Theses and dissertations (Management Sciences)

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Adoption of business intelligence by micro-small apparel businesses in the great eThekwini region
(2023-08) Mavutha, Winiswa; Corbishley, Karen; Kamwendo, Andrew
The increasing pressure of costs in the Small Medium Micro Enterprise (SMME) sector produces the need to continually improve management efficiency. This requires the use of different approaches, methods and tools. One method is the use of a digital business analytical tools, such as those related to business intelligence (BI). BI assists businesses with the analysis of information to make better decisions to improve business performance. The objective of this study was to determine factors influencing the adoption of BI in micro-small apparel retail businesses in the eThekwini region. This was a cross sectional study conducted among 161 apparel business owners who were selected using non-probability purposive sampling. Data was collected using an anonymous questionnaire. Multiple linear regression was conducted to determine the influencing factors for business intelligence adoption. The conceptual framework used for this study was the technology-organisation-environment (TOE) framework. The results from this study found that the factors that significantly influence the adoption of BI in micro-small apparel businesses in the eThekwini region are perceived relative advantage, organisational readiness, management support and organisational data environment. The results of this study have also indicated that there are not sufficient government incentives offered for technological innovations such as BI , particularly for micro-small businesses. While there are a number of government funding opportunities and business support mechanisms, the respondents indicated that government incentives do not support the adoption of BI and all the factors needed to be considered during the adoption process. The adoption and use of BI in the South African context could contribute greatly to the country’s GDP and generally create growth opportunities for South African SMMEs in the global market. Government support for such an initiative would help decrease the high unemployment rate in South Africa as more jobs would be created around the country through these projects.
The adoption of lean manufacturing principles in electronic manufacturing : a case of Altech UEC
(2018) Naicker, Vanesh; Ramchander, Manduth
Electronic manufacturers are at increasing risk from offshore competition; often due to significantly lower labour costs abroad (Roberts, 2012). The implications are serious and, ignoring the threat, will, at best, lead to loss of market share and, at worst, the closure of many businesses with significant effect on the South African economy and society. This kind of competition has been seen in other industries. The clothing industry in South Africa, for example, has either failed or moved offshore. Traditional manufacturing production systems offer no solution to the problem, while a lean manufacturing has been associated with productivity increase, quality improvement, reduction of lead time and cost (Marudhamuthu & Krishnaswamy, 2011). According to Taj and Morosan (2011), waste is anything other than the minimum amount of equipment, materials, parts and working time which is absolutely vital to production. The focus of this study is the adoption of lean manufacturing principles in the electronic manufacturing industry in South Africa: a case of Altech UEC. The aim of this research is to identify the possible or potential of adopting lean manufacturing principles in the electronic manufacturing industry and, in particular, Altech UEC. The study identified the tools, techniques and drivers for implementation. In order to achieve the aim of the study, the following objectives were developed: • To capture employees’ perception of lean manufacturing and the principles that they believe have been implemented within Altech UEC; • To establish the impact being made or lack thereof of implementing lean manufacturing at Altech UEC; • To ascertain the challenges being faced by the implementation of lean manufacturing at Altech UEC; and • To explore the ways in which the implementation of lean manufacturing can be improved within Altech UEC. For the purpose of obtaining necessary information, the researcher employed a descriptive research design. With this research design, the primary data needed in this research are derived from the answers of the respondents of the survey through a previously used questionnaire. This study sought to explore the use and implementation of lean manufacturing principles at Altech UEC as the basis for understanding how lean manufacturing can benefit an organisation within a South African context. There were four research questions asked under the broader topic of lean manufacturing and through extensive research of previous literature and logical inferences made from the analysis of the data it was found that while some aspects of lean manufacturing principles were being used to improve upon the lean manufacturing process, there was still a great deal of improvement for Altech UEC to be a lean manufacturing organisation. The study was able to effectively conclude that lean manufacturing impacts positively on the manufacturing process and, if implemented correctly, the manufacturing process will run smoothly and efficiently. The more lean manufacturing aspects applied to the manufacturing process, the more likely it was to run smoothly and efficiently at an increased rate of production.
Application of information and communication technology in uplifting rural Dibate community in South Africa
(2017) Hlatshwayo, Thandeka Precious; Neerputh, Shirleen
Different social classes of people in South Africa are divided, digitally. This phenomenon manifests as a disparity of information in ICT (Information and Communication Technologies), which is a matter of concern, as the use of ICT is acknowledged to greatly influence the world today, more specifically so in rural areas. An investigation to determine which factors affect rural communities’ access to information, as well as progress levels that can be realised in the support means employed by people resident in rural areas, through introducing ICT’s in their day-to-day living, thus addresses the purported ‘digital divide’. The study’s population was drawn from the Dibate Village community, located in Mmabatho in Mafikeng, South Africa. Recommendations from the findings, point out how ICT facilities can be utilised in the development of rural communities, not just socially but also economically. As main objective, the study evaluates and examines the use of ICT facilities for commercial activities, in uplifting the rural community in the area of Dibate Village. This study is of value to governmental and non-governmental organisations where improving both socio-economic development and service delivery is concerned, in South Africa’s rural areas.
