A comparative analysis of factors affecting the purchasing decisions of cleaning rag buyers in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Shearer, David Charcles
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Purchasing -- Decision making , Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8898 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020928
- Description: The objectives of this research project were to identify and compare factors that influence the purchasing decisions of Multifibres’ customers active in each channel. Multifibres manufactures and distributes industrial cleaning rags to three channels or client categories, these being industrial resellers, industrial end-users and the walk-in customers. An extensive literature review revealed that purchasing decisions are influenced by, amongst other factors, the buyer’s role, the internal cognitive processes of the buyer, as well as factors present in the buyer’s business and external environment. An empirical study was conducted utilising in-depth interviews. The most prevalent, emergent themes that buyers attached the greatest weight to when purchasing cleaning rags were: price; quality; service; relationships; and, convenience. These factors were probed, analysed and compared, based on each buyer category’s unique set of characteristics. When motivating their purchasing preferences, resellers emphasised the importance of the business relationship and trust as being paramount, while end-users viewed price and service as the most important factors. Walk-in customers valued the combination of price and convenience as the most important reasons influencing their purchasing decisions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Shearer, David Charcles
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Purchasing -- Decision making , Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8898 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020928
- Description: The objectives of this research project were to identify and compare factors that influence the purchasing decisions of Multifibres’ customers active in each channel. Multifibres manufactures and distributes industrial cleaning rags to three channels or client categories, these being industrial resellers, industrial end-users and the walk-in customers. An extensive literature review revealed that purchasing decisions are influenced by, amongst other factors, the buyer’s role, the internal cognitive processes of the buyer, as well as factors present in the buyer’s business and external environment. An empirical study was conducted utilising in-depth interviews. The most prevalent, emergent themes that buyers attached the greatest weight to when purchasing cleaning rags were: price; quality; service; relationships; and, convenience. These factors were probed, analysed and compared, based on each buyer category’s unique set of characteristics. When motivating their purchasing preferences, resellers emphasised the importance of the business relationship and trust as being paramount, while end-users viewed price and service as the most important factors. Walk-in customers valued the combination of price and convenience as the most important reasons influencing their purchasing decisions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Diagnosing organizational effectiveness in the tourism sector of Zanzibar
- Authors: Raja, Sanjay Kanji
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness -- Zanzibar Management by objectives -- Zanzibar Tourism -- Zanzibar Tourism -- Management -- Zanzibar Job satisfaction -- Zanzibar Employee motivation -- Zanzibar
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:780 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003901
- Description: The tourism sector in Zanzibar Tanzania has emerged strongly in the past 15 years, helping the development of other Industries that support it. As a result, Industries such as telecommunication, IT, transport and hospitality have also emerged recently. It is, however, speculated that organizations in the tourism sector in Zanzibar generally lack the effective performance that is required of them to compete in the contemporary complex and turbulent market environment. This research thus set out to explore and diagnose the organizational effectiveness of the accommodation units of the tourism sector in Zanzibar. The research had specific objectives of diagnosing and finding the gap between the current and the optimal organizational performance in two particular units of accommodation as well as determining the factors affecting organizational performance in these units. The study furthermore set out to recommend implementation of suitable intervention activities to improve organizational performance in the units analyzed. In order to achieve the above objectives the research deployed an action research strategy with the Weisbord’s six box model as a framework to diagnose two five star grade accommodation units in Zanzibar. A qualitative method was used to collect data. Key findings of the research are briefly presented below: - The service output of the accommodation units analyzed was not very consistent and fell short of the expectation of their customers. This showed a gap in terms of the organizations’ performance. - Factors affecting organizational effectiveness were found to be mainly in the Purpose and Rewards functions of the organizations. - The specific areas in the Purpose function that appeared to have substantial problems were: -- Goals of the organization were not clearly stated -- Employees did not understand the purpose of the organization -- Employees were not involved in deciding their work unit goals -- Employees were not in agreement with the goals of their work units. -- Employees did not understand priorities of the organization The specific areas in the Reward function that appeared to have substantial problems were: -- The pay scale and benefits of the organization did not treat employees equitably. -- Employees felt that the salary they received was not commensurate with the jobs they performed. -- Not all tasks to be accomplished were associated with incentives. Following the diagnostics findings above, the research suggested the following intervention activities that could possibly help to address the above mentioned problems: - A Management by Objectives (MBO) process was suggested to redress the problems indicated in the Purpose function. This would help to set clearly agreed goals at all levels of the organizations. Employees and resources would then be directed towards achieving these goals that would enable the organizations to perform more effectively. - Revision of the current reward system was suggested to redress the problems indicated in the Reward function. The reward system should be implemented in a manner that creates a feeling of both internal as well as external (market) equity among employees. Furthermore, rewards should be linked to performance in order to direct behaviour and motivation among employees. The performance based reward system can also help to achieve the MBO process proposed above since rewards will be designated for achievement of individual, departmental and finally organizational objectives, thus increasing organizational effectiveness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Raja, Sanjay Kanji
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness -- Zanzibar Management by objectives -- Zanzibar Tourism -- Zanzibar Tourism -- Management -- Zanzibar Job satisfaction -- Zanzibar Employee motivation -- Zanzibar
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:780 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003901
- Description: The tourism sector in Zanzibar Tanzania has emerged strongly in the past 15 years, helping the development of other Industries that support it. As a result, Industries such as telecommunication, IT, transport and hospitality have also emerged recently. It is, however, speculated that organizations in the tourism sector in Zanzibar generally lack the effective performance that is required of them to compete in the contemporary complex and turbulent market environment. This research thus set out to explore and diagnose the organizational effectiveness of the accommodation units of the tourism sector in Zanzibar. The research had specific objectives of diagnosing and finding the gap between the current and the optimal organizational performance in two particular units of accommodation as well as determining the factors affecting organizational performance in these units. The study furthermore set out to recommend implementation of suitable intervention activities to improve organizational performance in the units analyzed. In order to achieve the above objectives the research deployed an action research strategy with the Weisbord’s six box model as a framework to diagnose two five star grade accommodation units in Zanzibar. A qualitative method was used to collect data. Key findings of the research are briefly presented below: - The service output of the accommodation units analyzed was not very consistent and fell short of the expectation of their customers. This showed a gap in terms of the organizations’ performance. - Factors affecting organizational effectiveness were found to be mainly in the Purpose and Rewards functions of the organizations. - The specific areas in the Purpose function that appeared to have substantial problems were: -- Goals of the organization were not clearly stated -- Employees did not understand the purpose of the organization -- Employees were not involved in deciding their work unit goals -- Employees were not in agreement with the goals of their work units. -- Employees did not understand priorities of the organization The specific areas in the Reward function that appeared to have substantial problems were: -- The pay scale and benefits of the organization did not treat employees equitably. -- Employees felt that the salary they received was not commensurate with the jobs they performed. -- Not all tasks to be accomplished were associated with incentives. Following the diagnostics findings above, the research suggested the following intervention activities that could possibly help to address the above mentioned problems: - A Management by Objectives (MBO) process was suggested to redress the problems indicated in the Purpose function. This would help to set clearly agreed goals at all levels of the organizations. Employees and resources would then be directed towards achieving these goals that would enable the organizations to perform more effectively. - Revision of the current reward system was suggested to redress the problems indicated in the Reward function. The reward system should be implemented in a manner that creates a feeling of both internal as well as external (market) equity among employees. Furthermore, rewards should be linked to performance in order to direct behaviour and motivation among employees. The performance based reward system can also help to achieve the MBO process proposed above since rewards will be designated for achievement of individual, departmental and finally organizational objectives, thus increasing organizational effectiveness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Barriers faced by SMMEs in accessing finance
- Authors: Caga, Siyabonga Macpherson
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- Finance , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8784 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013348
- Description: SMMEs have been cited as major players in economic development in South Africa and in other developing countries. In South Africa SMMEs contribute more than 52 percent towards the GDP. Subsequently, the South African government has taken various steps to encourage their growth and to improve access to finance for SMMEs. Despite this, securing finance remains a challenge in this group of enterprises. Since SMMEs have unique financial needs, commercial banks and other funders are faced with difficulties in catering for them. Banks in particular have been reluctant in financing these high-risk ventures. SMME owners as a result still prefer informal sources of finance such as personal savings, retained earnings or friends or family rather than bank loans. The study purpose was to examine the barriers that are faced by SMMEs in accessing finance. To do this a survey was conducted on 40 SMMEs operating in the manufacturing sector in Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. The research findings indicated various barriers that are faced by SMMEs in accessing finance. Dominating among the barriers are those that are related to perceived risks of SMMEs by funders, including lack of collateral or business assets, lack of financial statements, excessive red tape by funders, administrative burden associated with applications as well as unfair evaluation of risks and profitability of SMMEs by funders. Other factors that were identified as barriers were those that are associated with poor business plan development, poor business training and development and source of funding. The majority of the respondents recommended that there must be better risk and profitability evaluation, easy loan repayment methods, more government support for SMMEs, flexible eligibility criteria for SMME loans and proper loan amount allocations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Caga, Siyabonga Macpherson
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- Finance , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8784 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013348
- Description: SMMEs have been cited as major players in economic development in South Africa and in other developing countries. In South Africa SMMEs contribute more than 52 percent towards the GDP. Subsequently, the South African government has taken various steps to encourage their growth and to improve access to finance for SMMEs. Despite this, securing finance remains a challenge in this group of enterprises. Since SMMEs have unique financial needs, commercial banks and other funders are faced with difficulties in catering for them. Banks in particular have been reluctant in financing these high-risk ventures. SMME owners as a result still prefer informal sources of finance such as personal savings, retained earnings or friends or family rather than bank loans. The study purpose was to examine the barriers that are faced by SMMEs in accessing finance. To do this a survey was conducted on 40 SMMEs operating in the manufacturing sector in Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. The research findings indicated various barriers that are faced by SMMEs in accessing finance. Dominating among the barriers are those that are related to perceived risks of SMMEs by funders, including lack of collateral or business assets, lack of financial statements, excessive red tape by funders, administrative burden associated with applications as well as unfair evaluation of risks and profitability of SMMEs by funders. Other factors that were identified as barriers were those that are associated with poor business plan development, poor business training and development and source of funding. The majority of the respondents recommended that there must be better risk and profitability evaluation, easy loan repayment methods, more government support for SMMEs, flexible eligibility criteria for SMME loans and proper loan amount allocations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Can project managers do it alone?: the role of total project leadership on project success
