Conveniencing the family in agri-based processing enterprise : a grounded theory study of strategic leaders' cultural assumptions and strategising activities
- Authors: Kanyangale, Macdonald Isaac
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- Malawi -- Management Agriculture -- Malawi -- Business management Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- Malawi Grounded theory -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1181 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002798
- Description: As leaders of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), strategic leaders are responsible for strategising, the approach to which is influenced by their cultural paradigm. The effects of this strategising are manifested in the day-to-day activities of these leaders. This study aims to build an understanding of the shared cultural assumptions of strategic leaders in agri-based processing SMEs and how these assumptions affect the strategising activities that are adopted when addressing critical incidents related to the internal integration and external adaptation of the SME. Using Strauss and Corbin‟s (1990) grounded theory method, this study develops a theory titled Conveniencing the Family in Business, which is induced from critical incidents. A sample of critical incidents was gathered from 44 qualitative interviews conducted with strategic leaders of various agri-based processing SMEs operating in Malawi. This study found that strategic leaders display persistent and stable pragmatic business survival mind sets, but dynamic cultural assumptions about relationships with organisation members. The cultural influence of these assumptions is manifested in two distinctive and alternative processes making up the theory of conveniencing the family in business. These are the humanising and commodifying of relationships with organisation members, and they are evident in hostile and friendly business environments, respectively. Humanising of relationships with all members of the organisation builds and capitalises on inclusive, organisation-wide social capital that secures the future of the business. On the other hand, commodifying of relationships with non-family organisation members weakens collective support, which becomes mainly dependent on family and friendship ties. Thus, commodifying of relationships serves to perpetuate the close integration of business activity and family requirements to ultimately convenience the family in business, and represents the desired modus operandi of strategic leaders. As strategic leaders of SMEs have not yet conceptualised this, providing them with the conceptual theory developed here may be helpful towards a consistent re-orientation of the internal organisational support in a way that does not exclude but rather harnesses the wider solidarity of organisation members. The process explained by this theory is iterative, dynamic and distinguishes patterns of relationships amongst organisation members, which either enhances or compromises their collective support for the leaders and the enterprise. This by implication affects the performance of the enterprise. The results of this study are discussed from the perspective of social exchange and social capital theory, thereby contributing to the understanding of the strategising activities of strategic leaders, as well as the processes of building or destroying social capital in this type of enterprise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Kanyangale, Macdonald Isaac
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- Malawi -- Management Agriculture -- Malawi -- Business management Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- Malawi Grounded theory -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1181 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002798
- Description: As leaders of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), strategic leaders are responsible for strategising, the approach to which is influenced by their cultural paradigm. The effects of this strategising are manifested in the day-to-day activities of these leaders. This study aims to build an understanding of the shared cultural assumptions of strategic leaders in agri-based processing SMEs and how these assumptions affect the strategising activities that are adopted when addressing critical incidents related to the internal integration and external adaptation of the SME. Using Strauss and Corbin‟s (1990) grounded theory method, this study develops a theory titled Conveniencing the Family in Business, which is induced from critical incidents. A sample of critical incidents was gathered from 44 qualitative interviews conducted with strategic leaders of various agri-based processing SMEs operating in Malawi. This study found that strategic leaders display persistent and stable pragmatic business survival mind sets, but dynamic cultural assumptions about relationships with organisation members. The cultural influence of these assumptions is manifested in two distinctive and alternative processes making up the theory of conveniencing the family in business. These are the humanising and commodifying of relationships with organisation members, and they are evident in hostile and friendly business environments, respectively. Humanising of relationships with all members of the organisation builds and capitalises on inclusive, organisation-wide social capital that secures the future of the business. On the other hand, commodifying of relationships with non-family organisation members weakens collective support, which becomes mainly dependent on family and friendship ties. Thus, commodifying of relationships serves to perpetuate the close integration of business activity and family requirements to ultimately convenience the family in business, and represents the desired modus operandi of strategic leaders. As strategic leaders of SMEs have not yet conceptualised this, providing them with the conceptual theory developed here may be helpful towards a consistent re-orientation of the internal organisational support in a way that does not exclude but rather harnesses the wider solidarity of organisation members. The process explained by this theory is iterative, dynamic and distinguishes patterns of relationships amongst organisation members, which either enhances or compromises their collective support for the leaders and the enterprise. This by implication affects the performance of the enterprise. The results of this study are discussed from the perspective of social exchange and social capital theory, thereby contributing to the understanding of the strategising activities of strategic leaders, as well as the processes of building or destroying social capital in this type of enterprise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The leadership competencies subordinates value : an exploratory study across gender and national culture
- Authors: Gondongwe, Sharon
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Leadership , Organizational behavior , Organizational behavior -- Cross-cultural studies , Organizational behavior -- Sex differences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1203 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015673
- Description: The effectiveness of leadership is largely dependent on whether the leadership competencies exhibited by leaders are congruent with the value system endorsed by subordinates. One of the ways in which leaders can influence subordinates is by understanding the leadership competencies valued by subordinates. Gender and national culture are two of the many factors that have an influence on the leadership competencies valued by subordinates. A large amount of research has been conducted to determine if, indeed, gender and national culture influence the leadership competencies subordinates' value. However, most of this research has been conducted in Europe and North America, places in which national cultures differ significantly from those prevailing in African countries. This study, from a South African and Zimbabwean perspective, attempted to ascertain if gender and national culture influence the leadership competencies they value in their leaders. Existing studies have indicated that gender and national culture do not influence the leadership competencies valued in a leader. The findings of this study are in accordance with previous research and agree that gender and national culture do not influence the leadership competencies valued in a leader. The results of this study indicated that male and female subordinates value similar leadership competencies. With respect to national culture, both South African and Zimbabwean subordinates value similar leadership competencies. Based on the findings of this study, regardless of gender and national culture, all subordinates value a leader who is loyal, visionary, openly embodies integrity, and is a leader who empowers subordinates.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Gondongwe, Sharon
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Leadership , Organizational behavior , Organizational behavior -- Cross-cultural studies , Organizational behavior -- Sex differences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1203 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015673
- Description: The effectiveness of leadership is largely dependent on whether the leadership competencies exhibited by leaders are congruent with the value system endorsed by subordinates. One of the ways in which leaders can influence subordinates is by understanding the leadership competencies valued by subordinates. Gender and national culture are two of the many factors that have an influence on the leadership competencies valued by subordinates. A large amount of research has been conducted to determine if, indeed, gender and national culture influence the leadership competencies subordinates' value. However, most of this research has been conducted in Europe and North America, places in which national cultures differ significantly from those prevailing in African countries. This study, from a South African and Zimbabwean perspective, attempted to ascertain if gender and national culture influence the leadership competencies they value in their leaders. Existing studies have indicated that gender and national culture do not influence the leadership competencies valued in a leader. The findings of this study are in accordance with previous research and agree that gender and national culture do not influence the leadership competencies valued in a leader. The results of this study indicated that male and female subordinates value similar leadership competencies. With respect to national culture, both South African and Zimbabwean subordinates value similar leadership competencies. Based on the findings of this study, regardless of gender and national culture, all subordinates value a leader who is loyal, visionary, openly embodies integrity, and is a leader who empowers subordinates.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Demographical diversity influence on online shopping orientation and propensity to buy online
- Authors: Tapson, Megan Jacqueline
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Teleshopping -- South Africa , Electronic commerce -- South Africa , Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Cross-cultural studies , Ethnicity -- South Africa , Ethnic attitudes -- South Africa , Consumer behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:1168 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002784 , Teleshopping -- South Africa , Electronic commerce -- South Africa , Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Cross-cultural studies , Ethnicity -- South Africa , Ethnic attitudes -- South Africa , Consumer behavior -- South Africa
- Description: Online shopping is a growing phenomenon all over the world, and it has thus had an influence on the shopping process for many consumers (Brengman et al., 2005:79; Brown et al., 2003:1667; Kau et al., 2003:139). Consumers are now choosing to shop online due to changes in their lifestyles and demographic diversity (Kau et al., 2003:139). The purpose of this research was to examine the extent to which demographic diversity influenced online shopping orientation and propensity to buy online. The researcher first conducted an in-depth theoretical study of previous research into demographic diversity, online shopping orientation and propensity to buy online. Next, the researcher conducted an empirical survey questionnaire, in order to assess the opinions of students at the three selected Eastern Cape universities. Phinney's (1992:156) multi-group ethnic identity measure was administered in order to identify how respondents feel about their ethnicity and/or how they react to their own ethnic group. Kau et al.,'s (2003) online shopping orientation measure was used to help identify six relevant online shopping factors. The six online shopping factors where then used to describe six online shopping orientation types. The main findings of this research conducted at three Universities in the Eastern Cape can be summarised as follows: Ethnic Identity Profile: - Within this research it was found that respondents at all three universities in general had a strong ethnic identity to their specified ethnic group, according to the two ethnic identity factors namely; commitment and exploration. Online Shopping Orientation Profile: - Within this research it was found that the respondents at all three universities in general could be categorised in one of six online shopping orientation types according to six online shopping factors. The extent to which demographic diversity influences types of online shopping orientation: - From the research hypotheses it was concluded that a relationship exists between demographic diversity and types of online shopping orientations, whereby the gender, race and ethnicity of respondent is likely to influence the way consumers shop online, namely the consumers‟ online shopping orientation. The extent to which demographic diversity influences propensity to buy online: - From the research hypotheses it was concluded that a relationship exists between demographic diversity and propensity to buy online, whereby the gender of respondents is likely to influence whether consumers buy online in the future. - From the research hypotheses it was concluded that no relationship exists between demographic diversity and propensity to buy online, whereby the race and ethnicity of respondents is not likely to influence whether consumers buy online in the future. The extent to which types of online shopping orientation influence propensity to buy online: - The findings suggest that different online shopping orientations have different propensities to buy online in the future. Hence, marketers should be aware of the online shopping orientations more likely to buy online in the future and focus their marketing programs on them. They should also try new ways to attract the online shopping orientations that may not buy online, in the hopes of changing their opinions and perceptions of the Internet and online shopping. South Africa, in particular, consists of multi-racial and diverse ethnic origins, which has resulted in a demographically diverse South African nation. Therefore, marketers need to develop a better understanding of consumers‟ online shopping orientation (Donthu and Garcia, 1999:57; Jayawardhena and Foley, 2000:19; Kau et al., 2003:140). Understanding consumers' online shopping orientation will assist marketers in being able to market to specific consumers and meet the needs of consumers effectively (Kau et al., 2003:140). Since demographic diversity influences the online shopping orientations of consumers, major opportunities for marketers will be provided by accommodating for a demographically diverse South African nation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Tapson, Megan Jacqueline
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Teleshopping -- South Africa , Electronic commerce -- South Africa , Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Cross-cultural studies , Ethnicity -- South Africa , Ethnic attitudes -- South Africa , Consumer behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:1168 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002784 , Teleshopping -- South Africa , Electronic commerce -- South Africa , Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Cross-cultural studies , Ethnicity -- South Africa , Ethnic attitudes -- South Africa , Consumer behavior -- South Africa