Assessing the impact of contract administration on the performance of road construction projects in Uganda
(2024-05) Namakula, Barbara; Matsiliza, N S; Chikafalimani, S H P
Uganda‘s Road Construction industry has experienced growth overtime with a considerable portion of budget allocation. Although the industry has dramatically improved, projects are still experiencing performance challenges including but not limited to cost overruns, time overruns and shoddy work. This study sought to assess the impact of contract administration on the performance of road construction projects in Uganda. Contract Administration basically deals with daily project operations providing for the complete work scope composition, responsibilities of parties involved, requirements for executing the operations, work schedule, cost optimization, quality and safety considerations and grievance management. The study is limited to its objectives which were; to assess the performance of road construction projects in Uganda; to determine the extent of use of contract administration on road construction projects in Uganda; to determine whether there is an association between contract administration and project performance, and to develop a contracts administration assessment strategy to enhance road construction project performance in Uganda. The data for this study was collected from 36 running project sites and 72 stakeholders within the industry making a total of 108 samples. Based on the research questions and the study of the literature, a qualitative correlational research design method was used to investigate the relationship between the dependent variable (performance) i.e. cost, quality, time, and the independent variables (contract administration) i.e. project governance, project personnel, communication and relationship management, quality management, monitoring and control, financial management, change control management, claims and disputes resolution management, records management and contract risk management. The first finding indicated that the performance of road construction projects in Uganda is poor in regard to time, fair in regard to cost and very good in regard to quality. The second finding indicated that various contract administration practices have different extents of use with the highest being Monitoring and Control being used every time. Thirdly, the results from the regression analysis of this study indicated that the relationship between performance and contract administration is statistically significant, although based on the findings, some contract administration practices are more critical to performance compared to others. The study recommendations were to minimize time overruns or slippages through contract administrators taking on a wholistic approach in controlling project activities. Monitoring and Control of all project activities and elements on a daily basis is encouraged as this enables early identification of potential time slippage areas or gaps that can be filled with in time to prevent any major damage. Also, the study identified Early contract administrator project involvement, Project governance, Communication and relationship management, Claims and dispute management and Monitoring and control as elements that have significance in regard to project performance. It is recommended that contract administrators take these contract administration practices seriously during execution of projects. Finally, a contract administration assessment strategy tool was developed from this study. It is meant to evaluate a project‘s progress and plan its day-to-day activities so as to align it to its intended objectives. The strategy was developed based on the results of the literature review, survey results and best practices. The strategy will go a long way in ensuring proper projects implementation.
Assessing the influence of organizational culture on small, medium and micro enterprise’s business sustainability in the eThekwini Municipal area
(2024) Khoza, Ntokozo Thanks-Lord
This research accepted that the government of South Africa supports the development of Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) due to their potential to grow the country’s economy. The research then aimed to ascertain the extent to which the influence of organizational culture on SMMEs can influence business sustainability in the eThekwini Municipal area of South Africa. The study scrutinized the ability of SMME managers and operators on how they can through organizational culture ensure business sustainability in a way that contributes to sustainable economic growth. Additionally, the factors that influence the development and the performances of SMMEs in the eThekwini Municipal area were observed. The study follows the human behaviour of SMME managers, operators, and business owners as to how they can contribute to economic development and survive in the competitive market. Using simple random sampling, data was collected from various SMMEs in the eThekwini Municipal area. A total of 250 entrepreneurs responded to the questionnaire. This data was captured and analyzed on SPSS (version 26) and yielded descriptive statistics. The key findings were that the entrepreneurs revealed that business awareness; transparency; market capturing; opportunity recognition; market intelligence; clarity of purpose; business risk; creativity; self-motivation; and team spirit were all significant in founding and operating a successful business. A challenge that emerged from the respondents was that a high number of entrepreneurs did not give much significance to assuming responsibilities. However, they were taking good care of their environments and using their cultural values to reform the environment. The main objective is that entrepreneurs, operatives and managers must learn to assume responsibly if they are to build their businesses and environment that renounces incorrigible act. This could also be an avenue for further research.