- Authors: Mangqalaza, Qaqambile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Project managers , Project management , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8802 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1017029
- Description: The primary objective of the study was to establish the role that is played by team member leadership and strategic leadership, in complementing project manager competencies, on project success. Ultimately, the study is meant to assist project organizations and project managers in crafting leadership development programmes and plans that entrench leadership as a complementary aspect among project participators. The study is modelled on the concept that there are essentially three levels of leadership in projects, namely: (a) executive, (b) management and (c) operational level (DuBrin, 2010). There is therefore a complementary leadership relationship between company executives, project managers and team members that contribute to project success. Most current project leadership practices emphasize the project manager’s competencies as the key driving force in project success. Howell and Shamir (2005) assert that many writers in leadership agree that leadership is an interdependent relationship between the leader and the follower, yet leadership theories are too “leader-centric”. Beyer (1999) and Yukl (1998) in Howell and Shamir (2005) also criticized charismatic leadership theories as promoting stereotypes of “heroic leadership” that single-handedly determine the fate of the groups and organizations and that followers are a submissive lot to the leader’s will and demands. The literature study revealed that there are different perspectives on project success. Project managers and team members mostly focus on operational objectives of cost, time and quality requirements to the detriment of the business results, yet top management focus on business results. Further the literature showed that certain leadership theories only recognise the project manager for leadership on projects while others accept that followers themselves are leaders and that formal leadership is becoming irrelevant. Leadership is meant to be distributed to various role players in the team since it is a complementary construct. The empirical study consisted of a structured questionnaire distributed to a population of company executives, project managers and project team members in various project organizations predominantly in the Eastern Cape. The structured questionnaire was aimed at gathering views on the aspects of project success and project leadership, especially the role played by the strategic leadership and team member leadership as active participants that complement the project manager in achieving project success. The results of the empirical study revealed that: Project success straddled both the notion of meeting time, cost and quality requirements as well as achieving strategic business results. Leadership is a relationship between the leader and the led and that it must be dispersed to various participators in the team. Top management (executives) play a valuable role in linking projects to strategy and ensuring an aligned selection of projects. Team members play an active role in leadership, empowering the project leader and influencing his or her behaviour and consequently determining the results of the leadership relationship. Recommendations are presented for increasing project success through total leadership. These recommendations include that: Management in project organisations should expand the definition and understanding of project success at all levels. Executive management in project organisations should always view projects as strategic weapons to compete in the market place. The strategic imperatives of projects and project selection are not a once-off exercise but further taken to implementation at project level through strategy implementation and monitoring. Team members should be recognised as active participators in project leadership relationship. It is an obsolete idea to assume that as a result of the project manager having good leadership qualities and competencies that the team members will automatically follow.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mangqalaza, Qaqambile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Project managers , Project management , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8802 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1017029
- Description: The primary objective of the study was to establish the role that is played by team member leadership and strategic leadership, in complementing project manager competencies, on project success. Ultimately, the study is meant to assist project organizations and project managers in crafting leadership development programmes and plans that entrench leadership as a complementary aspect among project participators. The study is modelled on the concept that there are essentially three levels of leadership in projects, namely: (a) executive, (b) management and (c) operational level (DuBrin, 2010). There is therefore a complementary leadership relationship between company executives, project managers and team members that contribute to project success. Most current project leadership practices emphasize the project manager’s competencies as the key driving force in project success. Howell and Shamir (2005) assert that many writers in leadership agree that leadership is an interdependent relationship between the leader and the follower, yet leadership theories are too “leader-centric”. Beyer (1999) and Yukl (1998) in Howell and Shamir (2005) also criticized charismatic leadership theories as promoting stereotypes of “heroic leadership” that single-handedly determine the fate of the groups and organizations and that followers are a submissive lot to the leader’s will and demands. The literature study revealed that there are different perspectives on project success. Project managers and team members mostly focus on operational objectives of cost, time and quality requirements to the detriment of the business results, yet top management focus on business results. Further the literature showed that certain leadership theories only recognise the project manager for leadership on projects while others accept that followers themselves are leaders and that formal leadership is becoming irrelevant. Leadership is meant to be distributed to various role players in the team since it is a complementary construct. The empirical study consisted of a structured questionnaire distributed to a population of company executives, project managers and project team members in various project organizations predominantly in the Eastern Cape. The structured questionnaire was aimed at gathering views on the aspects of project success and project leadership, especially the role played by the strategic leadership and team member leadership as active participants that complement the project manager in achieving project success. The results of the empirical study revealed that: Project success straddled both the notion of meeting time, cost and quality requirements as well as achieving strategic business results. Leadership is a relationship between the leader and the led and that it must be dispersed to various participators in the team. Top management (executives) play a valuable role in linking projects to strategy and ensuring an aligned selection of projects. Team members play an active role in leadership, empowering the project leader and influencing his or her behaviour and consequently determining the results of the leadership relationship. Recommendations are presented for increasing project success through total leadership. These recommendations include that: Management in project organisations should expand the definition and understanding of project success at all levels. Executive management in project organisations should always view projects as strategic weapons to compete in the market place. The strategic imperatives of projects and project selection are not a once-off exercise but further taken to implementation at project level through strategy implementation and monitoring. Team members should be recognised as active participators in project leadership relationship. It is an obsolete idea to assume that as a result of the project manager having good leadership qualities and competencies that the team members will automatically follow.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The influence of copreneurial relationships on the restaurant industry : a study in the Nelson Mandela Metropole
- Von Hoffman, Ethen Langeford
- Authors: Von Hoffman, Ethen Langeford
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Couple-owned business enterprises -- Management , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8839 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020003
- Description: Entrepreneurship plays an important role in the South African economy, especially in light of the recent global recession. For family businesses, namely copreneurs in the restaurant industry, to be afforded a better opportunity to perform better and be viable and sustainable, a deeper understanding and insight into their dynamics is required. Researching and implementing strategies or recommendations to improve the influence of copreneurial relationships in the restaurant industry is fundamentally important to the growth and sustainability of restaurants in the hospitality industry, in the Nelson Mandela Metropole (NMM). However, no known studies have been performed in this area of copreneurship. This study sought to present exploratory research in the rapidly expanding and critically important sector family business, namely copreneurships specifically in the restaurant industry in the NMM, in South Africa. The primary research objective of this study is to gain a deeper understanding and insight into the influence of copreneurial relationships in the restaurant industry in the NMM. A phenomenological, or qualitative, research paradigm, through the use of focused one-on-one interviews, was employed to probe and analyse relational factors of copreneurial relationships. A qualifying questionnaire was constructed to determine the most effective sample for the study followed by an extensive questionnaire constructed to probe into the demographics and the specifically identified relational factors of the ten qualifying copreneurships. The collected data was then analysed and inferences were derived from the findings of the study. The findings revealed that what restaurant copreneurships perceive to be the most important relationship factors are very closely linked to the relationship factors perceived important to personally work on and improve. Of the relational factors considered for this study, namely: Commitment, communication, conflict, division of labour, emotional attachment, relationship bond, respect, spousal harmony, trust and the spousal values system, several factors stood out as those baring greatest influence on copreneurial relationships and their business. This study, from an analysis of the collected interview data and subsequent findings, determined communication to stand out above all other factors as being the most critical to copreneurial relationships. All other factors emanated as important but division of labour, values system, respect and relationship bond were revealed as extremely important, just behind communication. In light of these findings, as well as the discovery of other affecting factors, the study concluded that the viability and sustainability of restaurant copreneurships is of paramount significance. In order to facilitate this, copreneurial couples must cherish their relationships with each other, understand the dynamics of the relational factors affecting their relationships, invoke relational improvements for their viability and sustainability, not neglect family responsibilities and preservation in light of business needs and work together as a team.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Von Hoffman, Ethen Langeford
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Couple-owned business enterprises -- Management , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8839 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020003
- Description: Entrepreneurship plays an important role in the South African economy, especially in light of the recent global recession. For family businesses, namely copreneurs in the restaurant industry, to be afforded a better opportunity to perform better and be viable and sustainable, a deeper understanding and insight into their dynamics is required. Researching and implementing strategies or recommendations to improve the influence of copreneurial relationships in the restaurant industry is fundamentally important to the growth and sustainability of restaurants in the hospitality industry, in the Nelson Mandela Metropole (NMM). However, no known studies have been performed in this area of copreneurship. This study sought to present exploratory research in the rapidly expanding and critically important sector family business, namely copreneurships specifically in the restaurant industry in the NMM, in South Africa. The primary research objective of this study is to gain a deeper understanding and insight into the influence of copreneurial relationships in the restaurant industry in the NMM. A phenomenological, or qualitative, research paradigm, through the use of focused one-on-one interviews, was employed to probe and analyse relational factors of copreneurial relationships. A qualifying questionnaire was constructed to determine the most effective sample for the study followed by an extensive questionnaire constructed to probe into the demographics and the specifically identified relational factors of the ten qualifying copreneurships. The collected data was then analysed and inferences were derived from the findings of the study. The findings revealed that what restaurant copreneurships perceive to be the most important relationship factors are very closely linked to the relationship factors perceived important to personally work on and improve. Of the relational factors considered for this study, namely: Commitment, communication, conflict, division of labour, emotional attachment, relationship bond, respect, spousal harmony, trust and the spousal values system, several factors stood out as those baring greatest influence on copreneurial relationships and their business. This study, from an analysis of the collected interview data and subsequent findings, determined communication to stand out above all other factors as being the most critical to copreneurial relationships. All other factors emanated as important but division of labour, values system, respect and relationship bond were revealed as extremely important, just behind communication. In light of these findings, as well as the discovery of other affecting factors, the study concluded that the viability and sustainability of restaurant copreneurships is of paramount significance. In order to facilitate this, copreneurial couples must cherish their relationships with each other, understand the dynamics of the relational factors affecting their relationships, invoke relational improvements for their viability and sustainability, not neglect family responsibilities and preservation in light of business needs and work together as a team.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Assessing entrepreneurship education programmes in secondary schools
- Authors: Qoto, Nomonde Monica
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa , Small business -- Management -- Study and teaching , Curriculum planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8826 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019726
