The role of GMSA to assist their suppliers with the successful implementation of lean practices
- Authors: Conybeare, Nabiel
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: General Motors (South Africa) , Production management -- South Africa , Business logistics -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8742 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/763 , General Motors (South Africa) , Production management -- South Africa , Business logistics -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- Management
- Description: Over the past couple of decades traditional manufacturing techniques have been replaced by lean production around the world. This change in production methodology brought about the opportunity for numerous companies to reduce costs and customer lead time through the application of this lean philosophy. The worldwide shift from traditional manufacturing to lean manufacturing can be ascribed to the success of Toyota Motor Company. Lean manufacturing refers to a manufacturing improvement process in order to minimize or eliminate waste while maximizing production flow (Tapping, et al., 2002:30). A value stream includes all the operations and processes to transform raw material into finished products or services. Value stream is a management tool used for the planning of a production process involving lean techniques through systematic data capturing and analysis (Tapping 2002 et al., 41). Value stream is a proven process for planning the improvements that will allow companies to develop lean practices. One key to Toyota’s success that GMSA and many other South African companies have not been able to emulate is the transformation of their suppliers to apply the lean philosophy. This lack of supplier transformation is due to various reasons including supplier proximity, supplier relationships, supplier performance levels, and the ordering policies used for supplied parts. Even though many manufacturing organizations realize the importance of practicing lean manufacturing techniques, few organizations apply lean techniques with the required knowledge and tools to transform their organization from traditional manufacturing to lean manufacturing. This research project is based purely on the lean manufacturing principles and philosophies. The aim of the study is to make GMSA’s suppliers aware of the principles and processes of lean manufacturing and to develop a lean implementation strategy to assist organizations with the successful implementation of lean practices. In order to correctly implement and sustain lean manufacturing practices this study will also focus on supplier support and development and the behavior an organization must exhibit to make this transformation a success. The research methodology comprised the following steps: • A literature study was performed by the researcher to get a better understanding of the principles and philosophies of lean manufacturing; • A second literature study was also performed to get a better understanding of the continuous improvement philosophies of lean manufacturing including supplier support & development; and • To accomplish the objectives of this study, interview sessions were conducted with four senior managers of General Motors South Africa. The researcher selected the interviewees from the following departments within General Motors South Africa: Global Purchasing and Supply Chain; Supplier Quality and Development; Vehicle Assembly Operations and Material Supply. The interviewees from General Motors South Africa were identified as qualified data sources for this research project, as their professional opinions and viewpoints could best address the research questions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Conybeare, Nabiel
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: General Motors (South Africa) , Production management -- South Africa , Business logistics -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8742 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/763 , General Motors (South Africa) , Production management -- South Africa , Business logistics -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- Management
- Description: Over the past couple of decades traditional manufacturing techniques have been replaced by lean production around the world. This change in production methodology brought about the opportunity for numerous companies to reduce costs and customer lead time through the application of this lean philosophy. The worldwide shift from traditional manufacturing to lean manufacturing can be ascribed to the success of Toyota Motor Company. Lean manufacturing refers to a manufacturing improvement process in order to minimize or eliminate waste while maximizing production flow (Tapping, et al., 2002:30). A value stream includes all the operations and processes to transform raw material into finished products or services. Value stream is a management tool used for the planning of a production process involving lean techniques through systematic data capturing and analysis (Tapping 2002 et al., 41). Value stream is a proven process for planning the improvements that will allow companies to develop lean practices. One key to Toyota’s success that GMSA and many other South African companies have not been able to emulate is the transformation of their suppliers to apply the lean philosophy. This lack of supplier transformation is due to various reasons including supplier proximity, supplier relationships, supplier performance levels, and the ordering policies used for supplied parts. Even though many manufacturing organizations realize the importance of practicing lean manufacturing techniques, few organizations apply lean techniques with the required knowledge and tools to transform their organization from traditional manufacturing to lean manufacturing. This research project is based purely on the lean manufacturing principles and philosophies. The aim of the study is to make GMSA’s suppliers aware of the principles and processes of lean manufacturing and to develop a lean implementation strategy to assist organizations with the successful implementation of lean practices. In order to correctly implement and sustain lean manufacturing practices this study will also focus on supplier support and development and the behavior an organization must exhibit to make this transformation a success. The research methodology comprised the following steps: • A literature study was performed by the researcher to get a better understanding of the principles and philosophies of lean manufacturing; • A second literature study was also performed to get a better understanding of the continuous improvement philosophies of lean manufacturing including supplier support & development; and • To accomplish the objectives of this study, interview sessions were conducted with four senior managers of General Motors South Africa. The researcher selected the interviewees from the following departments within General Motors South Africa: Global Purchasing and Supply Chain; Supplier Quality and Development; Vehicle Assembly Operations and Material Supply. The interviewees from General Motors South Africa were identified as qualified data sources for this research project, as their professional opinions and viewpoints could best address the research questions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
Developing an incubation strategy for Oudtshoorn
- Authors: Petersen, Winifred
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Business incubators -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8648 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1385 , Business incubators -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn
- Description: Business incubators, as recognised in their contemporary form, have a history dating back to the 1970s in the United Kingdom and the USA. South Africa is no stranger to this concept of business incubation either: Since the 1980s the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) operated business “hives” as clusters of small enterprises. Business incubators are support facilities that empower and stimulate small-entrepreneurial businesses – from the financially vulnerable start-up period, until the time that the fledgling company is ready to operate more autonomously. Business incubators provide, as part of their services, affordable space, financial-management services, sound business advice and other development services. Incubation stimulates the development of small-entrepreneurial businesses and, to this end, helps stimulate the economy. Thus, for South Africa to invest in the development of small growing businesses, is to invest directly in its larger economy and to address its own development challenges like employment-creation, income-generation and the alleviation of poverty. It is in this context that this study discusses the development challenges of one of the rural areas in South Africa, Oudtshoorn, and aims to provide a viable strategy of business incubation for this area, in anticipation that in future lessons can be drawn from this and applied to other rural areas. Oudtshoorn is a town in the Klein Karoo, in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. The strongest sectors in Oudtshoorn’s economy are agriculture and tourism. These two sectors should provide the basis for an empowering business incubator to strengthen and enhance smaller businesses in the town. The study focuses on the development challenges of South Africa and, in particular, a rural town such as Oudtshoorn, the importance of investing in small entrepreneurial businesses so as to strengthen the country’s economy. the nature an significance of a business-incubation strategy for the Oudtshoorn area. Background literature on South Africa’s development challenges was collated as well as information gathered on small-business support and incubation in particular. Literature was retrieved from local institutions as well as national and international sources. Case studies of incubators in South Africa and in other countries were included to enhance the understanding of the importance of business incubation. In addition, the researcher’s close networks with the Oudtshoorn municipality, the local Red Door office and the different role-players in the small-business support sphere allowed for an in-depth assessment of support for such an incubation project and the critical obstacles it may encounter en route.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Petersen, Winifred
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Business incubators -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8648 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1385 , Business incubators -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn , New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Oudshoorn
- Description: Business incubators, as recognised in their contemporary form, have a history dating back to the 1970s in the United Kingdom and the USA. South Africa is no stranger to this concept of business incubation either: Since the 1980s the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) operated business “hives” as clusters of small enterprises. Business incubators are support facilities that empower and stimulate small-entrepreneurial businesses – from the financially vulnerable start-up period, until the time that the fledgling company is ready to operate more autonomously. Business incubators provide, as part of their services, affordable space, financial-management services, sound business advice and other development services. Incubation stimulates the development of small-entrepreneurial businesses and, to this end, helps stimulate the economy. Thus, for South Africa to invest in the development of small growing businesses, is to invest directly in its larger economy and to address its own development challenges like employment-creation, income-generation and the alleviation of poverty. It is in this context that this study discusses the development challenges of one of the rural areas in South Africa, Oudtshoorn, and aims to provide a viable strategy of business incubation for this area, in anticipation that in future lessons can be drawn from this and applied to other rural areas. Oudtshoorn is a town in the Klein Karoo, in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. The strongest sectors in Oudtshoorn’s economy are agriculture and tourism. These two sectors should provide the basis for an empowering business incubator to strengthen and enhance smaller businesses in the town. The study focuses on the development challenges of South Africa and, in particular, a rural town such as Oudtshoorn, the importance of investing in small entrepreneurial businesses so as to strengthen the country’s economy. the nature an significance of a business-incubation strategy for the Oudtshoorn area. Background literature on South Africa’s development challenges was collated as well as information gathered on small-business support and incubation in particular. Literature was retrieved from local institutions as well as national and international sources. Case studies of incubators in South Africa and in other countries were included to enhance the understanding of the importance of business incubation. In addition, the researcher’s close networks with the Oudtshoorn municipality, the local Red Door office and the different role-players in the small-business support sphere allowed for an in-depth assessment of support for such an incubation project and the critical obstacles it may encounter en route.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Socio-economic impacts of development initiatives led by international aid agencies in the local community of Msunduza
- Simelane, Batsabile Nokulunga
- Authors: Simelane, Batsabile Nokulunga
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Community development -- Economic aspects -- Swaziland -- Mbabane , Community development -- Social aspects -- Swaziland -- Mbabane
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9218 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020818