An assessment of crisis communication at selected car manufacturing companies in Gauteng, South Africa
(2022-04) Khuzwayo, Talent Sinenhlanhla; Hussain, Sameera Banu; Isheloke, Byelongo Elisee
South Africa has several car manufacturing companies or plants, referred to as open systems. Due to their nature as open systems, crises are inevitable. Crises have the potential of inducing grave consequences for the organisation’s reputation and, ultimately, its survival. Being prone to conflicting situations necessitates that each organisation have an effective crisis management plan that details the crisis management and crisis communication steps in great detail. However, implementation of crisis communication and crisis management always comes with challenges for the crisis management teams. Increasingly, in the car manufacturing industry, car recalls are being made as certain models tend to have potentially fatal defects. This increase in car recalls is the reason behind the development of this qualitative study. Therefore, the researcher undertook a case study approach, utilising semi-structured interviews to obtain the required data. The value of qualitative research lies in its ability to provide answers to the questions ‘why’ and ‘how.’ Thus, broadening the understanding of crisis management as a phenomenon and the experiences and feelings of the crisis management teams at car manufacturing companies. The research participants were four car manufacturing companies (Companies A, B, C and D) with their head offices in Gauteng, South Africa. The crisis management teams were selected as the target population because they actively attempt to remedy the crises and interact with various organisational stakeholders when a crisis situation occurs. The findings identified gaps in crisis communication planning and implementation, given the ever-changing business and public relations environments in which organisations operate. As a result, the researcher made recommendations that will assist public relations and communications practitioners today and in the future to handle various crises effectively in the motor industry. Ultimately, car manufacturing companies will benefit by improving the protection of their organisations and their stakeholders from reputational and livelihood threats and further reducing those threats’ negative impacts.
An assessment of external communication at the Mnquma Local Municipality
(2017) Ndinisa, Gladys Nokubonga; Ramlutchman, Nisha; Rampersad, Renitha
Communication is the life blood of the organisation. No business or institution develops in the absence of an effective communication system. Communication is essential to the delivery of information, creating awareness and ensuring public participation. Participatory communication, which focuses on the active involvement of the people in all stages, is crucial. When participating in local government, citizens should be knowledgeable and attempt to understand the system and its operations, and be aware of their rights and responsibilities. To be truly significant and meaningful, participation needs to be based on the application of genuine two-way communication principles and practices. This study aimed to do exactly that; investigate, explore and analyse the various external communication channels employed by the Mnquma Local Municipality (MLM) whilst evaluating their effectiveness given the challenging circumstances and environment of a rural community and constituency. In this study a descriptive design with a quantitative research methodological approach was used. Data was collected from 400 constituents, using a questionnaire. Most respondents admitted that the municipality does communicate with them in a language they understood and that the municipality encouraged communication participation; however they indicated a need for more face-to-face engagement, a robust community development worker (CDW) programme, and more councillor engagement. Challenges to effective communication were identified as the lack of Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure and the slow infiltration of technology in the area as well as delays in message delivery and that the municipality did not keep them informed. The demographics presented another unique challenge in that the literacy levels are low and poverty is rampant.
Assessment of lean manufacturing practices and strategic sustainability in Toyota South Africa motors
(2023) Kheswa, Sanele Lungani; Ramdass, Kemlall
The popularity of lean manufacturing mostly stems from empirical evidence that it enhances a company's competitiveness and quality by reducing any form of waste. However, a wide range of factors, compounded by a lack of training in essential components of lean, not achieving daily target in terms of defects per unit, straight delivery rate, run ratio, operation ratio in production lines, delay of parts from the inventory, developing personnel, and managerial support on the shop floor, make the application of lean principles extremely difficult. These difficulties have influenced South Africa's manufacturing industry, which contracted the capacity of manufacturing units in the entire Sub-Saharan African region. The purpose of this study was to assess lean manufacturing practices (LMPs) and the extent to which Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) utilises innovative strategies to improve their quality and sustainability in a highly competitive environment. The research methodology is mixed method in nature using a survey questionnaire as the primary instrument for data collection. A sample of 44 top management staff was chosen from a population of the 50 top management and other selected staff using random sampling, of these 44, 35 participated. The researcher followed five stages in the qualitative data analysis process. SPSS software version 27 was used to critically analyse the quantitative data to answer the research aims and objectives. Management was found to be aware of the elements that influence quality in TSAM. The staff members cited lack of training, lack of management support, and failure to follow standardised work as the most important factors affecting lean. Selected staff also raised the issue of sacrificing quality over volume as a key issue.