- Description: Online shopping is a growing phenomenon all over the world, and it has thus had an influence on the shopping process for many consumers (Brengman et al., 2005:79; Brown et al., 2003:1667; Kau et al., 2003:139). Consumers are now choosing to shop online due to changes in their lifestyles and demographic diversity (Kau et al., 2003:139). The purpose of this research was to examine the extent to which demographic diversity influenced online shopping orientation and propensity to buy online. The researcher first conducted an in-depth theoretical study of previous research into demographic diversity, online shopping orientation and propensity to buy online. Next, the researcher conducted an empirical survey questionnaire, in order to assess the opinions of students at the three selected Eastern Cape universities. Phinney's (1992:156) multi-group ethnic identity measure was administered in order to identify how respondents feel about their ethnicity and/or how they react to their own ethnic group. Kau et al.,'s (2003) online shopping orientation measure was used to help identify six relevant online shopping factors. The six online shopping factors where then used to describe six online shopping orientation types. The main findings of this research conducted at three Universities in the Eastern Cape can be summarised as follows: Ethnic Identity Profile: - Within this research it was found that respondents at all three universities in general had a strong ethnic identity to their specified ethnic group, according to the two ethnic identity factors namely; commitment and exploration. Online Shopping Orientation Profile: - Within this research it was found that the respondents at all three universities in general could be categorised in one of six online shopping orientation types according to six online shopping factors. The extent to which demographic diversity influences types of online shopping orientation: - From the research hypotheses it was concluded that a relationship exists between demographic diversity and types of online shopping orientations, whereby the gender, race and ethnicity of respondent is likely to influence the way consumers shop online, namely the consumers‟ online shopping orientation. The extent to which demographic diversity influences propensity to buy online: - From the research hypotheses it was concluded that a relationship exists between demographic diversity and propensity to buy online, whereby the gender of respondents is likely to influence whether consumers buy online in the future. - From the research hypotheses it was concluded that no relationship exists between demographic diversity and propensity to buy online, whereby the race and ethnicity of respondents is not likely to influence whether consumers buy online in the future. The extent to which types of online shopping orientation influence propensity to buy online: - The findings suggest that different online shopping orientations have different propensities to buy online in the future. Hence, marketers should be aware of the online shopping orientations more likely to buy online in the future and focus their marketing programs on them. They should also try new ways to attract the online shopping orientations that may not buy online, in the hopes of changing their opinions and perceptions of the Internet and online shopping. South Africa, in particular, consists of multi-racial and diverse ethnic origins, which has resulted in a demographically diverse South African nation. Therefore, marketers need to develop a better understanding of consumers‟ online shopping orientation (Donthu and Garcia, 1999:57; Jayawardhena and Foley, 2000:19; Kau et al., 2003:140). Understanding consumers' online shopping orientation will assist marketers in being able to market to specific consumers and meet the needs of consumers effectively (Kau et al., 2003:140). Since demographic diversity influences the online shopping orientations of consumers, major opportunities for marketers will be provided by accommodating for a demographically diverse South African nation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
An exploratory study of students’ expectations and perceptions of service quality in a South African higher education institution
- Authors: Williams, Alyssa Shawntay
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: SERVQUAL (Service quality framework) , Relationship marketing , Consumer satisfaction , Sampling (Statistics) , College students Attitudes , Universities and colleges South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63844 , vital:28496
- Description: Within the past few years, higher education institutions have come under an exorbitant amount of pressure to restructure, increase funding and grow student numbers, whilst still preserving the service quality they offer. The purpose of this study is to measure students’ expectations and perceptions in a higher education institution and establish how significant of a gap exists between what is expected and what is perceived. The instrument utilised within the present study is SERVQUAL. A convenience sampling approach was adopted, furthermore, both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data pertaining to the objectives concerning students’ gap between expectations and perceptions and hypotheses regarding the gap between students’ differences in each faculty, respectively. The study found that there were gaps in all dimensions with the order being, from highest to lowest: Reliability – Responsiveness – Assurance – Empathy – Tangibility. In addition, the significant difference in means according to faculty was established and the only dimension with a significant difference was Empathy. These results were used to offer recommendations to management, faculties and departments of the higher education institution under study about where they are deficient, consequently, improving their services to enhance their service quality and increase their competitive advantage but without financial strain. Overall, the conclusions the present study reached was that students and higher education institutions need to have a mutual interest in their relations. This means that as much as higher education institutions need to provide high service quality to students, students need to be willing to provide feedback and interact.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Williams, Alyssa Shawntay
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: SERVQUAL (Service quality framework) , Relationship marketing , Consumer satisfaction , Sampling (Statistics) , College students Attitudes , Universities and colleges South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63844 , vital:28496
- Description: Within the past few years, higher education institutions have come under an exorbitant amount of pressure to restructure, increase funding and grow student numbers, whilst still preserving the service quality they offer. The purpose of this study is to measure students’ expectations and perceptions in a higher education institution and establish how significant of a gap exists between what is expected and what is perceived. The instrument utilised within the present study is SERVQUAL. A convenience sampling approach was adopted, furthermore, both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data pertaining to the objectives concerning students’ gap between expectations and perceptions and hypotheses regarding the gap between students’ differences in each faculty, respectively. The study found that there were gaps in all dimensions with the order being, from highest to lowest: Reliability – Responsiveness – Assurance – Empathy – Tangibility. In addition, the significant difference in means according to faculty was established and the only dimension with a significant difference was Empathy. These results were used to offer recommendations to management, faculties and departments of the higher education institution under study about where they are deficient, consequently, improving their services to enhance their service quality and increase their competitive advantage but without financial strain. Overall, the conclusions the present study reached was that students and higher education institutions need to have a mutual interest in their relations. This means that as much as higher education institutions need to provide high service quality to students, students need to be willing to provide feedback and interact.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An entrepreneurial framework for deciding on the implementation of large format digital printing internationally
- Adendorff, Christian Michael
- Authors: Adendorff, Christian Michael
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Success in business , Business -- Technological innovations , Digital printing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002785 , Entrepreneurship , Success in business , Business -- Technological innovations , Digital printing
- Description: This study focuses on entrepreneurs within the SME sector using large format digital printing (LFDP) because of the changes in technology that influences the decisionmaking processes of the entrepreneur in the purchasing of a new LFDP. These fast changes are likely to continue and can cause technologies to become obsolete overnight. The entrepreneurs within the LFDP industry find themselves in the midst of these fast changes and are faced with a dilemma. On the one hand, they need to make sure that the technology used produces consistent and quality products. On the other hand, the entrepreneur needs to ensure an optimal return on investments. From the literature and the findings of the study, the researcher recommends a change to an existing model on a consultant involvement purchase of high technology products, which is then adapted to integrate resource-forecasting areas together with timing and type of information required as well as external environment scanning. The existing model’s focus is on the individual’s ability to make decisions based on their own knowledge. However, by integrating technology forecasting components, and scanning the business environment and resource forecasting needed the decision-maker will be better equipped to make decisions that also takes into account the external environment. This will also allow them to plan and manage growth in a systematic way. Therefore the proposed model takes into account individual capabilities and technology forecasting components that can facilitate the decision-making process. The adapted model on decision-making clearly delineates that the combination of entrepreneurial qualities and technology forecasting techniques in the LFDP industry will ultimately assist the entrepreneur on various levels in deciding on a new LFDP.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Adendorff, Christian Michael
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Success in business , Business -- Technological innovations , Digital printing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002785 , Entrepreneurship , Success in business , Business -- Technological innovations , Digital printing
- Description: This study focuses on entrepreneurs within the SME sector using large format digital printing (LFDP) because of the changes in technology that influences the decisionmaking processes of the entrepreneur in the purchasing of a new LFDP. These fast changes are likely to continue and can cause technologies to become obsolete overnight. The entrepreneurs within the LFDP industry find themselves in the midst of these fast changes and are faced with a dilemma. On the one hand, they need to make sure that the technology used produces consistent and quality products. On the other hand, the entrepreneur needs to ensure an optimal return on investments. From the literature and the findings of the study, the researcher recommends a change to an existing model on a consultant involvement purchase of high technology products, which is then adapted to integrate resource-forecasting areas together with timing and type of information required as well as external environment scanning. The existing model’s focus is on the individual’s ability to make decisions based on their own knowledge. However, by integrating technology forecasting components, and scanning the business environment and resource forecasting needed the decision-maker will be better equipped to make decisions that also takes into account the external environment. This will also allow them to plan and manage growth in a systematic way. Therefore the proposed model takes into account individual capabilities and technology forecasting components that can facilitate the decision-making process. The adapted model on decision-making clearly delineates that the combination of entrepreneurial qualities and technology forecasting techniques in the LFDP industry will ultimately assist the entrepreneur on various levels in deciding on a new LFDP.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
Corporate social responsibility of private game reserves in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Motala, Amina Sadiq
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social responsibility of busines -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Game reserves -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Ecotourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Environmental responsibility -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1187 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004335
- Description: The primary aim of this research study was to determine the current state of practice of corporate social responsibility (CSR) within the ecotourism based private game reserve (PGR) industry in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. According to Carroll (1991) four kind of responsibilities constitute total CSR, namely economic, legal, ethical and philanthropic responsibilities. Given the context of this research a fifth responsibility concerning environmental responsibilities was added to Carroll 's (1991) pyramid ofCSR. A descriptive and illustrative case study approach, within the phenomenological research paradigm, was used for the purpose of this research. The unit of analysis is the Indalo group, the Association of Eastern Cape Private Game Reserves, made up of 12 ecotourism based PORs. As the current research focused on eight of the twelve PGRs a mUltiple case study was employed. To give effect to the aim a number of research objectives were identified. Firstly to desclibe and assess the current practice in implementing CSR within the ecotourism based PGR industry in the Eastern Cape Province. Secondly, to assess and evaluate the involvement of ecotourism based PGRs in the Eastern Cape Province in each of the five responsibilities comprising CSR. Thirdly, to identify the challenges faced by ecotourism based PGRs in the Eastern Cape Province with regard to the implementation of CSR initiatives. Lastly to provide pertinent conclusions and recommendations with regard to CSR strategies within the ecotourism based PGR industry in the Eastern Cape Province. Data were collected by means of in-depth interviews with the managers of each reserve. In addition the researcher conducted focus interviews with administrative employees at each of the member reserves of the Indalo group. Additionally the managers of each reserve were requested to respond to a structured five point Likert scale questionnaire based on the research by Aupperle, Carroll and Hatfield (1985). This research study found that the current practice at the Indalo group is towards a strategic, long term approach to CSR that aids in the development of a 'sustainable organisation.' The aspect of ' empowerment' emerged as the essence of the current practice ofCSR of the Indalo group. Based on the current practice it was concluded that the Indalo group is actively involved in the specific components of CSR namely, environmental, economic, legal, ethical and philanthropic responsibilities. With regard to the environmental responsibilities it was concluded that the environment is the foundation upon which all other components of CSR rest. In addition it was concluded that the economic responsibilities, if managed well, are key to unlocking the CSR potential of a reserve as well as ensuring widespread economic development. In terms of the legal and ethical responsibilities it was concluded that tourism policies both at the national and international level have not aided in the development of a CSR agenda of the Indalo group. Furthermore managers of the reserves have been instrumental in cultivating their own legal culture of CSR based on their experience in the tourism industry and their ethical stances. In terms of the philanthropic responsibilities it can be concluded that charitable activities that are long term and strategic in nature allow for direct and indirect benefits to all parties involved. Overall, it can further be concluded that despite Hudson and Miller's (2005:5) view that the "tourism industry is well hehind other industries in terms of CSR" the Indalo group is moving forward in terms of rooting CSR into their everyday operations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Motala, Amina Sadiq
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social responsibility of busines -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Game reserves -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Ecotourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Environmental responsibility -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1187 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004335