- Description: Development is central to the existence of every society including demographic entities that constitute a community of people. Community development is a process designed to create conditions of economic and social progress for the entire community with its active participation and fullest possible reliance on the community development initiatives. The support of either individuals or organisations for the community to realise its full potential is essential, likewise is the role of development agencies in community development a good omen towards the advancement of human development. This research looks at a number of development initiatives presented by aid agencies aimed at improving community life, solving serious problems of quality life, social exclusion, and resources availability. The research explores the socio-economic impacts of development initiatives led by development agencies in local communities, a case study of a peri-urban community of Msunduza, Swaziland. The study was guided by five objectives: i) To evaluate the positive and negative impacts of development initiatives led by development agencies; ii) To establish to what extent the Msunduza community know community development initiatives and how they perceive them; iii) To analyse the sustainability of development initiatives/projects led by the development agencies; iv) To determine what the participatory principles of community development are in the area; v) To draw conclusions and make recommendations that will improve community development through organisational interventions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Simelane, Batsabile Nokulunga
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Community development -- Economic aspects -- Swaziland -- Mbabane , Community development -- Social aspects -- Swaziland -- Mbabane
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9218 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020818
- Description: Development is central to the existence of every society including demographic entities that constitute a community of people. Community development is a process designed to create conditions of economic and social progress for the entire community with its active participation and fullest possible reliance on the community development initiatives. The support of either individuals or organisations for the community to realise its full potential is essential, likewise is the role of development agencies in community development a good omen towards the advancement of human development. This research looks at a number of development initiatives presented by aid agencies aimed at improving community life, solving serious problems of quality life, social exclusion, and resources availability. The research explores the socio-economic impacts of development initiatives led by development agencies in local communities, a case study of a peri-urban community of Msunduza, Swaziland. The study was guided by five objectives: i) To evaluate the positive and negative impacts of development initiatives led by development agencies; ii) To establish to what extent the Msunduza community know community development initiatives and how they perceive them; iii) To analyse the sustainability of development initiatives/projects led by the development agencies; iv) To determine what the participatory principles of community development are in the area; v) To draw conclusions and make recommendations that will improve community development through organisational interventions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An analysis of development strategies aimed at meeting employment equity objectives within Medscheme
- Authors: Groenewald, Annaline
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Medscheme (Firm) , Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8554 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/515 , Medscheme (Firm) , Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa
- Description: South Africa has undergone major social and political changes over the past two decades. In addition, new legislation in the form of the Employment Equity Act (No. 55 of 1998), which regulates employment practices in an attempt to make the workplace a true reflection of the South African population, was introduced to employers. The implementation of this Act has a major impact on organisations in South Africa and definitely influences the way in which they do business. Organisations, large and small, in every sector are being squeezed in all dimensions. They compete for customers whose expectations of quality, price and service are constantly increasing. Throughout the world, education, training and equitable working practices are recognised as essential ingredients to compete successfully and to ensure high performance practices. This research paper investigates whether the employee development strategies at Medscheme (the organisation selected for this study) are aimed at meeting employment equity objectives. An important reason for the investigation is that globalisation and the need for organisations to gain sustainable competitive advantage require new and different approaches for the recruitment, training, development and retention of employees with key skills. The key to success will, however, be for organisations in South Africa to find a middle way between ensuring equity, while remaining competitive. In order to achieve the objective of the research, the following approach was followed: Firstly, a comprehensive literature study was conducted to determine the legislative basis for equity and employee development; Secondly, a survey of literature dealing specifically with employee development initiatives available to organisations was conducted; Thirdly, the views of the employees within Medscheme were obtained to determine to what extent the organisation implemented the Employment Equity Act and what development strategies are used to facilitate the Abstract iv development of individuals from the previously disadvantaged designated groups to equip them for future positions in senior and top management; and, Lastly, the responses to the questionnaire were analysed to determine the extent to which Medscheme’s employee development strategies support the objectives of the Employment Equity Act.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An analysis of development strategies aimed at meeting employment equity objectives within Medscheme
- Authors: Groenewald, Annaline
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Medscheme (Firm) , Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8554 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/515 , Medscheme (Firm) , Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa
- Description: South Africa has undergone major social and political changes over the past two decades. In addition, new legislation in the form of the Employment Equity Act (No. 55 of 1998), which regulates employment practices in an attempt to make the workplace a true reflection of the South African population, was introduced to employers. The implementation of this Act has a major impact on organisations in South Africa and definitely influences the way in which they do business. Organisations, large and small, in every sector are being squeezed in all dimensions. They compete for customers whose expectations of quality, price and service are constantly increasing. Throughout the world, education, training and equitable working practices are recognised as essential ingredients to compete successfully and to ensure high performance practices. This research paper investigates whether the employee development strategies at Medscheme (the organisation selected for this study) are aimed at meeting employment equity objectives. An important reason for the investigation is that globalisation and the need for organisations to gain sustainable competitive advantage require new and different approaches for the recruitment, training, development and retention of employees with key skills. The key to success will, however, be for organisations in South Africa to find a middle way between ensuring equity, while remaining competitive. In order to achieve the objective of the research, the following approach was followed: Firstly, a comprehensive literature study was conducted to determine the legislative basis for equity and employee development; Secondly, a survey of literature dealing specifically with employee development initiatives available to organisations was conducted; Thirdly, the views of the employees within Medscheme were obtained to determine to what extent the organisation implemented the Employment Equity Act and what development strategies are used to facilitate the Abstract iv development of individuals from the previously disadvantaged designated groups to equip them for future positions in senior and top management; and, Lastly, the responses to the questionnaire were analysed to determine the extent to which Medscheme’s employee development strategies support the objectives of the Employment Equity Act.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
An assessment of factors affecting distribution models: an FMCG perspective
- Reshalin, Kumesh Sivaram Jay
- Authors: Reshalin, Kumesh Sivaram Jay
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Business logistics , Delivery of goods , Shipment of goods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8907 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021024
- Description: The Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry in South Africa is now more than ever, facing a new era with strong competition and a need for innovative and sustainable distribution strategies to remain competitive in the market. Organisations are continuously searching for ways to increase their competitiveness and sustainability as markets change and develop, so do the strategies used to enter them. Organisations must therefore be able to choose the most effective approach to enter markets in order to remain competitive. Recent approaches require organisations to identify innovative distribution methods to meet consumer needs due to a considerable increase in competition, which makes it very difficult for organisations to differentiate their products solely on the basis of cost or quality. The research problem addressed in this study comprised an assessment of factors affecting distribution models from an FMCG perspective. This necessitated a comprehensive literature review of the various definitions, trends impacting on distribution as well as investigating the status relating to distribution models. Strategies and attributes of successful distribution models were evaluated to determine an effective distribution model to assist the organisation in challenging competition. The researcher found that a significant number of authors have suggested the following key attributes for a successful distribution model, namely operational excellence, performance management, strategic partnership, technology drivers, and relationship marketing. An empirical study was conducted after the appropriate measuring instrument was developed. The purpose of the measuring instrument was to validate the literature findings, identify the rank importance of the identified attributes and to evaluate the extent to which these factors are provided for in the organisation, based on the points above. The present study assessed innovation at Coca-Cola Fortune (Pty) Ltd., a local FMCG firm in an effort to develop a distribution model that would be successful for the company. The study comprised a sample of 40 Official Coca-Cola Distributors which form part of the distribution model of Coca-Cola Fortune (Pty) Ltd. Questionnaires were sent to each of the 40 Official Coca-Cola Distributors and a response rate of 100 percent was obtained. The major findings indicated that the respondents agreed with the literature in respect of the important attributes of a successful distribution model. Overall the majority of the respondents identified the distribution model between Coca-Cola Fortune and the Official Coca-Cola Distributors as a successful distribution model. The literature findings together with the empirical study findings resulted in the development of a strategic model to maintain a successful and competitive distribution model. The current investigation highlighted the overall perception of Coca-Cola Fortune’s distribution model and the importance of having a successful model. To sustain this distribution model the organisation must maintain the key attributes of a successful distribution model as identified in the literature to ensure competitiveness, sustainability and meeting changing consumer demands.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Reshalin, Kumesh Sivaram Jay
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Business logistics , Delivery of goods , Shipment of goods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8907 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021024
- Description: The Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry in South Africa is now more than ever, facing a new era with strong competition and a need for innovative and sustainable distribution strategies to remain competitive in the market. Organisations are continuously searching for ways to increase their competitiveness and sustainability as markets change and develop, so do the strategies used to enter them. Organisations must therefore be able to choose the most effective approach to enter markets in order to remain competitive. Recent approaches require organisations to identify innovative distribution methods to meet consumer needs due to a considerable increase in competition, which makes it very difficult for organisations to differentiate their products solely on the basis of cost or quality. The research problem addressed in this study comprised an assessment of factors affecting distribution models from an FMCG perspective. This necessitated a comprehensive literature review of the various definitions, trends impacting on distribution as well as investigating the status relating to distribution models. Strategies and attributes of successful distribution models were evaluated to determine an effective distribution model to assist the organisation in challenging competition. The researcher found that a significant number of authors have suggested the following key attributes for a successful distribution model, namely operational excellence, performance management, strategic partnership, technology drivers, and relationship marketing. An empirical study was conducted after the appropriate measuring instrument was developed. The purpose of the measuring instrument was to validate the literature findings, identify the rank importance of the identified attributes and to evaluate the extent to which these factors are provided for in the organisation, based on the points above. The present study assessed innovation at Coca-Cola Fortune (Pty) Ltd., a local FMCG firm in an effort to develop a distribution model that would be successful for the company. The study comprised a sample of 40 Official Coca-Cola Distributors which form part of the distribution model of Coca-Cola Fortune (Pty) Ltd. Questionnaires were sent to each of the 40 Official Coca-Cola Distributors and a response rate of 100 percent was obtained. The major findings indicated that the respondents agreed with the literature in respect of the important attributes of a successful distribution model. Overall the majority of the respondents identified the distribution model between Coca-Cola Fortune and the Official Coca-Cola Distributors as a successful distribution model. The literature findings together with the empirical study findings resulted in the development of a strategic model to maintain a successful and competitive distribution model. The current investigation highlighted the overall perception of Coca-Cola Fortune’s distribution model and the importance of having a successful model. To sustain this distribution model the organisation must maintain the key attributes of a successful distribution model as identified in the literature to ensure competitiveness, sustainability and meeting changing consumer demands.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The efficacy of agricultural subsidies as social protection measures in rural Malawi