- Description: The emergence of an entrepreneurial spirit is the most significant economic development in the twenty-first century. Entrepreneurship education was introduced in Grades 10-12 as part of the optional subject Business Studies. There are problems across the country encountered by educators in imparting entrepreneurship skills and knowledge to learners. The integration of entrepreneurial programmes into the education system in secondary schools is a prerequisite to develop the necessary skills to start and run a business successfully. It is the responsibility of the government to ensure that entrepreneurship education is included in the curriculum as a separate subject so as to develop the entrepreneurship skills at secondary school level. The formal employment sector is no longer able to provide jobs for the increasing number of unemployed people. Fewer jobs are available for the economically active population of the South African economy especially the school leavers. The primary objective of this study is to assess the current entrepreneurship education programmes offered at secondary schools in Grade 10-12 levels in Motherwell. The purpose is to learn from global trends and to improve the current entrepreneurship education programmes. A literature review was done to establish global trends and also South African trends concerning entrepreneurship education programmes. A mixed research approach and cluster sampling was used to select the twelve Motherwell senior secondary schools in the Motherwell township of Port Elizabeth. The findings of the study were that strategic skills, operational skills, competitions, labour entrepreneurial skills, management skills, creativity and innovation were taught to a limited extent by educators. The practical exposure of learners was deficient because of the limited involvement of local businesses and organisations. Learners were also not encouraged to operate simulated businesses. The study recommends that the Outcome Based Education, National Curriculum Statement and Curriculum Policy Statement which have been introduced by the Department of Education be followed but adjustments must be made to the iii teaching methods to follow the interactive approach required by entrepreneurship. Policy makers should incorporate comprehensive entrepreneurship education programmes from primary school to secondary school to vocational and university and adult education centres. Finally, entrepreneurship education should be offered as an optional separate subject to all learners and involvement of local businesses and organisations should be encouraged.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Qoto, Nomonde Monica
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa , Small business -- Management -- Study and teaching , Curriculum planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8826 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019726
- Description: The emergence of an entrepreneurial spirit is the most significant economic development in the twenty-first century. Entrepreneurship education was introduced in Grades 10-12 as part of the optional subject Business Studies. There are problems across the country encountered by educators in imparting entrepreneurship skills and knowledge to learners. The integration of entrepreneurial programmes into the education system in secondary schools is a prerequisite to develop the necessary skills to start and run a business successfully. It is the responsibility of the government to ensure that entrepreneurship education is included in the curriculum as a separate subject so as to develop the entrepreneurship skills at secondary school level. The formal employment sector is no longer able to provide jobs for the increasing number of unemployed people. Fewer jobs are available for the economically active population of the South African economy especially the school leavers. The primary objective of this study is to assess the current entrepreneurship education programmes offered at secondary schools in Grade 10-12 levels in Motherwell. The purpose is to learn from global trends and to improve the current entrepreneurship education programmes. A literature review was done to establish global trends and also South African trends concerning entrepreneurship education programmes. A mixed research approach and cluster sampling was used to select the twelve Motherwell senior secondary schools in the Motherwell township of Port Elizabeth. The findings of the study were that strategic skills, operational skills, competitions, labour entrepreneurial skills, management skills, creativity and innovation were taught to a limited extent by educators. The practical exposure of learners was deficient because of the limited involvement of local businesses and organisations. Learners were also not encouraged to operate simulated businesses. The study recommends that the Outcome Based Education, National Curriculum Statement and Curriculum Policy Statement which have been introduced by the Department of Education be followed but adjustments must be made to the iii teaching methods to follow the interactive approach required by entrepreneurship. Policy makers should incorporate comprehensive entrepreneurship education programmes from primary school to secondary school to vocational and university and adult education centres. Finally, entrepreneurship education should be offered as an optional separate subject to all learners and involvement of local businesses and organisations should be encouraged.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
An enabling environment for women agri-entrepreneurs in the Tsitsikama area
- Authors: Buyambo, Ntombentsha
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Agricultural administration -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Women -- Agriculture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013755
- Description: Agriculture plays an important role in the economy of every nation. Most countries depend on agriculture and other industries to survive. Economies around the world experience difficulties. There are many countries that have the potential to stimulate their economic growth through agriculture. The untapped resources have the potential of providing food, jobs and increased financial stability. Many countries utilise their agricultural sector to grow their economy. The growth of unemployment in South Africa has a big impact on our economy. This has caused an increase in poverty and unemployment (Ukpere & Slabbert, 2009). Women’s role in agriculture and food security is critical, but there is still lack of visibility regarding their participation and contribution in agriculture and development in general. This has led to two forms of agriculture in South Africa; so-called subsistence farming in the communal areas and white commercial farming (Kwa, 2001). Most emerging farmers are on communal land where they share decisions and ownership is unsecured, which discourages investment and limits productivity (Farmer's weekly, 2012). The main objective of the research was to determine if the women in the Tsitsikamma (Eastern Cape, South Africa), area have knowledge and strategies to manage their agribusiness in order to create an enabling environment and be competitive in their farming businesses. The qualitative method was used to answer questions in order to understand people’s perceptions, perspectives and understanding of particular situations. It is based on the belief that the researcher’s ability to interpret and make sense of what he or she sees is critical for an understanding of any social phenomenon. In seeking to create an enabling environment, a qualitative analysis investigated this particular situation. The sample consisted of 25 out of a possible 30 women in the agriculture industry. A structured questionnaire was used and interviews were conducted with women involved in agriculture regardless of owning a farm. This study was based in the farming industry, particular farm women who are interested or involved in agribusiness in the Tsitsikamma region. The results of the questionnaire revealed key findings, which enabled the researcher to draw meaningful conclusions and recommendations. The findings have suggested that the women farmers can overcome the identified constraints affecting the opportunities to grow their farming businesses. Further empirical results indicated that they do not have any strategies in running their farming businesses. The study also highlights areas in agribusiness that should be improved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Buyambo, Ntombentsha
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Agricultural administration -- South Africa , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Women -- Agriculture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013755
- Description: Agriculture plays an important role in the economy of every nation. Most countries depend on agriculture and other industries to survive. Economies around the world experience difficulties. There are many countries that have the potential to stimulate their economic growth through agriculture. The untapped resources have the potential of providing food, jobs and increased financial stability. Many countries utilise their agricultural sector to grow their economy. The growth of unemployment in South Africa has a big impact on our economy. This has caused an increase in poverty and unemployment (Ukpere & Slabbert, 2009). Women’s role in agriculture and food security is critical, but there is still lack of visibility regarding their participation and contribution in agriculture and development in general. This has led to two forms of agriculture in South Africa; so-called subsistence farming in the communal areas and white commercial farming (Kwa, 2001). Most emerging farmers are on communal land where they share decisions and ownership is unsecured, which discourages investment and limits productivity (Farmer's weekly, 2012). The main objective of the research was to determine if the women in the Tsitsikamma (Eastern Cape, South Africa), area have knowledge and strategies to manage their agribusiness in order to create an enabling environment and be competitive in their farming businesses. The qualitative method was used to answer questions in order to understand people’s perceptions, perspectives and understanding of particular situations. It is based on the belief that the researcher’s ability to interpret and make sense of what he or she sees is critical for an understanding of any social phenomenon. In seeking to create an enabling environment, a qualitative analysis investigated this particular situation. The sample consisted of 25 out of a possible 30 women in the agriculture industry. A structured questionnaire was used and interviews were conducted with women involved in agriculture regardless of owning a farm. This study was based in the farming industry, particular farm women who are interested or involved in agribusiness in the Tsitsikamma region. The results of the questionnaire revealed key findings, which enabled the researcher to draw meaningful conclusions and recommendations. The findings have suggested that the women farmers can overcome the identified constraints affecting the opportunities to grow their farming businesses. Further empirical results indicated that they do not have any strategies in running their farming businesses. The study also highlights areas in agribusiness that should be improved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Evaluating current energy management strategy : case study of an automotive manufacturer in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mahlati, Andile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Power resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape – Management , Power resources -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fossil fuels -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Greenhouse gases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8803 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1017152
- Description: Historically, the most frequently used energy sources have been those nearest and easiest to consume. Unfortunately, society’s reliance on fossil fuel for power generation has occurred at the expense of the environment, coal being a major contribution to carbon dioxide (CO2) emission. Carbon dioxide is classified as a greenhouse gas (GHG); it contributes to the phenomenon of climate change (Haw & Hughes, 2007, p.1). According to Worrell (2011), industry uses nearly 40 percent of worldwide energy on economic activities. Value chain activities alone contribute almost 37 percent to global GHG. Organisations are socially and ethically required to minimise the carbon footprint of their operations. Reducing energy use makes perfect business sense; it saves money, enhances corporate reputations and helps everyone participate the fight against climate change (Carbon Trust, 2011). Gielen, Newman, and Patel (2008) strongly believe the overall energy and emissions trends can be mitigated through additional energy efficiency measures. However, implementing EnMS will enable organisations to establish systematic approaches and the processes necessary to improve energy performance, including energy efficiency, use and consumption (SANS 50001, 2011). The objective of this paper was to evaluate the current energy management strategy adopted by selected automotive manufacture in Eastern Cape. The research was motivated by the fact that previous researchers have focused more on technological aspects and less of management functions. The research paradigm followed in this paper was qualitative because a case study is used to gain an insight and understanding about more and less successful energy management strategies. In this report, background about the global energy outlook and its significant to economic development, factors behind energy demands, the link to climate change and providing effective energy management principles are covered. The energy management principles covered key elements for delivering successful energy management. Literature highlighted that, senior management commitment is the foundation of good energy management, which is delivered through a formal energy policy and a supporting energy strategy with action plan. High level commitment will provide: Advocacy from senior managers; Visibility of the issues across your organization; Impetus for the organisation to implement energy management; Resources, both human and financial. It will also demonstrate that good energy management is part of your organisation’s mission and as relevant as other management aspects. The empirical study is focused on the characteristics of the current management system and organisational structure employed with its relevant functions. Based on these reference points the paper concludes with recommendations for the case study organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mahlati, Andile
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Power resources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape – Management , Power resources -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Fossil fuels -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Greenhouse gases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8803 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1017152