- Description: The primary aim of this research study was to determine the current state of practice of corporate social responsibility (CSR) within the ecotourism based private game reserve (PGR) industry in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. According to Carroll (1991) four kind of responsibilities constitute total CSR, namely economic, legal, ethical and philanthropic responsibilities. Given the context of this research a fifth responsibility concerning environmental responsibilities was added to Carroll 's (1991) pyramid ofCSR. A descriptive and illustrative case study approach, within the phenomenological research paradigm, was used for the purpose of this research. The unit of analysis is the Indalo group, the Association of Eastern Cape Private Game Reserves, made up of 12 ecotourism based PORs. As the current research focused on eight of the twelve PGRs a mUltiple case study was employed. To give effect to the aim a number of research objectives were identified. Firstly to desclibe and assess the current practice in implementing CSR within the ecotourism based PGR industry in the Eastern Cape Province. Secondly, to assess and evaluate the involvement of ecotourism based PGRs in the Eastern Cape Province in each of the five responsibilities comprising CSR. Thirdly, to identify the challenges faced by ecotourism based PGRs in the Eastern Cape Province with regard to the implementation of CSR initiatives. Lastly to provide pertinent conclusions and recommendations with regard to CSR strategies within the ecotourism based PGR industry in the Eastern Cape Province. Data were collected by means of in-depth interviews with the managers of each reserve. In addition the researcher conducted focus interviews with administrative employees at each of the member reserves of the Indalo group. Additionally the managers of each reserve were requested to respond to a structured five point Likert scale questionnaire based on the research by Aupperle, Carroll and Hatfield (1985). This research study found that the current practice at the Indalo group is towards a strategic, long term approach to CSR that aids in the development of a 'sustainable organisation.' The aspect of ' empowerment' emerged as the essence of the current practice ofCSR of the Indalo group. Based on the current practice it was concluded that the Indalo group is actively involved in the specific components of CSR namely, environmental, economic, legal, ethical and philanthropic responsibilities. With regard to the environmental responsibilities it was concluded that the environment is the foundation upon which all other components of CSR rest. In addition it was concluded that the economic responsibilities, if managed well, are key to unlocking the CSR potential of a reserve as well as ensuring widespread economic development. In terms of the legal and ethical responsibilities it was concluded that tourism policies both at the national and international level have not aided in the development of a CSR agenda of the Indalo group. Furthermore managers of the reserves have been instrumental in cultivating their own legal culture of CSR based on their experience in the tourism industry and their ethical stances. In terms of the philanthropic responsibilities it can be concluded that charitable activities that are long term and strategic in nature allow for direct and indirect benefits to all parties involved. Overall, it can further be concluded that despite Hudson and Miller's (2005:5) view that the "tourism industry is well hehind other industries in terms of CSR" the Indalo group is moving forward in terms of rooting CSR into their everyday operations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Managing conflict across cultures, values and identities: a case study in the South African automotive industry
- Authors: Mayer, Claude-Hélène
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa Automobile industry workers -- South Africa Communication in management -- South Africa Intercultural communication -- South Africa Culture conflict -- South Africa Diversity in the workplace -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1174 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002790
- Description: Over the past fifty years, interest in the field of conflict management and peacekeeping has developed worldwide. During the same time, the potential for trans-ultural) conflict has escalated. This can mainly be attributed to the trend towards globalisation, as well as the growing complexity of societies increasingly experiencing more intercultural encounters or cultural transition situations and work-related or organisational conflicts. Cultural transition situations occur in the South African international automotive industry where the emergence of international co-operation, such as joint ventures (driven by globalisation) and new diversity management trends, have changed the way business is conducted. Due to these changes, employees of diverse origins with different cultures, values and identities work together, experiencing work-related conflicts. The purpose of this study was to assess managerial perspectives on conflict, identity and values, as well as on how (trans-cultural) conflict is managed in a selected international organisation in the South African automotive industry. The contribution of this study is twofold, namely to increase the understanding of the complexities of conflict in organisations; and to provide recommendations for conflict resolution strategies to manage (trans-cultural) conflict constructively by considering the values and identity aspects of those individuals involved. This study comprises a single explanatory case study which made use of qualitative data collection and analysis to investigate managerial perspectives on conflict, identity and values, as well as the management thereof, in the selected international organisation in the South African automotive context. Based on the main findings from this case study, it could be concluded that managers with diverse backgrounds experience work-related conflicts which are related to value and identity concepts in the selected organisation. The conflicts experienced fell into the categories of Communication and Treatment, Position and Competition, Organisation and Race and Gender.An overview of the occurrence frequency of value statements revealed that equality, communication and respect were the most commonly indicated values in conflicts. These value concepts include sub-concepts such as: · for equality: race, gender and human equality; · for communication: open, personal, free, decent, calm and proactive communication; and · for respect: mutual respect for self and others. With regard to value concepts and according to value domains of Schwartz (1994) and Schwartz and Bilsky (1987), the value dimensions of selftranscendence comprised the highest number of value statements. This dimension included the value domains of universalism and benevolence. Conflict in the data material was interlinked with identity. The extracts, based on the key words of the identity factors, demonstrated that the identity factors were related to either a weakening or strengthening effect on identities. Social and identity multiplicity in managers provides creativity spaces and flexibility in cases of strong identity patterns. Particularly with weak identities, the existence of conflict potentials could lead to complex conflicts and challenges in conflict management. Communication was most often mentioned as important to successful conflict resolution management and included examples such as round-table talks, smooth communication, face-to-face communication and room meetings. Communication was followed in frequency by strategies of internal intervention, which included the use of the formal structure of the organisation to resolve conflicts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Mayer, Claude-Hélène
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa Automobile industry workers -- South Africa Communication in management -- South Africa Intercultural communication -- South Africa Culture conflict -- South Africa Diversity in the workplace -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1174 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002790
- Description: Over the past fifty years, interest in the field of conflict management and peacekeeping has developed worldwide. During the same time, the potential for trans-ultural) conflict has escalated. This can mainly be attributed to the trend towards globalisation, as well as the growing complexity of societies increasingly experiencing more intercultural encounters or cultural transition situations and work-related or organisational conflicts. Cultural transition situations occur in the South African international automotive industry where the emergence of international co-operation, such as joint ventures (driven by globalisation) and new diversity management trends, have changed the way business is conducted. Due to these changes, employees of diverse origins with different cultures, values and identities work together, experiencing work-related conflicts. The purpose of this study was to assess managerial perspectives on conflict, identity and values, as well as on how (trans-cultural) conflict is managed in a selected international organisation in the South African automotive industry. The contribution of this study is twofold, namely to increase the understanding of the complexities of conflict in organisations; and to provide recommendations for conflict resolution strategies to manage (trans-cultural) conflict constructively by considering the values and identity aspects of those individuals involved. This study comprises a single explanatory case study which made use of qualitative data collection and analysis to investigate managerial perspectives on conflict, identity and values, as well as the management thereof, in the selected international organisation in the South African automotive context. Based on the main findings from this case study, it could be concluded that managers with diverse backgrounds experience work-related conflicts which are related to value and identity concepts in the selected organisation. The conflicts experienced fell into the categories of Communication and Treatment, Position and Competition, Organisation and Race and Gender.An overview of the occurrence frequency of value statements revealed that equality, communication and respect were the most commonly indicated values in conflicts. These value concepts include sub-concepts such as: · for equality: race, gender and human equality; · for communication: open, personal, free, decent, calm and proactive communication; and · for respect: mutual respect for self and others. With regard to value concepts and according to value domains of Schwartz (1994) and Schwartz and Bilsky (1987), the value dimensions of selftranscendence comprised the highest number of value statements. This dimension included the value domains of universalism and benevolence. Conflict in the data material was interlinked with identity. The extracts, based on the key words of the identity factors, demonstrated that the identity factors were related to either a weakening or strengthening effect on identities. Social and identity multiplicity in managers provides creativity spaces and flexibility in cases of strong identity patterns. Particularly with weak identities, the existence of conflict potentials could lead to complex conflicts and challenges in conflict management. Communication was most often mentioned as important to successful conflict resolution management and included examples such as round-table talks, smooth communication, face-to-face communication and room meetings. Communication was followed in frequency by strategies of internal intervention, which included the use of the formal structure of the organisation to resolve conflicts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
The current role of farmers’ associations in the Albany Area
- Authors: Moss, Nicola Joy
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4108 , vital:20609
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to analyse the current roles that farmers’ associations in the Albany Area fulfil, by determining their current practices, describing the internal measures of effectiveness, and to explain why there are some farmers’ who do not belong to farmers’ associations. In doing this, the researcher was able to determine whether maintaining the status quo would effectively satisfy the members of farmers’ associations. In turn, recommendations were made to farmers’ associations on the roles which could be improved, in order to obtain a higher level of satisfaction among members. In order to achieve the primary aim of the study, interviews were conducted and questionnaires were administered to members of, non-members of, and chairpersons of farmers’ associations in the Albany Area, thus implying that a pragmatic research paradigm was employed to conduct the study. The key findings of this study revealed that farmers’ associations in the Albany Area do perform the five roles of organised associations. However, the manner in which the roles are performed appears to be of a subpar standard. There are 29 services which are aligned with the five roles which are to be performed by organised associations. With regards to farmers’ associations, 18 of the 29 services are able to obtained by non-members through alternative mediums, at a cost lower than that of the membership fee. This does not entice members to join farmers’ associations because the benefits of membership are not seen. Using the competing values framework, we were able to determine the values incorporated into the daily management of farmers’ associations in the Albany Area. Based on the data analysis farmers’ associations were found to have an internal outlook. This could be the overarching reason as to why non-members of farmers’ associations are able to access 18 of the 29 services offered without actually being a member of the respective associations. It was concluded that while farmers’ associations do perform the five roles of organised associations, it does not imply that they do so effectively. This is due to the services offered falling under both public and private good categories. The results showed that 18 of the services offered were classified as public goods, which could be the overarching reason for low levels of membership in farmers’ associations in the Albany Area. Interestingly, members of farmers’ associations are satisfied with the services offered by farmers’ associations, although the majority of the services which are valued were classified to be public goods. However, the internal outlook portrayed by farmers’ associations could provide an explanation as to why more public than private goods are offered. Not having an external outlook affects the services which are offered, and will not provide associations with an understanding of the services which could attract members to the association. If farmers’ associations were to provide more valued services, and understand what services could be sourced elsewhere, they might increase the probability of satisfying all their members, while potentially attracting new members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Moss, Nicola Joy
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4108 , vital:20609
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to analyse the current roles that farmers’ associations in the Albany Area fulfil, by determining their current practices, describing the internal measures of effectiveness, and to explain why there are some farmers’ who do not belong to farmers’ associations. In doing this, the researcher was able to determine whether maintaining the status quo would effectively satisfy the members of farmers’ associations. In turn, recommendations were made to farmers’ associations on the roles which could be improved, in order to obtain a higher level of satisfaction among members. In order to achieve the primary aim of the study, interviews were conducted and questionnaires were administered to members of, non-members of, and chairpersons of farmers’ associations in the Albany Area, thus implying that a pragmatic research paradigm was employed to conduct the study. The key findings of this study revealed that farmers’ associations in the Albany Area do perform the five roles of organised associations. However, the manner in which the roles are performed appears to be of a subpar standard. There are 29 services which are aligned with the five roles which are to be performed by organised associations. With regards to farmers’ associations, 18 of the 29 services are able to obtained by non-members through alternative mediums, at a cost lower than that of the membership fee. This does not entice members to join farmers’ associations because the benefits of membership are not seen. Using the competing values framework, we were able to determine the values incorporated into the daily management of farmers’ associations in the Albany Area. Based on the data analysis farmers’ associations were found to have an internal outlook. This could be the overarching reason as to why non-members of farmers’ associations are able to access 18 of the 29 services offered without actually being a member of the respective associations. It was concluded that while farmers’ associations do perform the five roles of organised associations, it does not imply that they do so effectively. This is due to the services offered falling under both public and private good categories. The results showed that 18 of the services offered were classified as public goods, which could be the overarching reason for low levels of membership in farmers’ associations in the Albany Area. Interestingly, members of farmers’ associations are satisfied with the services offered by farmers’ associations, although the majority of the services which are valued were classified to be public goods. However, the internal outlook portrayed by farmers’ associations could provide an explanation as to why more public than private goods are offered. Not having an external outlook affects the services which are offered, and will not provide associations with an understanding of the services which could attract members to the association. If farmers’ associations were to provide more valued services, and understand what services could be sourced elsewhere, they might increase the probability of satisfying all their members, while potentially attracting new members.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The influence of financial socialisation agents on financial knowledge, financial self-efficacy and financial behaviour among South African consumers
- Authors: Maswena, Kaelo
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Financial literacy South Africa , Finance, Personal South Africa , Budgets, Personal South Africa , Consumer behavior South Africa , Consumers Attitudes , Life skills South Africa , Social learning South Africa , Self-control South Africa , Socialization South Africa , Financial socialisation agents
