instructors in their use of LMSs. The use of LMSs is now global and has been fairly successful in developed countries even though past research shows that instructors tend to discontinue usage over a period of time. Whereas most LMSs research is carried in the context of the developed world, the candidate demonstrates that Vantankesh's IS Success Model and Davis' Technology Acceptance Model can be successfully replicated into the developing world on condition that local environment is taken into context. The results showed that LMSs in Zimbabwe higher learning institutions hold a promise of success even though challenges exist. The findings have wider implications on the need to invest in neccessary infrustructure and future predictions on learner interests. The study demonstrates that shared success can be achieved if the local conditions are taken into context when developing a strategy to motivate instructor continued LMS usage. The study holds the practical implication that institutions can motivate instructors to continue with usage of LMSs to deliver quality output in their daily duties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Siwela, Ndukuyenkosi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Web-based instruction , Computer systems Organizational learning -- Zimbabwe Internet in education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47259 , vital:39837
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop a strategy to motivate continued usage of Learning Management Systems in higher learning institutions of Zimbabwe. A related goal was to identify unique challenges experienced by instructors in their use of LMSs. The use of LMSs is now global and has been fairly successful in developed countries even though past research shows that instructors tend to discontinue usage over a period of time. Whereas most LMSs research is carried in the context of the developed world, the candidate demonstrates that Vantankesh's IS Success Model and Davis' Technology Acceptance Model can be successfully replicated into the developing world on condition that local environment is taken into context. The results showed that LMSs in Zimbabwe higher learning institutions hold a promise of success even though challenges exist. The findings have wider implications on the need to invest in neccessary infrustructure and future predictions on learner interests. The study demonstrates that shared success can be achieved if the local conditions are taken into context when developing a strategy to motivate instructor continued LMS usage. The study holds the practical implication that institutions can motivate instructors to continue with usage of LMSs to deliver quality output in their daily duties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Constraints in attainment of sustainable human settlements at Kwamaphumulo Local Municipality
- Authors: Sikhosana, Phindokuhle
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Human settlements , Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47181 , vital:39829
- Description: This study sought to investigate the constraints in the attainment of sustainable human settlement in KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality at iLembe District in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The aim of this study was to investigate the constraints that limit the achievement of the ideal of sustainable human settlement development in the KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality. Furthermore, the study sought to determine the impact of these constraints on sustainable development and to proffer measures that can be taken to combat stagnant or underdevelopment in the area. A mixed-method approach is followed in this study, which considers a triangulation of quantitative and qualitative data collection, analysis and interpretation techniques. It is important to note that in the past years since South Africa became a democratic country, there have been countless efforts with regard to overcoming the problems created during the apartheid era. These problems stemmed from a distorted spatial, social, economic and political background that was advocated by both segregationist public policies and the planning systems of the Apartheid Regime. In recent years, South African cities have also been faced with environmental issues, which are imperative to the future development of the country. With all these issues in mind, we see that the many efforts that are put in place by government always fall short of solving the problems. This research report looked at the constraints that affect the KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality in attaining sustainable human settlements and whether the efforts of redistribution and equality have been enough to overcome the problems. The key findings of the study were that constraints in attaining sustainable human settlements in the KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality negatively impacts on the development in the area. The level of services being provided is poor. There is an apparent disconnect between traditional leaders and the municipality councillor as development management and vision are concerned. Furthermore, the development programmes and projects do not seem to address the critical needs of the community. Housing development is narrow minded with a focus on the top structure and a failure to include basic services and infrastructure. Houses built that are financed by subsidies are of poor quality. The latter situation results in more able‐ bodied, skilled and capable people emigrating to developed areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Sikhosana, Phindokuhle
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Human settlements , Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47181 , vital:39829
- Description: This study sought to investigate the constraints in the attainment of sustainable human settlement in KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality at iLembe District in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The aim of this study was to investigate the constraints that limit the achievement of the ideal of sustainable human settlement development in the KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality. Furthermore, the study sought to determine the impact of these constraints on sustainable development and to proffer measures that can be taken to combat stagnant or underdevelopment in the area. A mixed-method approach is followed in this study, which considers a triangulation of quantitative and qualitative data collection, analysis and interpretation techniques. It is important to note that in the past years since South Africa became a democratic country, there have been countless efforts with regard to overcoming the problems created during the apartheid era. These problems stemmed from a distorted spatial, social, economic and political background that was advocated by both segregationist public policies and the planning systems of the Apartheid Regime. In recent years, South African cities have also been faced with environmental issues, which are imperative to the future development of the country. With all these issues in mind, we see that the many efforts that are put in place by government always fall short of solving the problems. This research report looked at the constraints that affect the KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality in attaining sustainable human settlements and whether the efforts of redistribution and equality have been enough to overcome the problems. The key findings of the study were that constraints in attaining sustainable human settlements in the KwaMaphumulo Local Municipality negatively impacts on the development in the area. The level of services being provided is poor. There is an apparent disconnect between traditional leaders and the municipality councillor as development management and vision are concerned. Furthermore, the development programmes and projects do not seem to address the critical needs of the community. Housing development is narrow minded with a focus on the top structure and a failure to include basic services and infrastructure. Houses built that are financed by subsidies are of poor quality. The latter situation results in more able‐ bodied, skilled and capable people emigrating to developed areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A management model for human settlements: a case study of Nigeria and South Africa
- Authors: Adeniran, Adeleye Ayoade
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Human settlements -- Nigeria , Human settlements -- South Africa Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45985 , vital:39403
- Description: Persistent depreciating human settlements is a global challenge, particularly in developing countries and this challenge contributes to the continuously increasing housing gap, despite several novel policies and programmes. Although there is a dearth of research-based literature on human settlements management, studies show that property management, Facility Management, housing management and urban management impact the sustainability of all these built environment milieus which form part of the human settlements’ sub-components. This research aimed at altering the afore-said challenge by exploring the management of human settlements in Nigeria and in South Africa. Philosophically, the research is pragmatic, and it rests on positivist deductive reasoning. The methods used for data collection include a review of literature, collection of archival records, and empirical studies of purposively selected professionals and stakeholders involved in human settlements’ management in Nigeria and in South Africa. The findings indicate that existing human settlements in the case studies are “good” and “acceptable” with the majority adopting an outsourced method of management. Furthermore, the lack of maintenance records, the deficiency in policy monitoring and the training of management and maintenance personnel were the three highest ranking factors indicated to be affecting human settlements management. Moreover, an inhabitant’s income, the time available for management, professional expertise and technology employed for management are recognised as the critical sustainability sub-factors affecting human settlement management. The factor analysis established ownership, human resource and capital, social, legal, technology, economic, physical and environmental factors as vital and very significant in achieving sustainable management of human settlements. The study recommends the professionalisation of the field of human settlements as well as a formulation of management policy among others. The study developed a management model for human settlements, and it advocates that human settlements managers, owners and organisations should apply the model in this study, to improve their human settlement management practices, so as to achieve sustainability, and in essence, Sustainable Development Goal 11. It is hoped that the suggested management model will influence human settlement policy development and review, the designing of human settlement management programmes including the framework for their ongoing monitoring and evaluation. The study furthermore contributes to the development of housing and human settlement curricula and evolving human settlement research in both developed and developing countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Adeniran, Adeleye Ayoade
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Human settlements -- Nigeria , Human settlements -- South Africa Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45985 , vital:39403
- Description: Persistent depreciating human settlements is a global challenge, particularly in developing countries and this challenge contributes to the continuously increasing housing gap, despite several novel policies and programmes. Although there is a dearth of research-based literature on human settlements management, studies show that property management, Facility Management, housing management and urban management impact the sustainability of all these built environment milieus which form part of the human settlements’ sub-components. This research aimed at altering the afore-said challenge by exploring the management of human settlements in Nigeria and in South Africa. Philosophically, the research is pragmatic, and it rests on positivist deductive reasoning. The methods used for data collection include a review of literature, collection of archival records, and empirical studies of purposively selected professionals and stakeholders involved in human settlements’ management in Nigeria and in South Africa. The findings indicate that existing human settlements in the case studies are “good” and “acceptable” with the majority adopting an outsourced method of management. Furthermore, the lack of maintenance records, the deficiency in policy monitoring and the training of management and maintenance personnel were the three highest ranking factors indicated to be affecting human settlements management. Moreover, an inhabitant’s income, the time available for management, professional expertise and technology employed for management are recognised as the critical sustainability sub-factors affecting human settlement management. The factor analysis established ownership, human resource and capital, social, legal, technology, economic, physical and environmental factors as vital and very significant in achieving sustainable management of human settlements. The study recommends the professionalisation of the field of human settlements as well as a formulation of management policy among others. The study developed a management model for human settlements, and it advocates that human settlements managers, owners and organisations should apply the model in this study, to improve their human settlement management practices, so as to achieve sustainability, and in essence, Sustainable Development Goal 11. It is hoped that the suggested management model will influence human settlement policy development and review, the designing of human settlement management programmes including the framework for their ongoing monitoring and evaluation. The study furthermore contributes to the development of housing and human settlement curricula and evolving human settlement research in both developed and developing countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A Strategy for good IT Governance in South African Municipalities
- Authors: Sibanda, Mbusi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Information technology -- Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49573 , vital:41737