- Description: Historically, the most frequently used energy sources have been those nearest and easiest to consume. Unfortunately, society’s reliance on fossil fuel for power generation has occurred at the expense of the environment, coal being a major contribution to carbon dioxide (CO2) emission. Carbon dioxide is classified as a greenhouse gas (GHG); it contributes to the phenomenon of climate change (Haw & Hughes, 2007, p.1). According to Worrell (2011), industry uses nearly 40 percent of worldwide energy on economic activities. Value chain activities alone contribute almost 37 percent to global GHG. Organisations are socially and ethically required to minimise the carbon footprint of their operations. Reducing energy use makes perfect business sense; it saves money, enhances corporate reputations and helps everyone participate the fight against climate change (Carbon Trust, 2011). Gielen, Newman, and Patel (2008) strongly believe the overall energy and emissions trends can be mitigated through additional energy efficiency measures. However, implementing EnMS will enable organisations to establish systematic approaches and the processes necessary to improve energy performance, including energy efficiency, use and consumption (SANS 50001, 2011). The objective of this paper was to evaluate the current energy management strategy adopted by selected automotive manufacture in Eastern Cape. The research was motivated by the fact that previous researchers have focused more on technological aspects and less of management functions. The research paradigm followed in this paper was qualitative because a case study is used to gain an insight and understanding about more and less successful energy management strategies. In this report, background about the global energy outlook and its significant to economic development, factors behind energy demands, the link to climate change and providing effective energy management principles are covered. The energy management principles covered key elements for delivering successful energy management. Literature highlighted that, senior management commitment is the foundation of good energy management, which is delivered through a formal energy policy and a supporting energy strategy with action plan. High level commitment will provide: Advocacy from senior managers; Visibility of the issues across your organization; Impetus for the organisation to implement energy management; Resources, both human and financial. It will also demonstrate that good energy management is part of your organisation’s mission and as relevant as other management aspects. The empirical study is focused on the characteristics of the current management system and organisational structure employed with its relevant functions. Based on these reference points the paper concludes with recommendations for the case study organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Assesssing small business training programme effectiveness in an incubator setting and beyond
- Authors: Booth-Jones, Laurene
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Business incubators -- South Africa , Small businesses -- South Africa -- Management , Employees -- Training of , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9298 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014074
- Description: The focus on entrepreneurs as drivers of the economies of nations has catapulted them into the forefront of the local and international marketplace. This has led to a demand for entrepreneurial education and training resulting in a plethora of different and often divergent views. One commonality that has emerged is that entrepreneurship can be taught; although it cannot be taught in conventional and traditional ways. It requires a move from traditional education and training to more enterprising participative and supportive forms of business development. It requires investments of time, resources and support. Incubators are facilities that are engaged with entrepreneurs and offer a variety of support including education and training. This study has assessed the effectiveness of training offered by the Seda Nelson Mandela Bay ICT incubator. There has been limited research undertaken on entrepreneurial education and training in an incubator setting. This study followed the qualitative paradigm. The sample comprised of 10 small businesses at the Seda Nelson Mandela Bay ICT incubator. Empirical data was obtained by interviewing the owners of the small businesses using an interview schedule. Issues such as the most effective training programme, content that it contained, methodology used and quality of the facilitator and applicability of the training programme were explored. The study found that the small businesses were opportunity driven rather than necessity driven and that the incubator served as a bridging facility in moving the businesses from the informal sector to the formal sector. The content of the training programmes was found to be effective when a mix of both theoretical and practical is offered especially with an emphasis on the underlying entrepreneurial themes of confidence, persistence and uncertainty and so on. It also found that training programmes should be linked to the life cycle of the business and address the specific needs of the small business owner. The start-up phase requires very specific training. Most of the facilitators were found to be experienced and empathetic. However, only a few were using a wider range of preferred learning styles favoured by entrepreneurs such as role playing, simulation, brainstorming and problem-solving techniques. The study also found that when generic training programmes are offered there was less recall on the part of the trainees. The management team of the incubator is an important determinant of the success of the incubatees and it is recommended that they need to be well versed in their sector and have good networking skills. There is a strong link between the theoretical and the practical content of training programmes especially where the emphasis is more on the practical content. It is recommended that facilitators pay attention to their relationship with trainees as it is a critical success factor in the training programme. Training programmes offered over a period of time add more value to the incubatee. This might be because of the mentoring and counselling that is available after each training module is completed. Finally, more research needs to be undertaken on the quality and effectiveness of training programmes offered by incubators to small businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Booth-Jones, Laurene
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Business incubators -- South Africa , Small businesses -- South Africa -- Management , Employees -- Training of , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9298 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014074
- Description: The focus on entrepreneurs as drivers of the economies of nations has catapulted them into the forefront of the local and international marketplace. This has led to a demand for entrepreneurial education and training resulting in a plethora of different and often divergent views. One commonality that has emerged is that entrepreneurship can be taught; although it cannot be taught in conventional and traditional ways. It requires a move from traditional education and training to more enterprising participative and supportive forms of business development. It requires investments of time, resources and support. Incubators are facilities that are engaged with entrepreneurs and offer a variety of support including education and training. This study has assessed the effectiveness of training offered by the Seda Nelson Mandela Bay ICT incubator. There has been limited research undertaken on entrepreneurial education and training in an incubator setting. This study followed the qualitative paradigm. The sample comprised of 10 small businesses at the Seda Nelson Mandela Bay ICT incubator. Empirical data was obtained by interviewing the owners of the small businesses using an interview schedule. Issues such as the most effective training programme, content that it contained, methodology used and quality of the facilitator and applicability of the training programme were explored. The study found that the small businesses were opportunity driven rather than necessity driven and that the incubator served as a bridging facility in moving the businesses from the informal sector to the formal sector. The content of the training programmes was found to be effective when a mix of both theoretical and practical is offered especially with an emphasis on the underlying entrepreneurial themes of confidence, persistence and uncertainty and so on. It also found that training programmes should be linked to the life cycle of the business and address the specific needs of the small business owner. The start-up phase requires very specific training. Most of the facilitators were found to be experienced and empathetic. However, only a few were using a wider range of preferred learning styles favoured by entrepreneurs such as role playing, simulation, brainstorming and problem-solving techniques. The study also found that when generic training programmes are offered there was less recall on the part of the trainees. The management team of the incubator is an important determinant of the success of the incubatees and it is recommended that they need to be well versed in their sector and have good networking skills. There is a strong link between the theoretical and the practical content of training programmes especially where the emphasis is more on the practical content. It is recommended that facilitators pay attention to their relationship with trainees as it is a critical success factor in the training programme. Training programmes offered over a period of time add more value to the incubatee. This might be because of the mentoring and counselling that is available after each training module is completed. Finally, more research needs to be undertaken on the quality and effectiveness of training programmes offered by incubators to small businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The credit risk management skills shortage in Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole
- Authors: Teka, Babalwa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- Risk management -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Credit -- Management , Risk management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8834 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019893
- Description: Tito Mboweni (2011) said one of South Africa’s biggest tests is the overwhelming the skills shortage. He was echoing the views of Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande who himself said “South Africa could not afford to have an economy "constrained by a severe lack of skills". There are numerous initiatives that having been undertaken by government in an attempt to solve the skills shortage problem. However, these initiatives are not aimed at the tertiary education system. The tertiary education system is the focus of this study as the author investigates how the NMMU Business School can play a significant role in addressing the skills shortage in the credit risk management sector. Following a literature review, surveys were completed by the NMMU Business School MBA students (ninety of them completed it) and personal interviews were conducted with three Provincial HR managers from South Africa’s “four big banks” in Nelson Mandela Bay (Nedbank, Standard Bank and ABSA). The study found that the skills shortage is indeed a problem. The study found that reasons including the legacy left by apartheid and students pursuing the wrong degrees were highlighted as some of the reason for this skills shortage. An opportunity for the NMMU Business School was identified to support the banking industry in addressing credit risk management skills shortage. The benefits include financial reward and more importantly an opportunity to differentiate the Business School and the courses offered at the school from the rest. Some of the recommendations included sourcing of the best practices from institutions like the Millpark Business School on effective partnering with the banking industry as well as a proactive approach to be adopted by the banking industry in terms of lobbying support from other potential role players for example but not limited to, student bodies, BankSeta and the smaller banks in the industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Teka, Babalwa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- Risk management -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Credit -- Management , Risk management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8834 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019893
- Description: Tito Mboweni (2011) said one of South Africa’s biggest tests is the overwhelming the skills shortage. He was echoing the views of Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande who himself said “South Africa could not afford to have an economy "constrained by a severe lack of skills". There are numerous initiatives that having been undertaken by government in an attempt to solve the skills shortage problem. However, these initiatives are not aimed at the tertiary education system. The tertiary education system is the focus of this study as the author investigates how the NMMU Business School can play a significant role in addressing the skills shortage in the credit risk management sector. Following a literature review, surveys were completed by the NMMU Business School MBA students (ninety of them completed it) and personal interviews were conducted with three Provincial HR managers from South Africa’s “four big banks” in Nelson Mandela Bay (Nedbank, Standard Bank and ABSA). The study found that the skills shortage is indeed a problem. The study found that reasons including the legacy left by apartheid and students pursuing the wrong degrees were highlighted as some of the reason for this skills shortage. An opportunity for the NMMU Business School was identified to support the banking industry in addressing credit risk management skills shortage. The benefits include financial reward and more importantly an opportunity to differentiate the Business School and the courses offered at the school from the rest. Some of the recommendations included sourcing of the best practices from institutions like the Millpark Business School on effective partnering with the banking industry as well as a proactive approach to be adopted by the banking industry in terms of lobbying support from other potential role players for example but not limited to, student bodies, BankSeta and the smaller banks in the industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Factors which affect the levels of automation in an automotive final assembly plant
- Authors: Pillay, Prabshan
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Process control -- Automation , Automation , Automobile industry and trade
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8833 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019800