Business leadership competency for innovative strategies post COVID-19 among small and medium enterprises in Gauteng Province, South Africa
(2023) Mugivhisa, Fulufhelo Lindelani; Ogulu, Christiana
The COVID-19 pandemic brought many challenges to South African business leaders, such as optimising hybrid teams, attracting and retaining workers with needed capabilities, and making the most of scarce competencies. Current and complex challenges require leadership with the necessary skills. Besides COVID-19 challenges, business organisations and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) must deal with economic downfall, social unrest, and corruption. Leadership plays an important role in ensuring business competitiveness amid these challenges. This study investigated the business leadership competency required for innovative strategies required post-COVID-19 among SMEs in Gauteng Province, South Africa. This involves identifying leadership competencies and proposing a framework for innovative leadership. A sample size of 384 respondents was drawn from owner/managers of SMEs in Gauteng Province. A mixed-method approach was adopted using both structured interviews and a closed-ended questionnaire through an online survey. The results showed that most of the SMEs agreed that COVID-19 challenged SMEs with several difficulties. The research highlighted business leadership competencies for innovative strategies post-COVID-19. The main findings revealed that training and developing employees play a pivotal role in shaping and influencing business performance, which is critical to the success of a business and ensuring innovation. Furthermore, the survey results showed that most SME owners/managers prioritise the competency of setting targets, reviewing and improving financial performance. Results also indicated that adaptability, flexibility, and resilience are necessary to meet changing market conditions. Furthermore, the study highlighted the importance of building diverse and expansive networks. Additionally, findings show that SME Leaders must be willing to take calculated risks for the business to emerge successful.
A case study of superusers' influence towards productivity at Transient Port Terminals in Durban
(2024-05) Khumalo, Msizi Mafika; Sangham, Anilrai I
This thesis evaluated Superuser influence on organisational productivity in an organisation at Transnet Port Terminals in Durban. The study was motivated by a general concern in the Port terminals regarding Superusers, training, policies, leadership, and application information systems synergistical roles towards performance in Organisation. This study used qualitative data collection to gain a clearer view of the Durban Transnet Port Terminals environment and found that workers demand inclusivity when determining enablers and objectives. This study recommends the presence of a Superuser, structured training, application information systems, inclusive change management processes and engaging management to manage a successful Durban Port Terminal. It also identifies Superuser's positioning and input in enhancing the Port operational accomplishments. This review examines the influence of Superusers on organizational productivity in an organization. Due to the COVID-19pandemic, this study concentrated on the Durban Port Terminals, where access, mobility, and the open freedom of applying carefree observations were restricted. Only employees who were cleared to attend work and those with access to computers took part in the study, and interactions between respondents and the researcher were constrained by the COVID-19 protocols, study design research tools and safe distance guidelines. This study aims to evaluate the socio-economic impacts of malfunctioning systems, or users that are ill-equipped, on total productivity. It also aims to investigate the extent to which Superusers, and application information systems improvement could contribute to the performance and effectiveness of Transnet, and the impacts on national economic growth and social transformation. It is intended to reflect on superusers, strategies, leadership, and training which can synergistically bridge the gap between business, resources, and application systems to improve productivity. It aims to fill the knowledge gap regarding superusers, performance, and organizations. Superusers have the potential to significantly reduce the productivity gap
A comparative analysis of the performance of traditional advertising media and online media for the promotion of tourism in KwaZulu-Natal
(2018-04-23) Madondo, Elvis; Moodley, Padhma
This is a comparative study of the performance of online media and traditional advertising media for the promotion of tourism in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Durban Tourism (2013: 1) states that although KZN has done well to attract and hold major events in the Durban City, the number of visitors has declined since the last five years. There is a need for ongoing efforts to promote the tourism industry for it to remain competitive and continue contributing to the welfare of the people. Modern age advertising is divided into two main groups, traditional media and online media advertising. In the past, the tourism industry and other business organisations relied heavily on traditional media to market their products and services (Strategic Direction 2016: 9). However, the advancement of network technologies and the increasing penetration of the Internet have prompted increasing numbers of organisations around the world to use online (Internet) advertising in order to attract more customers in cyberspace, and to enhance their product sales and company profile. Goyal and Sharma (2013: 46) further claim that the advent of online media in tourism business has altogether revolutionised the whole system of performing business and brought about new ways of promoting business. In light of these developments, many marketing practitioners fear that traditional media have entered a death spiral and are no longer competitive in doing meaningful business. They believe that traditional media will succumb to technology innovations that revolutionised the promotion industry (Chao et al. 2012: 12). In this contemporary tourism marketing environment, the performance of traditional advertising media and online media needs to be revealed in order to guide media choice decisions by tourism marketers and authorities. This study employed a descriptive research design which aimed to achieve the objectives of the research through the use of mixed research methods. For this reason, two separate surveys were carried out. Non-probability sampling techniques were employed in recruiting the participants. The design employed two research instruments in the form of a structured questionnaire and structured interviews. Four hundred questionnaires were distributed to tourists at the Durban beachfront, Gateway Mall, Durban Station, and other public places that were convenient to the researcher and the researcher managed to get a 75% response rate. In addition to this, seven interviews were conducted with Durban Tourism and Tourism KwaZulu- Natal authorities, as well as marketing managers of selected Hotels and Travel Agents. The findings revealed that traditional media and online media are more or less equally competitive for the promotion of tourism. Traditional media is still effective for the promotion of tourism in this digital age, most especially in the domestic market. Though tourists used to turn to few sources, they now use various information outlets available at their disposal. Tourism marketers and authorities need to come to terms with traditional media and online media coexistence. There is no need to rely on one media to do it all. Where traditional media lacks, online media must be there to make up the difference and enhance the tourist’s experience. The results led to the creation of the tourism promotion framework which outlines that the tourism sector needs an integrated media choice approach. Further research on the same area covered by this study is required on an ongoing basis in order to keep abreast of the developments in the market. The media environment is unpredictable as completely different media can be developed and tastes and preferences of people change.