- Description: Information technology (IT) is widely used in South African municipalities as a tool for enabling business processes and therefore its design and implementation are critical to municipalities delivering on their core mandate of delivering services to their communities. The implementation of IT relies on the adoption of sound IT governance practices, whose outcome is to ensure that municipalities derive value from the use of IT and minimise the risk associated with it. However, the implementation of IT governance has proved to be challenging in most municipalities. This research sought to devise a strategic approach to the effective and viable implementation of IT governance in municipalities in South Africa. The research was carried out by adopting a design science research approach, which is increasingly being used for studies in the IT discipline as it assists in solving problems through the design of innovative artefacts, in this case a strategy for the implementation of IT governance. To address the objectives, the research was carried out through case studies of South African municipalities which enabled a detailed investigation of phenomena in its natural context. The data was collected by means of mixed methods consisting of a literature review, a survey and semi-structured interviews. A literature review connected to the research problem was done in order to identify the present state of the issues and how they have been confronted. A survey was sent out to municipalities, institutions and individuals with a mandate to support municipalities, while semi-structured interviews were conducted in five municipalities, government departments and regulatory bodies. A thematic analysis of the data collected was performed which led to a diagnosis of the issues. These include inadequate IT infrastructure; lack of coordinated external support; inadequate IT skills; lack of strong and committed IT leadership; poor IT controls; and fragmented planning. Guiding policies and a set of coherent actions for solving the issues were developed. This culminated in the devising of a strategy for the coordinated implementation of IT governance in municipalities. The primary contribution of this study is the formulation of a strategy for the sound implementation of IT governance in South African municipalities. The research contends that by identifying the strategic issues facing municipalities and implementing the proposed actions, most of which fall outside the municipalities, a new contribution to knowledge has been made. Accordingly, the strategy facilitates the development of plans that address the root causes of the poor implementation of IT in municipalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Sibanda, Mbusi
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Information technology -- Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49573 , vital:41737
- Description: Information technology (IT) is widely used in South African municipalities as a tool for enabling business processes and therefore its design and implementation are critical to municipalities delivering on their core mandate of delivering services to their communities. The implementation of IT relies on the adoption of sound IT governance practices, whose outcome is to ensure that municipalities derive value from the use of IT and minimise the risk associated with it. However, the implementation of IT governance has proved to be challenging in most municipalities. This research sought to devise a strategic approach to the effective and viable implementation of IT governance in municipalities in South Africa. The research was carried out by adopting a design science research approach, which is increasingly being used for studies in the IT discipline as it assists in solving problems through the design of innovative artefacts, in this case a strategy for the implementation of IT governance. To address the objectives, the research was carried out through case studies of South African municipalities which enabled a detailed investigation of phenomena in its natural context. The data was collected by means of mixed methods consisting of a literature review, a survey and semi-structured interviews. A literature review connected to the research problem was done in order to identify the present state of the issues and how they have been confronted. A survey was sent out to municipalities, institutions and individuals with a mandate to support municipalities, while semi-structured interviews were conducted in five municipalities, government departments and regulatory bodies. A thematic analysis of the data collected was performed which led to a diagnosis of the issues. These include inadequate IT infrastructure; lack of coordinated external support; inadequate IT skills; lack of strong and committed IT leadership; poor IT controls; and fragmented planning. Guiding policies and a set of coherent actions for solving the issues were developed. This culminated in the devising of a strategy for the coordinated implementation of IT governance in municipalities. The primary contribution of this study is the formulation of a strategy for the sound implementation of IT governance in South African municipalities. The research contends that by identifying the strategic issues facing municipalities and implementing the proposed actions, most of which fall outside the municipalities, a new contribution to knowledge has been made. Accordingly, the strategy facilitates the development of plans that address the root causes of the poor implementation of IT in municipalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
From housing to sustainable human settlements : a case study of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Mofokeng, Mosa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Human settlements -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Housing policy -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSBE
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49518 , vital:41731
- Description: This study aimed to evaluate whether there has been any shift from housing to sustainable human settlements in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). The objective of the study was to establish the perceived value of inclusive development by relevant stakeholders in the transformation of housing to integrated and sustainable human settlements; assess the effectiveness of available systems in transforming housing to integrated and sustainable human settlements and to establish the level of effectiveness of the current human settlements development model in transforming housing to integrated and sustainable human settlement outcomes. Following a case study approach, the study employed a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches which is also known as the mixed-method research design. Purposive sampling technique was used to arrive at a sample of 16 relevant officials, whereas the snow-ball convenience sampling technique was used to select a sample of 12 housing beneficiaries in Ndevana, Potsdam and Mzamomhle housing developments. A survey questionnaire was used to elicit data from the officials In-depth interviews were used to gather data from BCMM officials and Focus Group Discussions were used to extract data from twelve housing beneficiaries from (four from Ndevana, four from Potsdam and four from Mzamomhle) housing projects in the BCMM. The findings from this study show that although several people have been provided with houses in Ndevana, Mzamomhle and Potsdam, the settlements lack the requisite economic and social infrastructure that creates integrated and liveable settlements. Furthermore, the type, quality, and layout of houses delivered by the government falls short of the concept of sustainable development. The available systems for transforming housing to integrated sustainable human settlements have been rendered ineffective by the shortage of proper land for land-use planning and spatial development, lack of organizational capacity, lack of accountability, unaffordability of sustainable housing by the poor and insufficiency of the current housing quantum subsidy to deliver sustainable human settlements. The study further established that the integrated sustainable human settlements programs do not incorporate the community needs which have greatly affected sustainable housing delivery in BCMM. The placement of the poor households in the urban peripheries is phenomenal and hence unemployment, poverty and civil unrest have taken a toll in Ndevana, Potsdam, and Mzamomhle. The study recommends a capacity building and competency-based model to BCMM and Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements, Integration of Government departments and Stakeholder Engagement, the establishment of monitoring and evaluation systems, alignment of provincial and local government budget cycles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mofokeng, Mosa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Human settlements -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Housing policy -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSBE
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49518 , vital:41731
- Description: This study aimed to evaluate whether there has been any shift from housing to sustainable human settlements in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM). The objective of the study was to establish the perceived value of inclusive development by relevant stakeholders in the transformation of housing to integrated and sustainable human settlements; assess the effectiveness of available systems in transforming housing to integrated and sustainable human settlements and to establish the level of effectiveness of the current human settlements development model in transforming housing to integrated and sustainable human settlement outcomes. Following a case study approach, the study employed a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches which is also known as the mixed-method research design. Purposive sampling technique was used to arrive at a sample of 16 relevant officials, whereas the snow-ball convenience sampling technique was used to select a sample of 12 housing beneficiaries in Ndevana, Potsdam and Mzamomhle housing developments. A survey questionnaire was used to elicit data from the officials In-depth interviews were used to gather data from BCMM officials and Focus Group Discussions were used to extract data from twelve housing beneficiaries from (four from Ndevana, four from Potsdam and four from Mzamomhle) housing projects in the BCMM. The findings from this study show that although several people have been provided with houses in Ndevana, Mzamomhle and Potsdam, the settlements lack the requisite economic and social infrastructure that creates integrated and liveable settlements. Furthermore, the type, quality, and layout of houses delivered by the government falls short of the concept of sustainable development. The available systems for transforming housing to integrated sustainable human settlements have been rendered ineffective by the shortage of proper land for land-use planning and spatial development, lack of organizational capacity, lack of accountability, unaffordability of sustainable housing by the poor and insufficiency of the current housing quantum subsidy to deliver sustainable human settlements. The study further established that the integrated sustainable human settlements programs do not incorporate the community needs which have greatly affected sustainable housing delivery in BCMM. The placement of the poor households in the urban peripheries is phenomenal and hence unemployment, poverty and civil unrest have taken a toll in Ndevana, Potsdam, and Mzamomhle. The study recommends a capacity building and competency-based model to BCMM and Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements, Integration of Government departments and Stakeholder Engagement, the establishment of monitoring and evaluation systems, alignment of provincial and local government budget cycles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Exploring the privacy calculus on social networking services from a South African perspective
- Authors: Mathew, Boney George
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Data encryption (Computer science) , Public key cryptography Online social networks -- Research -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46163 , vital:39510
- Description: Social Network Services (SNSs) have revolutionized the way we communicate, interact and present ourselves before others. The business model of SNS’S like Facebook is primarily based on SNS’S user self-disclosure of personal information. It is argued that the SNS’S user conducts a cost-benefit analysis before deciding to self-disclose their personal information, and this user behaviour forms the basis of the Privacy Calculus Theory. Enjoyment, Self-Presentation and Relationship Maintenance is considered as the benefits and the Privacy Concerns of the users is considered as the costs of disclosing personal information.As national or regional culture could influence SNS’S user self-disclosure behaviour, it would be advantageous for multinational SNS’S’s like Facebook to understand the perceptions of SNS’S user’s from different nationalities. Currently, no studies have been conducted amongst the South African (SA) SNSs’ users’ self-disclosure behaviour. This research is aimed at understanding the South African SNSs’ users’ perceptions regarding their perceived costs, benefits and selfdisclosure using the Privacy Calculus theory. This study is a replication of a similar study undertaken amongst the United States of America (US) and German SNS’S users. To remain competitive in the market and to sustain the viability of their business model, SNS like Facebook will have to encourage user self-disclosure. Studies have proven that national cultures play an important role on the nature and extent of user disclosure (Krasnova & Veltri, 2010; Lewis, Kaufman, & Christakis, 2008). However, no similar research has been undertaken in South Africa, and currently we do not understand South African SNS users’ self-disclosure behaviour in terms of the privacy calculus theory. The primary objective of this study is to understand the perceptions of South African SNS’S users regarding the perceived benefits, costs, moderating factors and self-disclosure, using the Privacy Calculus Theory. To achieve this objective, we initially undertook a detailed literature review to understand the concept of information privacy, privacy calculus, information privacy policy and legal framework, SNS’S and self-disclosure and the various factors affecting self-disclosure. We then proceeded to validate the theoretical framework by collecting data from two South African universities, namely the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) and Walter Sisulu University (WSU (NMD Campus – Former University of Transkei)), by adopting the same methodology and instrument used in the original study (and the isiXhosa translation). The theoretical framework used for this study is based on the Privacy Calculus theory, which argues that users conduct a cost-benefit calculus before deciding to self-disclose their personal information. This analysis is further influenced by other moderating factors like trust, control and awareness. All these factors have been incorporated into the theoretical framework and the instrument, adapted from the original research was used to collect data from the participants. The data from 239 respondents, who finally qualified for analysis was collated and proceeded with the analysis of that data. The data was analysed in four stages using established statistical tests. The first three phases were used to determine the actual value placed by the users on selfdisclosure, its determinants and moderating factors, and the last phase concentrated on how each of the constructs included in the theoretical framework influenced the other constructs. The results obtained from the analysis provided valuable insights into the self-disclosure behaviour of South African SNS’S users. Entertainment was the primary benefit the students derived from using SNS like Facebook, followed by relationship maintenance and those who enjoyed the platform more tended to Self-Disclose more. Those who tended to derive more benefits from the platform were found to trust the platform and the other users of the network. The theoretical framework was validated and it was determined that privacy paradox exists within the South African SNS’S user community, meaning that even with high privacy concerns, these SNS users are willing to self-disclose their personal information.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mathew, Boney George