- Authors: Chikafa, Kondwani Watson
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agricultural subsidies -- Malawi , Economic development -- Malawi , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9248 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021173
- Description: Social protection measures are poverty reduction interventions implemented to assist in reducing poverty shocks of communities. This study considered the Farm Input Subsidy Programme (FISP) that has been implemented in Malawi with the aim of reducing poverty amongst subsistence farmers by providing them with subsidized farm inputs. The study was conducted in the rural area of Lilongwe District, under Traditional Authority Kabudula. The study mainly focussed on the outcomes of implementing the FISP and it entails whether or not the poverty reduction intervention is really achieving its goals. Thus, the study greatly evaluates the effectiveness of subsidizing farm inputs in reducing poverty amongst households in rural communities characterised by subsistence farming. This study was mainly qualitative in nature and data was collected through interviews and Focus Group Discussions. Some quantitative data for specific trends of national indicators was collected through document. Mainly, content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data and descriptive statistical analysis with the aid of Microsoft Excel was engaged to analyse the quantitative data. The study found that that FISP assist in household food security only in the short term. Among the reasons cited, the package size received by households has become smaller with sharing tendencies that have been devised to help households that do not receive the inputs or qualify to receive them. This practice is compromising the agricultural productivity in terms of quantities as it lasts only in the short-term before the next harvest. When households’ food reserves are depleted, households become food insecure and poverty sets in again. The study thus reveals that FISP implementation is not operating as a sustainable programme as its intended goal is not being achieved in the long-term. The study also found that coupled with the fact that there is no clear policy guidelines on graduation and that there is continued benefitting of the same beneficiaries, FISP is nowhere close to its phasing-out stage in social protection perspective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Chikafa, Kondwani Watson
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agricultural subsidies -- Malawi , Economic development -- Malawi , Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9248 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021173
- Description: Social protection measures are poverty reduction interventions implemented to assist in reducing poverty shocks of communities. This study considered the Farm Input Subsidy Programme (FISP) that has been implemented in Malawi with the aim of reducing poverty amongst subsistence farmers by providing them with subsidized farm inputs. The study was conducted in the rural area of Lilongwe District, under Traditional Authority Kabudula. The study mainly focussed on the outcomes of implementing the FISP and it entails whether or not the poverty reduction intervention is really achieving its goals. Thus, the study greatly evaluates the effectiveness of subsidizing farm inputs in reducing poverty amongst households in rural communities characterised by subsistence farming. This study was mainly qualitative in nature and data was collected through interviews and Focus Group Discussions. Some quantitative data for specific trends of national indicators was collected through document. Mainly, content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data and descriptive statistical analysis with the aid of Microsoft Excel was engaged to analyse the quantitative data. The study found that that FISP assist in household food security only in the short term. Among the reasons cited, the package size received by households has become smaller with sharing tendencies that have been devised to help households that do not receive the inputs or qualify to receive them. This practice is compromising the agricultural productivity in terms of quantities as it lasts only in the short-term before the next harvest. When households’ food reserves are depleted, households become food insecure and poverty sets in again. The study thus reveals that FISP implementation is not operating as a sustainable programme as its intended goal is not being achieved in the long-term. The study also found that coupled with the fact that there is no clear policy guidelines on graduation and that there is continued benefitting of the same beneficiaries, FISP is nowhere close to its phasing-out stage in social protection perspective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of agriculture in the Ncora area
- Authors: Mkwela, Gcobani
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Ncora , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Ncora , Economic development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9240 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021107
- Description: Despite 19 years of democracy and public action by civil society, policy makers continue to neglect the role of agriculture in improving the quality of life in rural areas such as Ncora in the Eastern Cape. The communities in the Ncora area still experience poverty despite the fact people receive state grants. Agriculture is declining in this area without basic infrastructure. The study argues that communities in the Ncora area need assistance from government in order to increase agricultural activities. These activities are an important route through which these communities can reduce poverty. The primary objective of this study was to obtain a better understanding of the role of agriculture in reducing poverty in the Ncora rural areas. The conditions necessary to sustain agriculture in the rural areas were identified. This was mainly done to help alleviate the plight of rural areas in the Ncora area and to improve the quality of life of the rural population. The study was based on three research objectives. The first objective was to investigate the constraints to agricultural production in Ncora. The second objective was to ascertain what has been done by the Eastern Cape government in increasing agricultural activities. The third objective was to investigate the contribution of agriculture in reducing poverty in Ncora. The main finding in terms of the first research objective is that constraints to agricultural production in Ncora are structural constraints. These include inadequate infrastructure such as poor roads, lack of transport and equipment, lack of farming skills, poor quality seed, no access to markets, inadequate and unaffordable services. In terms of the second research objective, the main finding is that the government has encouraged investment in infrastructure using labour-intensive methods will eliminate service backlogs in underserviced areas such as Ncora. Secondly, it has encouraged the revival of irrigation schemes such as the Ncora irrigation scheme and is investing in human capital through the empowerment of people in order to improve the quality of life of the Ncora community. Empowerment involves skills and training, education and access to basic services, expertise regarding credit, land and the growing of vegetables. The development of human capital is an important determinant of the pace of economic development. Human, social, natural, financial and physical capital are essential elements of reducing poverty. In fact, the Ncora community has lobbied Intsika Yethu Municipality for community development Community development through education and community participation in development programmes. Efforts have to be made to increase the skills that will enable them to complete development projects. These include technical skills in areas such as vegetable and crop production during the year. A key component of the success of development projects is to involve communities in the planning and decision-making processes. Community development is linked to empowerment, in other words, empowered people are able to contribute to the development of their community because they have knowledge of the economic, social and political goals of development. Therefore, empowerment enables people to participate in and have an influence on the decisions that affect their lives. The main finding in terms of the third research objective is that people in the Ncora community are using their own labour to improve food production to reduce poverty. The Ncora community has been shown when and how to make, grow and plant seeds, and look after the vegetables of their choice. The community of Ncora has learnt about cropping practices that are appropriate to their situation. The intention is to sell vegetables and crops to local communities and markets in order to generate income. The community has to do it for themselves or else they will wait forever.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mkwela, Gcobani
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Ncora , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Ncora , Economic development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9240 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021107
- Description: Despite 19 years of democracy and public action by civil society, policy makers continue to neglect the role of agriculture in improving the quality of life in rural areas such as Ncora in the Eastern Cape. The communities in the Ncora area still experience poverty despite the fact people receive state grants. Agriculture is declining in this area without basic infrastructure. The study argues that communities in the Ncora area need assistance from government in order to increase agricultural activities. These activities are an important route through which these communities can reduce poverty. The primary objective of this study was to obtain a better understanding of the role of agriculture in reducing poverty in the Ncora rural areas. The conditions necessary to sustain agriculture in the rural areas were identified. This was mainly done to help alleviate the plight of rural areas in the Ncora area and to improve the quality of life of the rural population. The study was based on three research objectives. The first objective was to investigate the constraints to agricultural production in Ncora. The second objective was to ascertain what has been done by the Eastern Cape government in increasing agricultural activities. The third objective was to investigate the contribution of agriculture in reducing poverty in Ncora. The main finding in terms of the first research objective is that constraints to agricultural production in Ncora are structural constraints. These include inadequate infrastructure such as poor roads, lack of transport and equipment, lack of farming skills, poor quality seed, no access to markets, inadequate and unaffordable services. In terms of the second research objective, the main finding is that the government has encouraged investment in infrastructure using labour-intensive methods will eliminate service backlogs in underserviced areas such as Ncora. Secondly, it has encouraged the revival of irrigation schemes such as the Ncora irrigation scheme and is investing in human capital through the empowerment of people in order to improve the quality of life of the Ncora community. Empowerment involves skills and training, education and access to basic services, expertise regarding credit, land and the growing of vegetables. The development of human capital is an important determinant of the pace of economic development. Human, social, natural, financial and physical capital are essential elements of reducing poverty. In fact, the Ncora community has lobbied Intsika Yethu Municipality for community development Community development through education and community participation in development programmes. Efforts have to be made to increase the skills that will enable them to complete development projects. These include technical skills in areas such as vegetable and crop production during the year. A key component of the success of development projects is to involve communities in the planning and decision-making processes. Community development is linked to empowerment, in other words, empowered people are able to contribute to the development of their community because they have knowledge of the economic, social and political goals of development. Therefore, empowerment enables people to participate in and have an influence on the decisions that affect their lives. The main finding in terms of the third research objective is that people in the Ncora community are using their own labour to improve food production to reduce poverty. The Ncora community has been shown when and how to make, grow and plant seeds, and look after the vegetables of their choice. The community of Ncora has learnt about cropping practices that are appropriate to their situation. The intention is to sell vegetables and crops to local communities and markets in order to generate income. The community has to do it for themselves or else they will wait forever.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Internal auditors perceptions of the impact of control elements on internal control systems
- Authors: Ackerman, Christo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Auditing, Internal , Financial statements , Controllership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8952 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008158 , Auditing, Internal , Financial statements , Controllership