- Description: In the global automotive industry there is a drive toward integration of autonomous and human operated equipment. Monfared and Yang (2006:546) suggest that this dynamic requirement could be met with elements to be investigated in a research paper. Current investigations show a gap in management not having a guideline which can be used to help decide between automation versus human capital in the planning of new production facilities in the automotive assembly plant. (Skjerve and Skraaning, 2004:3). The purpose of this research is to determine what factors affect this decision-making process. In order to carry out this research, an in-depth literature review was conducted using various sources. The sources included, but were not limited to, interviews at assembly plants, the Nelson Mandela Metro University library, various e-journals and the internet. The literature review led to the finding of the factors which affect Levels of Automation (LOA) and to the development of the research instrument which was used to measure the impact of those factors. The results of fifty-two (52) respondents were then analysed and used as evidence to support the three hypotheses proposed. As a result of completing the above procedure the following hypotheses were supported. The greater the level of technology and the lower the skills of employees the greater the level of automation in an automotive assembly plant to be used. The greater the complexity of the assembly processes the lower the level of automation in an automotive assembly plant to be used. The higher the flexibility the greater the level of automation in an automotive assembly plant to be used. This means that managers and supervisors of assembly plants should consider the level of technology and skills of employees, flexibility and complexity during the design stages of an automotive assembly line as these factors will affect profitability by reducing waste, improve quality as well as allow for flexibility in customer demand in terms of volumes and product variance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Pillay, Prabshan
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Process control -- Automation , Automation , Automobile industry and trade
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8833 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019800
- Description: In the global automotive industry there is a drive toward integration of autonomous and human operated equipment. Monfared and Yang (2006:546) suggest that this dynamic requirement could be met with elements to be investigated in a research paper. Current investigations show a gap in management not having a guideline which can be used to help decide between automation versus human capital in the planning of new production facilities in the automotive assembly plant. (Skjerve and Skraaning, 2004:3). The purpose of this research is to determine what factors affect this decision-making process. In order to carry out this research, an in-depth literature review was conducted using various sources. The sources included, but were not limited to, interviews at assembly plants, the Nelson Mandela Metro University library, various e-journals and the internet. The literature review led to the finding of the factors which affect Levels of Automation (LOA) and to the development of the research instrument which was used to measure the impact of those factors. The results of fifty-two (52) respondents were then analysed and used as evidence to support the three hypotheses proposed. As a result of completing the above procedure the following hypotheses were supported. The greater the level of technology and the lower the skills of employees the greater the level of automation in an automotive assembly plant to be used. The greater the complexity of the assembly processes the lower the level of automation in an automotive assembly plant to be used. The higher the flexibility the greater the level of automation in an automotive assembly plant to be used. This means that managers and supervisors of assembly plants should consider the level of technology and skills of employees, flexibility and complexity during the design stages of an automotive assembly line as these factors will affect profitability by reducing waste, improve quality as well as allow for flexibility in customer demand in terms of volumes and product variance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The effect of strategic project leadership elements on successful strategic management implementation
- Authors: Nel, Nevin Narhan
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Strategic management , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8819 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018931
- Description: Executives and managers are required to develop the required competencies to ensure the long term success of their organisations. In the competitive and dynamic business environment organisations are faced with, strategic management and planning has gained momentum as a management science which aids managers and executives in circumventing the challenges that such a dynamic environment can present. Strategic management and planning is, however, of no consequence unless the strategic plan is deployed and implemented in an organisation and the implemented plan is evaluated in action. Many organisations find the process of strategy implementation much more of a challenge than the process of strategy formulation. Consequently, many of these organisations have utilised project management to assist in the strategic management implementation process. The competitive and dynamic business environment also requires organisations to constantly develop and execute more innovative business strategies to remain competitive. In order to do this, many organisations have started to explore the alignment between business strategy and project management strategy. Various commentators note that successful implementation of strategy is challenging, especially considering the 70 per cent execution failure rate. It is further noted that organisations only realise 60 per cent of the potential value of their intended strategies due to failures in planning and implementation. Consequently, projects are often chosen as vehicles to implement these business strategies. The primary objective of this research is to improve the implementation of strategic management initiatives within organisations. This was achieved by investigating whether Shenhar’s strategic project leadership elements (i.e. organisational structure, process definition, implementation metrics, implementation tools and organisational culture) have an impact on the successful implementation of strategic management initiatives. The study also aims to investigate whether age, gender, race, designation, education, industry experience and tenure at Eskom Telecommunications, have an impact on the perception of the following variables under investigation: Implementation metrics; Implementation tools; Organisational structure; Organisational culture; Process definition; and Strategic management implementation. If the correlation between strategic management implementation and Shenhar’s strategic project leadership elements is established, it would assist organisations in the implementation of successful strategic management initiatives, by aiding an understanding of how these independent variables affect the implementation process. Improved implementation of strategic management initiatives would assist management teams in organisations to overcome the unique challenges that change in an organisation’s internal and external environment cause. The scope of this study was limited to be conducted in Eskom Telecommunications only. The study is concluded with a number of recommendations that Eskom Telecommunications could implement to improve strategic management implementation and a synopsis of this study’s contribution to theory is provided, in addition to recommendations for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Nel, Nevin Narhan
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Strategic management , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8819 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018931
- Description: Executives and managers are required to develop the required competencies to ensure the long term success of their organisations. In the competitive and dynamic business environment organisations are faced with, strategic management and planning has gained momentum as a management science which aids managers and executives in circumventing the challenges that such a dynamic environment can present. Strategic management and planning is, however, of no consequence unless the strategic plan is deployed and implemented in an organisation and the implemented plan is evaluated in action. Many organisations find the process of strategy implementation much more of a challenge than the process of strategy formulation. Consequently, many of these organisations have utilised project management to assist in the strategic management implementation process. The competitive and dynamic business environment also requires organisations to constantly develop and execute more innovative business strategies to remain competitive. In order to do this, many organisations have started to explore the alignment between business strategy and project management strategy. Various commentators note that successful implementation of strategy is challenging, especially considering the 70 per cent execution failure rate. It is further noted that organisations only realise 60 per cent of the potential value of their intended strategies due to failures in planning and implementation. Consequently, projects are often chosen as vehicles to implement these business strategies. The primary objective of this research is to improve the implementation of strategic management initiatives within organisations. This was achieved by investigating whether Shenhar’s strategic project leadership elements (i.e. organisational structure, process definition, implementation metrics, implementation tools and organisational culture) have an impact on the successful implementation of strategic management initiatives. The study also aims to investigate whether age, gender, race, designation, education, industry experience and tenure at Eskom Telecommunications, have an impact on the perception of the following variables under investigation: Implementation metrics; Implementation tools; Organisational structure; Organisational culture; Process definition; and Strategic management implementation. If the correlation between strategic management implementation and Shenhar’s strategic project leadership elements is established, it would assist organisations in the implementation of successful strategic management initiatives, by aiding an understanding of how these independent variables affect the implementation process. Improved implementation of strategic management initiatives would assist management teams in organisations to overcome the unique challenges that change in an organisation’s internal and external environment cause. The scope of this study was limited to be conducted in Eskom Telecommunications only. The study is concluded with a number of recommendations that Eskom Telecommunications could implement to improve strategic management implementation and a synopsis of this study’s contribution to theory is provided, in addition to recommendations for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Successful implementation of succession planning: second generation
- Authors: Fox, Roderick Charles
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession , Family corporations -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8771 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012445 , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession , Family corporations -- Management
- Description: Family businesses are prevalent in South Africa and throughout the world. Succession is one of the largest challenges facing family businesses. It has been estimated that only one third of family businesses survive to the second generation. This study attempts to determine what the main features are to promote successful family business succession and continuity. The family chosen for this research is the Venter family. The research has scaled the various influencing variables from the literature review into the following focus areas: relationships, conflict, vision, effective succession characteristics and continuity. The findings reflect many instances found in the literature, some are: individuals can manage themselves and have relationships with others; have the ability to resolve conflicts; have mutual support and trust; there is respect between the founder and successor; the business vision is clear; communication is open and clear and decisions are based on expertise and knowledge. Many other aspects are highlighted in the research that follows. In addition, the study attempts to identify the generational effects, the major characteristics of the family owned succession process and the views of the predecessors on the succession process and the post succession period.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Fox, Roderick Charles
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession , Family corporations -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8771 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012445 , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession , Family corporations -- Management
- Description: Family businesses are prevalent in South Africa and throughout the world. Succession is one of the largest challenges facing family businesses. It has been estimated that only one third of family businesses survive to the second generation. This study attempts to determine what the main features are to promote successful family business succession and continuity. The family chosen for this research is the Venter family. The research has scaled the various influencing variables from the literature review into the following focus areas: relationships, conflict, vision, effective succession characteristics and continuity. The findings reflect many instances found in the literature, some are: individuals can manage themselves and have relationships with others; have the ability to resolve conflicts; have mutual support and trust; there is respect between the founder and successor; the business vision is clear; communication is open and clear and decisions are based on expertise and knowledge. Many other aspects are highlighted in the research that follows. In addition, the study attempts to identify the generational effects, the major characteristics of the family owned succession process and the views of the predecessors on the succession process and the post succession period.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Total quality management in training of SMMEs by government business support institutions in the Buffalo City Metropole
- Authors: Mfengwana, Thobelani
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Total quality management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Government aid to small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8823 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019705
- Description: The aim of the study is to determine the extent of Total Quality Management training by the government business support institutions in the enterprise development of Small Medium Micro Enterprises in Buffalo City Metro area. The study reflects on the Total Quality Management elements and enterprise development activities by the government institutions located in the Buffalo City Metro area. The researcher conducted literature review to ascertain what does Total Quality Management training entails. The study discussed the enterprise development services offered by the Government business support agencies in Buffalo City Metro. The empirical study conducted determined the views of Small Medium Micro Enterprises assisted by government business support service towards Total Quality Management. The researcher collected quantitative data from the judgemental sample using five point linkert scale questionnaire. The study achieved the response rate of 52.5 percent. Descriptive statistics of the data was analysed using MS Excel, and the internal consistency or reliability was determined using SPSS software. The data achieved the Chronbach’s Alpha co-efficient of 0.879. The research finding has certain limitations, and these limitations provide opportunities for further research studies. The limitation of this study was the fact that the sample was judgemental. It is possible that if another sampling method is used, it could arrive at a different conclusion. The results from the study indicate that the government business support institutions in Buffalo City area do not provide total quality management training. Although it was not a focus of the research, the study found that the three government institutions also located in Buffalo City Metro area are not used by the Small Medium Micro Enterprises. Government business support institutions need to offer total quality management training as part of enterprise development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mfengwana, Thobelani