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Data encryption (Computer science) , Public key cryptography Online social networks -- Research -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46163 , vital:39510
- Description: Social Network Services (SNSs) have revolutionized the way we communicate, interact and present ourselves before others. The business model of SNS’S like Facebook is primarily based on SNS’S user self-disclosure of personal information. It is argued that the SNS’S user conducts a cost-benefit analysis before deciding to self-disclose their personal information, and this user behaviour forms the basis of the Privacy Calculus Theory. Enjoyment, Self-Presentation and Relationship Maintenance is considered as the benefits and the Privacy Concerns of the users is considered as the costs of disclosing personal information.As national or regional culture could influence SNS’S user self-disclosure behaviour, it would be advantageous for multinational SNS’S’s like Facebook to understand the perceptions of SNS’S user’s from different nationalities. Currently, no studies have been conducted amongst the South African (SA) SNSs’ users’ self-disclosure behaviour. This research is aimed at understanding the South African SNSs’ users’ perceptions regarding their perceived costs, benefits and selfdisclosure using the Privacy Calculus theory. This study is a replication of a similar study undertaken amongst the United States of America (US) and German SNS’S users. To remain competitive in the market and to sustain the viability of their business model, SNS like Facebook will have to encourage user self-disclosure. Studies have proven that national cultures play an important role on the nature and extent of user disclosure (Krasnova & Veltri, 2010; Lewis, Kaufman, & Christakis, 2008). However, no similar research has been undertaken in South Africa, and currently we do not understand South African SNS users’ self-disclosure behaviour in terms of the privacy calculus theory. The primary objective of this study is to understand the perceptions of South African SNS’S users regarding the perceived benefits, costs, moderating factors and self-disclosure, using the Privacy Calculus Theory. To achieve this objective, we initially undertook a detailed literature review to understand the concept of information privacy, privacy calculus, information privacy policy and legal framework, SNS’S and self-disclosure and the various factors affecting self-disclosure. We then proceeded to validate the theoretical framework by collecting data from two South African universities, namely the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) and Walter Sisulu University (WSU (NMD Campus – Former University of Transkei)), by adopting the same methodology and instrument used in the original study (and the isiXhosa translation). The theoretical framework used for this study is based on the Privacy Calculus theory, which argues that users conduct a cost-benefit calculus before deciding to self-disclose their personal information. This analysis is further influenced by other moderating factors like trust, control and awareness. All these factors have been incorporated into the theoretical framework and the instrument, adapted from the original research was used to collect data from the participants. The data from 239 respondents, who finally qualified for analysis was collated and proceeded with the analysis of that data. The data was analysed in four stages using established statistical tests. The first three phases were used to determine the actual value placed by the users on selfdisclosure, its determinants and moderating factors, and the last phase concentrated on how each of the constructs included in the theoretical framework influenced the other constructs. The results obtained from the analysis provided valuable insights into the self-disclosure behaviour of South African SNS’S users. Entertainment was the primary benefit the students derived from using SNS like Facebook, followed by relationship maintenance and those who enjoyed the platform more tended to Self-Disclose more. Those who tended to derive more benefits from the platform were found to trust the platform and the other users of the network. The theoretical framework was validated and it was determined that privacy paradox exists within the South African SNS’S user community, meaning that even with high privacy concerns, these SNS users are willing to self-disclose their personal information.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A framework to measure the degree of alignment between corporate and IT/IS objectives at Randwater
- Authors: Sigasa, Moshane Lydia
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures , Data protection Information technology -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47156 , vital:39818
- Description: The South African Government has institutionalised a Corporate Governance of ICT Policy Framework which was developed by Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA). The framework has adopted some elements of KING III, ISO 38500 and COBIT. Consequently, it is now a requirement by the South African Government that all its entities must adopt this framework. Nevertheless, it is not clear how government has emphasised this alignment in such entities. The problem statement in this study was that Randwater is unable to realise full value of the investment in IT/IS because there is misalignment between IT objectives or deliverables and the corporate objectives. This study sought to identify a suitable framework which meets the ICT policy criteria as set out by the DPSA, which will facilitate the alignment between corporate objectives and IT/IS objectives at Randwater. This was achieved through the development and refinement of the artefact through the various iteration phases. Additionally, an online survey was used to collect data from a focus group comprising IT experts and senior management at Randwater. The Information Technology Governance Institute Framework was employed to assist in the development of the questions. The survey results were utilised during the validation of the artefact produced by this research study in a workshop. The findings were then linked with the related literature which either supported or rejected the findings through discussions on the literature and thereafter conclusions were made based on these findings. Furthermore, a literature review was conducted to gain a better understanding of what has been done in the field of research in order to assist in defining the problem that this research seeks to solve so as to inform the development of design characteristics. The research process employed the Nelson Mandela University – Design Science Strategy Methodology referred to as (NMU – DSSM) with the goal of developing an artefact in the form of a framework. The research process entailed studying the existing literature and analysing the aspects relating to corporate governance, IT governance, frameworks, and strategies to be able to measure the degree of alignment. The phases of designing the artefact were analysis, design, evaluate, validate and diffuse phases. The final artefact developed was a framework that incorporated the principles of King IV and ISO 38500 in corporate governance and ICT goals alignment. The final artefact also embedded transparency, accountability and security as important elements in the implementation of the artefact. The survey findings were instrumental in the development of the artefact that brings alignment between business strategy and IT objectives at Randwater. From the findings, in terms of IT flexibility, it was revealed that the interrelated parts of the system at Randwater were modular. It was also concluded that there is lack of communication about the manner in which the components of the information systems are organised and integrated in order to allow for rapid changes and that the organisational IT infrastructure and applications were loosely coupled. The findings further revealed that the business had established corporate rules and standards for hardware and operating systems to ensure platform compatibility. It was also revealed that organisational IT applications were developed based on compliance guidelines. In terms of IT-enabled dynamic capabilities, it was revealed that IT systems at Randwater are not capable of scanning the environment and identifying new business opportunities and are not capable of anticipating discontinuities arising in the business domain by developing greater reactive and proactive strength. It was also revealed that it was concluded that IT systems were capable of achieving strategic alignment between IT flexibility and dynamic capabilities. Therefore, design science was the ideal research paradigm towards addressing the research problem and the artefact designed was a viable research contribution. The significance of the study was that it contributed to the development of technology-based solutions to an important and relevant business problem of alignment of business strategy to IT goals. The design evaluation, the utility, quality, and efficacy of the final design artefact was rigorously demonstrated via well-executed evaluation methods. The study also contributed to the literature
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Sigasa, Moshane Lydia
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures , Data protection Information technology -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47156 , vital:39818
- Description: The South African Government has institutionalised a Corporate Governance of ICT Policy Framework which was developed by Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA). The framework has adopted some elements of KING III, ISO 38500 and COBIT. Consequently, it is now a requirement by the South African Government that all its entities must adopt this framework. Nevertheless, it is not clear how government has emphasised this alignment in such entities. The problem statement in this study was that Randwater is unable to realise full value of the investment in IT/IS because there is misalignment between IT objectives or deliverables and the corporate objectives. This study sought to identify a suitable framework which meets the ICT policy criteria as set out by the DPSA, which will facilitate the alignment between corporate objectives and IT/IS objectives at Randwater. This was achieved through the development and refinement of the artefact through the various iteration phases. Additionally, an online survey was used to collect data from a focus group comprising IT experts and senior management at Randwater. The Information Technology Governance Institute Framework was employed to assist in the development of the questions. The survey results were utilised during the validation of the artefact produced by this research study in a workshop. The findings were then linked with the related literature which either supported or rejected the findings through discussions on the literature and thereafter conclusions were made based on these findings. Furthermore, a literature review was conducted to gain a better understanding of what has been done in the field of research in order to assist in defining the problem that this research seeks to solve so as to inform the development of design characteristics. The research process employed the Nelson Mandela University – Design Science Strategy Methodology referred to as (NMU – DSSM) with the goal of developing an artefact in the form of a framework. The research process entailed studying the existing literature and analysing the aspects relating to corporate governance, IT governance, frameworks, and strategies to be able to measure the degree of alignment. The phases of designing the artefact were analysis, design, evaluate, validate and diffuse phases. The final artefact developed was a framework that incorporated the principles of King IV and ISO 38500 in corporate governance and ICT goals alignment. The final artefact also embedded transparency, accountability and security as important elements in the implementation of the artefact. The survey findings were instrumental in the development of the artefact that brings alignment between business strategy and IT objectives at Randwater. From the findings, in terms of IT flexibility, it was revealed that the interrelated parts of the system at Randwater were modular. It was also concluded that there is lack of communication about the manner in which the components of the information systems are organised and integrated in order to allow for rapid changes and that the organisational IT infrastructure and applications were loosely coupled. The findings further revealed that the business had established corporate rules and standards for hardware and operating systems to ensure platform compatibility. It was also revealed that organisational IT applications were developed based on compliance guidelines. In terms of IT-enabled dynamic capabilities, it was revealed that IT systems at Randwater are not capable of scanning the environment and identifying new business opportunities and are not capable of anticipating discontinuities arising in the business domain by developing greater reactive and proactive strength. It was also revealed that it was concluded that IT systems were capable of achieving strategic alignment between IT flexibility and dynamic capabilities. Therefore, design science was the ideal research paradigm towards addressing the research problem and the artefact designed was a viable research contribution. The significance of the study was that it contributed to the development of technology-based solutions to an important and relevant business problem of alignment of business strategy to IT goals. The design evaluation, the utility, quality, and efficacy of the final design artefact was rigorously demonstrated via well-executed evaluation methods. The study also contributed to the literature