- Description: The objective of this research report was to determine which internal controls are perceived, by internal auditors, to be contributing to the effectiveness of an internal control structure. The Committee for Sponsoring Organisations (COSO) integrated internal control framework was used as a basis for the questionnaire construction and respondents were asked to rate the perceived control effectiveness of each of the components of internal control. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the basic meaning of the data. The questionnaire was completed by following a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) which was sent to two internal auditors in audit firms. Thirty one responses were obtained; all the respondents have experience in the evaluation and assessment of internal control systems. This research showed that control elements as outlined in COSOs integrated internal control framework, if implemented, could contribute to the effectiveness of the internal control system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Ackerman, Christo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Auditing, Internal , Financial statements , Controllership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8952 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008158 , Auditing, Internal , Financial statements , Controllership
- Description: The objective of this research report was to determine which internal controls are perceived, by internal auditors, to be contributing to the effectiveness of an internal control structure. The Committee for Sponsoring Organisations (COSO) integrated internal control framework was used as a basis for the questionnaire construction and respondents were asked to rate the perceived control effectiveness of each of the components of internal control. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the basic meaning of the data. The questionnaire was completed by following a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) which was sent to two internal auditors in audit firms. Thirty one responses were obtained; all the respondents have experience in the evaluation and assessment of internal control systems. This research showed that control elements as outlined in COSOs integrated internal control framework, if implemented, could contribute to the effectiveness of the internal control system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Employee engagement in small medium micro enterprise in the Buffalo City Municipality
- Authors: Mlakalaka, Bulelwa Ndileka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18959 , vital:28760
- Description: The purpose of the study was to identify the factors that affect the engagement of the employees in Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in Buffalo City. The quantitative data gathering was conducted in the form of questionnaires accompanied by a covering letter and was distributed amongst the SMMEs in the Buffalo City Area. The companies selected were those that had been operational for longer than four years with an employee complement of more than five. Employee engagement is given different definitions by different authors. The Kenexa Work Trends Report, (2012 cited by Bhuvanaiah and Raya) explain employee engagement as the extent to which employees are motivated to contribute to organisational success and are willingly applying their efforts to accomplish the organisational goals (Bhuvanaiah and Raya 2014:65). Dubrin says that engagement is the employee’s commitment and willingness to stay in the company they work for and to deliver beyond what is expected of them (Dubrin 2013: 205). The variables identified in literature that affect employee engagement are: Nature of continuous learning, Revenue transparency, Employee value proposition, Job satisfaction, Leadership style, Equitable rewards, Supportive colleagues, Supportive working conditions, Compensation and job security and Policies and procedures. The study proved that different variables cannot be looked at in isolation by the SMMEs. This is because the study showed some form of dependency, which was weak, moderate or strong, that existed in these variables. The research proved a weak relationship exists between working conditions and leadership management. A moderate relationship existed between: Continuous learning and Leadership style, Leadership style and Revenue transparency, Working conditions and Continuous improvement, Job security and Leadership style, Leader and Management, Working conditions and Revenue transparency A strong relationship was seen to exist between Continuous learning and Revenue Transparency. A strong relationship also exists between Continuous learning and Management innovation and leadership and revenue transparency. The final recommendations provide the SMMEs in the Buffalo City Municipality with the opportunity to take their businesses from good to great.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mlakalaka, Bulelwa Ndileka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18959 , vital:28760
- Description: The purpose of the study was to identify the factors that affect the engagement of the employees in Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in Buffalo City. The quantitative data gathering was conducted in the form of questionnaires accompanied by a covering letter and was distributed amongst the SMMEs in the Buffalo City Area. The companies selected were those that had been operational for longer than four years with an employee complement of more than five. Employee engagement is given different definitions by different authors. The Kenexa Work Trends Report, (2012 cited by Bhuvanaiah and Raya) explain employee engagement as the extent to which employees are motivated to contribute to organisational success and are willingly applying their efforts to accomplish the organisational goals (Bhuvanaiah and Raya 2014:65). Dubrin says that engagement is the employee’s commitment and willingness to stay in the company they work for and to deliver beyond what is expected of them (Dubrin 2013: 205). The variables identified in literature that affect employee engagement are: Nature of continuous learning, Revenue transparency, Employee value proposition, Job satisfaction, Leadership style, Equitable rewards, Supportive colleagues, Supportive working conditions, Compensation and job security and Policies and procedures. The study proved that different variables cannot be looked at in isolation by the SMMEs. This is because the study showed some form of dependency, which was weak, moderate or strong, that existed in these variables. The research proved a weak relationship exists between working conditions and leadership management. A moderate relationship existed between: Continuous learning and Leadership style, Leadership style and Revenue transparency, Working conditions and Continuous improvement, Job security and Leadership style, Leader and Management, Working conditions and Revenue transparency A strong relationship was seen to exist between Continuous learning and Revenue Transparency. A strong relationship also exists between Continuous learning and Management innovation and leadership and revenue transparency. The final recommendations provide the SMMEs in the Buffalo City Municipality with the opportunity to take their businesses from good to great.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Post-war reconstruction and development: a collective case study
- Authors: Heleta, Savo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Civil war , Peace , Peace-building , Nation-building
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9058 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008049 , Civil war , Peace , Peace-building , Nation-building
- Description: Since the end of the Cold War, there has been a surge in post-war stabilisation, reconstruction and development operations around the world. Externally driven efforts have been shaped by the liberal peace framework, which assumes that a rapid transmission or imposition of neo-liberal norms and values, combined with Western-style governance institutions, would create conditions for lasting peace and prosperity. Only in a few instances countries have attempted internally driven post-war reconstruction and development; in most cases, these efforts were either ignored or suppressed by international analysts, experts, academics and organisations. Despite all the expertise and funding spent since the early 1990s, externally driven operations have not led to lasting peace and stability, establishment of functioning institutions, eradication of poverty, livelihood improvements and economic reconstruction and development in war-torn countries. All too often, programmes, policies and „solutions‟ were designed and imposed by external actors either because they worked elsewhere or because they were influenced by geopolitical, economic and/or security interests of powerful countries. Furthermore, external actors have tended to assume that generic approaches based on the liberal peace framework can work in all places, while ignoring local actors, contexts and knowledge. Focusing on Bosnia and Herzegovina, South Sudan and Somaliland, this exploratory qualitative study critically explores and assesses both externally and internally driven post-war reconstruction and development practices and operations in order to understand the strengths and shortcomings of both approaches and offer recommendations for future improvements. This is important since socio-economic recovery and economic development are crucial for lasting stability and peace in post-war countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Heleta, Savo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Civil war , Peace , Peace-building , Nation-building
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9058 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008049 , Civil war , Peace , Peace-building , Nation-building
- Description: Since the end of the Cold War, there has been a surge in post-war stabilisation, reconstruction and development operations around the world. Externally driven efforts have been shaped by the liberal peace framework, which assumes that a rapid transmission or imposition of neo-liberal norms and values, combined with Western-style governance institutions, would create conditions for lasting peace and prosperity. Only in a few instances countries have attempted internally driven post-war reconstruction and development; in most cases, these efforts were either ignored or suppressed by international analysts, experts, academics and organisations. Despite all the expertise and funding spent since the early 1990s, externally driven operations have not led to lasting peace and stability, establishment of functioning institutions, eradication of poverty, livelihood improvements and economic reconstruction and development in war-torn countries. All too often, programmes, policies and „solutions‟ were designed and imposed by external actors either because they worked elsewhere or because they were influenced by geopolitical, economic and/or security interests of powerful countries. Furthermore, external actors have tended to assume that generic approaches based on the liberal peace framework can work in all places, while ignoring local actors, contexts and knowledge. Focusing on Bosnia and Herzegovina, South Sudan and Somaliland, this exploratory qualitative study critically explores and assesses both externally and internally driven post-war reconstruction and development practices and operations in order to understand the strengths and shortcomings of both approaches and offer recommendations for future improvements. This is important since socio-economic recovery and economic development are crucial for lasting stability and peace in post-war countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Attracting and retaining talent: identifying employee value proposition (EVP) drivers of attraction and retention in the South African labour market
- Authors: Knox, Heather Joy
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9410 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020065
- Description: Rapid changes in the business environment as a result of globalisation, mergers and acquisitions, skills shortages and demographic changes in the workplace have led to a greater realisation of the importance of talent management and its role in ensuring a sustainable and successful organisation. Attracting and retaining talent has become one of the most important activities for organisations in order to ensure their competitive advantage. Companies must now differentiate themselves from competitors by offering current and potential employees an employment offering that they value. The employee value proposition (EVP) communicates to the internal and external workforce why they should work for and remain with a particular organisation. Identifying the attributes that employees' value is important in attracting and retaining the best talent. The aim of the study was therefore to identify the EVP drivers that a) attract and b) retain employees as well as those attributes that drive both attraction and retention. The influence of demographic variables, such as age and gender, on attracting and retaining employees was also explored. A structured questionnaire, based on the Corporate Leadership Council‟s EVP model, was developed and respondents were asked to indicate the importance they attach to each EVP attribute. A total of 204 respondents from 13 medium-sized to large-sized organisations in South Africa, participated in the study. The results showed that the quality of senior leadership, quality of managers and the organisation's reputation for managing people were the most important EVP drivers of both attraction and retention. The size of the organisation's workforce was the least important attribute for both attraction and retention. In addition, the results revealed there were no significant differences between EVP attributes that attract and retain males and those that attract and retain females. Furthermore, age plays a significant role in attracting and retaining talent. These results have significant implications for companies as they should design their EVP‟s based on what employees' value and deem to be the most important to them. Organisations need to start focusing on the generational differences that are present in today's business and adapt their EVP‟s accordingly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Knox, Heather Joy
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9410 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020065