Consumer perceptions of green products, purchasing behaviour and loyalty
(2018-06-14) Chikosha, Felix; Potwana, Nobubele
Green products have gained prominence on the market largely due to their perceived benefits of environmental sustainability. In view of the growth in influence of green products, the objectives of the study were to determine the impact of product quality on purchase intention for green products; ascertain the influence of environmental concerns on purchase intention for green products; establish the influence of situations affecting green product purchase on purchase intentions for green products; establish the impact of preference for green products on purchase intention and to assess the impact of purchase intention on re-purchase intention of green products. To establish these facts the study adopted a quantitative methodology, which made use of a self- reporting questionnaire which was administered to consumer households as the target population. For the suburban areas and locations, simple random sampling was done by arbitrarily picking out a number from the housing list secured from the Municipality. In the city center, convenience sampling was done by arbitrarily approaching consumers buying in shopping malls. The 497 responses received were accepted as the sample size of this study. Data collected was captured and analysed on Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) v22.0 and Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS) v 24.0 to yield descriptive and inferential statistics. Structural Equation Modelling was then used to provide estimates of the strength of all the hypothesised relationships. The key findings of the study were that green purchase intention was significantly and positively influenced by product quality, environmental concern, preference for green products, environmental responsibility and selection attributes, but not by situations affecting purchase behaviour. Purchase intention has a strong correlation with re- purchase intention. The implications of the findings to marketers are that they need to formulate and implement green marketing strategies to improve consumer perceptions of green products. It is also suggested that marketers drop deceptive marketing practices that cause consumers to be skeptical about green products. Future research may need to be directed at green marketing practices to see what business is doing to enhance the adoption of green products by consumers.
Corporate telecommunications infrastructure as a service provider for small medium and micro enterprises
(2003) Pillay, Deenasegari; Andrew, Theophilus Nethiekreethum
South Africa has been classified as an upper-middle mcome developing country with a growth rate of 2.6%. In order to improve the quality of lives of all its citizens that includes the lowering of the unemployment rate, South Africa needs to achieve a growth rate of not less than 7%. One of the pre-requisites for economic growth is entrepreneurship. The SMME sector has been universally accepted as having the potential for generating employment and contributing to economic growth. In South Africa the SMME sector is a major contributor to the economy. Research has revealed that SMMEs fail in the first five years of start up or. stagnate in terms of development because of lack of skills, management expertise, finance and lack of basic infrastructure (such as electricity, physical premises and telecommunication). South Africa's entry into the global economy makes it imperative for businesses to have access to Information Communication Technologies regardless of the size of the business. The de-regulation of the Telecommunication Act 106 of 1996 made provision for SMMEs to provide telecommunication access to under serviced areas. This is a double-edged opportunity for the Durban Institute of Technology (M L Sultan campus) in that, the Durban Institute of Technology (M L Sultan campus) could become a Service Provider for Telecommunications access and at the same time provide SMMEs within its vicinity with Information Communication Technology access. This research outlines the various elements that a Higher Education Institution such as the Durban Institute of Technology (M L Sultan campus) needs to take into consideration for developing a Business Model to provide Information Communication Technologies to SMMEs within the vicinity of the Durban Institute of Technology. A sample of the SMMEs around the Durban Institute of Technology (M L Sultan campus) was interviewed to determine their ICT needs and their understanding of the impact of access to ICT on their business. It was found, inter-alia, that many SMMEs had no access what so ever and that there was a lack of understanding of the potential impact of ICT on their enterprise.
A critical analysis of the implementation of e-learning platforms at selected public universities in Zimbabwe
(2021-10) Munyanyi, Richard; Balkaran, Rishidaw; Rawjee, Veena P.