- Language: English
- Type: Master's thesis , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/232421 , vital:49990
- Description: There is a need to promote positive financial behaviour in South Africa. According to the Human Sciences Research Council (2018), South African financial behaviour culture emphasises a financially vulnerable nation in terms of not having enough income for future planning and lacking financial self-control. In its key role in influencing financial behaviour, financial socialisation, which is characterised by interactions with indirect, or purposive financial education and communication of financial norms influencing financial behaviours, attitudes, knowledge, capabilities, and self-efficacy of consumers, is the topic of this study. The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of financial socialisation agents on financial (actual and self-assessed) knowledge, financial self-efficacy and financial behaviour among South African consumers. Based on Glenn’s (2018) framework, Xiao et al. (2009) socialisation and Moschis et al. (1978) consumer socialisation theory, the financial socialisation theoretical framework is provided for this study. Literature review provided an overview of past studies on the concepts of financial socialisation, financial (actual and self-assessed) knowledge, financial self-efficacy and financial behaviour. Therefore, a positivistic research paradigm was adopted, which used a cross-sectional correlational research methodology. This study analysed data primarily collected by a questionnaire survey of South African social attitudes to financial literacy by the Human Sciences Research Council (2011), using a multi-staged sampling technique in all South African provinces of consumers of 16 years and older. Descriptive statistics showed that most respondents were black African females between the ages of 26 and 35 years. Most held Matric certificates and were in paid employment for 30 hours or more per week. Most respondents considered family to be the most influential financial socialisation agent, followed by friends, then the bank. Actual financial knowledge of respondents, was indicated as relatively high. Results on self-assessed financial knowledge showed that most of the respondents considered their level of financial knowledge to be neutral. Using Pearson product-moment correlations to measure the strength and correlations of relationships, positive significant correlations were found between financial socialisation agents, financial (actual and self-assessed) knowledge and financial self-efficacy, while a negative and insignificant correlation was found between financial socialisation agents and financial behaviour. Multiple regression analysis results testing the hypotheses of the study demonstrated that financial socialisation agents have a significant positive influence on financial (actual and self-assessed) knowledge and financial self-efficacy; a significant influence on financial behaviour was not reported. Self-assessed financial knowledge showed a positive significant influence on financial self-efficacy and actual financial knowledge had an insignificant negative influence on financial self-efficacy. Actual financial knowledge had a significant positive influence on financial behaviour, whereby a positive yet insignificant relationship was found between self-assessed knowledge and financial behaviour. In the end, recommendations for the results indicate that financial educators need to develop a financial education plan that will include other content areas of financial knowledge such as identified by Huston (2010) and Lusardi and Mitchell (2011); the most important recommendation would be to help consumers have an accurate understanding of their own level of financial knowledge and to improve financial self-efficacy in consumers, financial socialisation experiences such as offering encouragement to open a bank account, to save and invest money, and presenting opportunities to practise financial skills, may increase consumers’ self-efficacy and lead to positive financial behaviours. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Maswena, Kaelo
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Financial literacy South Africa , Finance, Personal South Africa , Budgets, Personal South Africa , Consumer behavior South Africa , Consumers Attitudes , Life skills South Africa , Social learning South Africa , Self-control South Africa , Socialization South Africa , Financial socialisation agents
- Language: English
- Type: Master's thesis , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/232421 , vital:49990
- Description: There is a need to promote positive financial behaviour in South Africa. According to the Human Sciences Research Council (2018), South African financial behaviour culture emphasises a financially vulnerable nation in terms of not having enough income for future planning and lacking financial self-control. In its key role in influencing financial behaviour, financial socialisation, which is characterised by interactions with indirect, or purposive financial education and communication of financial norms influencing financial behaviours, attitudes, knowledge, capabilities, and self-efficacy of consumers, is the topic of this study. The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of financial socialisation agents on financial (actual and self-assessed) knowledge, financial self-efficacy and financial behaviour among South African consumers. Based on Glenn’s (2018) framework, Xiao et al. (2009) socialisation and Moschis et al. (1978) consumer socialisation theory, the financial socialisation theoretical framework is provided for this study. Literature review provided an overview of past studies on the concepts of financial socialisation, financial (actual and self-assessed) knowledge, financial self-efficacy and financial behaviour. Therefore, a positivistic research paradigm was adopted, which used a cross-sectional correlational research methodology. This study analysed data primarily collected by a questionnaire survey of South African social attitudes to financial literacy by the Human Sciences Research Council (2011), using a multi-staged sampling technique in all South African provinces of consumers of 16 years and older. Descriptive statistics showed that most respondents were black African females between the ages of 26 and 35 years. Most held Matric certificates and were in paid employment for 30 hours or more per week. Most respondents considered family to be the most influential financial socialisation agent, followed by friends, then the bank. Actual financial knowledge of respondents, was indicated as relatively high. Results on self-assessed financial knowledge showed that most of the respondents considered their level of financial knowledge to be neutral. Using Pearson product-moment correlations to measure the strength and correlations of relationships, positive significant correlations were found between financial socialisation agents, financial (actual and self-assessed) knowledge and financial self-efficacy, while a negative and insignificant correlation was found between financial socialisation agents and financial behaviour. Multiple regression analysis results testing the hypotheses of the study demonstrated that financial socialisation agents have a significant positive influence on financial (actual and self-assessed) knowledge and financial self-efficacy; a significant influence on financial behaviour was not reported. Self-assessed financial knowledge showed a positive significant influence on financial self-efficacy and actual financial knowledge had an insignificant negative influence on financial self-efficacy. Actual financial knowledge had a significant positive influence on financial behaviour, whereby a positive yet insignificant relationship was found between self-assessed knowledge and financial behaviour. In the end, recommendations for the results indicate that financial educators need to develop a financial education plan that will include other content areas of financial knowledge such as identified by Huston (2010) and Lusardi and Mitchell (2011); the most important recommendation would be to help consumers have an accurate understanding of their own level of financial knowledge and to improve financial self-efficacy in consumers, financial socialisation experiences such as offering encouragement to open a bank account, to save and invest money, and presenting opportunities to practise financial skills, may increase consumers’ self-efficacy and lead to positive financial behaviours. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Perceptions of organisational commitment within a selected Chinese organisation in South Africa: a case study approach
- Authors: Paterson, Steven James
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Organizational commitment -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa , Employee motivation -- South Africa , International business enterprises -- South Africa , China -- Foreign economic relations -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1201 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013094
- Description: Chinese organisations are benefiting from increasing support from the Chinese government to enter into Africa. It is believed that over 2 000 Chinese organisations are operational in Africa, contributing greatly to employment within the continent. Despite the importance of Chinese organisations and their operations in Africa, very little research has been done on individual and organisational issues in Chinese organisations operating in Africa, and more specifically the local employees' organisational commitment to such organisations. The organisational commitment of South African employees within Chinese organisations in South Africa is important as it promotes the success of Chinese business, which may promote further investment into the country, as well as the use of local human resources. The primary aim of this research was therefore to conduct a literature and empirical study into the levels of and factors influencing the organisational commitment of South African employees in a selected Chinese organisation in South Africa. For the purposes of this study, a single case study approach, located within the phenomenological research paradigm, was used. A large multinational Chinese organisation with operations in South Africa agreed to participate in this study. The research made use of a descriptive case study design. To give effect to the primary aim of the study, three research objectives were identified. Firstly, to identify and describe key factors influencing local employee commitment. Secondly, to identify and describe current commitment levels amongst local employees, and lastly, to propose recommendations to improve local employee commitment and its implications for the appropriate management of human resources within the Chinese organisation. Data were collected by means of in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 20 participating employees at four organisational branches across South Africa. Moreover, although the interview transcripts were the primary source of data, the collection process was enriched with the use of organisational and participant observations. The findings of this research revealed ten factors which are perceived to influence the commitment of South African employees within the organisation, namely: Open communication, Leadership, Supervisory support, Opportunities for training and development, Compensation, Job security, Promotional opportunities, Shared values, Recognition and Trust. Certain issues were raised by the participants during the in-depth interviews, most notably the limited opportunities for training, development and promotion, as well as issues regarding the perceived limited compensation received from the organisation. Despite these issues, the general findings relating to the levels of commitment in the organisation were positive for the organisation under study, with the majority of the participants being perceived to demonstrate high levels of affective, normative and continuance commitment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Paterson, Steven James
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Organizational commitment -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa , Employee motivation -- South Africa , International business enterprises -- South Africa , China -- Foreign economic relations -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1201 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013094
- Description: Chinese organisations are benefiting from increasing support from the Chinese government to enter into Africa. It is believed that over 2 000 Chinese organisations are operational in Africa, contributing greatly to employment within the continent. Despite the importance of Chinese organisations and their operations in Africa, very little research has been done on individual and organisational issues in Chinese organisations operating in Africa, and more specifically the local employees' organisational commitment to such organisations. The organisational commitment of South African employees within Chinese organisations in South Africa is important as it promotes the success of Chinese business, which may promote further investment into the country, as well as the use of local human resources. The primary aim of this research was therefore to conduct a literature and empirical study into the levels of and factors influencing the organisational commitment of South African employees in a selected Chinese organisation in South Africa. For the purposes of this study, a single case study approach, located within the phenomenological research paradigm, was used. A large multinational Chinese organisation with operations in South Africa agreed to participate in this study. The research made use of a descriptive case study design. To give effect to the primary aim of the study, three research objectives were identified. Firstly, to identify and describe key factors influencing local employee commitment. Secondly, to identify and describe current commitment levels amongst local employees, and lastly, to propose recommendations to improve local employee commitment and its implications for the appropriate management of human resources within the Chinese organisation. Data were collected by means of in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 20 participating employees at four organisational branches across South Africa. Moreover, although the interview transcripts were the primary source of data, the collection process was enriched with the use of organisational and participant observations. The findings of this research revealed ten factors which are perceived to influence the commitment of South African employees within the organisation, namely: Open communication, Leadership, Supervisory support, Opportunities for training and development, Compensation, Job security, Promotional opportunities, Shared values, Recognition and Trust. Certain issues were raised by the participants during the in-depth interviews, most notably the limited opportunities for training, development and promotion, as well as issues regarding the perceived limited compensation received from the organisation. Despite these issues, the general findings relating to the levels of commitment in the organisation were positive for the organisation under study, with the majority of the participants being perceived to demonstrate high levels of affective, normative and continuance commitment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An analysis of the availability of and access to credit from the formal financial sector and the performance of SMEs
- Authors: Asah, Francis Tangwo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Microfinance -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991-
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/115138 , vital:34081