- Description: Rapid changes in the business environment as a result of globalisation, mergers and acquisitions, skills shortages and demographic changes in the workplace have led to a greater realisation of the importance of talent management and its role in ensuring a sustainable and successful organisation. Attracting and retaining talent has become one of the most important activities for organisations in order to ensure their competitive advantage. Companies must now differentiate themselves from competitors by offering current and potential employees an employment offering that they value. The employee value proposition (EVP) communicates to the internal and external workforce why they should work for and remain with a particular organisation. Identifying the attributes that employees' value is important in attracting and retaining the best talent. The aim of the study was therefore to identify the EVP drivers that a) attract and b) retain employees as well as those attributes that drive both attraction and retention. The influence of demographic variables, such as age and gender, on attracting and retaining employees was also explored. A structured questionnaire, based on the Corporate Leadership Council‟s EVP model, was developed and respondents were asked to indicate the importance they attach to each EVP attribute. A total of 204 respondents from 13 medium-sized to large-sized organisations in South Africa, participated in the study. The results showed that the quality of senior leadership, quality of managers and the organisation's reputation for managing people were the most important EVP drivers of both attraction and retention. The size of the organisation's workforce was the least important attribute for both attraction and retention. In addition, the results revealed there were no significant differences between EVP attributes that attract and retain males and those that attract and retain females. Furthermore, age plays a significant role in attracting and retaining talent. These results have significant implications for companies as they should design their EVP‟s based on what employees' value and deem to be the most important to them. Organisations need to start focusing on the generational differences that are present in today's business and adapt their EVP‟s accordingly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An assessment of the challenges and successes experienced when implementing the six sigma methodology in Continental Tyre South Africa
- Authors: Kanakana, Mukundeleli Grace
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Six sigma (Quality control standard) , Total quality control , Total quality management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8553 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/531 , Six sigma (Quality control standard) , Total quality control , Total quality management
- Description: Globalisation has opened up international markets for South African companies, but has also introduced competition in the domestic market. As a result, South African organisations are forced to attain global efficiency levels if they are to compete on the world market as well as maintain their domestic market share. Organisations have to come with creative methods that can enhance their competitiveness, one of them being the Six Sigma. Six Sigma is a measurement-based strategy that focuses on process improvement and variation reduction as a means towards performance improvement. The methodology has a reputation of success, however a number of organisations believe that the methodology is not relevant to their specific competitive needs. Six Sigma is seen as another continuous improvement tool applicable to first world country organisations which will fade away with time. The study was undertaken to find out challenges and successes of implementing a Six Sigma methodology at Continental Tyre SA. The findings of the study revealed that the experience of implementing Six Sigma methodology at Continental Tyre SA is similar to those experienced by first world organisations. It is concluded that Six Sigma methodology can improve organisation processes and yield financial benefits irrespective of organisation location or background. However, organisations must follow a systematic guideline when implementing the methodology. The study provides recommendations on how Continental Tyre SA can align their strategy in order to achieve organisational objectives. The following recommendations were made: Roll out Six Sigma to support departments; Align the strategy to address critical success factors; Improve project turnover time and measure the success on financial savings and number of projects completed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Kanakana, Mukundeleli Grace
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Six sigma (Quality control standard) , Total quality control , Total quality management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8553 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/531 , Six sigma (Quality control standard) , Total quality control , Total quality management
- Description: Globalisation has opened up international markets for South African companies, but has also introduced competition in the domestic market. As a result, South African organisations are forced to attain global efficiency levels if they are to compete on the world market as well as maintain their domestic market share. Organisations have to come with creative methods that can enhance their competitiveness, one of them being the Six Sigma. Six Sigma is a measurement-based strategy that focuses on process improvement and variation reduction as a means towards performance improvement. The methodology has a reputation of success, however a number of organisations believe that the methodology is not relevant to their specific competitive needs. Six Sigma is seen as another continuous improvement tool applicable to first world country organisations which will fade away with time. The study was undertaken to find out challenges and successes of implementing a Six Sigma methodology at Continental Tyre SA. The findings of the study revealed that the experience of implementing Six Sigma methodology at Continental Tyre SA is similar to those experienced by first world organisations. It is concluded that Six Sigma methodology can improve organisation processes and yield financial benefits irrespective of organisation location or background. However, organisations must follow a systematic guideline when implementing the methodology. The study provides recommendations on how Continental Tyre SA can align their strategy in order to achieve organisational objectives. The following recommendations were made: Roll out Six Sigma to support departments; Align the strategy to address critical success factors; Improve project turnover time and measure the success on financial savings and number of projects completed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Analysis of the understanding of flexible manufacturing in the automotive component industry and selection of best implementation strategy
- Authors: Mostert, Clive
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Motor industry , Mass production
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8592 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1395 , Motor industry , Mass production
- Description: In a competitive manufacturing environment a firm must be able to simultaneously produce multiple and diverse products, upgrade and redesign its products in short life cycles, and execute efficient production changeovers. This implies that the firm's manufacturing facilities should be capable of efficiently responding to the changes associated with the above abilities. These capabilities are a key requirement for building an agile manufacturing enterprise. To successfully attain these capabilities a firm must evaluate and build flexibility in its manufacturing operations. Success in manufacturing requires the adoption of methods in customer acquisition and order fulfilment processes that can manage anticipated change with precision while providing a fast and flexible response to unanticipated changes. A review of the related literature reveals that though there has been considerable research on the subject of flexible manufacturing, insufficient attention has been devoted to the development of a comprehensive method for designing and building flexible manufacturing (FM) solutions. A significant portion of the FM research and the ensuing industrial applications have focused on highly automated metal working facilities, commonly referred to as flexible manufacturing system or FMS. The objective of this research was to understand what the general understanding of FMS is in the automotive component supplying industry as well as to develop a strategy based on world class principles on how to implement such a strategy. The established strategy will then be used to implement a FMS at Shatterprufe a division of the PFG group. A comprehensive literature study was conducted on Flexible Manufacturing to get a good idea on what it is all about. A questionnaire was designed based on the guidelines in the literature study in order to establish the understanding of FMS within companies in the automotive component supplying industries. Twenty five companies were selected, based on their employee numbers and potential high complexity in the parts that they manufacture. Participating companies must also be part of National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM) and supplying directly to all of the local Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s). Eighteen out of the twenty five companies selected did participate and return the questionnaires. Three companies replied stating that they do not have a FMS in place and thus do not want to participate in the research. The completed questionnaires were processed and analysed using Microsoft Office Excel 2003, running on the Windows XP suite of computer packages. The opinions of the various respondents were compared with the guidelines provided in the literature survey, in order to identify how to answer the main questions the author wanted to use as part of selecting an appropriate implementation approach for FMS at Shatterprufe. The following were the main recommendations and conclusions: • It is essential that the executive team at Shatterprufe realises the need of a FM programme. Based on the analysis from the theoretical research as well as from the questionnaire it should not be difficult for them to realise this; • It is recommended that the knowledge gained from the research theory and that of the research questionnaire be used as a guideline for introduction and implementation; • It is recommended that the employees that will be required to implement the FMS are properly trained in the basics of WCM and FMS and that they receive the necessary tools to perform their tasks; • It is essential that everyone throughout the entire organisation is involved from the start in the development, improvement and maintenance of the system; • It is critical that the barriers to implementation be taken seriously at the start of the whole implementation process and plans be put in place to overcome them. Make sure that there is: • proper understanding of the total effort required; • complete management support; • union buy-in; • enough training carried out; • change of priorities; • full commitment and persistence; • development of a good installation strategy; and • insurance of choosing the right approach.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mostert, Clive
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Motor industry , Mass production
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8592 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1395 , Motor industry , Mass production
- Description: In a competitive manufacturing environment a firm must be able to simultaneously produce multiple and diverse products, upgrade and redesign its products in short life cycles, and execute efficient production changeovers. This implies that the firm's manufacturing facilities should be capable of efficiently responding to the changes associated with the above abilities. These capabilities are a key requirement for building an agile manufacturing enterprise. To successfully attain these capabilities a firm must evaluate and build flexibility in its manufacturing operations. Success in manufacturing requires the adoption of methods in customer acquisition and order fulfilment processes that can manage anticipated change with precision while providing a fast and flexible response to unanticipated changes. A review of the related literature reveals that though there has been considerable research on the subject of flexible manufacturing, insufficient attention has been devoted to the development of a comprehensive method for designing and building flexible manufacturing (FM) solutions. A significant portion of the FM research and the ensuing industrial applications have focused on highly automated metal working facilities, commonly referred to as flexible manufacturing system or FMS. The objective of this research was to understand what the general understanding of FMS is in the automotive component supplying industry as well as to develop a strategy based on world class principles on how to implement such a strategy. The established strategy will then be used to implement a FMS at Shatterprufe a division of the PFG group. A comprehensive literature study was conducted on Flexible Manufacturing to get a good idea on what it is all about. A questionnaire was designed based on the guidelines in the literature study in order to establish the understanding of FMS within companies in the automotive component supplying industries. Twenty five companies were selected, based on their employee numbers and potential high complexity in the parts that they manufacture. Participating companies must also be part of National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM) and supplying directly to all of the local Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s). Eighteen out of the twenty five companies selected did participate and return the questionnaires. Three companies replied stating that they do not have a FMS in place and thus do not want to participate in the research. The completed questionnaires were processed and analysed using Microsoft Office Excel 2003, running on the Windows XP suite of computer packages. The opinions of the various respondents were compared with the guidelines provided in the literature survey, in order to identify how to answer the main questions the author wanted to use as part of selecting an appropriate implementation approach for FMS at Shatterprufe. The following were the main recommendations and conclusions: • It is essential that the executive team at Shatterprufe realises the need of a FM programme. Based on the analysis from the theoretical research as well as from the questionnaire it should not be difficult for them to realise this; • It is recommended that the knowledge gained from the research theory and that of the research questionnaire be used as a guideline for introduction and implementation; • It is recommended that the employees that will be required to implement the FMS are properly trained in the basics of WCM and FMS and that they receive the necessary tools to perform their tasks; • It is essential that everyone throughout the entire organisation is involved from the start in the development, improvement and maintenance of the system; • It is critical that the barriers to implementation be taken seriously at the start of the whole implementation process and plans be put in place to overcome them. Make sure that there is: • proper understanding of the total effort required; • complete management support; • union buy-in; • enough training carried out; • change of priorities; • full commitment and persistence; • development of a good installation strategy; and • insurance of choosing the right approach.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The relevance of integrated reporting for companies to attract investors within the construction sector in the KZN region