This research study set out to critically analyse the implementation of e-learning platforms in the teaching and learning processes at selected public universities in Zimbabwe. A questionnaire premised on ten major e-learning constructs was administered to Heads of Departments (HODs) and students regarding the implementation of e-learning initiatives. The constructs were: attitudes towards e- learning, commitment to the use of e-learning platform, complexity of the e-learning platform, user training, strategy on e-learning implementation, trialability, support and use of ICT resources by students, impact of e-learning, management commitment on e-learning use and its implementation, level of satisfaction, and barriers to e-learning. The questionnaire was administered to 100 HODs and 400 students at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) and the Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU). In addition, the researcher carried out in-depth face-to-face interviews with the directors of the Information and Communications Technology departments in the two public institutions. The researcher therefore utilized quantitative and qualitative methods by using both questionnaires and interviews. Responses were collated to form a dataset in SPSS from the closed-ended structured questions contained in the questionnaires. The data set was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Scientist (SPSS) version 24 for Windows and R 3.6.3. Several statistical approaches were employed to answer the objectives of the study. The following were the major statistical analysis techniques that were utilized: frequency tables, confirmatory factor analysis, explanatory factor analysis, descriptive statistics, t-tests, regression analysis and non-parametric tests (Kendall’s coefficient of concordance). Frequency tables and descriptive statistics were used to generalize the responses of the participants concerning the use and implementation of e-learning platforms in local universities. Descriptive statistics such as correlation analysis were based on the calculated aggregated scores of the constructs of the study. The major findings of the study were that public universities in Zimbabwe have made great strides in implementing e-learning platforms in the teaching and learning ecosystem. The research, however, noted certain factors that were affecting the effective rollout of e-learning in the two public institutions under study. Major barriers to the implementation of e-learning platforms were identified as: inadequate ICT infrastructure, shortage of foreign currency to upgrade the hardware and software, digital skills gap and general attitude and resistance to change. The study revealed that generally, students were more prepared to use technology than their lecturers. Younger lecturers expressed more enthusiasm to infuse technology into the teaching and learning value chain compared to their older counterparts. Other findings were that most lecturers practicing in universities had not undergone basic training on pedagogy and webagogy; lecturers had not produced enough content to migrate 100% of their course content and delivery to online platforms; some students and lecturers still did not trust online learning and preferred blended learning as an alternative. The study found that there was no policy and rollout plan for e-learning implementation in the two public universities. The researcher recommended that public universities should invest more in ICT infrastructure in terms of its acquisition, development and upgrading, enhance digital skills literacy for both lecturers and students, incentivize online teaching and content development, encourage collaboration among public universities as a way of cutting costs, reskill and upskill lecturers, and establish digital transformation centres dedicated to overseeing e-learning content development. Universities were urged to collaborate in the e-learning field so as to share knowledge, software and experience. A call was made for universities to share ICT infrastructure and apply for a free operating internet license and special spectrum for e-learning from the regulator Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) so as improve internet access and affordability.
Critical success factors influencing project success in the Durban construction industry
(2011) Msani, Thulani Armstrong; Garbharran, Hari Lall; Moorley, Angadh
This study presents an assessment of the perceptions of project managers and contractors regarding the critical success factors influencing project success in the Durban construction industry. To achieve this aim, questionnaires were administered to 95 project managers and 61 active grade four contractors in Durban. The critical success factors are encapsulated in components, that is, comfort, competence, communication and commitment (COMs). These components make up the four COMs model which forms a basis for evaluation of the questionnaires. An in-depth analysis review of the literature on the critical success factors in the construction industry has affirmed the four COMs model. The interpretation of this quantitative study was conducted with the use of descriptive and inferential statistics presented in a tabular format. The findings revealed that both project managers and contractors strongly support the critical success factors as significant in achieving project success. There was no significant difference in their perception of critical success factors, given the biographic differences between them. Achieving project success has eluded the Durban construction industry to a point where it is battling to keep existing clients. The critical success factors identified in this study have provided a way forward for project managers and contractors. Hence, the results presented in this study can be used as a guideline for successful execution of construction projects in Durban. The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) can play a pivotal role by providing an enabling environment which will facilitate the adoption of the results of this study. For example, the CIDB can amend its legislation on contracts by making them simple to comprehend. In this way the number of lawsuits between project managers and contractors would be drastically reduced.