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The impact of discounting fees by civil engineering consultants
- Authors: Siqiti, Khulile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Consulting engineers , Consultants Civil engineering , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47246 , vital:39836
- Description: The study provides insight into the views and perceptions of consulting engineers on the discounting of professional fees. The purpose of the research was to determine the impact of discounting professional fees in the civil engineering profession and ultimately potential ways in which the civil engineering profession could improve business sustainability. The study included a review of literature, which was utilised to develop a questionnaire. A total of 26 practicing consulting engineers, who are members of Consulting Engineers South Africa (CESA), and represented small, medium and large consulting engineering firms, participated in the questionnaire survey. The questionnaire investigates the respondents’ perceptions on the impact of discounting professional fees in the civil engineering profession and the amount of discount offered as well as the reasons for discounting fees. The results show that the practice of discounting professional fees is widespread, affecting small, medium and large consulting firms. The results also indicate that prevailing market conditions in civil engineering profession are the primary reasons why consulting engineers offer discounts on fees. Respondents agreed that projects are awarded to the lowest bidder during tender process. Respondents also agreed that experienced engineers are allocated less time on projects to manage project costs. The findings suggest that discounting of professional fees is a great concern that needs to be addressed in order to attain profession business sustainability. It is suggested that the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) should regulate the fee structures and ensure that all professionals, whether employed in the public or private sector, understand the basic finances on running a professional consultancy to deliver a service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Siqiti, Khulile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Consulting engineers , Consultants Civil engineering , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47246 , vital:39836
- Description: The study provides insight into the views and perceptions of consulting engineers on the discounting of professional fees. The purpose of the research was to determine the impact of discounting professional fees in the civil engineering profession and ultimately potential ways in which the civil engineering profession could improve business sustainability. The study included a review of literature, which was utilised to develop a questionnaire. A total of 26 practicing consulting engineers, who are members of Consulting Engineers South Africa (CESA), and represented small, medium and large consulting engineering firms, participated in the questionnaire survey. The questionnaire investigates the respondents’ perceptions on the impact of discounting professional fees in the civil engineering profession and the amount of discount offered as well as the reasons for discounting fees. The results show that the practice of discounting professional fees is widespread, affecting small, medium and large consulting firms. The results also indicate that prevailing market conditions in civil engineering profession are the primary reasons why consulting engineers offer discounts on fees. Respondents agreed that projects are awarded to the lowest bidder during tender process. Respondents also agreed that experienced engineers are allocated less time on projects to manage project costs. The findings suggest that discounting of professional fees is a great concern that needs to be addressed in order to attain profession business sustainability. It is suggested that the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) should regulate the fee structures and ensure that all professionals, whether employed in the public or private sector, understand the basic finances on running a professional consultancy to deliver a service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Best practices to address medical identity theft awareness : the case of South African medical aid members
- Authors: Ah Why, Brandon Lawrence
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Medical records -- Access control -- South Africa Identity theft -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49396 , vital:41708
- Description: The prevalence of medical identity theft continues to increase. This is a concern for medical aid members within the South African private healthcare sector. Medical identity theft can be caused by various individuals, including internal and external role players. The deceptions involved in medical identity theft can affect medical aid members, the healthcare industry, and medical aids. Medical aid members remain unaware that they are victims of medical identity theft until they receive high medical bills or are notified by their healthcare providers. This research study focused on the lack of awareness of medical identity theft among medical aid members. The main objective of this research study was to propose best practices that can be used to address medical aid members’ awareness of medical identity theft in the South African private healthcare sector. Sub-objectives were used to achieve the main objective. The first sub-objective was to identify the parties causing and the parties affected by medical identity theft. The second sub-objective was to determine the level of medical identity theft awareness among medical aid members in the South African private healthcare sector. The third sub-objective was to identify best practices to address medical identity theft awareness. The methodology used by this exploratory research study included a convergent mixed method design, which was used to obtain quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection was completed using a literature review and a questionnaire. Data analysis and reporting made use of a qualitative content analysis, descriptive statistics, and logical argumentation. Respondents’ answers to a questionnaire about their experiences with medical identity theft provided insight into South African medical aid members’ awareness of medical identity theft. The data gathered from the respondents was analysed, and themes emerged that emphasised a lack of awareness of medical identity theft among South African medical aid members. Twenty-six pre-emptive and nine retroactive best practices to address medical identity theft awareness were identified from existing literature. These best practices were cross-referenced to determine their relevance to the list of concerns about medical identity theft that emanated from the survey completed by South African medical aid members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Ah Why, Brandon Lawrence
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Medical records -- Access control -- South Africa Identity theft -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49396 , vital:41708
- Description: The prevalence of medical identity theft continues to increase. This is a concern for medical aid members within the South African private healthcare sector. Medical identity theft can be caused by various individuals, including internal and external role players. The deceptions involved in medical identity theft can affect medical aid members, the healthcare industry, and medical aids. Medical aid members remain unaware that they are victims of medical identity theft until they receive high medical bills or are notified by their healthcare providers. This research study focused on the lack of awareness of medical identity theft among medical aid members. The main objective of this research study was to propose best practices that can be used to address medical aid members’ awareness of medical identity theft in the South African private healthcare sector. Sub-objectives were used to achieve the main objective. The first sub-objective was to identify the parties causing and the parties affected by medical identity theft. The second sub-objective was to determine the level of medical identity theft awareness among medical aid members in the South African private healthcare sector. The third sub-objective was to identify best practices to address medical identity theft awareness. The methodology used by this exploratory research study included a convergent mixed method design, which was used to obtain quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection was completed using a literature review and a questionnaire. Data analysis and reporting made use of a qualitative content analysis, descriptive statistics, and logical argumentation. Respondents’ answers to a questionnaire about their experiences with medical identity theft provided insight into South African medical aid members’ awareness of medical identity theft. The data gathered from the respondents was analysed, and themes emerged that emphasised a lack of awareness of medical identity theft among South African medical aid members. Twenty-six pre-emptive and nine retroactive best practices to address medical identity theft awareness were identified from existing literature. These best practices were cross-referenced to determine their relevance to the list of concerns about medical identity theft that emanated from the survey completed by South African medical aid members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A strategy towards implementing standardised data structures in municipal information systems
- Authors: Koekemoer, Silma Marguerite
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Data structures (Computer science) , Municipal government -- Data processing Public administration -- Data processing Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46064 , vital:39482
- Description: The regulation pertaining to a Standard Chart of Accounts (SCOA) for Municipalities was published in 2014 and is applicable to all 257 municipalities and municipal entities in South Africa. The regulation represents a data classification framework or structure and affects all financial management and internal control systems (FMICS) used by municipalities and municipal entities, and affects key business processes within these organisations. Compliance with the SCOA regulation means that the full municipal accountability cycle should accommodate all seven of the SCOA segments, from the budget through transacting and reporting at the transaction level, with all seven of the segments being embedded in the master data table of the municipal FMICS. While the change to technology and systems may be self-evident, the related business change should not be underestimated. This information technology (IT) driven organisational change across the whole municipal environment represents the research topic and key objective of this research study, namely, a strategy towards implementing standard data structures in municipal IT systems. The study followed a pragmatic philosophy using diagnostic reasoning based on an inductive approach, multiple action research methods and a descriptive case study to derive the proposed implementation strategy. The research subjects, which included 25 pilot municipalities, were studied for the duration of the pilot implementation of the strategy with the objective of identifying and utilising the lessons learnt from their experience to fast track the rollout of the strategy to non-pilot municipalities. The study was limited to the local government environment and to South Africa as a geographic area and involved an accidental sample aligned to the implementation project under investigation. The proposed implementation strategy was, however, of a generic nature and is therefore applicable to any other institution or environment engaged in a similar implementation project. The main contribution of the study is an implementation strategy for standard data structures in municipal financial information systems and which consists of seven diagnostics, 17 guiding policies and 48 coherent actions. The strategy was developed and refined during six cycles of data collection, which were conducted at 25 municipalities actively involved in implementing of the standard data structures. The secondary contributions of the research study include three conference papers and one submission to an academic journal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Koekemoer, Silma Marguerite
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Data structures (Computer science) , Municipal government -- Data processing Public administration -- Data processing Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46064 , vital:39482
- Description: The regulation pertaining to a Standard Chart of Accounts (SCOA) for Municipalities was published in 2014 and is applicable to all 257 municipalities and municipal entities in South Africa. The regulation represents a data classification framework or structure and affects all financial management and internal control systems (FMICS) used by municipalities and municipal entities, and affects key business processes within these organisations. Compliance with the SCOA regulation means that the full municipal accountability cycle should accommodate all seven of the SCOA segments, from the budget through transacting and reporting at the transaction level, with all seven of the segments being embedded in the master data table of the municipal FMICS. While the change to technology and systems may be self-evident, the related business change should not be underestimated. This information technology (IT) driven organisational change across the whole municipal environment represents the research topic and key objective of this research study, namely, a strategy towards implementing standard data structures in municipal IT systems. The study followed a pragmatic philosophy using diagnostic reasoning based on an inductive approach, multiple action research methods and a descriptive case study to derive the proposed implementation strategy. The research subjects, which included 25 pilot municipalities, were studied for the duration of the pilot implementation of the strategy with the objective of identifying and utilising the lessons learnt from their experience to fast track the rollout of the strategy to non-pilot municipalities. The study was limited to the local government environment and to South Africa as a geographic area and involved an accidental sample aligned to the implementation project under investigation. The proposed implementation strategy was, however, of a generic nature and is therefore applicable to any other institution or environment engaged in a similar implementation project. The main contribution of the study is an implementation strategy for standard data structures in municipal financial information systems and which consists of seven diagnostics, 17 guiding policies and 48 coherent actions. The strategy was developed and refined during six cycles of data collection, which were conducted at 25 municipalities actively involved in implementing of the standard data structures. The secondary contributions of the research study include three conference papers and one submission to an academic journal.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Towards user experience principles for Electronic Tax in South Africa