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Total quality management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Government aid to small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8823 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019705
- Description: The aim of the study is to determine the extent of Total Quality Management training by the government business support institutions in the enterprise development of Small Medium Micro Enterprises in Buffalo City Metro area. The study reflects on the Total Quality Management elements and enterprise development activities by the government institutions located in the Buffalo City Metro area. The researcher conducted literature review to ascertain what does Total Quality Management training entails. The study discussed the enterprise development services offered by the Government business support agencies in Buffalo City Metro. The empirical study conducted determined the views of Small Medium Micro Enterprises assisted by government business support service towards Total Quality Management. The researcher collected quantitative data from the judgemental sample using five point linkert scale questionnaire. The study achieved the response rate of 52.5 percent. Descriptive statistics of the data was analysed using MS Excel, and the internal consistency or reliability was determined using SPSS software. The data achieved the Chronbach’s Alpha co-efficient of 0.879. The research finding has certain limitations, and these limitations provide opportunities for further research studies. The limitation of this study was the fact that the sample was judgemental. It is possible that if another sampling method is used, it could arrive at a different conclusion. The results from the study indicate that the government business support institutions in Buffalo City area do not provide total quality management training. Although it was not a focus of the research, the study found that the three government institutions also located in Buffalo City Metro area are not used by the Small Medium Micro Enterprises. Government business support institutions need to offer total quality management training as part of enterprise development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
An evaluation of a motor retail organisation's lead management system
- Authors: Waddell, Alda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Barloworld Motor Retail Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa Product management -- South Africa Automobiles -- Marketing -- South Africa Internet marketing -- South Africa Consumer behavior -- South Africa Customer services -- South Africa Automobile dealers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:779 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003900
- Description: This research was motivated by the lack of systems and methodologies in the automotive retail business sector to adequately monitor and analyse prospective customers' behaviours as a basis for developing sales. The objective of this research was to determine if lead scoring would indeed represent a good investment of time and resources for Barloworld Motor Retail. The real value for Barloworld Motor Retail is in the proven methodology for properly managing leads and the sales process. Lead scoring should have sales teams more focused because of the qualified opportunities. The sales cycle can also be efficiently managed from introduction to closure. What is Lead Scoring? In short, lead scoring identifies or measures the value of a lead to determine to which extent a lead could result in a sale. The aim of the lead scoring process is to gather as much information as possible from the prospective customer. Once information has been acquired, it is important to hand over the hot leads to sales while the warm and cold leads remain with marketing to be nurtured. A lead is a potential customer who wants to learn more about what a company has to offer, and who has acknowledged having a requirement or need that a company could help satisfy. Where this position is coupled with elements of the ideal or desired customer profile, a meaningful lead definition emerges. When a salesperson receives a lead as depicted in Figure 1, the decision must be made as to whether to promote the lead into an opportunity or recycle it back to marketing. The crucial determination would be whether the prospect is ready to enter a buying cycle, or not. Figure 1 also illustrates the lead scoring "evaluation" process. The researcher used the Barloworld Automotive www.mywheels.co.za Webpage to obtain information for this research project. The results obtained from this measurement were compared with the results obtained from other marketing initiatives and practices in the automotive industry to describe the value of lead scoring. This research is undertaken under two main headings, namely marketing and evaluating a lead management system by introducing lead scoring. In reference to marketing, Albee (2010) says that lead scoring is based on marketing that can automate the ability to know exactly when the leads in the nurturing program are sales ready and then transition them to the sales force without delay. Chekitan and Schultz (2005), introduced the notion of SIVA which stands for Solution, Information, Value, and Access. This is basically the four p's of the marketing mix, namely product, promotion, price and placement Kotler (2000) renamed and reworded to provide a customer focus. Marketing managers use this model to generate the best possible response from the target market by blending four or more combinations in the best way. The elements of the marketing mix are all controllable variables. The marketing mix can be adjusted on a frequent basis to meet the changing needs of the target market and the other dynamics of the marketing environment. The study of internet consumer behaviour is a fundamental part of the gathering of information related to lead scoring. To an extent it is also relevant to the formulation of a leads nurturing model that will positively influence buyer perceptions and help to trigger the purchase decision. With regard to the purchasing of motor vehicles, consumers will seldom make a purchase decision without personal exposure by way of sensory explanation (look, feel and touch). Internet marketing connects the physically remote consumer with the product benefits through a process of abstract positioning, and focuses on obtaining "hits" from consumers who are competent and enabled to make a positive purchase decision. Internet marketing refers to the strategies that companies use to market their products or services online. The marketing concept remains the guiding concept for companies wishing to design and implement an effective leads scoring system. Lead scoring is the process that involves the following activities: • Lead identification; • Lead collection and consolidation; • Predictive analysis of lead scoring; • Lead nurturing; • Lead distribution.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Waddell, Alda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Barloworld Motor Retail Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa Product management -- South Africa Automobiles -- Marketing -- South Africa Internet marketing -- South Africa Consumer behavior -- South Africa Customer services -- South Africa Automobile dealers -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:779 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003900
- Description: This research was motivated by the lack of systems and methodologies in the automotive retail business sector to adequately monitor and analyse prospective customers' behaviours as a basis for developing sales. The objective of this research was to determine if lead scoring would indeed represent a good investment of time and resources for Barloworld Motor Retail. The real value for Barloworld Motor Retail is in the proven methodology for properly managing leads and the sales process. Lead scoring should have sales teams more focused because of the qualified opportunities. The sales cycle can also be efficiently managed from introduction to closure. What is Lead Scoring? In short, lead scoring identifies or measures the value of a lead to determine to which extent a lead could result in a sale. The aim of the lead scoring process is to gather as much information as possible from the prospective customer. Once information has been acquired, it is important to hand over the hot leads to sales while the warm and cold leads remain with marketing to be nurtured. A lead is a potential customer who wants to learn more about what a company has to offer, and who has acknowledged having a requirement or need that a company could help satisfy. Where this position is coupled with elements of the ideal or desired customer profile, a meaningful lead definition emerges. When a salesperson receives a lead as depicted in Figure 1, the decision must be made as to whether to promote the lead into an opportunity or recycle it back to marketing. The crucial determination would be whether the prospect is ready to enter a buying cycle, or not. Figure 1 also illustrates the lead scoring "evaluation" process. The researcher used the Barloworld Automotive www.mywheels.co.za Webpage to obtain information for this research project. The results obtained from this measurement were compared with the results obtained from other marketing initiatives and practices in the automotive industry to describe the value of lead scoring. This research is undertaken under two main headings, namely marketing and evaluating a lead management system by introducing lead scoring. In reference to marketing, Albee (2010) says that lead scoring is based on marketing that can automate the ability to know exactly when the leads in the nurturing program are sales ready and then transition them to the sales force without delay. Chekitan and Schultz (2005), introduced the notion of SIVA which stands for Solution, Information, Value, and Access. This is basically the four p's of the marketing mix, namely product, promotion, price and placement Kotler (2000) renamed and reworded to provide a customer focus. Marketing managers use this model to generate the best possible response from the target market by blending four or more combinations in the best way. The elements of the marketing mix are all controllable variables. The marketing mix can be adjusted on a frequent basis to meet the changing needs of the target market and the other dynamics of the marketing environment. The study of internet consumer behaviour is a fundamental part of the gathering of information related to lead scoring. To an extent it is also relevant to the formulation of a leads nurturing model that will positively influence buyer perceptions and help to trigger the purchase decision. With regard to the purchasing of motor vehicles, consumers will seldom make a purchase decision without personal exposure by way of sensory explanation (look, feel and touch). Internet marketing connects the physically remote consumer with the product benefits through a process of abstract positioning, and focuses on obtaining "hits" from consumers who are competent and enabled to make a positive purchase decision. Internet marketing refers to the strategies that companies use to market their products or services online. The marketing concept remains the guiding concept for companies wishing to design and implement an effective leads scoring system. Lead scoring is the process that involves the following activities: • Lead identification; • Lead collection and consolidation; • Predictive analysis of lead scoring; • Lead nurturing; • Lead distribution.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The use of social media for marketing and communication purpose in institutions of higher learning
- Authors: Mangolothi, Brightness
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Branding (Marketing) , Social media , Online social networks , Internet marketing , Education, Higher
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8821 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019698
- Description: Social media have become a widely used tool to communicate with the orgnisations stakeholders. Institutions of higher learning are also venturing into this new way of marketing and communication. This study intended to determine how South African institutions of higher learning are using social media for marketing and communication purposes. Firstly, a literature study was conducted to gain an understanding on how social media are used. Further an empirical study was conducted, which consisted of two phases. The first phase was a case study on NMMU and Stellenbosch University. Structured-interviews, focus groups and observation were used to collect data from the cases. The collected data were then used to construct a questionnaire that was used for a survey. The survey was distributed to all 23 universities, 50 public FET colleges and the 200 private FET college. 92 institutions responded to the survey. The findings prove that there are various opportuntities and challenges in using social media although it should be stressed that the opportunities outweigh the threats. There is no visible difference between colleges social media implementation in relation to institutions of higher learning. Most institutions use more than one social media tool. Facebook is the most widely used social media followed by Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn. Flickr, MXit, Google+ and Blog are the least used social media. The observations of the NMMU and Stellenbosch University show that these two institutions are striving to engage with their target audiences. Although the institutions are using social media, some of the concerns are that institutions are not measuring their social media use. For those who are measuring, most depend on the free measurement tools which focus only on the quantitative measure. The governance of the social media use is none existent. Most respondents stated that they do not have a policy or guidelines informing social media management. Most of the respondents felt that they want to use more social media tools in future although some of the challenges alluded to were lack of capacity, human resources and budget.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mangolothi, Brightness
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Branding (Marketing) , Social media , Online social networks , Internet marketing , Education, Higher
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8821 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019698