- Description: As a developing nation, South Africa faces a high rate of poverty, high levels of inequality in terms of income and a high rate of unemployment. It is officially estimated that about 27.2% of the economically active population are unemployed. SMEs are expected to be an important vehicle to address the challenges of job creation, sustainable economic growth, equitable distribution of income and the overall stimulation of economic development. SMEs in South Africa constitute 99% of all businesses, contributing to employment, income inequality and poverty alleviation (Statistic South Africa, 2018). However, despite the remarkable contribution of SMEs to the economy of South Africa, the failure rate of SMEs (at 75%) is the highest of all the efficiency-driven economies sampled by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). The World Bank affirm that the availability of and access to credit from the formal financial sector is the primary cause of the high failure rate of SMEs. Contemporary literature advance that the future survival and performance of SMEs in South Africa is pegged onto the amount of financial capital available to address their capital needs. Thus, this study sought to analyse the availability of and access to credit from the formal financial sector and the performance of SMEs from the supply and demand-side. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, a sequential exploratory mixed method research design, located in the pragmatic research paradigm, was used in a two phased approach. The qualitative data collection and analysis in Phase 1 informed the quantitative data collection and analysis Phase 2. In Phase 1, in-depth face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 8 credit and 8 business managers representing the sampling unit of selected formal financial institutions. The qualitative data collected was analysed using the five-steps process of content analysis as illustrated by Terre Blanche et al. (2006:322-326). The main findings with regard to factors that impact on the willingness of the formal financial sector to provide credit to SMEs were collateral, annual business turnover, audited financial records, relationship with the bank, credit profile, nature of the business, economic climate, ethics, nationality, government policy, management team, valid Identity Document/permit, equity contribution, entrepreneurship education, product quality, and business intelligence. Assessing credit applications from SMEs, risk assessment, inspection of financial records, proper documentation and background checks were the different tasks performed by credit and business managers. In addition, the main challenges faced by the formal financial sector in assessing and approving credit in favour of SMEs included the following: lack of investment capital; lack of collateral; lack of proper financial records; poor managerial knowledge; poor business plan; lack of industrial knowledge; and poor legal and credit laws. Lastly, contrary to the notion that formal financial institutions are not interested in investing in SMEs, on average, 70% of SMEs that applied for credit received such credit. In Phase 2, a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from formal sector owner/managers of SMEs in the city of Johannesburg. Of the 702 questionnaires distributed, 300 were returned and useable. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 24). A test for normality was performed using Shapiro–Wilks test. Reliability was tested using the Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient. Exploratory factor analysis tested the validity of factors that prevent formal financial sector from granting credit to SMEs while Binary logistic regression was used to infer on the hypotheses. Spearman’s Rho correlation analysis was used to determine whether there was any significant relationship with factors that influence access to credit and SMEs performance. The main findings revealed that access to bank finance was the only challenge that showed a significant correlation with performance. In addition, the study revealed that the South African Identity Document and collateral were the most important factors considered when applying for credit from formal financial institutions. With regard to the reasons why formal financial institutions may refuse to grant credit to SMEs, it was revealed that there was no significant positive relationship between lack of business networking and access to credit from the formal financial sector to SMEs. Conversely, the study also revealed a significant positive relationship between collateral, business information, managerial competency, business intelligence, business ethics, entrepreneurship education, legal system and macro-economy and access to credit from the formal financial sector to SMEs. Thus, it was established that there is a significant positive relationship between access to credit from the formal financial sector and the performance of SMEs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Asah, Francis Tangwo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Microfinance -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991-
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/115138 , vital:34081
- Description: As a developing nation, South Africa faces a high rate of poverty, high levels of inequality in terms of income and a high rate of unemployment. It is officially estimated that about 27.2% of the economically active population are unemployed. SMEs are expected to be an important vehicle to address the challenges of job creation, sustainable economic growth, equitable distribution of income and the overall stimulation of economic development. SMEs in South Africa constitute 99% of all businesses, contributing to employment, income inequality and poverty alleviation (Statistic South Africa, 2018). However, despite the remarkable contribution of SMEs to the economy of South Africa, the failure rate of SMEs (at 75%) is the highest of all the efficiency-driven economies sampled by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). The World Bank affirm that the availability of and access to credit from the formal financial sector is the primary cause of the high failure rate of SMEs. Contemporary literature advance that the future survival and performance of SMEs in South Africa is pegged onto the amount of financial capital available to address their capital needs. Thus, this study sought to analyse the availability of and access to credit from the formal financial sector and the performance of SMEs from the supply and demand-side. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, a sequential exploratory mixed method research design, located in the pragmatic research paradigm, was used in a two phased approach. The qualitative data collection and analysis in Phase 1 informed the quantitative data collection and analysis Phase 2. In Phase 1, in-depth face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 8 credit and 8 business managers representing the sampling unit of selected formal financial institutions. The qualitative data collected was analysed using the five-steps process of content analysis as illustrated by Terre Blanche et al. (2006:322-326). The main findings with regard to factors that impact on the willingness of the formal financial sector to provide credit to SMEs were collateral, annual business turnover, audited financial records, relationship with the bank, credit profile, nature of the business, economic climate, ethics, nationality, government policy, management team, valid Identity Document/permit, equity contribution, entrepreneurship education, product quality, and business intelligence. Assessing credit applications from SMEs, risk assessment, inspection of financial records, proper documentation and background checks were the different tasks performed by credit and business managers. In addition, the main challenges faced by the formal financial sector in assessing and approving credit in favour of SMEs included the following: lack of investment capital; lack of collateral; lack of proper financial records; poor managerial knowledge; poor business plan; lack of industrial knowledge; and poor legal and credit laws. Lastly, contrary to the notion that formal financial institutions are not interested in investing in SMEs, on average, 70% of SMEs that applied for credit received such credit. In Phase 2, a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from formal sector owner/managers of SMEs in the city of Johannesburg. Of the 702 questionnaires distributed, 300 were returned and useable. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 24). A test for normality was performed using Shapiro–Wilks test. Reliability was tested using the Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient. Exploratory factor analysis tested the validity of factors that prevent formal financial sector from granting credit to SMEs while Binary logistic regression was used to infer on the hypotheses. Spearman’s Rho correlation analysis was used to determine whether there was any significant relationship with factors that influence access to credit and SMEs performance. The main findings revealed that access to bank finance was the only challenge that showed a significant correlation with performance. In addition, the study revealed that the South African Identity Document and collateral were the most important factors considered when applying for credit from formal financial institutions. With regard to the reasons why formal financial institutions may refuse to grant credit to SMEs, it was revealed that there was no significant positive relationship between lack of business networking and access to credit from the formal financial sector to SMEs. Conversely, the study also revealed a significant positive relationship between collateral, business information, managerial competency, business intelligence, business ethics, entrepreneurship education, legal system and macro-economy and access to credit from the formal financial sector to SMEs. Thus, it was established that there is a significant positive relationship between access to credit from the formal financial sector and the performance of SMEs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The impact of internal behavioural decision-making biases on South African collective investment scheme performance
- Authors: Muller, Stacey Leigh
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Decision making , Investment analysis , Efficient market theory , Consumer behavior , Behavioral assessment , Mutual funds
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1209 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020308
- Description: Market efficiency, based on people acting rationally, has been the dominating finance theory for most of the 20th and 21st Century’s. This classical finance theory is based on assumptions that people are rational, they absorb all available information and maximise utility. This view is outdated; it has been shown that people are in fact irrational and that this could be the cause of anomalies in the market. Behavioural finance takes into account people, and their natural biases. Behavioural finance has integrated classical financial theories and psychological theories to illustrate the way in which irrational people can impact market efficiency. This research looks at the way collective investment scheme manager decision-making can impact market efficiency. Specifically the behavioural biases: overconfidence, over optimism, loss aversion and frame dependence and whether or not collective investment scheme performance is affected by these. This research was carried out using a questionnaire distributed directly to CIS managers and risk-adjusted returns were used in order to allow for comparative results. The results from the questionnaire show evidence that actively managing South African CIS managers do indeed suffer from overconfidence and loss aversion and they do not appear to suffer from frame dependence or over optimism in this research context. There was also evidence showing that managers who suffer from these biases also demonstrated lower investment returns. “The investor’s chief problem, and even his worst enemy, is likely to be himself.” - Benjamin Graham
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Muller, Stacey Leigh
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Decision making , Investment analysis , Efficient market theory , Consumer behavior , Behavioral assessment , Mutual funds
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1209 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020308
- Description: Market efficiency, based on people acting rationally, has been the dominating finance theory for most of the 20th and 21st Century’s. This classical finance theory is based on assumptions that people are rational, they absorb all available information and maximise utility. This view is outdated; it has been shown that people are in fact irrational and that this could be the cause of anomalies in the market. Behavioural finance takes into account people, and their natural biases. Behavioural finance has integrated classical financial theories and psychological theories to illustrate the way in which irrational people can impact market efficiency. This research looks at the way collective investment scheme manager decision-making can impact market efficiency. Specifically the behavioural biases: overconfidence, over optimism, loss aversion and frame dependence and whether or not collective investment scheme performance is affected by these. This research was carried out using a questionnaire distributed directly to CIS managers and risk-adjusted returns were used in order to allow for comparative results. The results from the questionnaire show evidence that actively managing South African CIS managers do indeed suffer from overconfidence and loss aversion and they do not appear to suffer from frame dependence or over optimism in this research context. There was also evidence showing that managers who suffer from these biases also demonstrated lower investment returns. “The investor’s chief problem, and even his worst enemy, is likely to be himself.” - Benjamin Graham
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Internal barriers facing small business owners adopting financial management practices in Makana Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Tendayi, Elizabeth
- Date: 2023-03-31
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419484 , vital:71648
- Description: Although small businesses are important in South Africa, they have a high failure rate. About 63 percent of small businesses in South Africa fail in the first 18 months of their inception (Van Staden, 2022; Zhou, 2021; Bruwer, 2020: 148). One of the reasons for the failure of small businesses is the improper and ineffective adoption of proper financial management practices (Zada, Yukun and Zada, 2021: 1074). However, the success of small businesses is highly dependent on the adoption of proper financial management practices (Kapitsinis, 2019; Jindrichovska, 2013; Abuzayed, 2012; Kaya and Alpkan, 2012; Banos-Caballero, Garcia-Teruel and Martinez-Solano, 2010). In the Eastern Cape, most small businesses do not adopt proper financial management practices (Raj, 2012; Van Eeden, Viviers and Venter, 2003:1). Therefore, the study aimed to analyse internal barriers facing small business owners adopting proper financial management practices in Makana Municipality in the Eastern Cape. Eastern Cape. Proper financial management practices are evident where there is transparency, efficiency and accuracy in the achievement of the financial objectives of a business (Cheluget and Morogo, 2017: 215). Financial management practices include cash management practices, accounts receivables management practices, accounts payables management practices, inventory management practices, working capital management practices, investment management or capital budgeting practices, financing or capital structure practices, accounting information systems, financial reporting and analysis practices. The study adopted a qualitative research design and a case study methodology. A non-probability judgment sampling method was used to select a sample of twelve small business owners in Makanda, Makana Municipality. Makanda was a relevant study area because it has a high unemployment rate and poverty, and small businesses may be used as one of the driving forces in the reduction of poverty and unemployment in Makana Municipality (Eastern Cape Socio Economic Consultative Council, 2017: 1; Zemenu and Mohammed, 2014: 2; Alebiosu, 2005: 5). Primary data was collected through semi-structured interviews. Content analysis was used to describe and interpret qualitative data using coding and themes. The findings of the study showed that most small business owners or managers in Makana Municipality adopted cash management practices, working capital management practices, inventory management practices, capital structure (equity capital) practices and financial reporting and analysis. However, it was also found that small business owners or managers in Makana Municipality did not adopt accounts receivables management practices, accounts payables management practices, capital structure (debt capital) practices, accounting information systems and capital budgeting (investment) management practices. These barriers included difficulty in debt collection, cost of debt collection, nature of product or industry, challenges with suppliers or creditors, Covid-19, debt avoidance, improvement of cash flow, negative attitude towards computer systems, waste of resources and difficulty use of computer systems. It is recommended that small businesses may overcome these barriers by implementing proper debt collection procedures, honouring credit payments terms with suppliers or creditors, consulting external accountants on how to balance the use of both debt and equity capital, hiring qualified personnel to acquire training and bring awareness to the use of computer systems. In addition, the government should provide financial education programmes that specifically deal with long-term investments, and small businesses are encouraged to apply for Covid-19 rescue packages or grants through role plates such as Debt Relief Finance Scheme and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA). It was concluded that each small business adopts financial management practices differently due to the nature of the business or industry. Also, the adoption of financial management practices is dependent on the exposure of the different barriers within each business. Hence, this study confirms that the contingency theory may be used to explain that the adoption of financial management practices is dependent upon the nature of the business or industry and the different barriers that small businesses face. Theoretically, this study contributed to the existing literature by analysing the barriers faced by small business owners adopting financial management practices in the Eastern Cape. Practically, this study highlighted the internal barriers that small business owners need to overcome to the adoption of financial management practices. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-03-31
- Authors: Tendayi, Elizabeth
- Date: 2023-03-31
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419484 , vital:71648