- Authors: Ebrahim, Shanaaz
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Financial statements Investments , Construction industry -- Finance Corporations -- Accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15545 , vital:28268
- Description: Since the global financial crisis of 2008, attracting investment in a public company has not been a simple task (Krzus, 2011). Public trust in organisations was lost as a result of the crisis, owing to the lingering economic uncertainties that prevailed (Krzus, 2011). Through the full disclosure of all aspects that affect the operations of an entity, investors will be assisted in making an informed decision prior to making an investment in a publicly traded company (Singh, Wei, & Kaur, 2012). Integrated reporting provides investors with the necessary details, by making full disclosure of all aspects that affect the operations of an entity, including both financial and non-financial information, in a single report. Such information will enable investors to make a more informed assessment of the future prospects of the organisation in which they intend to invest (Singh et al., 2012). The purpose of this research effort, therefore, was to determine the relevance of integrated reporting to professional investors when making investment decisions, focusing specifically on JSE-listed construction companies. Grounded theory was used as a research design method. Grounded theory summarises data collected from empirical sources into categories. The data collected were based on the subjective perceptions of the participants in response to investigative interview questions. The researcher focused on a single context, namely an investment made by professional investors in JSE-listed construction companies within the Durban metropolitan in KZN. Non-probability, purposive sampling was used as the findings were not generalised to the entire population but were limited to the opinions and perceptions of professional investors in the Durban metropolitan area. The research effort resulted in valuable insight into how integrated reporting can be a useful decision-making tool for professional investors when undertaking investment in listed construction companies, in an attempt to attract investment in the sector. The researcher experienced a lack of responses from professional investors within the industry who were contacted for interviews. This lack of response could be considered to be a limitation in validating the outcome of the study. “Investors and integrated reporting” was identified as a theme that is material to the current state and potential future development of integrated reporting. Accordingly, this theme was used as a basis for this research effort that will enhance companies’ awareness of the benefits of compiling integrated reports as a tool to attract investors. This will assist in obtaining finance that can be used to develop and grow organisations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ebrahim, Shanaaz
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Financial statements Investments , Construction industry -- Finance Corporations -- Accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15545 , vital:28268
- Description: Since the global financial crisis of 2008, attracting investment in a public company has not been a simple task (Krzus, 2011). Public trust in organisations was lost as a result of the crisis, owing to the lingering economic uncertainties that prevailed (Krzus, 2011). Through the full disclosure of all aspects that affect the operations of an entity, investors will be assisted in making an informed decision prior to making an investment in a publicly traded company (Singh, Wei, & Kaur, 2012). Integrated reporting provides investors with the necessary details, by making full disclosure of all aspects that affect the operations of an entity, including both financial and non-financial information, in a single report. Such information will enable investors to make a more informed assessment of the future prospects of the organisation in which they intend to invest (Singh et al., 2012). The purpose of this research effort, therefore, was to determine the relevance of integrated reporting to professional investors when making investment decisions, focusing specifically on JSE-listed construction companies. Grounded theory was used as a research design method. Grounded theory summarises data collected from empirical sources into categories. The data collected were based on the subjective perceptions of the participants in response to investigative interview questions. The researcher focused on a single context, namely an investment made by professional investors in JSE-listed construction companies within the Durban metropolitan in KZN. Non-probability, purposive sampling was used as the findings were not generalised to the entire population but were limited to the opinions and perceptions of professional investors in the Durban metropolitan area. The research effort resulted in valuable insight into how integrated reporting can be a useful decision-making tool for professional investors when undertaking investment in listed construction companies, in an attempt to attract investment in the sector. The researcher experienced a lack of responses from professional investors within the industry who were contacted for interviews. This lack of response could be considered to be a limitation in validating the outcome of the study. “Investors and integrated reporting” was identified as a theme that is material to the current state and potential future development of integrated reporting. Accordingly, this theme was used as a basis for this research effort that will enhance companies’ awareness of the benefits of compiling integrated reports as a tool to attract investors. This will assist in obtaining finance that can be used to develop and grow organisations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An assessment of the effectiveness of trade union participation in municipal decision-making: a case study of the Buffalo City Municipality
- Authors: Apraku, Amos
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Arbitration, Industrial -- South Africa , Labor unions -- South Africa , Local government -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9037 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1262 , Arbitration, Industrial -- South Africa , Labor unions -- South Africa , Local government -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Municipality
- Description: The objectives of this study were to first identify the decision-making bodies structures in the Buffalo City Municipality. Secondly, to assess compositions, powers and functions of such identified bodies or structures. The field study was limited to the administrative jurisdictions of the Buffalo City Municipality; however, the findings and recommendations were applicable to all municipalities in South Africa with the same or similar decision-making like the Buffalo City Municipality. In order to achieve the research objectives, a review of the relevant literature was done. It began by first looking at the constitutional and other legislative provisions establishing the Municipal government system or concept. The literature review looked at the powers and functions given to municipal governments by such constitutional provisions and how effective are such powers exercised. The literature further highlighted the role of trade unions participation and civil society groups in the smooth and effective administration of the municipality and in making the Integrated Development Planning a successful one. The data collection was done by means of questionnaire, focus group discussions complimented by face-to-face interviews. Forty respondents were sampled from six different trade unions and top municipal management. The data collected were analysed thematically with the use of frequency tables, pie charts and histograms. The findings of the study showed among other things that, the highest decision-making body in the municipality is the municipal council supported by various committees, boards and directorates. All the legislative and executive powers are vested in the municipal council. Again, it became known that, the municipal workers unions participate effectively in labour related issues whereas the non-municipal workers unions participate poorly in all consultative processes. In conclusion, there is the urgent need to bring all stakeholders including trade unions in the municipality during decision-making processes in order promote sustainable development in the municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Apraku, Amos
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Arbitration, Industrial -- South Africa , Labor unions -- South Africa , Local government -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9037 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1262 , Arbitration, Industrial -- South Africa , Labor unions -- South Africa , Local government -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Municipality
- Description: The objectives of this study were to first identify the decision-making bodies structures in the Buffalo City Municipality. Secondly, to assess compositions, powers and functions of such identified bodies or structures. The field study was limited to the administrative jurisdictions of the Buffalo City Municipality; however, the findings and recommendations were applicable to all municipalities in South Africa with the same or similar decision-making like the Buffalo City Municipality. In order to achieve the research objectives, a review of the relevant literature was done. It began by first looking at the constitutional and other legislative provisions establishing the Municipal government system or concept. The literature review looked at the powers and functions given to municipal governments by such constitutional provisions and how effective are such powers exercised. The literature further highlighted the role of trade unions participation and civil society groups in the smooth and effective administration of the municipality and in making the Integrated Development Planning a successful one. The data collection was done by means of questionnaire, focus group discussions complimented by face-to-face interviews. Forty respondents were sampled from six different trade unions and top municipal management. The data collected were analysed thematically with the use of frequency tables, pie charts and histograms. The findings of the study showed among other things that, the highest decision-making body in the municipality is the municipal council supported by various committees, boards and directorates. All the legislative and executive powers are vested in the municipal council. Again, it became known that, the municipal workers unions participate effectively in labour related issues whereas the non-municipal workers unions participate poorly in all consultative processes. In conclusion, there is the urgent need to bring all stakeholders including trade unions in the municipality during decision-making processes in order promote sustainable development in the municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Management of street traders to boost the local economy in King William's Town (Buffalo City Municipality)
- Authors: Hlope, Sithabiso Patrick
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Economic policy King William's Town (South Africa) -- Economic policy , Street vendors -- South Africa -- King William's Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13049 , vital:27147
- Description: This study deals with the management of street traders to boost the local economy of King William‟s Town. The purpose of the study is to conduct the research on how street traders can be managed to boost the local economy of King William‟s Town. The intention is to research the challenges they have and how to improve them. To be able to conduct the study, the researcher deemed it necessary to study existing literature on Local Economic Development. The way street traders are managed presently has been investigated and analysed in order to develop recommendations for solving the challenges facing street trading in King William‟s Town. The researcher conducted interviews in the form of face-to-face discussions and scheduled interviews with street traders, municipal authorities, and the iQonce Small Business Association. The literature review and interviews enabled the researcher to develop recommendations to solve the challenges. These recommendations will be helpful to the King William‟s Town municipality. The findings of this study reveal that there are challenges in the manner in which street trading is managed in King William‟s Town. Some of the challenges are a lack of a LED policy, poor infrastructure, failure to implement decisions, lack of financial support for street traders, and underutilisation of the budget. The researcher has made some recommendations in terms of support and assistance for street traders, the formulation of a LED policy, and plans and systems needed to be put in place for the management of street trading in King William‟s Town. The researcher summarises the study by claiming that if the proposed recommendations can be thoroughly implemented, there will be some improvement in the manner in which the street traders are managed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Hlope, Sithabiso Patrick
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Economic policy King William's Town (South Africa) -- Economic policy , Street vendors -- South Africa -- King William's Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13049 , vital:27147