- Description: Social media have become a widely used tool to communicate with the orgnisations stakeholders. Institutions of higher learning are also venturing into this new way of marketing and communication. This study intended to determine how South African institutions of higher learning are using social media for marketing and communication purposes. Firstly, a literature study was conducted to gain an understanding on how social media are used. Further an empirical study was conducted, which consisted of two phases. The first phase was a case study on NMMU and Stellenbosch University. Structured-interviews, focus groups and observation were used to collect data from the cases. The collected data were then used to construct a questionnaire that was used for a survey. The survey was distributed to all 23 universities, 50 public FET colleges and the 200 private FET college. 92 institutions responded to the survey. The findings prove that there are various opportuntities and challenges in using social media although it should be stressed that the opportunities outweigh the threats. There is no visible difference between colleges social media implementation in relation to institutions of higher learning. Most institutions use more than one social media tool. Facebook is the most widely used social media followed by Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn. Flickr, MXit, Google+ and Blog are the least used social media. The observations of the NMMU and Stellenbosch University show that these two institutions are striving to engage with their target audiences. Although the institutions are using social media, some of the concerns are that institutions are not measuring their social media use. For those who are measuring, most depend on the free measurement tools which focus only on the quantitative measure. The governance of the social media use is none existent. Most respondents stated that they do not have a policy or guidelines informing social media management. Most of the respondents felt that they want to use more social media tools in future although some of the challenges alluded to were lack of capacity, human resources and budget.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Entrepreneurship : key to organisational performance a case of Volkswagen Group of South Africa
- Authors: Lechaba, Junior
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Bureaucracy -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Organizational sociology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8832 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019791
- Description: Intrapreneurship expresses organisational activities aimed at increasing quality of products, reducing production cost, capture or creates new product markets, and/or improving processes and services. This research study covers the investigation of potential influences on the intrapreneurial activity within an established organisation, and the possible outcome on financial performance. In the rapidly changing business environment of today, it has become necessary for the organisations to move from boundary-oriented thinking to continuous improvement in order to provide the disruptive competitive advantages necessary to survive and thrive in an environment where the ‘rules of the game’ change quickly in almost all companies and industries (Voelpel, Leibold and Tekie, 2005). Moreover, the automotive industry is no exception to this rule. In general, established companies deal with two significant challenges. First, they have to adapt to the external challenges of constantly changing and developing markets to keep pace with rapid technological evolution, globalisation, and progressively sophisticated competitors (Kemelgor, 2002; Kuratko, Hornsby and Goldsby, 2004). Second, they must deal with the internal challenges of modernising bureaucratic structures and processes, which can lead to slow development, decision-making and an inability to adapt easily to new situations (Hammer and Champy, 1994). In today's context of increasing market globalisation, companies wishing to maintain their competitiveness must innovate constantly (Carrier, 2001). Recognising the importance of meeting these challenges, organisational leaders must create high performance organisations in order to compete in a global mega-economic world. The old ways of doing business as usual and overwhelmed policies and procedures must be rooted out in order for the organisation to compete by identifying and sustaining diversified employees within a global economy (Kennedy, 2010). Companies generally engage in innovation for achieving an increase in quality of products, a reduction in production cost, capture or create new product markets, and reduce the firm’s reliance upon unreliable factors of production (Webster, 2004). There is a growing consensus that established companies must nurture intrapreneurial activity throughout their operations to continue to compete successfully (Sathe, 2003). Numerous authors have suggested intrapreneurship as a method of stimulating innovation and using the creative energy of employees by giving them the resources and independence they need to innovate within the firm (Carrier, 2001; Amo and Kolvereid, 2005). However, there is a certain amount of ambiguity around the concept of intrapreneurship, and this may lead to questions about the difference between intrapreneurship and intrapreneurship (Carrier, 2001). It is therefore important, before introducing the object of this research, to look more closely at the concept on which intrapreneurship is based, and to examine the trends in the research on intrapreneurship. The research conducted by Eesley and Longenecker (2006) suggest that intrapreneurship is a practice of creating new business products and opportunities in an organisation through proactive empowerment and risk-taking. This is considered a key component to organisational success; especially in organisations that operate in rapidly changing industries (Eesley and Longenecker, 2006). Intrapreneurship can manifest itself at every level of the company and regardless of the nature of the position held. Hence, we could have intrapreneurs in technical or non-technical functions; senior, middle or junior management levels; line or staff functions, and manufacturing or service related roles. Beyond this wide perspective, other authors have suggested that intrapreneurship requires a culture built around emotional commitment, autonomy, empowerment, earned respect, and a strong work ethic (Axtell, Holman, Unsworth, Wall, Waterson and Harrington, 2000). They believed intrapreneurship is inseparably connected with leadership, since it involves mobilising teams of people towards a cause much greater than the individuals involved often in the face of significant resistance from status quo preserving forces within and outside the organisation (Seshadri and Tripathy, 2006). Therefore, the failure of organisations to take members inputs on organisational improvement; sanction, promote and encourage risk-taking, empowerment, and improvement actions; give clear organisational direction, priorities, and objectives; and lack of top management support in risk-taking and improvement initiatives, could stifle intrapreneurship (Eesley and Longenecker, 2006). In light of the scope and the group target, intrapreneurship can be considered beneficial for the revitalisation and performance of companies, both large corporations and small and medium-sized enterprises. Previous research conceptualised intrapreneurship in terms of four dimensions that were somewhat distinct in terms of their activities and orientations (Antoncic and Hisrich, 2001): New business venturing; Innovativeness; Self-renewal; and, Proactiveness. The intended contribution of this study is to make use of a self-constructed measuring instrument to demonstrate that intrapreneurship has had a positive influence on corporate performance within an established organisation, in the automotive industry of South Africa. This study can be viewed as a reciprocal contribution to companies seeking to create an intrapreneurial climate aimed, on the other hand at creating high performance organisation and on the other hand to motivate professionals in these companies requiring a wider portfolio of significant knowledge and skills development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Lechaba, Junior
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Bureaucracy -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Organizational sociology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8832 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019791
- Description: Intrapreneurship expresses organisational activities aimed at increasing quality of products, reducing production cost, capture or creates new product markets, and/or improving processes and services. This research study covers the investigation of potential influences on the intrapreneurial activity within an established organisation, and the possible outcome on financial performance. In the rapidly changing business environment of today, it has become necessary for the organisations to move from boundary-oriented thinking to continuous improvement in order to provide the disruptive competitive advantages necessary to survive and thrive in an environment where the ‘rules of the game’ change quickly in almost all companies and industries (Voelpel, Leibold and Tekie, 2005). Moreover, the automotive industry is no exception to this rule. In general, established companies deal with two significant challenges. First, they have to adapt to the external challenges of constantly changing and developing markets to keep pace with rapid technological evolution, globalisation, and progressively sophisticated competitors (Kemelgor, 2002; Kuratko, Hornsby and Goldsby, 2004). Second, they must deal with the internal challenges of modernising bureaucratic structures and processes, which can lead to slow development, decision-making and an inability to adapt easily to new situations (Hammer and Champy, 1994). In today's context of increasing market globalisation, companies wishing to maintain their competitiveness must innovate constantly (Carrier, 2001). Recognising the importance of meeting these challenges, organisational leaders must create high performance organisations in order to compete in a global mega-economic world. The old ways of doing business as usual and overwhelmed policies and procedures must be rooted out in order for the organisation to compete by identifying and sustaining diversified employees within a global economy (Kennedy, 2010). Companies generally engage in innovation for achieving an increase in quality of products, a reduction in production cost, capture or create new product markets, and reduce the firm’s reliance upon unreliable factors of production (Webster, 2004). There is a growing consensus that established companies must nurture intrapreneurial activity throughout their operations to continue to compete successfully (Sathe, 2003). Numerous authors have suggested intrapreneurship as a method of stimulating innovation and using the creative energy of employees by giving them the resources and independence they need to innovate within the firm (Carrier, 2001; Amo and Kolvereid, 2005). However, there is a certain amount of ambiguity around the concept of intrapreneurship, and this may lead to questions about the difference between intrapreneurship and intrapreneurship (Carrier, 2001). It is therefore important, before introducing the object of this research, to look more closely at the concept on which intrapreneurship is based, and to examine the trends in the research on intrapreneurship. The research conducted by Eesley and Longenecker (2006) suggest that intrapreneurship is a practice of creating new business products and opportunities in an organisation through proactive empowerment and risk-taking. This is considered a key component to organisational success; especially in organisations that operate in rapidly changing industries (Eesley and Longenecker, 2006). Intrapreneurship can manifest itself at every level of the company and regardless of the nature of the position held. Hence, we could have intrapreneurs in technical or non-technical functions; senior, middle or junior management levels; line or staff functions, and manufacturing or service related roles. Beyond this wide perspective, other authors have suggested that intrapreneurship requires a culture built around emotional commitment, autonomy, empowerment, earned respect, and a strong work ethic (Axtell, Holman, Unsworth, Wall, Waterson and Harrington, 2000). They believed intrapreneurship is inseparably connected with leadership, since it involves mobilising teams of people towards a cause much greater than the individuals involved often in the face of significant resistance from status quo preserving forces within and outside the organisation (Seshadri and Tripathy, 2006). Therefore, the failure of organisations to take members inputs on organisational improvement; sanction, promote and encourage risk-taking, empowerment, and improvement actions; give clear organisational direction, priorities, and objectives; and lack of top management support in risk-taking and improvement initiatives, could stifle intrapreneurship (Eesley and Longenecker, 2006). In light of the scope and the group target, intrapreneurship can be considered beneficial for the revitalisation and performance of companies, both large corporations and small and medium-sized enterprises. Previous research conceptualised intrapreneurship in terms of four dimensions that were somewhat distinct in terms of their activities and orientations (Antoncic and Hisrich, 2001): New business venturing; Innovativeness; Self-renewal; and, Proactiveness. The intended contribution of this study is to make use of a self-constructed measuring instrument to demonstrate that intrapreneurship has had a positive influence on corporate performance within an established organisation, in the automotive industry of South Africa. This study can be viewed as a reciprocal contribution to companies seeking to create an intrapreneurial climate aimed, on the other hand at creating high performance organisation and on the other hand to motivate professionals in these companies requiring a wider portfolio of significant knowledge and skills development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The sustainability of Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives in an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) paint shop environment
- Authors: Katts, Ryan
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8659 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008302 , Lean manufacturing , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The study as detailed in this report is performed in the South African (SA) automotive industry and is aimed at outlining key management elements to be focussed on in order to improve and ensure sustainable continuous improvement initiatives in the form of Lean Manufacturing implementation efforts within a paint shop environment. The organisation being researched is located in Uitenhage which is situated just outside Port Elizabeth (PE) in SA. It is an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for passenger vehicles and supplies vehicles for both the local and international markets. Further, as part of their business strategy, the organisation also manufactures and supplies automotive parts to the local and international markets. In this study, emphasis will be placed on issues which need to be addressed in order to effectively sustain continuous improvement initiatives in the form of Lean Manufacturing implementation being pursued within the organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Katts, Ryan