- Description: Although small businesses are important in South Africa, they have a high failure rate. About 63 percent of small businesses in South Africa fail in the first 18 months of their inception (Van Staden, 2022; Zhou, 2021; Bruwer, 2020: 148). One of the reasons for the failure of small businesses is the improper and ineffective adoption of proper financial management practices (Zada, Yukun and Zada, 2021: 1074). However, the success of small businesses is highly dependent on the adoption of proper financial management practices (Kapitsinis, 2019; Jindrichovska, 2013; Abuzayed, 2012; Kaya and Alpkan, 2012; Banos-Caballero, Garcia-Teruel and Martinez-Solano, 2010). In the Eastern Cape, most small businesses do not adopt proper financial management practices (Raj, 2012; Van Eeden, Viviers and Venter, 2003:1). Therefore, the study aimed to analyse internal barriers facing small business owners adopting proper financial management practices in Makana Municipality in the Eastern Cape. Eastern Cape. Proper financial management practices are evident where there is transparency, efficiency and accuracy in the achievement of the financial objectives of a business (Cheluget and Morogo, 2017: 215). Financial management practices include cash management practices, accounts receivables management practices, accounts payables management practices, inventory management practices, working capital management practices, investment management or capital budgeting practices, financing or capital structure practices, accounting information systems, financial reporting and analysis practices. The study adopted a qualitative research design and a case study methodology. A non-probability judgment sampling method was used to select a sample of twelve small business owners in Makanda, Makana Municipality. Makanda was a relevant study area because it has a high unemployment rate and poverty, and small businesses may be used as one of the driving forces in the reduction of poverty and unemployment in Makana Municipality (Eastern Cape Socio Economic Consultative Council, 2017: 1; Zemenu and Mohammed, 2014: 2; Alebiosu, 2005: 5). Primary data was collected through semi-structured interviews. Content analysis was used to describe and interpret qualitative data using coding and themes. The findings of the study showed that most small business owners or managers in Makana Municipality adopted cash management practices, working capital management practices, inventory management practices, capital structure (equity capital) practices and financial reporting and analysis. However, it was also found that small business owners or managers in Makana Municipality did not adopt accounts receivables management practices, accounts payables management practices, capital structure (debt capital) practices, accounting information systems and capital budgeting (investment) management practices. These barriers included difficulty in debt collection, cost of debt collection, nature of product or industry, challenges with suppliers or creditors, Covid-19, debt avoidance, improvement of cash flow, negative attitude towards computer systems, waste of resources and difficulty use of computer systems. It is recommended that small businesses may overcome these barriers by implementing proper debt collection procedures, honouring credit payments terms with suppliers or creditors, consulting external accountants on how to balance the use of both debt and equity capital, hiring qualified personnel to acquire training and bring awareness to the use of computer systems. In addition, the government should provide financial education programmes that specifically deal with long-term investments, and small businesses are encouraged to apply for Covid-19 rescue packages or grants through role plates such as Debt Relief Finance Scheme and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA). It was concluded that each small business adopts financial management practices differently due to the nature of the business or industry. Also, the adoption of financial management practices is dependent on the exposure of the different barriers within each business. Hence, this study confirms that the contingency theory may be used to explain that the adoption of financial management practices is dependent upon the nature of the business or industry and the different barriers that small businesses face. Theoretically, this study contributed to the existing literature by analysing the barriers faced by small business owners adopting financial management practices in the Eastern Cape. Practically, this study highlighted the internal barriers that small business owners need to overcome to the adoption of financial management practices. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-03-31
An evaluation of the postgraduate diploma in Enterprise Management at Rhodes University
- Authors: Earle, Nicola Lynne
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Rhodes University -- Curricula Education, Higher -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Evaluation Business education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Evaluation Business education -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1180 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002797
- Description: This research is concerned with the development of entrepreneurship at higher education institutions (HEI). Entrepreneurship is very important in every country as there is a direct correlation between entrepreneurship development and economic growth (Hegarty, 2006). Entrepreneurship education is essential as it assists students who want to start up their own businesses by giving them the relevant skills and knowledge to have a successful business. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the Postgraduate Diploma in Enterprise Management (PDEM) within the Management Department at Rhodes University, Grahamstown. A qualitative approach was implemented which used an adapted version of the Context, Input, Process and Product Model (Stuffelbean, Mckee and Mckee, 2003). Data was collected in the form of interviews and focus group interviews. There were six lecturer interviews, one course coordinator interview and five past student interviews. There were two focus group interviews that took place; this was done so to gather data from seven current PDEM students. The data collected was then analysed through the use of qualitative data analysis techniques. These were sensing themes, constant comparison, recursiveness, inductive and deductive thinking and interpretation to generate meaning (Ruona 2005, cited in Swanson and Holton, 2005). The Management Department aims to equip students to think realistically in terms of starting their own business and to enhance the students’ knowledge and skills so that they are better able to find employment in the corporate and government sectors. The PDEM aims to be an action-learning course and to create an entrepreneurial environment which will encourage students to start up their own businesses. The role of the lecturers and the course coordinator is important as they need to ensure that there is a continuous transfer of knowledge to the students. Students are not expected to be specialists within each subject; however they need to have a basic grounding in order to run a business. Students felt that the Alpha Project was important and useful as it improved their confidence about starting a new business. An issue that was raised about the Alpha Project was that the separation of students into the Alpha Project groups was not executed well. The course was perceived to be disorganised however the students tended to enjoy it and felt that the Management Department was supportive of their businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Earle, Nicola Lynne
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Rhodes University -- Curricula Education, Higher -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Evaluation Business education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Evaluation Business education -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1180 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002797
- Description: This research is concerned with the development of entrepreneurship at higher education institutions (HEI). Entrepreneurship is very important in every country as there is a direct correlation between entrepreneurship development and economic growth (Hegarty, 2006). Entrepreneurship education is essential as it assists students who want to start up their own businesses by giving them the relevant skills and knowledge to have a successful business. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the Postgraduate Diploma in Enterprise Management (PDEM) within the Management Department at Rhodes University, Grahamstown. A qualitative approach was implemented which used an adapted version of the Context, Input, Process and Product Model (Stuffelbean, Mckee and Mckee, 2003). Data was collected in the form of interviews and focus group interviews. There were six lecturer interviews, one course coordinator interview and five past student interviews. There were two focus group interviews that took place; this was done so to gather data from seven current PDEM students. The data collected was then analysed through the use of qualitative data analysis techniques. These were sensing themes, constant comparison, recursiveness, inductive and deductive thinking and interpretation to generate meaning (Ruona 2005, cited in Swanson and Holton, 2005). The Management Department aims to equip students to think realistically in terms of starting their own business and to enhance the students’ knowledge and skills so that they are better able to find employment in the corporate and government sectors. The PDEM aims to be an action-learning course and to create an entrepreneurial environment which will encourage students to start up their own businesses. The role of the lecturers and the course coordinator is important as they need to ensure that there is a continuous transfer of knowledge to the students. Students are not expected to be specialists within each subject; however they need to have a basic grounding in order to run a business. Students felt that the Alpha Project was important and useful as it improved their confidence about starting a new business. An issue that was raised about the Alpha Project was that the separation of students into the Alpha Project groups was not executed well. The course was perceived to be disorganised however the students tended to enjoy it and felt that the Management Department was supportive of their businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Employee views on organisational effectiveness of Chinese organisations operating in Kenya
- Mlotshwa, Minenhle Petronella
- Authors: Mlotshwa, Minenhle Petronella
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness Kenya , Corporate culture Kenya Cross-cultural studies , China Foreign economic relations Kenya , International business enterprises Kenya , International business enterprises Personnel management , Bilingual communication in organizations Kenya , Religion in the workplace Kenya Cross-cultural studies , Work ethic Kenya Cross-cultural studies
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191898 , vital:45177
- Description: Over the years there has been a growing interest in the relations between Africa and Asia. This is attributed to what is perceived as increasing Chinese influence and presence in Africa. During the past decades, China has experienced rapid economic growth and expansion which has contributed to its need for additional resources and expanding its geographic footprint into Africa and especially Kenya. The growing presence of Chinese organisations in Africa has also faced challenges. Chinese organisations operating in Kenya have been cited as facing cultural challenges, human resource management issues and external pressures which affect Chinese organisations thus impacting organisational effectiveness and performance. While there has been an abundance of research conducted at a macro level, mainly anecdotal knowledge on Chinese organisational values and management, little information exists at the organisation and community level. This study aimed to contribute an in-depth understanding of Chinese and Kenyan employee relationships in organisations at a micro level. Furthermore, this study assesses employees’ views on organisational effectiveness in a cross-cultural research setting of selected Chinese organisations operating in Kenya using the Burke-Litwin model (1992) of organisational effectiveness. This study is qualitative in nature within the interpretivistic research paradigm and used a case study approach to generate detailed comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon under investigation. Two Chinese organisations specialising in importing and exporting of diverse products, which had expanded its operations to Kenya in order to reach Africa’s growing consumer markets were selected for this study. The selected organisations were chosen under the premises that they had been operating in Kenya for more than 20 years, they are reputable organisations in their industries and were international role players. Non-probability convenience sampling was used to select the two organisations who were willing to participate. Purposive sampling was used to identify employees from different job levels and types of work in the selected organisations who were willing to participate in this study. Data was collected by means of face-to-face open-ended semi-structured interviews, with five Chinese and 12 Kenyan employees. The findings of this study were guided by the dimensions of the Burke-Litwin model, comprising the external environment, transformational dimensions (including mission and strategy, leadership and organisational culture) and transactional dimensions (including management practices, organisational structure, systems [policies and procedures], motivation, work climate, task requirements and individual skills and abilities). Based on the findings, organisational culture was the dominant theme that had a large influence on the organisational performance. Within the context of organisational culture, the main challenges faced by employees were religious, work ethic and communication barriers. Leadership and the organisational structure set by senior managers was also impacted by culture. It is evident that the Chinese organisations are dominated by Chinese employees at senior managerial levels – except for one Indian Kenyan manager – and non-managerial levels are dominated by Kenyan employees. Between these two managerial levels there is lack of trust as well as trade union interference favouring Kenyan employees. Leadership of the selected organisations aimed at recruiting candidates who have the necessary skills to contribute toward organisational effectiveness and performance. However, recruited Kenyan employees indicated that they require strategy visibility, effective communication, and structured processes in order to be effective. Despite challenges faced, Chinese and Kenyan employees both strongly agree with and support the efforts of management for providing training and development and creating an environment that accommodates personal growth. The external environment has exerted pressure on the said Chinese organisations. The Kenyan trade unions favour Kenyan employees and place huge pressure on Chinese management. In addition the trade unions bribe locals while making it difficult for Chinese organisations operating in Kenya to conduct business. Through the empirical development of organisational-level research on the case of Chinese organisations operating in Kenya, insightful management knowledge was gathered and shared to assist Chinese and Kenyan employees in their individual and organisational performance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Mlotshwa, Minenhle Petronella
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness Kenya , Corporate culture Kenya Cross-cultural studies , China Foreign economic relations Kenya , International business enterprises Kenya , International business enterprises Personnel management , Bilingual communication in organizations Kenya , Religion in the workplace Kenya Cross-cultural studies , Work ethic Kenya Cross-cultural studies
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191898 , vital:45177