- Authors: Mzili, Xolelwa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Electronic filing systems -- South Africa Tax returns -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49529 , vital:41733
- Description: Electronic Tax is a convenient system that enables taxpayers to submit their tax returns electronically, from home or from the office at any time of the day during the tax filing season. However, the electronic tax system has faced challenges over the years and to date. Thus, the reason for this study was to recommend user experience and usability principles for the electronic tax system to enhance the experience of taxpayers when using the electronic tax submission system. These principles contributed to improving the electronic tax system and increasing the adoption of the system among taxpayers who still submit their tax returns, manually. The study firstly described the problem, which forms part of the foundation for this research, namely development, which then led to the research questions and objectives, forming the core for the development of this study. User experience and usability principles are available for an online system, but there are limited studies on these factors regarding the electronic tax system. This study emphasized the importance of applying the user experience and usability principles to the electronic tax system. The various factors that affect the South African electronic tax system as a case study, have also been identified, including those that prompt other taxpayers to file at the SARS branch. As a result, to prove this theory, a questionnaire was sent only to electronic taxpayers to investigate how they perceive the electronic tax system. It can be concluded that the system has both advantages and disadvantages. An advantage is that the electronic tax system enables taxpayers to submit returns online from home or the office, instead of waiting in queues at the SARS branch. Disadvantages include that some taxpayers are concerned that their information is not safe and some encounter error messages and solutions while interacting with the system and these are not in a simple language for them to understand and recover. The user experience and usability principles have been recommended based on the responses obtained from the questionnaire.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mzili, Xolelwa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Electronic filing systems -- South Africa Tax returns -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49529 , vital:41733
- Description: Electronic Tax is a convenient system that enables taxpayers to submit their tax returns electronically, from home or from the office at any time of the day during the tax filing season. However, the electronic tax system has faced challenges over the years and to date. Thus, the reason for this study was to recommend user experience and usability principles for the electronic tax system to enhance the experience of taxpayers when using the electronic tax submission system. These principles contributed to improving the electronic tax system and increasing the adoption of the system among taxpayers who still submit their tax returns, manually. The study firstly described the problem, which forms part of the foundation for this research, namely development, which then led to the research questions and objectives, forming the core for the development of this study. User experience and usability principles are available for an online system, but there are limited studies on these factors regarding the electronic tax system. This study emphasized the importance of applying the user experience and usability principles to the electronic tax system. The various factors that affect the South African electronic tax system as a case study, have also been identified, including those that prompt other taxpayers to file at the SARS branch. As a result, to prove this theory, a questionnaire was sent only to electronic taxpayers to investigate how they perceive the electronic tax system. It can be concluded that the system has both advantages and disadvantages. An advantage is that the electronic tax system enables taxpayers to submit returns online from home or the office, instead of waiting in queues at the SARS branch. Disadvantages include that some taxpayers are concerned that their information is not safe and some encounter error messages and solutions while interacting with the system and these are not in a simple language for them to understand and recover. The user experience and usability principles have been recommended based on the responses obtained from the questionnaire.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Utility of construction automation and robotics in South Africa
- Mkunqwana, Khungelwa Sandisiwe
- Authors: Mkunqwana, Khungelwa Sandisiwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Automation , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Automation Robotics -- South Africa Robotics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46174 , vital:39511
- Description: The construction industry demands active construction organisation, efficient construction processes and innovative construction techniques to effectively compete under increasing market competition and technological advancements in the twenty first century. The problems associated with construction, such as poor quality and slow productivity, labour shortages, occupational health and safety, and inferior working conditions, have opened the possibility of more revolutionary solutions within the industry. One such solution espoused as having tremendous potential to improve construction productivity whilst alleviating the problems associated with construction is Construction Automation and Robotics. Automation and robotics technologies encompass a wide range of innovative technologies using technologically advanced machinery to improve the speed and efficiency of a given process. The aim of this study is to analyse the extent of utility of construction automation and robotics in the South African construction industry. The research adopted the quantitative methodology and online survey to collect data. A detailed quantitative (statistical) data analysis was performed, using web-based software “QuestionPro,” including data analysis for investigating possible relationships between variables. Through this study it has been established that one of the prospective solutions to the problems associated with construction is in the implementation and utility of innovative technologies in construction such as automation and robotics. Moreover, the research found that automation and robotics in South Africa is at an interesting point whereby organisations are taking strides in accepting and implementing the technologies. It is envisaged that the utility of construction automation and robotics would improve the industry in terms of productivity, health and safety and quality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mkunqwana, Khungelwa Sandisiwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Automation , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Automation Robotics -- South Africa Robotics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46174 , vital:39511
- Description: The construction industry demands active construction organisation, efficient construction processes and innovative construction techniques to effectively compete under increasing market competition and technological advancements in the twenty first century. The problems associated with construction, such as poor quality and slow productivity, labour shortages, occupational health and safety, and inferior working conditions, have opened the possibility of more revolutionary solutions within the industry. One such solution espoused as having tremendous potential to improve construction productivity whilst alleviating the problems associated with construction is Construction Automation and Robotics. Automation and robotics technologies encompass a wide range of innovative technologies using technologically advanced machinery to improve the speed and efficiency of a given process. The aim of this study is to analyse the extent of utility of construction automation and robotics in the South African construction industry. The research adopted the quantitative methodology and online survey to collect data. A detailed quantitative (statistical) data analysis was performed, using web-based software “QuestionPro,” including data analysis for investigating possible relationships between variables. Through this study it has been established that one of the prospective solutions to the problems associated with construction is in the implementation and utility of innovative technologies in construction such as automation and robotics. Moreover, the research found that automation and robotics in South Africa is at an interesting point whereby organisations are taking strides in accepting and implementing the technologies. It is envisaged that the utility of construction automation and robotics would improve the industry in terms of productivity, health and safety and quality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Planning considerations for smart meter implementations in South Africa
- Authors: Muchenje, Tonderai
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Application software -- Development , Smart power grids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46218 , vital:39515
- Description: Smart meter implementations are still in their infancy in many African countries. This is evident by the lack of research on the subject in the African context. Most of the research studies are either Eurocentric or US-centric. Although these studies are important and informative, they might not address the African challenges in context. Hence, South Africa was chosen as the testbed for an investigation that addresses the apparent knowledge gap. This study set out to formulate a framework for planning considerations in the implementation of smart meter technology within South Africa. Through extensive literature review and analysis, the technology acceptance model (TAM) was chosen as a foundational framework for this study. Although TAM is widely used for researching technology acceptance and use, its applicability was found to be inadequate in explaining customer centric factors in smart metering. Therefore, it was supplemented with factors from the theory of reasoned action (TRA), the theory of planned behavior (TPB), privacy calculus theory (PCT), as well as the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT). A total of 11 consumer-centric factors were identified, and these were statistically analysed using the structural equation modelling technique (SEM). Ten (10) consumer-centric factors was found to be significant. These were attitude, perceived value, monetary cost, privacy risk, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, facilitating conditions, social norms, trust in technology and behavioral intention. Hypothesis testing confirmed that, not one acceptance model could adequately be used to identify and explain the consumer-centric factors that can be incorporated for planning considerations for smart meter implementation in South Africa. It was further observed that the consumer-centric factors such as environmental issues, security, reliability and health issues that were important in developed countries were not deemed so in South Africa. From a methodological perspective, the study attests to contextual localised application as opposed to universal meaning and measurement invariance when incorporating planning consideration for smart meter implementation in South Africa as compared to European countries and the United States of America. Finally, the findings hold some practical implications, as they showed the practical utility of the model in predicting the consumer-centric factors that can be incorporated for planning considerations. In support, the Business Model Canvas (BMC) was found to be a useful tool in deriving and reporting on the formulation of planning consideration guidelines. Using the BMC, five planning consideration guidelines were derived: customer segmentation, partnerships, benefits communication, value identification and customer attitude. These planning considerations will allow smart meter providers to identify their customers, partners and value propositions they might need to offer consumers to facilitate a higher smart meter acceptance and use. The proposed planning consideration guidelines can practically be used by policymakers and regulators for several aspects for future pervasive technology acceptance studies. This research has, therefore, created a platform for further research in the smart technology domain while providing a usable predictive framework for the identification of consumer-centric factors and formulation of planning considerations guidelines for smart meter implementation within the South African context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Muchenje, Tonderai
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Application software -- Development , Smart power grids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46218 , vital:39515