Customer satisfaction analysis of Conlog electricity prepayment meters in KwaZulu-Natal : a customer perspective
(2016) Gina, Mondli; Allen, Garth James
In the electricity prepayment metering industry the continuous increase in customers’ expectations and technological innovation demand that leading firms in the industry differentiate themselves from the competition by going beyond customers’ present expectations. Thus, organizations which have set their goals on mere customer satisfaction are, from a customers’ perspective, deemed to be of limited value and may subsequently lack the anticipation and preparation essential to meet the demands of the future. Electricity prepayment metering market competition today is forcing organisations to seek the means to gain customer satisfaction, and thus aim to sustain their future in times of economic instability. The study revealed that the most effective way to retain customer satisfaction is consistent service quality that decreases the cost of attracting new customers and raises sales and market share. The quality of service is one of the most effective factors in creating competitive advantages and advance business. Factors that influence customer satisfaction in the electricity prepayment industry were investigated and tested. The study also attempted to identify the critical factors, as identified in the literature, among those investigated: service quality, customer expectations, customer perception and customer retention. Against this background, the study sought to determine the interrelationship between customer satisfaction and the critical factors of customer satisfaction with Conlog Electricity Prepayment Meters in KwaZulu-Natal. The research developed to ascertain subjects’ perceptions of the critical factors of customer satisfaction; determine the interrelationship among the critical factors of customer satisfaction; and explore the relationship between customer satisfaction and the critical factors of customer satisfaction. The research population comprising of Conlog electricity prepayment metering customers in KwaZulu-Natal was selected and interviewed. Questionnaires were distributed through electronic mail and self-administered for data collection and a sample of twelve respondents was selected for interview. Interviews were analysed using conversational analysis and the data collected from the interviews were merged with the questionnaire data, seeking depth as well as breadth. Data collected from respondents was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. The tool utilised to analyze data was the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois, USA). A p value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Conclusions and recommendations were drawn from the literature and the findings of the study. The results of the study revealed that service quality is the most significant critical factor of customer satisfaction. The study recommends that the management of Conlog can use the specific data obtained from the measurement of service quality in their strategies and plans. The study further recommends that Conlog allocates resources to this effect to provide better service to their customers. The results and findings of the study will provide further information concerning customer satisfaction and customer perception in the prepayment metering industry in KwaZulu-Natal. It will also contribute to future industry research, setting the ground for further research in measuring levels of customer satisfaction in the electricity prepayment industry in South Africa.
Customer service as a strategic tool amongst independent retail food chains in KwaZulu-Natal
(2017) Tlapana, Tshepo Peter; Govender, Jeevarathnam Parthasarathy
This study aimed at determining and evaluating customer service in independently owned retail food chains within the province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. Furthermore, it included assessing the level of retail service quality, current customer service tools employed by independent food chains in KwaZulu-Natal and the extent to which customer service tools are being used. The study was also about establishing whether there was a significant relationship between retail service quality and customer satisfaction. The study targeted both customers and managers of independent food chains in KwaZulu-Natal from whom a sample of four mangers were interviewed and 444 customers were conveniently selected to participate in the study. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were employed in the collection of data. The findings revealed that majority of the customers were generally dissatisfied with the quality of services offered by independent food chains owing to a lack of complementary services (ATM terminals, parking and toilets), facilities for shoppers with special needs (physically handicapped, wheel chaired or translators), inability to offer customers credit, failure to provide a wide product assortment, short operating hours and general appearance of store (cleanliness, good product display, presentation on how to use merchandise and availability of shopping trolleys, signage to locate and identify merchandise). The results, however, revealed that there is a relationship between customers’ expectations and their perceived satisfaction. Equally significant, the results showed that customers were satisfied with accessibility and safety of the stores, and that they will be considering independent food chains in KwaZulu-Natal as their primary stores. The study concluded by recommending that: independent retail food chains study their customer profiles as it was evident during interviews that customer profiling or segmentation was not being undertaken in detail; retailers are urged to identify and establish customer service needs and requirements so as to facilitate proper product and service mix design; retailers are also recommended to keep regular communication with customers to inform them about promotions or any new developments taking place; retailers should introduce customer loyalty programmes; provide regular staff training on customer service through workshops and follow-up refresher courses; retailers should offer quality merchandise and incorporate latest technological innovations; handle and process third party payment; meet and exceed customer service expectations of customers; upgrade their facilities to accommodate customers with disabilities; and finally retailers should have well-defined returns policies, parking facilities, rest rooms and introduce trolleys with baby-seating facilities.