- Description: Over the years there has been a growing interest in the relations between Africa and Asia. This is attributed to what is perceived as increasing Chinese influence and presence in Africa. During the past decades, China has experienced rapid economic growth and expansion which has contributed to its need for additional resources and expanding its geographic footprint into Africa and especially Kenya. The growing presence of Chinese organisations in Africa has also faced challenges. Chinese organisations operating in Kenya have been cited as facing cultural challenges, human resource management issues and external pressures which affect Chinese organisations thus impacting organisational effectiveness and performance. While there has been an abundance of research conducted at a macro level, mainly anecdotal knowledge on Chinese organisational values and management, little information exists at the organisation and community level. This study aimed to contribute an in-depth understanding of Chinese and Kenyan employee relationships in organisations at a micro level. Furthermore, this study assesses employees’ views on organisational effectiveness in a cross-cultural research setting of selected Chinese organisations operating in Kenya using the Burke-Litwin model (1992) of organisational effectiveness. This study is qualitative in nature within the interpretivistic research paradigm and used a case study approach to generate detailed comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon under investigation. Two Chinese organisations specialising in importing and exporting of diverse products, which had expanded its operations to Kenya in order to reach Africa’s growing consumer markets were selected for this study. The selected organisations were chosen under the premises that they had been operating in Kenya for more than 20 years, they are reputable organisations in their industries and were international role players. Non-probability convenience sampling was used to select the two organisations who were willing to participate. Purposive sampling was used to identify employees from different job levels and types of work in the selected organisations who were willing to participate in this study. Data was collected by means of face-to-face open-ended semi-structured interviews, with five Chinese and 12 Kenyan employees. The findings of this study were guided by the dimensions of the Burke-Litwin model, comprising the external environment, transformational dimensions (including mission and strategy, leadership and organisational culture) and transactional dimensions (including management practices, organisational structure, systems [policies and procedures], motivation, work climate, task requirements and individual skills and abilities). Based on the findings, organisational culture was the dominant theme that had a large influence on the organisational performance. Within the context of organisational culture, the main challenges faced by employees were religious, work ethic and communication barriers. Leadership and the organisational structure set by senior managers was also impacted by culture. It is evident that the Chinese organisations are dominated by Chinese employees at senior managerial levels – except for one Indian Kenyan manager – and non-managerial levels are dominated by Kenyan employees. Between these two managerial levels there is lack of trust as well as trade union interference favouring Kenyan employees. Leadership of the selected organisations aimed at recruiting candidates who have the necessary skills to contribute toward organisational effectiveness and performance. However, recruited Kenyan employees indicated that they require strategy visibility, effective communication, and structured processes in order to be effective. Despite challenges faced, Chinese and Kenyan employees both strongly agree with and support the efforts of management for providing training and development and creating an environment that accommodates personal growth. The external environment has exerted pressure on the said Chinese organisations. The Kenyan trade unions favour Kenyan employees and place huge pressure on Chinese management. In addition the trade unions bribe locals while making it difficult for Chinese organisations operating in Kenya to conduct business. Through the empirical development of organisational-level research on the case of Chinese organisations operating in Kenya, insightful management knowledge was gathered and shared to assist Chinese and Kenyan employees in their individual and organisational performance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
The role of bank finance in small firm growth : a case study
- Authors: Musengi, Sandra
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa , Finance -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Growth -- Case studies , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , New business enterprises -- South Africa , Bank loans -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1176 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002793 , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Finance -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Growth -- Case studies , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , New business enterprises -- South Africa , Bank loans -- South Africa
- Description: The debate concerning small firm access to finance continues. The proliferation of research of the issue underlines the importance attached in promoting a strong entrepreneurial culture within a country. Small firms are significant to economic growth if they are growing. Central to this significance is ascertaining the role of finance and in particular bank finance in accelerating small growth potential. The case study, through its ontological, epistemological and methodological position, draws on a document review and interview material from small firm owners and key informants to explore the role of bank finance in small firm growth. Case study evidence reveals that small firm owners do not intend to finance firm growth with bank finance but prefer to finance growth with internally generated funds. The owners indicate that non-financial and behavioural factors, such as, maintaining decision-making control, experience accessing bank finance, the perception of the banking relationship and growth aspirations of owners may be more important in dertermining the finance structure for firm growth. From the bank's perspective, findings suggest that risk assessment, financial viability of the enterprise and provision of collateral are more important in the lending decisions; findings supported by an analysis of selected documents. The small sample of small firm owners, bank representatives, experts and documents makes it difficult to generalize the findings. However, the findings are significant because exploring the issue from different perspectives presents invaluable insights, which can be investigated further to assist small firm owners, to develop finance products geared for small firm operations, and in the development of the knowledge base on finance-related issues in the South African context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Musengi, Sandra
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa , Finance -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Growth -- Case studies , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , New business enterprises -- South Africa , Bank loans -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1176 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002793 , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Finance -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Growth -- Case studies , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , New business enterprises -- South Africa , Bank loans -- South Africa
- Description: The debate concerning small firm access to finance continues. The proliferation of research of the issue underlines the importance attached in promoting a strong entrepreneurial culture within a country. Small firms are significant to economic growth if they are growing. Central to this significance is ascertaining the role of finance and in particular bank finance in accelerating small growth potential. The case study, through its ontological, epistemological and methodological position, draws on a document review and interview material from small firm owners and key informants to explore the role of bank finance in small firm growth. Case study evidence reveals that small firm owners do not intend to finance firm growth with bank finance but prefer to finance growth with internally generated funds. The owners indicate that non-financial and behavioural factors, such as, maintaining decision-making control, experience accessing bank finance, the perception of the banking relationship and growth aspirations of owners may be more important in dertermining the finance structure for firm growth. From the bank's perspective, findings suggest that risk assessment, financial viability of the enterprise and provision of collateral are more important in the lending decisions; findings supported by an analysis of selected documents. The small sample of small firm owners, bank representatives, experts and documents makes it difficult to generalize the findings. However, the findings are significant because exploring the issue from different perspectives presents invaluable insights, which can be investigated further to assist small firm owners, to develop finance products geared for small firm operations, and in the development of the knowledge base on finance-related issues in the South African context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The influence of organisational culture on a high commitment work system and organisational commitment : the case of a Chinese multinational corporation in South Africa
- Authors: Mabuza, Linda Tengetile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Corporate culture -- South Africa , Corporate culture -- Cross-cultural studies , International business enterprises -- South Africa , Investments, Chinese -- South Africa , Organizational commitment -- South Africa , Performance -- Management , Host countries (Business) , Personnel management -- South Africa , South Africa -- Foreign economic relations -- China
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1205 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017768
- Description: Chinese presence in Africa has been rapidly increasing in the past few years and has been speculated to be mainly due to China seeking Africa’s political alliance and access to Africa’s natural resources and growing consumer markets. The growing presence of Chinese organisations in Africa, however, has not been without its challenges. In particular, Chinese multinational corporations (MNCs) in search of consumer markets in Africa have been cited as facing human resource (HR) challenges which may affect their organisational performance. In this regard, literature on human resource management has already established the important role of organisational culture, HR practices and organisational commitment in enabling organisations to achieve superior organisational performance. Given the fact that there is currently little research knowledge of Chinese presence in Africa at the organisational level, this research aimed to contribute empirical knowledge to the growing body of research in this area. Specifically, the main purpose of this research was to examine how the organisational culture of a Chinese MNC’s South African subsidiary has shaped the nature of its high commitment work system (HCWS) and to assess the consequences thereof on organisational commitment. In alignment with the phenomenological paradigm, the research applied a descriptive and explanatory case study methodology in order to generate rich, qualitative data which was required for in-depth descriptions and to uncover the underlying interactions of the researched phenomena at the subsidiary. The selected case for the research was, therefore, a Chinese MNC operating in the personal computer (PC) industry, which had expanded its operations to South Africa in order to reach Africa’s growing consumer markets. In particular, the South African subsidiary served as a PC sales and distribution organisation for the Chinese MNC. There were about 40 employees at the subsidiary who were all South African employees. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with twelve employees from different job functions and across different job levels. Data collection was guided by the theoretical frameworks by Cameron and Freeman (1991) for organisational culture and Xiao and Bjorkman (2006) for the HCWS and organisational commitment. The data collected from interviews was then analysed through a qualitative, content analysis process. The findings of the research thus pointed to the market culture as the dominant organisational culture type at the South African subsidiary of the Chinese MNC; characteristics of the adhocracy and clan cultures were also discovered. The externally oriented market culture was found to be the most relevant for the high performance and market leadership aspirations of the subsidiary. The market culture also appears to be the most appropriate organisational culture that would enable the subsidiary to deal with the competitive nature of the PC industry. Furthermore, it was found that certain cultural values emphasised by the Confucian and Ubuntu value systems could have had a part to play in the formation of the subsidiary’s organisational culture. The market culture was also found to have had the greatest influence in shaping the primarily performance oriented HCWS practices. Of the investigated HR practices at the subsidiary, all were found to be consistent with HCWS practices, with the exception of ownership practices and the performance appraisal system. Finally, although there were generally high levels of organisational commitment reported at the subsidiary, other job and organisational context factors besides the HCWS practices were found to be the major contributors to those feelings of organisational commitment. By investigating the organisational culture, HCWS and organisational commitment of a Chinese MNC in South Africa, this research has added to the body of knowledge concerning the growing presence of Chinese organisations in Africa. Based on the empirical findings of this study, several recommendations have been made in an attempt to assist the Chinese MNC manage the organisational commitment of its South African employees towards superior organisational performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mabuza, Linda Tengetile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Corporate culture -- South Africa , Corporate culture -- Cross-cultural studies , International business enterprises -- South Africa , Investments, Chinese -- South Africa , Organizational commitment -- South Africa , Performance -- Management , Host countries (Business) , Personnel management -- South Africa , South Africa -- Foreign economic relations -- China
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1205 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017768
- Description: Chinese presence in Africa has been rapidly increasing in the past few years and has been speculated to be mainly due to China seeking Africa’s political alliance and access to Africa’s natural resources and growing consumer markets. The growing presence of Chinese organisations in Africa, however, has not been without its challenges. In particular, Chinese multinational corporations (MNCs) in search of consumer markets in Africa have been cited as facing human resource (HR) challenges which may affect their organisational performance. In this regard, literature on human resource management has already established the important role of organisational culture, HR practices and organisational commitment in enabling organisations to achieve superior organisational performance. Given the fact that there is currently little research knowledge of Chinese presence in Africa at the organisational level, this research aimed to contribute empirical knowledge to the growing body of research in this area. Specifically, the main purpose of this research was to examine how the organisational culture of a Chinese MNC’s South African subsidiary has shaped the nature of its high commitment work system (HCWS) and to assess the consequences thereof on organisational commitment. In alignment with the phenomenological paradigm, the research applied a descriptive and explanatory case study methodology in order to generate rich, qualitative data which was required for in-depth descriptions and to uncover the underlying interactions of the researched phenomena at the subsidiary. The selected case for the research was, therefore, a Chinese MNC operating in the personal computer (PC) industry, which had expanded its operations to South Africa in order to reach Africa’s growing consumer markets. In particular, the South African subsidiary served as a PC sales and distribution organisation for the Chinese MNC. There were about 40 employees at the subsidiary who were all South African employees. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with twelve employees from different job functions and across different job levels. Data collection was guided by the theoretical frameworks by Cameron and Freeman (1991) for organisational culture and Xiao and Bjorkman (2006) for the HCWS and organisational commitment. The data collected from interviews was then analysed through a qualitative, content analysis process. The findings of the research thus pointed to the market culture as the dominant organisational culture type at the South African subsidiary of the Chinese MNC; characteristics of the adhocracy and clan cultures were also discovered. The externally oriented market culture was found to be the most relevant for the high performance and market leadership aspirations of the subsidiary. The market culture also appears to be the most appropriate organisational culture that would enable the subsidiary to deal with the competitive nature of the PC industry. Furthermore, it was found that certain cultural values emphasised by the Confucian and Ubuntu value systems could have had a part to play in the formation of the subsidiary’s organisational culture. The market culture was also found to have had the greatest influence in shaping the primarily performance oriented HCWS practices. Of the investigated HR practices at the subsidiary, all were found to be consistent with HCWS practices, with the exception of ownership practices and the performance appraisal system. Finally, although there were generally high levels of organisational commitment reported at the subsidiary, other job and organisational context factors besides the HCWS practices were found to be the major contributors to those feelings of organisational commitment. By investigating the organisational culture, HCWS and organisational commitment of a Chinese MNC in South Africa, this research has added to the body of knowledge concerning the growing presence of Chinese organisations in Africa. Based on the empirical findings of this study, several recommendations have been made in an attempt to assist the Chinese MNC manage the organisational commitment of its South African employees towards superior organisational performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