- Description: This study deals with the management of street traders to boost the local economy of King William‟s Town. The purpose of the study is to conduct the research on how street traders can be managed to boost the local economy of King William‟s Town. The intention is to research the challenges they have and how to improve them. To be able to conduct the study, the researcher deemed it necessary to study existing literature on Local Economic Development. The way street traders are managed presently has been investigated and analysed in order to develop recommendations for solving the challenges facing street trading in King William‟s Town. The researcher conducted interviews in the form of face-to-face discussions and scheduled interviews with street traders, municipal authorities, and the iQonce Small Business Association. The literature review and interviews enabled the researcher to develop recommendations to solve the challenges. These recommendations will be helpful to the King William‟s Town municipality. The findings of this study reveal that there are challenges in the manner in which street trading is managed in King William‟s Town. Some of the challenges are a lack of a LED policy, poor infrastructure, failure to implement decisions, lack of financial support for street traders, and underutilisation of the budget. The researcher has made some recommendations in terms of support and assistance for street traders, the formulation of a LED policy, and plans and systems needed to be put in place for the management of street trading in King William‟s Town. The researcher summarises the study by claiming that if the proposed recommendations can be thoroughly implemented, there will be some improvement in the manner in which the street traders are managed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Clusters as a vehicle for industrial development in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mtati, Odwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Industrial clusters -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrialization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7106 , vital:21235
- Description: This study examines the cluster approach as a means for promoting industrial development in the Eastern Cape Province, Republic of South Africa. The Province is unevenly developed, with pockets that are well-integrated into the national and global economies, but with some areas being severely underdeveloped. However, the Province retains a high potential for industrial revitalisation and expansion. The option of applying the cluster approach, most closely associated with Michael Porter’s work, The Comparative Advantage of Nations, to unlock this potential is examined, with a particular focus on the factors affecting the efficiency of the cluster as a vehicle for promoting industrialisation. Existing works on success factors for clusters and comparative case studies are examined, while responses from a survey among provincial stakeholders on the adaptation of the cluster concept to the circumstances of the province are analysed. The study finds that the management of a cluster is critical to its success or demise. Further to this, the key role that exists for industry is in building inter-firm co-operation, improving government and business cooperation, skills development of local labour pools and facilitating interactions between buyers and sellers. While Government Policy is not always necessary for establishment of clusters, in the specific circumstances of the Eastern Cape, it is desirable due to underdevelopment in most regions. The case for introduction of a cluster policy is supported by global experiences with clusters. A cluster approach for promotion of industrialisation is therefore recommended for the Province, with steps that may be taken towards the formation of clusters suggested.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mtati, Odwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Industrial clusters -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrialization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7106 , vital:21235
- Description: This study examines the cluster approach as a means for promoting industrial development in the Eastern Cape Province, Republic of South Africa. The Province is unevenly developed, with pockets that are well-integrated into the national and global economies, but with some areas being severely underdeveloped. However, the Province retains a high potential for industrial revitalisation and expansion. The option of applying the cluster approach, most closely associated with Michael Porter’s work, The Comparative Advantage of Nations, to unlock this potential is examined, with a particular focus on the factors affecting the efficiency of the cluster as a vehicle for promoting industrialisation. Existing works on success factors for clusters and comparative case studies are examined, while responses from a survey among provincial stakeholders on the adaptation of the cluster concept to the circumstances of the province are analysed. The study finds that the management of a cluster is critical to its success or demise. Further to this, the key role that exists for industry is in building inter-firm co-operation, improving government and business cooperation, skills development of local labour pools and facilitating interactions between buyers and sellers. While Government Policy is not always necessary for establishment of clusters, in the specific circumstances of the Eastern Cape, it is desirable due to underdevelopment in most regions. The case for introduction of a cluster policy is supported by global experiences with clusters. A cluster approach for promotion of industrialisation is therefore recommended for the Province, with steps that may be taken towards the formation of clusters suggested.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Possible futures for South Africa’s transition to a low carbon economy towards 2050
- Authors: Myeki, Pumla Qamisa
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Environmental economics -- South Africa , Carbon dioxide mitigation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54969 , vital:48523
- Description: South Africa together with the rest of the world have been caught up in a new policy wave of developing policies that support the move towards sustainable, low-carbon and climate-resilient economies underpinned by the desire to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as per declared Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs). However, South Africa’s economic development model is still characterised by a coal-based energy structure, which imposes a significant stress on its natural resources and environment, due to vast quantities of GHG emissions into the atmosphere. Currently, in South Africa there is no sign of any coherent plan for achieving the socio-technological change that the transition to a low carbon economy vision implies. The existing policies, strategies and plans are not yet fully aligned with the low carbon transition agenda as they were developed prior to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Paris Agreement call. There has been minimal or no noticeable change in South Africa’s carbon-dependence, which may further lead to market failure effects. The existing policy and regulatory framework for low carbon economy (LCE) transition is perceived complimentary; but is defined by short-term, overarching and vague policies that lack forward thinking far-sighted element of framing the desired future. To tackle the short-termism of South African LCE policy, the study commissioned a mixed-method, futures research approach in order to facilitate a kind of forward thinking required for integrated manoeuvres and long-term vision of different alternating choices with a cognisance of their respective repercussions. The primary research objective of this study was to develop and illustrate possible scenarios for South Africa’s low-carbon economy transition futures over the next 30 years, taking into consideration numerous uncertainties about the future structure of South Africa’s economy, costs of the transition as well as potential technological breakthroughs that could emerge. This objective was achieved with the ultimate description of possible futures - Ses’fikile, Stimela, Inqanawa and Siyaya phambili, and the identification of Ses’fikile as the desired future state; as outlined by the Integrated Vision for South Africa’s transition to an inclusive, competitive, climate-resilient and low carbon economy future. Further, the secondary objectives outlined in Chapter 1 and 2 of this research study were realised through an all-encompassing literature review, political economy and political, economic, social, technological, environmental, legal (PESTEL) analysis, the Real-Time Delphi exercise as well as scenario planning methodology. This research study extracts intuitions from academic, policy planning and futures research in order to discover the prevailing frontiers in the progression of both the theoretical and real-world requirements considered as essential for fundamental economic transformation to a low-carbon future. Extensive contribution of this study included; - Closing the literature gaps that exist in terms of gaining a deeper understanding into insights on the potential drivers, impacts and global trends in the low-carbon economy transition space. Pushing forward a narrative within and between the economic development, policy decision-making and environment about how to visualise and plan for a decarbonized future economy for South Africa. Futures research approach afforded this research study an opportunity to engage with the uncertainties of the low-carbon economy future, while engaging with emerging issues, trends and weak signals that are transforming South Africa’s social horizons. Policy decision-makers were afforded a chance to improve their policy making while addressing the dynamic nature of implications of the current economic development trajectories, alternative future possibilities as well as transitioning to a preferred low-carbon future. In conclusion, contributions made by low-carbon experts who participated in this study provided bigger picture insights for policy decision makers and can provide timely interventions while deliberating about South Africa’s low-carbon future. Finally, conclusions drawn and recommendations made would assist in the stimulation of discussions for further policy research. Key concepts: Low carbon economy, decarbonisation, futures research, climate-resilient, scenario planning, Real-Time Delphi. , Thesis (DBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Myeki, Pumla Qamisa
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Environmental economics -- South Africa , Carbon dioxide mitigation -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54969 , vital:48523
- Description: South Africa together with the rest of the world have been caught up in a new policy wave of developing policies that support the move towards sustainable, low-carbon and climate-resilient economies underpinned by the desire to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as per declared Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs). However, South Africa’s economic development model is still characterised by a coal-based energy structure, which imposes a significant stress on its natural resources and environment, due to vast quantities of GHG emissions into the atmosphere. Currently, in South Africa there is no sign of any coherent plan for achieving the socio-technological change that the transition to a low carbon economy vision implies. The existing policies, strategies and plans are not yet fully aligned with the low carbon transition agenda as they were developed prior to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Paris Agreement call. There has been minimal or no noticeable change in South Africa’s carbon-dependence, which may further lead to market failure effects. The existing policy and regulatory framework for low carbon economy (LCE) transition is perceived complimentary; but is defined by short-term, overarching and vague policies that lack forward thinking far-sighted element of framing the desired future. To tackle the short-termism of South African LCE policy, the study commissioned a mixed-method, futures research approach in order to facilitate a kind of forward thinking required for integrated manoeuvres and long-term vision of different alternating choices with a cognisance of their respective repercussions. The primary research objective of this study was to develop and illustrate possible scenarios for South Africa’s low-carbon economy transition futures over the next 30 years, taking into consideration numerous uncertainties about the future structure of South Africa’s economy, costs of the transition as well as potential technological breakthroughs that could emerge. This objective was achieved with the ultimate description of possible futures - Ses’fikile, Stimela, Inqanawa and Siyaya phambili, and the identification of Ses’fikile as the desired future state; as outlined by the Integrated Vision for South Africa’s transition to an inclusive, competitive, climate-resilient and low carbon economy future. Further, the secondary objectives outlined in Chapter 1 and 2 of this research study were realised through an all-encompassing literature review, political economy and political, economic, social, technological, environmental, legal (PESTEL) analysis, the Real-Time Delphi exercise as well as scenario planning methodology. This research study extracts intuitions from academic, policy planning and futures research in order to discover the prevailing frontiers in the progression of both the theoretical and real-world requirements considered as essential for fundamental economic transformation to a low-carbon future. Extensive contribution of this study included; - Closing the literature gaps that exist in terms of gaining a deeper understanding into insights on the potential drivers, impacts and global trends in the low-carbon economy transition space. Pushing forward a narrative within and between the economic development, policy decision-making and environment about how to visualise and plan for a decarbonized future economy for South Africa. Futures research approach afforded this research study an opportunity to engage with the uncertainties of the low-carbon economy future, while engaging with emerging issues, trends and weak signals that are transforming South Africa’s social horizons. Policy decision-makers were afforded a chance to improve their policy making while addressing the dynamic nature of implications of the current economic development trajectories, alternative future possibilities as well as transitioning to a preferred low-carbon future. In conclusion, contributions made by low-carbon experts who participated in this study provided bigger picture insights for policy decision makers and can provide timely interventions while deliberating about South Africa’s low-carbon future. Finally, conclusions drawn and recommendations made would assist in the stimulation of discussions for further policy research. Key concepts: Low carbon economy, decarbonisation, futures research, climate-resilient, scenario planning, Real-Time Delphi. , Thesis (DBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Copreneurships in South African small and medium-sized family business