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8659 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008302 , Lean manufacturing , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Description: The study as detailed in this report is performed in the South African (SA) automotive industry and is aimed at outlining key management elements to be focussed on in order to improve and ensure sustainable continuous improvement initiatives in the form of Lean Manufacturing implementation efforts within a paint shop environment. The organisation being researched is located in Uitenhage which is situated just outside Port Elizabeth (PE) in SA. It is an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for passenger vehicles and supplies vehicles for both the local and international markets. Further, as part of their business strategy, the organisation also manufactures and supplies automotive parts to the local and international markets. In this study, emphasis will be placed on issues which need to be addressed in order to effectively sustain continuous improvement initiatives in the form of Lean Manufacturing implementation being pursued within the organisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The management approaches by principals for teacher absenteeism in the township high schools in the Port Elizabeth district of education
- Authors: Nogaga, Andile Selwin
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Absenteeism (Labor) -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , High school principals -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , High schools -- Administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8813 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018687
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore views of the township high school principals regarding their approaches to teacher absenteeism management, with the objective of formulating an integrated strategic management model, which can be used to manage teacher absenteeism. To realise this goal, the following actions were undertaken: A literature study was conducted to uncover the absenteeism curbing strategies that will assist the school principals to deal with teacher absenteeism. A literature study was also conducted to determine the scope and the nature of teacher absenteeism as well as the legal framework that governs the management of absenteeism. A documental analysis of the policies, as provided by the Department of Education, was conducted to determine exactly what they entail regarding absenteeism management. The forces driving absenteeism and the variables involved in those forces, as well as elements making up those variables were identified and their influences were investigated. Hence, a theoretical framework consisting of these causal variables was developed to focus on the management of teacher absenteeism. As a result of this theoretical framework, an instrument in the form of a questionnaire was designed to determine the principals’ approach to teacher absenteeism as well as their consistency with the model. The survey was conducted in the township high schools in the Port Elizabeth District of Education. The findings from the empirical research indicated a strong agreement amongst the respondents, with the prevalence of unauthorised teacher absences, factors influencing absenteeism, teacher absenteeism management strategies as well as compliance with the teacher absenteeism management programme/plan.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Nogaga, Andile Selwin
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Absenteeism (Labor) -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , High school principals -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , High schools -- Administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8813 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018687
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore views of the township high school principals regarding their approaches to teacher absenteeism management, with the objective of formulating an integrated strategic management model, which can be used to manage teacher absenteeism. To realise this goal, the following actions were undertaken: A literature study was conducted to uncover the absenteeism curbing strategies that will assist the school principals to deal with teacher absenteeism. A literature study was also conducted to determine the scope and the nature of teacher absenteeism as well as the legal framework that governs the management of absenteeism. A documental analysis of the policies, as provided by the Department of Education, was conducted to determine exactly what they entail regarding absenteeism management. The forces driving absenteeism and the variables involved in those forces, as well as elements making up those variables were identified and their influences were investigated. Hence, a theoretical framework consisting of these causal variables was developed to focus on the management of teacher absenteeism. As a result of this theoretical framework, an instrument in the form of a questionnaire was designed to determine the principals’ approach to teacher absenteeism as well as their consistency with the model. The survey was conducted in the township high schools in the Port Elizabeth District of Education. The findings from the empirical research indicated a strong agreement amongst the respondents, with the prevalence of unauthorised teacher absences, factors influencing absenteeism, teacher absenteeism management strategies as well as compliance with the teacher absenteeism management programme/plan.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Research into entrepreneurship and small business in South Africa: current status and future challenges
- Authors: Tai-Hing, Paul
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8794 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015981
- Description: This research seeks to advance knowledge of the current state of entrepreneurship and small businesses in South Africa, and reports on a review of 32 articles and 244 research abstracts in the field. The studies as a whole indicate that entrepreneurs in South Africa require more knowledge in the fields of: Networking in business, Internationalisation of business, Entrepreneurship training. Since the 1990s, research in entrepreneurship has grown in terms of the number of articles published and conference papers presented. In many countries entrepreneurship has also become part of the political agenda as it is perceived as a possible solution to high unemployment rates. In addition, interest in entrepreneurship has heightened during the 2000s, especially in business schools. Much of this interest is driven by student demand for courses in entrepreneurship, either because of genuine interest in the subject, or because students see entrepreneurship education as a useful hedge given uncertain corporate careers. Most of the entrepreneurship research abstracts reviewed for this study focused on race, gender and ethical issues in South Africa. These three research topics focused on: Attitudes and experiences of black women: differ from other racial groups in business with the results indicating that black women were competent and highly-motivated, but lacked communication skills and Western business orientation. Many black women also desired equality although their male counterparts opposed this. Black women also lacked role models and career guidance. Different population groups participate in the economy: reflect regional, income, expenditure, skill, occupational and labour differences, including labour supply and demand. Ethics concerns: include whether it should be taught in the human resources management curricula taught in universities. From the findings it appeared that entrepreneurship research in South Africa is fairly similar to international research contexts. As entrepreneurship and small businesses are diverse and multi-disciplinary, the studies reviewed indicated a wide range of different models, theories, frameworks, and combinations of these. However, the theoretical richness of the studies reviewed was, in many cases, relatively low, and only a few of the studies could be regarded as highly-theoretical. In addition, the presentation of the various theories and models applied was very often inadequately reported. It is also important to note that altogether between 7 and 11 percent of the studies were without any well-argued theoretical framework. Thus, researchers in the field should discuss the theoretical frameworks applied in their empirical analyses, to ensure this will improve the theoretical understanding of the phenomenon. Although this study made use of the mixed-method approach to conduct the research, it is also important to note that, in 12 percent of cases, methodological issues were poorly described. Most of the studies often did not describe the data collection response rate provide sample demographic and firm size details as well as identify the target industry. These details were often missing or loosely defined. The reasons for the selection of a certain research approach were also poorly explained, making many of the research studies deficient or limited methodologically. These omissions present a challenge, not only to authors in the field, but also to reviewers and editors in academic journals, as this impacts on the scientific rigor of published papers. On the basis of published papers reviewed, it seems that, personally-administered data collection works best in South Africa. From the research studies undertaken in South Africa, it is evident that much has been researched in the areas of gender (specifically the role of women in business), entrepreneurship training and ethics in business. It is evident that during the 1980s, no research was conducted in South Africa in the areas of family businesses and entrepreneurship training, while international research focuses on these topics. During the 1990s, no research focused on networking in small businesses, and. during the 2000s, there was a lack of research on internationalisation of businesses as only six articles were published from 2000 until 2011 on these topics. This highlights a need for internationalisation research especially as it is well-documented that the South African economy cannot survive if it does not take cognisance of its international competitors. On the basis of the articles and abstracts reviewed, the current state of knowledge concerning entrepreneurship and small businesses in South Africa was assessed, especially the need for the internationalisation of South African small businesses. Moreover, research studies could also focus on the obstacles encountered in the internationalisation process of South African small businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Tai-Hing, Paul
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8794 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015981
- Description: This research seeks to advance knowledge of the current state of entrepreneurship and small businesses in South Africa, and reports on a review of 32 articles and 244 research abstracts in the field. The studies as a whole indicate that entrepreneurs in South Africa require more knowledge in the fields of: Networking in business, Internationalisation of business, Entrepreneurship training. Since the 1990s, research in entrepreneurship has grown in terms of the number of articles published and conference papers presented. In many countries entrepreneurship has also become part of the political agenda as it is perceived as a possible solution to high unemployment rates. In addition, interest in entrepreneurship has heightened during the 2000s, especially in business schools. Much of this interest is driven by student demand for courses in entrepreneurship, either because of genuine interest in the subject, or because students see entrepreneurship education as a useful hedge given uncertain corporate careers. Most of the entrepreneurship research abstracts reviewed for this study focused on race, gender and ethical issues in South Africa. These three research topics focused on: Attitudes and experiences of black women: differ from other racial groups in business with the results indicating that black women were competent and highly-motivated, but lacked communication skills and Western business orientation. Many black women also desired equality although their male counterparts opposed this. Black women also lacked role models and career guidance. Different population groups participate in the economy: reflect regional, income, expenditure, skill, occupational and labour differences, including labour supply and demand. Ethics concerns: include whether it should be taught in the human resources management curricula taught in universities. From the findings it appeared that entrepreneurship research in South Africa is fairly similar to international research contexts. As entrepreneurship and small businesses are diverse and multi-disciplinary, the studies reviewed indicated a wide range of different models, theories, frameworks, and combinations of these. However, the theoretical richness of the studies reviewed was, in many cases, relatively low, and only a few of the studies could be regarded as highly-theoretical. In addition, the presentation of the various theories and models applied was very often inadequately reported. It is also important to note that altogether between 7 and 11 percent of the studies were without any well-argued theoretical framework. Thus, researchers in the field should discuss the theoretical frameworks applied in their empirical analyses, to ensure this will improve the theoretical understanding of the phenomenon. Although this study made use of the mixed-method approach to conduct the research, it is also important to note that, in 12 percent of cases, methodological issues were poorly described. Most of the studies often did not describe the data collection response rate provide sample demographic and firm size details as well as identify the target industry. These details were often missing or loosely defined. The reasons for the selection of a certain research approach were also poorly explained, making many of the research studies deficient or limited methodologically. These omissions present a challenge, not only to authors in the field, but also to reviewers and editors in academic journals, as this impacts on the scientific rigor of published papers. On the basis of published papers reviewed, it seems that, personally-administered data collection works best in South Africa. From the research studies undertaken in South Africa, it is evident that much has been researched in the areas of gender (specifically the role of women in business), entrepreneurship training and ethics in business. It is evident that during the 1980s, no research was conducted in South Africa in the areas of family businesses and entrepreneurship training, while international research focuses on these topics. During the 1990s, no research focused on networking in small businesses, and. during the 2000s, there was a lack of research on internationalisation of businesses as only six articles were published from 2000 until 2011 on these topics. This highlights a need for internationalisation research especially as it is well-documented that the South African economy cannot survive if it does not take cognisance of its international competitors. On the basis of the articles and abstracts reviewed, the current state of knowledge concerning entrepreneurship and small businesses in South Africa was assessed, especially the need for the internationalisation of South African small businesses. Moreover, research studies could also focus on the obstacles encountered in the internationalisation process of South African small businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012