- Description: Smart meter implementations are still in their infancy in many African countries. This is evident by the lack of research on the subject in the African context. Most of the research studies are either Eurocentric or US-centric. Although these studies are important and informative, they might not address the African challenges in context. Hence, South Africa was chosen as the testbed for an investigation that addresses the apparent knowledge gap. This study set out to formulate a framework for planning considerations in the implementation of smart meter technology within South Africa. Through extensive literature review and analysis, the technology acceptance model (TAM) was chosen as a foundational framework for this study. Although TAM is widely used for researching technology acceptance and use, its applicability was found to be inadequate in explaining customer centric factors in smart metering. Therefore, it was supplemented with factors from the theory of reasoned action (TRA), the theory of planned behavior (TPB), privacy calculus theory (PCT), as well as the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT). A total of 11 consumer-centric factors were identified, and these were statistically analysed using the structural equation modelling technique (SEM). Ten (10) consumer-centric factors was found to be significant. These were attitude, perceived value, monetary cost, privacy risk, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, facilitating conditions, social norms, trust in technology and behavioral intention. Hypothesis testing confirmed that, not one acceptance model could adequately be used to identify and explain the consumer-centric factors that can be incorporated for planning considerations for smart meter implementation in South Africa. It was further observed that the consumer-centric factors such as environmental issues, security, reliability and health issues that were important in developed countries were not deemed so in South Africa. From a methodological perspective, the study attests to contextual localised application as opposed to universal meaning and measurement invariance when incorporating planning consideration for smart meter implementation in South Africa as compared to European countries and the United States of America. Finally, the findings hold some practical implications, as they showed the practical utility of the model in predicting the consumer-centric factors that can be incorporated for planning considerations. In support, the Business Model Canvas (BMC) was found to be a useful tool in deriving and reporting on the formulation of planning consideration guidelines. Using the BMC, five planning consideration guidelines were derived: customer segmentation, partnerships, benefits communication, value identification and customer attitude. These planning considerations will allow smart meter providers to identify their customers, partners and value propositions they might need to offer consumers to facilitate a higher smart meter acceptance and use. The proposed planning consideration guidelines can practically be used by policymakers and regulators for several aspects for future pervasive technology acceptance studies. This research has, therefore, created a platform for further research in the smart technology domain while providing a usable predictive framework for the identification of consumer-centric factors and formulation of planning considerations guidelines for smart meter implementation within the South African context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Energy management as an element of a financial efficiency strategy : a case of the City Tshwane
- Authors: Maubane, Lekgatla Donald
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Industries -- Energy conservation -- South Africa -- City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSBE
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49507 , vital:41727
- Description: The costs of operating buildings and facilities which the City of Tshwane utilises for conducting business have substantially increased due to the cost of electricity more than quadrupling in the past decade in South Africa, worsening the already constrained budgets. Research has shown that implementation of successful and sustainable energy management of built environment assets is effective in reducing costs due to resulting reduction in energy consumption and is therefore fitting to include it as an element of a financial efficiency strategy in organisations. This study aims to investigate how the City of Tshwane utilises energy management of its built environment assets to support financial efficiency and to make recommendations where necessary. Building on existing literature on energy management, it asks: How does the City of Tshwane utilise energy management of its built environment assets to support financial efficiency? In this context, energy management is defined as the continuous process of managing behavioural, organisational and technical change to improve an organisation’s energy performance. An instrument suitable for collecting qualitative data was constructed based on theories found in the reviewed literature. Interview participants were purposively sampled from departments which have direct influence on the energy management chain in the city. Relevant documents provided by the city were also reviewed to support triangulation of data. An analysis of data demonstrated that the city utilises energy management of its built environment assets to support financial efficiency. The results also indicated that there are several deficiencies in the manner in which the city currently manages energy. On this basis, it is recommended that the city installs meters for all energy consuming built environment assets; abandons the practice of accounting for energy costs as part of overheads and adopt the practice of direct costs accounting; and implements measures to review relevant strategy documents at planned intervals in order to ensure their continuing suitability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Maubane, Lekgatla Donald
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Industries -- Energy conservation -- South Africa -- City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSBE
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49507 , vital:41727
- Description: The costs of operating buildings and facilities which the City of Tshwane utilises for conducting business have substantially increased due to the cost of electricity more than quadrupling in the past decade in South Africa, worsening the already constrained budgets. Research has shown that implementation of successful and sustainable energy management of built environment assets is effective in reducing costs due to resulting reduction in energy consumption and is therefore fitting to include it as an element of a financial efficiency strategy in organisations. This study aims to investigate how the City of Tshwane utilises energy management of its built environment assets to support financial efficiency and to make recommendations where necessary. Building on existing literature on energy management, it asks: How does the City of Tshwane utilise energy management of its built environment assets to support financial efficiency? In this context, energy management is defined as the continuous process of managing behavioural, organisational and technical change to improve an organisation’s energy performance. An instrument suitable for collecting qualitative data was constructed based on theories found in the reviewed literature. Interview participants were purposively sampled from departments which have direct influence on the energy management chain in the city. Relevant documents provided by the city were also reviewed to support triangulation of data. An analysis of data demonstrated that the city utilises energy management of its built environment assets to support financial efficiency. The results also indicated that there are several deficiencies in the manner in which the city currently manages energy. On this basis, it is recommended that the city installs meters for all energy consuming built environment assets; abandons the practice of accounting for energy costs as part of overheads and adopt the practice of direct costs accounting; and implements measures to review relevant strategy documents at planned intervals in order to ensure their continuing suitability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A housing affordability and tenure of choice quantum deliverable model in South Africa
- Authors: Kabundu, Emmanuel Kizito
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Housing -- Prices -- South Africa Housing -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49606 , vital:41740
- Description: The aim of this research was to develop a model that practically determines the tenure of choice and affordability of households in South Africa, which will thus help towards informed decision making by analysts and housing officials. Presently, there is no clear systematic means (except for simplistic ratios) of determining the degree of the effect of changes in the housing market (such as implemented policies) on the tenure of choice and affordability decisions of households. The research set out to improve upon the usage of ratios by basing its analysis on the theoretical underpinnings of both user costs of occupancy and an assumption of endogeneity between tenure of choice and affordability. The research used the general household survey data from Statistics South Africa for the analysis and validation. Generalized joint binary regression (on assumption of endogeneity between tenure of choice and affordability) was used as a check against the user costs of occupancy modelling. An independent market analysis carried out showed that South Africa has consistently faced increasing problems of acute housing shortages and housing affordability. Never the less, apart from subsidy programs, the option to promote renting, coupled with use of innovative building technologies showed promise of significantly alleviating these problems. More living space is especially more vital than ever, amid the current crisis of COVID-19 pademic. Statistical tests indicated strong evidence suggesting that the developed user costs of occupancy model (dynamic tenure model) is reliable at correctly recovering the tenure statuses of the households, with its recovery rates being better than those of the regression model. Both models provided useful unique, but different insights into the housing market and also correctly predicted the behavioural patterns of South African housing markets, such as significantly worsening affordability, and a market that is biased towards home ownership. The analysis also showed that affordability and tenure of choice were significantly affected by locational factors, household characteristics (such as race and age of household head), and most significantly, the age of the household head (which is a proxy to household income). The research successfully met its goal of model building but also recognized the need to merge these two models (dynamic tenure model and the regression model) into one model for more comprehensive housing related analysis. The research also recognized a need to fully operationalize the optimization, Monte Carlo and parallelization modules in order to improve the practical usefulness and effectiveness of the model. The significance of the study is that it it underpins the basis for proper tenure and affordability analysis, by assuming endogeneity between the two (2), and provides a modelling framework based on these criteria, that are useful for meaningful housing market analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Kabundu, Emmanuel Kizito
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Housing -- Prices -- South Africa Housing -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49606 , vital:41740
- Description: The aim of this research was to develop a model that practically determines the tenure of choice and affordability of households in South Africa, which will thus help towards informed decision making by analysts and housing officials. Presently, there is no clear systematic means (except for simplistic ratios) of determining the degree of the effect of changes in the housing market (such as implemented policies) on the tenure of choice and affordability decisions of households. The research set out to improve upon the usage of ratios by basing its analysis on the theoretical underpinnings of both user costs of occupancy and an assumption of endogeneity between tenure of choice and affordability. The research used the general household survey data from Statistics South Africa for the analysis and validation. Generalized joint binary regression (on assumption of endogeneity between tenure of choice and affordability) was used as a check against the user costs of occupancy modelling. An independent market analysis carried out showed that South Africa has consistently faced increasing problems of acute housing shortages and housing affordability. Never the less, apart from subsidy programs, the option to promote renting, coupled with use of innovative building technologies showed promise of significantly alleviating these problems. More living space is especially more vital than ever, amid the current crisis of COVID-19 pademic. Statistical tests indicated strong evidence suggesting that the developed user costs of occupancy model (dynamic tenure model) is reliable at correctly recovering the tenure statuses of the households, with its recovery rates being better than those of the regression model. Both models provided useful unique, but different insights into the housing market and also correctly predicted the behavioural patterns of South African housing markets, such as significantly worsening affordability, and a market that is biased towards home ownership. The analysis also showed that affordability and tenure of choice were significantly affected by locational factors, household characteristics (such as race and age of household head), and most significantly, the age of the household head (which is a proxy to household income). The research successfully met its goal of model building but also recognized the need to merge these two models (dynamic tenure model and the regression model) into one model for more comprehensive housing related analysis. The research also recognized a need to fully operationalize the optimization, Monte Carlo and parallelization modules in order to improve the practical usefulness and effectiveness of the model. The significance of the study is that it it underpins the basis for proper tenure and affordability analysis, by assuming endogeneity between the two (2), and provides a modelling framework based on these criteria, that are useful for meaningful housing market analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Development framework in the Mdantsane central business district
- Authors: Zenani, Pumzile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Central business district -- South Africa -- East London , City planning -- South Africa -- East London Public utilities -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47292 , vital:39840