E-consumer awareness of digital consumerism concerning free data resource exploitation
(2024-05) Serubugo, Ayub; Penceliah, Darry
The ubiquity of digital technology with powerful smart equipment has transformed digital marketing, paving the way for digital consumerism. Electronic consumer data is being freely exploited at an exponential rate through constant company surveillance for the purpose of predicting profits. E-consumer online behavioural data is progressively becoming a valuable asset for precise, granular online targeting. However, e-consumers are oblivious to the fact that their digital traces are being monitored in the process of navigating the internet. Additionally, e-consumers are unaware that their autonomy is being eroded by unfair, capitalistic digital surveillance and profiling technology. The aim of the study is to assess e-consumers awareness of the influence of digital consumerism on free data resource exploitation. A cross-sectional mixed method research design using a validated Likert-type scale questionnaire survey was administered to a non-probability convenience sample of 400 respondents. Thereafter, interviews were conducted using purposive sampling of participants until sufficient data was collected based on the point of saturation. The saturation point was reached after interviewing 20 participants. Online survey data was analysed by SPSS 28 computer software for descriptive and inferential statistics and AMOS was administered for structural equation modelling (SEM). The data from the interviews was analysed using NVivo pattern matching and content analysis. The results reveal that while some e-consumers are aware of free data exploitation, most e-consumers do not notice that their online behavioural data is being harvested and exploited by online retailers. The findings may assist digitalised companies to initiate loyalty programmes by compensating e-consumer data resource input. Further studies should be undertaken to explore the remediation models for free data exploitation. A remediation strategy by online retailers to recognise e-consumers data input is paramount with the current, rapid growth of digitalisation in today’s data-driven economy. A cross-sectional mixed method research design using a validated Likert-type scale questionnaire survey was administered to a non-probability convenience sample of 400 respondents. Thereafter, interviews were conducted using purposive sampling of participants until sufficient data was collected based on the point of saturation. The saturation point was reached after interviewing 20 participants. Online survey data was analysed by SPSS 28 computer software for descriptive and inferential statistics and Amos was administered for structural equation modelling (SEM). The data from the interviews was analysed using NVivo pattern matching and content analysis. The results reveal that while some e-consumers are aware of free data exploitation, most e-consumers do not notice that their online behavioural data is being harvested and exploited by online retailers. The findings may assist digitalised companies to initiate loyalty programmes by compensating e-consumer data resource input. Further studies should be undertaken to explore the remediation models for free data exploitation. A remediation strategy by online retailers to recognise e-consumers data input is paramount with the current, rapid growth of digitalisation in today’s data-driven economy.
The effectiveness of computer-aided teaching on the quality of learning data handling in mathematics in grade seven
(2011) Achary, Sarasvathie; Naidoo, Richard; Singh, Shalini
The purpose of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of computer-aided teaching on the quality of learning data handling in mathematics in grade seven. The rationale for this study was based on the information that, preceding the introduction of curriculum 2005 in South African schools, statistics education received little or no formal importance. At tertiary institutions in South Africa and in many other countries, very few learners choose to major in statistics. Coupled with this was that the effective integration of technology into the teaching and learning of mathematics remains one of the crucial challenges facing mathematics, which has been slow to respond to technological innovation. A review of the literature provided the basis for the study of grade seven learners to determine the use of technology in data handling, their views on the use of computers in mathematics and the effect of computers on the achievement of the set mathematics goals. Responses to the questionnaire, interview and the test scores as well as factors identified in the literature, are used to catalogue the effectiveness of integrating technology in mathematics. The study identified three defining characteristics, each with a number of associated elements. The first being that learners who engaged in technology activities in mathematics have shown a greater conceptual understanding of mathematics as indicated in the pre-test and post-test scores. The second was that technology intensive instruction through the use of the Excel tool helped learners to gain a better understanding of data handling concepts. Thirdly, research result of this study showed that integrating technology into mathematics instruction can be a positive influence on mathematics learning as evident in the interview as well as the test scores. The study concludes that effective integration of technology in mathematics requires recognition and comprehensive attention. This will provide effective quality learning in mathematics education.
The effectiveness of quality management systems in project management : the case of Transnet Group Capital
(2021-09) Kumalo, Duduzile Emmah; Ramchander, Manduth
Transnet’s infrastructure development projects foster economic growth through the country’s ports, pipelines, and rail networks expansion and modernisation. To this end, Transnet has taken up several capital expansion projects across all its operating divisions to develop and expand its infrastructure. However, the reported figures on compensation events in rail project execution, comprising defects and double handling was found to be notably high. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of project quality management systems within the life cycle of projects implemented by Transnet Group Capital. The study was cross sectional in nature and a quantitative research design was adopted involving both primary and secondary research. A questionnaire was used to collect primary data based on a stratified random sampling technique. The data was collected at Transnet Group Capital (TGC). The statistical programme, SPSS version 26.0 was used to analyse data. The secondary data was obtained from TGC management information systems (Primavera databases), wherein a repository of the required documentation is maintained. The secondary data was analysed using quantitative content analysis. It was found that gender parity has not been achieved throughout all the disciplines. Overall, women’s representation remains lower than men. On a positive note, Transnet Group Capital projects are selected in line with business goals. This further confirms that the projects are subjected to an independent Gate Review as specified in the Project Lifecycle Process methodology and as per the project’s classification outcome. Findings indicate that the end users are not consulted throughout the construction processes and project timelines are prolonged. This is coupled by an unclear scope which is not adequately communicated to all stakeholders, incapacitated project managers, as well as lack of quality assurance and control processes. The document analysis presented the impact of compensation events at an average of 4% of the contract value. These findings give Transnet Group Capital a reason to improve their project execution and the monitoring process. The study recommends that gender equity be prioritised. There should be agreements on the expected outcomes of the project to allow each milestone of the project to stay on target. An emphasis of core values is also necessary to transcend differences in culture. There is a need to institutionalise quality awareness and to implement a risk mitigation plan.