- Authors: Eybers, Carey
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Couple-owned business enterprises , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9285 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1207 , Couple-owned business enterprises , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa
- Description: Taking cognisance of the increasingly important role that copreneurial businesses play in national economies, the unique challenges that they face, and the lack of research attention given to such spousal teams, the purpose of this study was to contribute to the more effective functioning of copreneurships in South Africa by identifying the factors that impact on their success. Consequently, the primary objective of this study was to investigate the factors that influence the Perceived success of copreneurships in South Africa, as well as the conditions required for the effective and harmonious functioning of such spousal partnerships. This study seeks to incorporate previous findings and studies on team effectiveness and spousal relationships into a comprehensive conceptual model. After conducting a comprehensive literature study, as well as examining the different teamwork models proposed and the study by Farrington (2009), it became clear that successful teams have validated their proficiency with regard to two types of factors, namely, relational-based and organisational-based factors. Within these two categories of factors, 14 independent variables were identified and hypothesised to influence the measures of effectiveness of copreneurships, namely the dependent variable Perceived success; and the intervening variable Financial performance. All of the factors in this study were clearly defined and operationalised. Reliable and valid items sourced from Farrington’s (2009) measuring instrument, as well as several measuring instruments used in other studies, were used in the operationalisation of these factors. In addition, several items were self-generated from secondary sources. Respondents were identified using the convenience snowball sampling technique, and a structured questionnaire was made available to them. The data gathered from the 380 usable questionnaires was subjected to various statistical analyses. The validity and reliability of the measuring instrument was confirmed by means of an exploratory factor analysis, and Cronbach-alpha coefficients were calculated for this purpose. The original intervening variable Financial performance could not be confirmed as originally intended in the conceptual model. Instead, Financial performance split into v two separate variables which were named Financial performance and Growth performance. The original dependent variable Perceived success was confirmed by the factor analyses. The relational- and organisational-based factors could not be confirmed as originally intended in the conceptual model. Instead, seven new relational- and seven new organisational-based factors emerged, and where necessary these factors were renamed. The primary statistical procedure used to test the significance of the relationships hypothesised between the independent and dependent variables in this study, was Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Owing to the sample-size restrictions, the conceptual model could not be subjected to SEM as a whole. Instead, seven submodels were identified and subjected to further analysis. The following independent variables were identified as influencing the dependent and intervening variables in this study: • Spousal relationship • Commitment to spouse • Equal status • Commitment to the business • Emotional attachment • Non-family involvement • Personal needs alignment • Leadership • Competencies • Internal context In order to investigate the influence of the various demographic variables on the intervening and dependent variables, an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Multiple Linear Regression analysis and t-tests were performed. How leadership occurs in a copreneurial business, the tenure of the business, the location of the business, the status of the copreneurship, the level of spousal involvement in the business and the vi number of employees were found to have an influence on the intervening and dependent variables of this study. By empirically investigating copreneurships, this study has added to the limited amount of family business literature on these complex partnerships. By way of the conceptual models developed in this study a significant contribution has been made towards understanding the factors influencing the success of copreneurships. As a result, this study presents recommendations and suggestions to assist couples in managing their copreneurships in such a way as to nurture their marriage relationships and at the same time enhance the performance of their businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Eybers, Carey
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Couple-owned business enterprises , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9285 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1207 , Couple-owned business enterprises , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa
- Description: Taking cognisance of the increasingly important role that copreneurial businesses play in national economies, the unique challenges that they face, and the lack of research attention given to such spousal teams, the purpose of this study was to contribute to the more effective functioning of copreneurships in South Africa by identifying the factors that impact on their success. Consequently, the primary objective of this study was to investigate the factors that influence the Perceived success of copreneurships in South Africa, as well as the conditions required for the effective and harmonious functioning of such spousal partnerships. This study seeks to incorporate previous findings and studies on team effectiveness and spousal relationships into a comprehensive conceptual model. After conducting a comprehensive literature study, as well as examining the different teamwork models proposed and the study by Farrington (2009), it became clear that successful teams have validated their proficiency with regard to two types of factors, namely, relational-based and organisational-based factors. Within these two categories of factors, 14 independent variables were identified and hypothesised to influence the measures of effectiveness of copreneurships, namely the dependent variable Perceived success; and the intervening variable Financial performance. All of the factors in this study were clearly defined and operationalised. Reliable and valid items sourced from Farrington’s (2009) measuring instrument, as well as several measuring instruments used in other studies, were used in the operationalisation of these factors. In addition, several items were self-generated from secondary sources. Respondents were identified using the convenience snowball sampling technique, and a structured questionnaire was made available to them. The data gathered from the 380 usable questionnaires was subjected to various statistical analyses. The validity and reliability of the measuring instrument was confirmed by means of an exploratory factor analysis, and Cronbach-alpha coefficients were calculated for this purpose. The original intervening variable Financial performance could not be confirmed as originally intended in the conceptual model. Instead, Financial performance split into v two separate variables which were named Financial performance and Growth performance. The original dependent variable Perceived success was confirmed by the factor analyses. The relational- and organisational-based factors could not be confirmed as originally intended in the conceptual model. Instead, seven new relational- and seven new organisational-based factors emerged, and where necessary these factors were renamed. The primary statistical procedure used to test the significance of the relationships hypothesised between the independent and dependent variables in this study, was Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Owing to the sample-size restrictions, the conceptual model could not be subjected to SEM as a whole. Instead, seven submodels were identified and subjected to further analysis. The following independent variables were identified as influencing the dependent and intervening variables in this study: • Spousal relationship • Commitment to spouse • Equal status • Commitment to the business • Emotional attachment • Non-family involvement • Personal needs alignment • Leadership • Competencies • Internal context In order to investigate the influence of the various demographic variables on the intervening and dependent variables, an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Multiple Linear Regression analysis and t-tests were performed. How leadership occurs in a copreneurial business, the tenure of the business, the location of the business, the status of the copreneurship, the level of spousal involvement in the business and the vi number of employees were found to have an influence on the intervening and dependent variables of this study. By empirically investigating copreneurships, this study has added to the limited amount of family business literature on these complex partnerships. By way of the conceptual models developed in this study a significant contribution has been made towards understanding the factors influencing the success of copreneurships. As a result, this study presents recommendations and suggestions to assist couples in managing their copreneurships in such a way as to nurture their marriage relationships and at the same time enhance the performance of their businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
The effects of the high rate of learner absenteeism in primary schools in Govan Mbeki area
- Authors: Sigwanda, Pakama Sylvia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: School children -- South Africa -- Mpumalanga -- Social conditions Right to education -- South Africa -- Mpumalanga , Children's rights -- South Africa -- Mpumalanga
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20394 , vital:29274
- Description: Since the advent of the democratic dispensation in 1994, the government of South Africa has made significant steps in addressing issues of national concern. One of the major highlights is a Bill of Rights, as stipulated in the South African Constitution, Act 106 of 1996, which states that every child has a right to basic education. However, in spite of compulsory education, an extremely high rate of absenteeism has been noticed in many primary schools of the Eastern Cape Province in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan region. The purpose of this study was to develop a deeper understanding of the major factors that contribute to absenteeism in the Govan Mbeki area of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Region, with the ultimate aim of promoting school attendance among learners. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were used to collect the data in two schools. Using purposive sampling, two schools in the Govan Mbeki area were identified. These two schools were known to have a high rate of learner absenteeism. In each of the schools – which, in this research, are referred to as school A and school B, 20 parents, 6 teachers and 20 learners (10 per school) were identified as participants. The major findings of this study show that the factors affecting school attendance are interlinked; and, they include – although they are not limited to – bullying, poverty in households, poor teacher-student relationships, a poor learning environment, and the underperformance of the learners, which, in turn, result in disinterested learners. The study recommends a joint engagement of school, homes and the Department of Education to develop mechanisms, which might help both parents and teachers to navigate potential solutions to curb the trend. Furthermore, there needs to be a concerted effort to reduce household poverty and to sensitize teachers of their responsibilities towards their learners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Sigwanda, Pakama Sylvia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: School children -- South Africa -- Mpumalanga -- Social conditions Right to education -- South Africa -- Mpumalanga , Children's rights -- South Africa -- Mpumalanga
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20394 , vital:29274
- Description: Since the advent of the democratic dispensation in 1994, the government of South Africa has made significant steps in addressing issues of national concern. One of the major highlights is a Bill of Rights, as stipulated in the South African Constitution, Act 106 of 1996, which states that every child has a right to basic education. However, in spite of compulsory education, an extremely high rate of absenteeism has been noticed in many primary schools of the Eastern Cape Province in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan region. The purpose of this study was to develop a deeper understanding of the major factors that contribute to absenteeism in the Govan Mbeki area of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Region, with the ultimate aim of promoting school attendance among learners. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were used to collect the data in two schools. Using purposive sampling, two schools in the Govan Mbeki area were identified. These two schools were known to have a high rate of learner absenteeism. In each of the schools – which, in this research, are referred to as school A and school B, 20 parents, 6 teachers and 20 learners (10 per school) were identified as participants. The major findings of this study show that the factors affecting school attendance are interlinked; and, they include – although they are not limited to – bullying, poverty in households, poor teacher-student relationships, a poor learning environment, and the underperformance of the learners, which, in turn, result in disinterested learners. The study recommends a joint engagement of school, homes and the Department of Education to develop mechanisms, which might help both parents and teachers to navigate potential solutions to curb the trend. Furthermore, there needs to be a concerted effort to reduce household poverty and to sensitize teachers of their responsibilities towards their learners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017