- Description: The study sought to investigate a development performance and management of Mdantsane CBD. The performance measurement framework may enhance the chances of economic success in the CBD. The study was conducted by means of a review of related literature and by conducting an empirical study. The empirical study was conducted using a quantitative approach by distributing research questionnaires to members falling within the sample population. The primary objective of the study was to develop a framework for perceived enhanced development for the Mdantsane CBD. A descriptive survey was conducted among the population within Mdantsane Township. The framework includes strategic factors of planning during apartheid era, reviewed strategic planning during democratic era and it provides an understanding of the current spatial and physical characteristics of the study area. Key issues such as spatial planning, infrastructure, environment, health, safety, economics and management of the CBD were also identified. Findings were based on the survey’s results from the community members. Findings suggest that the following variables: strategic factors (democratic); spatial development framework and infrastructure implementation; budget alignment; PESTEL factors (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Ecological and Legal); environmental health and safety, transport and transport engineering, project management (body of knowledge) and the National Development Plan positively influenced the perceived enhanced development of Mdantsane CBD. All these variables were identified in the empirical framework affecting the perceived enhanced development of Mdantsane CBD. This study may contribute to the South African spatial and development planning body of knowledge by addressing factors which are faced by planners in development of the settlements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Zenani, Pumzile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Central business district -- South Africa -- East London , City planning -- South Africa -- East London Public utilities -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47292 , vital:39840
- Description: The study sought to investigate a development performance and management of Mdantsane CBD. The performance measurement framework may enhance the chances of economic success in the CBD. The study was conducted by means of a review of related literature and by conducting an empirical study. The empirical study was conducted using a quantitative approach by distributing research questionnaires to members falling within the sample population. The primary objective of the study was to develop a framework for perceived enhanced development for the Mdantsane CBD. A descriptive survey was conducted among the population within Mdantsane Township. The framework includes strategic factors of planning during apartheid era, reviewed strategic planning during democratic era and it provides an understanding of the current spatial and physical characteristics of the study area. Key issues such as spatial planning, infrastructure, environment, health, safety, economics and management of the CBD were also identified. Findings were based on the survey’s results from the community members. Findings suggest that the following variables: strategic factors (democratic); spatial development framework and infrastructure implementation; budget alignment; PESTEL factors (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Ecological and Legal); environmental health and safety, transport and transport engineering, project management (body of knowledge) and the National Development Plan positively influenced the perceived enhanced development of Mdantsane CBD. All these variables were identified in the empirical framework affecting the perceived enhanced development of Mdantsane CBD. This study may contribute to the South African spatial and development planning body of knowledge by addressing factors which are faced by planners in development of the settlements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Construction material logistics management: the case of north-central Nigeria
- Authors: Alumbugu, Polycarp Olaku
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction projects-- Nigeria --Management Construction projects --Management Logistics-- Nigeria -- Management , Construction industry -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44879 , vital:38179
- Description: The Management of Construction Material Logistics Systems plays a significant role in meeting the goals of cost, quality and time to completion of a construction project. Studies have revealed that the cost of construction materials is usually about 50%-60% of the total cost of the project and that the logistic cost accounts for between 17%-35% of the cost material. Fundamentally, it is accepted that any inefficiency in the delivery of construction material could lead to a time overrun and thus, a rise in construction costs addressing the operational performance of logistics would have a positive impact on the goals of a construction project. The aim of this study was to investigate and evaluate the operational performance of material logistics in North-Central Nigeria as there is little specific research conducted on its effectiveness and efficiency. The methodology used included an extensive literature review and a field study conducted on ten quantitative approach that is rooted in the positivist paradigm, and purposive sampling techniques, was adopted. The descriptive method of data analysis was employed, and the findings and interpretations presented through graphs and images. Analysis of the findings led to the conclusion that material logistics did not operate as a system. There was almost no collaboration and integration of the logistics systems to create a synergistic interrelationship between functions in pursuit of higher overall effectiveness and efficiency. Improvement was needed in warehouse and transport operations and processes; technology and automation of logistics operations were absent, and delivery of material to customers was not effective. The implication was that the current materials logistics system did not meet the delivery goals of cost, quality and time of a construction project. The recommendations suggested included the adoption of the framework developed in this study. This would serve as a guide towards effective and efficient logistics management for material manufacturing firms, and for construction professionals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Alumbugu, Polycarp Olaku
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction projects-- Nigeria --Management Construction projects --Management Logistics-- Nigeria -- Management , Construction industry -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44879 , vital:38179
- Description: The Management of Construction Material Logistics Systems plays a significant role in meeting the goals of cost, quality and time to completion of a construction project. Studies have revealed that the cost of construction materials is usually about 50%-60% of the total cost of the project and that the logistic cost accounts for between 17%-35% of the cost material. Fundamentally, it is accepted that any inefficiency in the delivery of construction material could lead to a time overrun and thus, a rise in construction costs addressing the operational performance of logistics would have a positive impact on the goals of a construction project. The aim of this study was to investigate and evaluate the operational performance of material logistics in North-Central Nigeria as there is little specific research conducted on its effectiveness and efficiency. The methodology used included an extensive literature review and a field study conducted on ten quantitative approach that is rooted in the positivist paradigm, and purposive sampling techniques, was adopted. The descriptive method of data analysis was employed, and the findings and interpretations presented through graphs and images. Analysis of the findings led to the conclusion that material logistics did not operate as a system. There was almost no collaboration and integration of the logistics systems to create a synergistic interrelationship between functions in pursuit of higher overall effectiveness and efficiency. Improvement was needed in warehouse and transport operations and processes; technology and automation of logistics operations were absent, and delivery of material to customers was not effective. The implication was that the current materials logistics system did not meet the delivery goals of cost, quality and time of a construction project. The recommendations suggested included the adoption of the framework developed in this study. This would serve as a guide towards effective and efficient logistics management for material manufacturing firms, and for construction professionals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Process heat flow model for temperature and hardness prediction during friction taper stud welding of AISI 4140
- Van Zyl, Carlo Angelo Antonio
- Authors: Van Zyl, Carlo Angelo Antonio
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Friction welding Pressure welding
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47780 , vital:40373
- Description: Friction Taper Stud Welding (FTSW) is a relatively new solid state welding process, developed from the concepts of friction welding, which theoretically operates below the melting temperatures of the material being welded. During friction welding, heat is generated by conversion of mechanical energy into thermal energy at the interface of the work pieces, during rotation under pressure. Quality welds are dependant on the correct selection of welding process parameters, which are currently chosen empirically, and the FTSW evaluated by mechanical testing. This method is time consuming, uneconomical and could cause that optimised conditions are overlooked. A proposed solution would be to numerically model the process, but reference to successful computational modelling of the FTSW process is currently not available and data regarding the responses during the process are limited. The ultimate aim of the present study is to develop a finite element model to simulate the FTSW process using AISI 4140 medium carbon low alloy steel, delivering temperature profiles and hardness predictions through the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) – using a combined experimental and numerical study. To achieve the objectives of this study a systematic approach was adopted and conducted in several phases. A weld matrix was configured with ranging weld input parameters to determine the affect of weld input parameters on real-time responses. To provide a relationship between these factors, welding was conducted using a portable friction taper stud welding platform linked to a control and data logging system for measuring the real time axial forces, spindle speed, material displacement, torque and temperature responses as a function of time. The input process parameters applied being motor speed, axial forces, displacement and forging time. The temperature distribution through the weld, by direct measurement, as a function of weld time and position is investigated. During the experimental welds temperature responses, as influenced by welding parameters, were recorded using embedded N-Type thermocouples at various locations in the near vicinity of the weld interface. The main hot spots during welding were identified to be close to the top surface just before weld completion and at the bottom centre surface of the plug weld at the interface line. All the welds showed similar trends and a maximum temperature of 1078°C at the bottom of the weld was reached for a rotational tool speed of 5160rpm, axial friction force of 15kN and displacement of 6.5mm, due to the heat generated by friction between the tool and weld coupon. The weld torque increase rapidly at the start of the weld and reached a peak value shortly after the start of the weld, while a peak temperature of 1366°C, for a rotational tool speed of 5160rpm, axial friction force of 10kN and displacement of 8mm was reached at the top edge of the plug weld. This position of anticipated peak temperature value is due to the heat transferred during the FTSW process together with the accumulation of expelled material forming on the surface of the weld coupon. Statistical methods were applied to obtain knowledge of the trends and relationship between weld input parameters for various weld responses, including energy input, temperature, friction time, torque and displacement rate. Although it was shown that no single parameter solely controls the temperature gradients in the weld, the dominant influence of the rotational speed at the bottom of the weld and that of the displacement, at the top of the weld, were evident. The peak temperatures during the weld are of interest as these temperatures, together with the subsequent cooling rates, determine the Vickers hardness, of the material, through the weld. Spindle speed was found to have the dominant effect on temperature in the bottom half of the weld with displacement having a contributive effect closer to the top of the weld. Friction force dominate the effect on friction time, displacement rate and total energy input with friction force and spindle speed having an equal effect on torque. The multiple regression analysis resulted in valid models with varied, but acceptable accuracy with the equation for friction time resulting in an R predict value of 93.34%. These models provided a clear insight to the influence of weld input parameters on the weld responses and the model for friction time was used as an input parameter to the FTS welding simulation. The accurate prediction of the interface temperature is fundamental for process optimisation which will allow for producing consistent, reliable plug welds. A fully coupled transient two-dimensional axi-symmetrical analysis of heat flow during the FTSW process of AISI 4140 steel and subsequent Vickers hardness profiles through the HAZ, making use of numeric simulation applied in the commercially available FEA software, COMSOL Multiphysics®, is developed and reported on. Process optimisation hinges on a better understanding of the heat distribution during welding, making a major contribution to the resultant hardness. The thermal-plastic flow coupling of the model is such that temperature values are resolved together with that of the velocity field. The simulation utilises a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) two phase laminar flow and Heat Transfer physics, applied in an Eulerian mesh-based scheme. The viscosity of the fluid is based on a constitutive law of the flow stress using the Zener-Hollomon parameter with a flow model based on the Navier-Stokes’ equations to simulate the plastic deformation. Temperature dependant thermo-physical material properties and coefficient of friction are applied, and the application of viscous heating is controlled by a material state variable. The heat source model, required for material softening, is applied as two components, frictional and shear, with the heat source moving along the z-axis delivering sufficient energy to soften the metal, causing flow. The Navier-Stokes approach is applied with solid-state material transport during the weld based on laminar, viscous flow of a non-Newtonian fluid, dependant on temperature and strain rate. Numerically calculated values for temperature profiles and peak temperatures through to the weld as well as subsequent Vickers hardness profiles at points through the HAZ, obtained from the Finite Element model, were found to be in close agreement with values from trial welds. The largest variance was 19% for the peak temperature of weld E4W2, applying an axial friction force of 7.5kN, 6.5mm displacement and a tool rotational speed of 4080rpm – resulting in a friction time of 330 seconds. Predictions of hardness are found to be between 0% and 19% (mean 3%) of experimentally determined values with the biggest variance at the positions of peak temperatures due to the friction interfaces. The heat applied as a result of plastic deformation was found to be 5.4% of the total heat. The FTSW model predicts the temperatures at the friction interface, during the welding process, to be within the range, and frequently exceeding the solidus temperature of AISI 4140 steel. Results show that the models applied in the FTSW simulation show good agreement when compared to experimental values. The main contribution of this thesis, towards knowledge of the FTSW process, is: The relationships between weld input parameters and responses; Temperature dependant models of thermo-physical properties for AISI 4140 in the high temperature region (ranging from ambient to the solidus temperature); Successful application of the Navier-Stokes approach to simulate the plastic flow during FTSW and A numerical finite element model for the prediction of temperature gradients and hardness profiles through a FTSW.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Van Zyl, Carlo Angelo Antonio