A combination of a stationary and non-stationary model to predict corporate failure in South Africa
- Authors: Court, Philip Wathen
- Date: 1994
- Subjects: Bankruptcy -- South Africa Business planning -- South Africa Business failures -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1183 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002800
- Description: Business failure should be of concern in most industralised countries and the importance of accurately evaluating the phenomenon from a management and investment point of view is enormous. Were it possible to predict failure with a certain degree of confidence, steps could be taken to rectify the situation and the benefit would accrue to all of the stakeholders in the macroenvironment. In essence, the profitability of a business is influenced by two sets of variables. In the first instance, it is influenced by a variety of internal (microeconomic) variables which are firm- specific and which management is generally able to control. A further distinction in this regard may be made between the financial and non-financial variables. In the second instance, it is generally accepted that profitability will be influenced by a number of external (macroeconomic) variables which are generally beyond the control of management. In the main, however, the profitability of the firm is generally determined by a combination of both sets of factors. To date, a great deal of research has been undertaken in an attempt to establish a reliable model which may be used to predict failure. This has mainly been confined to the microeconomic variables which can be used to predict failure and attempts have been made to isolate either a single financial ratio or a number of financial and non-financial variables which can be used to model corporate failure. The research has met with a certain degree of success although this appears to be confined to the economic environment to which the models have been applied. The models are less successful when applied to other macroenvironments. Limited research has been undertaken into the macroeconomic variables which contribute to business failure or to a combination of the two types of variables. It is appropriate therefore that further consideration be given to the establishment of a model incorporating ALL the variables which could contribute to corporate failure. The purpose of this research is to undertake an investigation of micro- and macroeconomic variables that are freely available to reserachers and which may be used in a failure prediction model. The intention is to obtain a comprehensive, yet simple model which can be used as an overall predictor of PENDING failure.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1994
- Authors: Court, Philip Wathen
- Date: 1994
- Subjects: Bankruptcy -- South Africa Business planning -- South Africa Business failures -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1183 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002800
- Description: Business failure should be of concern in most industralised countries and the importance of accurately evaluating the phenomenon from a management and investment point of view is enormous. Were it possible to predict failure with a certain degree of confidence, steps could be taken to rectify the situation and the benefit would accrue to all of the stakeholders in the macroenvironment. In essence, the profitability of a business is influenced by two sets of variables. In the first instance, it is influenced by a variety of internal (microeconomic) variables which are firm- specific and which management is generally able to control. A further distinction in this regard may be made between the financial and non-financial variables. In the second instance, it is generally accepted that profitability will be influenced by a number of external (macroeconomic) variables which are generally beyond the control of management. In the main, however, the profitability of the firm is generally determined by a combination of both sets of factors. To date, a great deal of research has been undertaken in an attempt to establish a reliable model which may be used to predict failure. This has mainly been confined to the microeconomic variables which can be used to predict failure and attempts have been made to isolate either a single financial ratio or a number of financial and non-financial variables which can be used to model corporate failure. The research has met with a certain degree of success although this appears to be confined to the economic environment to which the models have been applied. The models are less successful when applied to other macroenvironments. Limited research has been undertaken into the macroeconomic variables which contribute to business failure or to a combination of the two types of variables. It is appropriate therefore that further consideration be given to the establishment of a model incorporating ALL the variables which could contribute to corporate failure. The purpose of this research is to undertake an investigation of micro- and macroeconomic variables that are freely available to reserachers and which may be used in a failure prediction model. The intention is to obtain a comprehensive, yet simple model which can be used as an overall predictor of PENDING failure.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1994
An investigation into the factors that influence the success of small business in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Wilmot, Chloé Margot
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Job creation -- South Africa Entrepreneurship -- South Africa Success in business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1162 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001629
- Description: South Africa has one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, currently 23.90%. One way for the government and policy-makers of South Africa to address this dire statistic is through the fostering and promotion of entrepreneurship and small business creation. The benefits of entrepreneurship are numerous and can include: increasing a country’s productivity, enhancing the welfare and well-being of its citizens, reducing emigration rates, improving economic development and perhaps, most importantly, increasing employment rates. Worldwide, small businesses within the private sector have become indispensable to sustainable job creation and therefore it is of the utmost importance that small businesses in any economy develop, grow and succeed. Despite the fact that research pertaining to small businesses has increased over the years, little empirical evidence has been established. In particular, research into what makes small businesses successful has been limited. Entrepreneurial activity in South Africa remains less than ideal and therefore it is appropriate that research into the success factors of small businesses in South Africa be investigated. Furthermore, the survival of South African small businesses beyond four to five years of being in operation is estimated at only 20.00%. It is evident that a lack of knowledge exists and with respect to this research the factors found to be the most common determinants of success for small businesses in Port Elizabeth were determined and investigated. Convenience- and snowball sampling techniques were used to identify potential participants. In total 43 usable questionnaires were returned. Methodological triangulation was used to analyse the data, according to descriptive- and inferential statistics, as well as content analysis. This being so, the research was conducted within two paradigms, primarily, the positivist research paradigm and also the phenomenological research paradigm. The key findings of this study indicate personal factors to be the most important success factor group, while the environmental success factor group is considered the least important. The most important factors attributable to the success of participants’ small businesses include: maintaining good customer services skills and relationships; having a strong commitment to product/service quality; and having honest employees with sound professional ii knowledge and a positive morale. The least important success factors include: trade exhibitions and business fairs; small business legislation; and industry structure and competition. Finally, the hypothesis tests indicate that significant differences only exist between: the relationship statuses and business factors and the business sectors and environmental factors. The results of this research have significant practical implications for the various stakeholders of entrepreneurship. It is hoped that the results will add to the existing body of knowledge and in turn aid South Africa in becoming aware of the factors essential for small business success. In doing so, South Africa at large will be able to take full advantage of entrepreneurship and small business creation, which continue to remain well within its reach
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Wilmot, Chloé Margot
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Job creation -- South Africa Entrepreneurship -- South Africa Success in business -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1162 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001629
- Description: South Africa has one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, currently 23.90%. One way for the government and policy-makers of South Africa to address this dire statistic is through the fostering and promotion of entrepreneurship and small business creation. The benefits of entrepreneurship are numerous and can include: increasing a country’s productivity, enhancing the welfare and well-being of its citizens, reducing emigration rates, improving economic development and perhaps, most importantly, increasing employment rates. Worldwide, small businesses within the private sector have become indispensable to sustainable job creation and therefore it is of the utmost importance that small businesses in any economy develop, grow and succeed. Despite the fact that research pertaining to small businesses has increased over the years, little empirical evidence has been established. In particular, research into what makes small businesses successful has been limited. Entrepreneurial activity in South Africa remains less than ideal and therefore it is appropriate that research into the success factors of small businesses in South Africa be investigated. Furthermore, the survival of South African small businesses beyond four to five years of being in operation is estimated at only 20.00%. It is evident that a lack of knowledge exists and with respect to this research the factors found to be the most common determinants of success for small businesses in Port Elizabeth were determined and investigated. Convenience- and snowball sampling techniques were used to identify potential participants. In total 43 usable questionnaires were returned. Methodological triangulation was used to analyse the data, according to descriptive- and inferential statistics, as well as content analysis. This being so, the research was conducted within two paradigms, primarily, the positivist research paradigm and also the phenomenological research paradigm. The key findings of this study indicate personal factors to be the most important success factor group, while the environmental success factor group is considered the least important. The most important factors attributable to the success of participants’ small businesses include: maintaining good customer services skills and relationships; having a strong commitment to product/service quality; and having honest employees with sound professional ii knowledge and a positive morale. The least important success factors include: trade exhibitions and business fairs; small business legislation; and industry structure and competition. Finally, the hypothesis tests indicate that significant differences only exist between: the relationship statuses and business factors and the business sectors and environmental factors. The results of this research have significant practical implications for the various stakeholders of entrepreneurship. It is hoped that the results will add to the existing body of knowledge and in turn aid South Africa in becoming aware of the factors essential for small business success. In doing so, South Africa at large will be able to take full advantage of entrepreneurship and small business creation, which continue to remain well within its reach
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An evaluation of formal mentoring programmes within two South African organisations
- Authors: Shelton, Delyse Elizabeth
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Mentoring -- South Africa , Organizational effectiveness -- Evaluation , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa , Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1186 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002803 , Mentoring -- South Africa , Organizational effectiveness -- Evaluation , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa , Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Description: The benefits of informal mentoring are numerous and organisations have recognised these benefits in terms of organisational development. There has been an attempt to harvest these benefits through the introduction of formal mentoring programmes as a tool to fast track and then ultimately retain internal capability. This research on formal mentoring programmes occurred within a qualitative paradigm and data was obtained through document analysis and interviews from five mentoring pairs in one organisation and four mentoring pairs in another. The data was then presented and analysed in terms of the models proposed in the literature. The aim of this research was to evaluate formal mentoring programmes within South African organisations based on a framework provided by the literature. It was found that the literature proposed no formal evaluation model and thus, one was developed based on models of programme evaluation and formal mentoring implementation models. On the evaluation of the two formal mentoring programmes, it was found that there are some issues raised in the literature that are pertinent to both organisations but that there were also issues that were only relevant to one of the programmes. According to the research the differences in perceived success of the mentoring programme lay in the goals of the programme relating to the broader goals and culture of the organisation. It is recommended that future research investigate the impact of organisational culture on the effectiveness of formal mentoring programmes. The research also identified a need for supportive resources although this study did not assess the appropriateness and sufficiency of the resources. Organisations also need to implement effective evaluative practices in order to implement effective changes to the programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Shelton, Delyse Elizabeth
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Mentoring -- South Africa , Organizational effectiveness -- Evaluation , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa , Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1186 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002803 , Mentoring -- South Africa , Organizational effectiveness -- Evaluation , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa , Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Description: The benefits of informal mentoring are numerous and organisations have recognised these benefits in terms of organisational development. There has been an attempt to harvest these benefits through the introduction of formal mentoring programmes as a tool to fast track and then ultimately retain internal capability. This research on formal mentoring programmes occurred within a qualitative paradigm and data was obtained through document analysis and interviews from five mentoring pairs in one organisation and four mentoring pairs in another. The data was then presented and analysed in terms of the models proposed in the literature. The aim of this research was to evaluate formal mentoring programmes within South African organisations based on a framework provided by the literature. It was found that the literature proposed no formal evaluation model and thus, one was developed based on models of programme evaluation and formal mentoring implementation models. On the evaluation of the two formal mentoring programmes, it was found that there are some issues raised in the literature that are pertinent to both organisations but that there were also issues that were only relevant to one of the programmes. According to the research the differences in perceived success of the mentoring programme lay in the goals of the programme relating to the broader goals and culture of the organisation. It is recommended that future research investigate the impact of organisational culture on the effectiveness of formal mentoring programmes. The research also identified a need for supportive resources although this study did not assess the appropriateness and sufficiency of the resources. Organisations also need to implement effective evaluative practices in order to implement effective changes to the programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006