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Friction welding Pressure welding
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47780 , vital:40373
- Description: Friction Taper Stud Welding (FTSW) is a relatively new solid state welding process, developed from the concepts of friction welding, which theoretically operates below the melting temperatures of the material being welded. During friction welding, heat is generated by conversion of mechanical energy into thermal energy at the interface of the work pieces, during rotation under pressure. Quality welds are dependant on the correct selection of welding process parameters, which are currently chosen empirically, and the FTSW evaluated by mechanical testing. This method is time consuming, uneconomical and could cause that optimised conditions are overlooked. A proposed solution would be to numerically model the process, but reference to successful computational modelling of the FTSW process is currently not available and data regarding the responses during the process are limited. The ultimate aim of the present study is to develop a finite element model to simulate the FTSW process using AISI 4140 medium carbon low alloy steel, delivering temperature profiles and hardness predictions through the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) – using a combined experimental and numerical study. To achieve the objectives of this study a systematic approach was adopted and conducted in several phases. A weld matrix was configured with ranging weld input parameters to determine the affect of weld input parameters on real-time responses. To provide a relationship between these factors, welding was conducted using a portable friction taper stud welding platform linked to a control and data logging system for measuring the real time axial forces, spindle speed, material displacement, torque and temperature responses as a function of time. The input process parameters applied being motor speed, axial forces, displacement and forging time. The temperature distribution through the weld, by direct measurement, as a function of weld time and position is investigated. During the experimental welds temperature responses, as influenced by welding parameters, were recorded using embedded N-Type thermocouples at various locations in the near vicinity of the weld interface. The main hot spots during welding were identified to be close to the top surface just before weld completion and at the bottom centre surface of the plug weld at the interface line. All the welds showed similar trends and a maximum temperature of 1078°C at the bottom of the weld was reached for a rotational tool speed of 5160rpm, axial friction force of 15kN and displacement of 6.5mm, due to the heat generated by friction between the tool and weld coupon. The weld torque increase rapidly at the start of the weld and reached a peak value shortly after the start of the weld, while a peak temperature of 1366°C, for a rotational tool speed of 5160rpm, axial friction force of 10kN and displacement of 8mm was reached at the top edge of the plug weld. This position of anticipated peak temperature value is due to the heat transferred during the FTSW process together with the accumulation of expelled material forming on the surface of the weld coupon. Statistical methods were applied to obtain knowledge of the trends and relationship between weld input parameters for various weld responses, including energy input, temperature, friction time, torque and displacement rate. Although it was shown that no single parameter solely controls the temperature gradients in the weld, the dominant influence of the rotational speed at the bottom of the weld and that of the displacement, at the top of the weld, were evident. The peak temperatures during the weld are of interest as these temperatures, together with the subsequent cooling rates, determine the Vickers hardness, of the material, through the weld. Spindle speed was found to have the dominant effect on temperature in the bottom half of the weld with displacement having a contributive effect closer to the top of the weld. Friction force dominate the effect on friction time, displacement rate and total energy input with friction force and spindle speed having an equal effect on torque. The multiple regression analysis resulted in valid models with varied, but acceptable accuracy with the equation for friction time resulting in an R predict value of 93.34%. These models provided a clear insight to the influence of weld input parameters on the weld responses and the model for friction time was used as an input parameter to the FTS welding simulation. The accurate prediction of the interface temperature is fundamental for process optimisation which will allow for producing consistent, reliable plug welds. A fully coupled transient two-dimensional axi-symmetrical analysis of heat flow during the FTSW process of AISI 4140 steel and subsequent Vickers hardness profiles through the HAZ, making use of numeric simulation applied in the commercially available FEA software, COMSOL Multiphysics®, is developed and reported on. Process optimisation hinges on a better understanding of the heat distribution during welding, making a major contribution to the resultant hardness. The thermal-plastic flow coupling of the model is such that temperature values are resolved together with that of the velocity field. The simulation utilises a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) two phase laminar flow and Heat Transfer physics, applied in an Eulerian mesh-based scheme. The viscosity of the fluid is based on a constitutive law of the flow stress using the Zener-Hollomon parameter with a flow model based on the Navier-Stokes’ equations to simulate the plastic deformation. Temperature dependant thermo-physical material properties and coefficient of friction are applied, and the application of viscous heating is controlled by a material state variable. The heat source model, required for material softening, is applied as two components, frictional and shear, with the heat source moving along the z-axis delivering sufficient energy to soften the metal, causing flow. The Navier-Stokes approach is applied with solid-state material transport during the weld based on laminar, viscous flow of a non-Newtonian fluid, dependant on temperature and strain rate. Numerically calculated values for temperature profiles and peak temperatures through to the weld as well as subsequent Vickers hardness profiles at points through the HAZ, obtained from the Finite Element model, were found to be in close agreement with values from trial welds. The largest variance was 19% for the peak temperature of weld E4W2, applying an axial friction force of 7.5kN, 6.5mm displacement and a tool rotational speed of 4080rpm – resulting in a friction time of 330 seconds. Predictions of hardness are found to be between 0% and 19% (mean 3%) of experimentally determined values with the biggest variance at the positions of peak temperatures due to the friction interfaces. The heat applied as a result of plastic deformation was found to be 5.4% of the total heat. The FTSW model predicts the temperatures at the friction interface, during the welding process, to be within the range, and frequently exceeding the solidus temperature of AISI 4140 steel. Results show that the models applied in the FTSW simulation show good agreement when compared to experimental values. The main contribution of this thesis, towards knowledge of the FTSW process, is: The relationships between weld input parameters and responses; Temperature dependant models of thermo-physical properties for AISI 4140 in the high temperature region (ranging from ambient to the solidus temperature); Successful application of the Navier-Stokes approach to simulate the plastic flow during FTSW and A numerical finite element model for the prediction of temperature gradients and hardness profiles through a FTSW.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Corruption elimination within the public infrastructure sector in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mvandaba, Nosicelo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Business logistics , Government purchasing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Management -- Procurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46794 , vital:39662
- Description: The study aimed to reveal the existence of corruption within the public sector and to propose strategies to eliminate it within the supply chain management procurement processes and infrastructure within the public sector in the Province of the Eastern Cape. The study employed a mixed method of quantitative and qualitative data analysis. For the quantitative approach, a series of structured questionnaires were issued to employees within the public sector, many of whom are involved in the procurement process. The officials were asked to rate the views on the importance of the Batho Pele principles in the public sector, risks that may result to the project failure in the public infrastructure sector and the most prevalent causes of corruption For the qualitative method of the study, interviews were conducted for both civil servants and non-public servants who have been involved in procurement processes and coordinating projects. Also, the investigation units were interviewed to determine their views on corruption in the public sector. In addition, the study involved 92 officials within the Eastern Cape Province, and eight interviews were carried out. Initially, 101 public officials were to participate in the study. According to the information that was gathered qualitatively and quantitatively, the most effective methods of eradicating corruption within the procurement department of the public sector are the following: transparency in rules and policies, strengthening of internal audit, management of domestic politics, the emphasis of government focus on preventative rather than curative methods of eliminating corruption, strengthening of consequence management and introduction of anti-corruption committees. Giving monopolistic powers to one person was seen as a gateway to fraud. The research was limited to the views of the officials who are involved in procurement processes in the Province. Not only does the study uncover the possible causes of corruption and its level in the public service but offers constructive recommendations to eliminate it with the hope that economic development will be fostered and the infrastructural climate of the Eastern Cape enhanced.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mvandaba, Nosicelo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Business logistics , Government purchasing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Management -- Procurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46794 , vital:39662
- Description: The study aimed to reveal the existence of corruption within the public sector and to propose strategies to eliminate it within the supply chain management procurement processes and infrastructure within the public sector in the Province of the Eastern Cape. The study employed a mixed method of quantitative and qualitative data analysis. For the quantitative approach, a series of structured questionnaires were issued to employees within the public sector, many of whom are involved in the procurement process. The officials were asked to rate the views on the importance of the Batho Pele principles in the public sector, risks that may result to the project failure in the public infrastructure sector and the most prevalent causes of corruption For the qualitative method of the study, interviews were conducted for both civil servants and non-public servants who have been involved in procurement processes and coordinating projects. Also, the investigation units were interviewed to determine their views on corruption in the public sector. In addition, the study involved 92 officials within the Eastern Cape Province, and eight interviews were carried out. Initially, 101 public officials were to participate in the study. According to the information that was gathered qualitatively and quantitatively, the most effective methods of eradicating corruption within the procurement department of the public sector are the following: transparency in rules and policies, strengthening of internal audit, management of domestic politics, the emphasis of government focus on preventative rather than curative methods of eliminating corruption, strengthening of consequence management and introduction of anti-corruption committees. Giving monopolistic powers to one person was seen as a gateway to fraud. The research was limited to the views of the officials who are involved in procurement processes in the Province. Not only does the study uncover the possible causes of corruption and its level in the public service but offers constructive recommendations to eliminate it with the hope that economic development will be fostered and the infrastructural climate of the Eastern Cape enhanced.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020