Faculty of Management Sciences

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The adoption of innovative approach in research proposal development in the Management Sciences of the Higher Education sector
(International Journal of Special Education, 2022-03-03) Zondo, Robert Walter Dumisani
Several innovative factors transforming higher education provide opportunities of changing its context. This influence the sector to continuously learn new ways of conducting business and introduce innovative methods in its post- graduate research-based teaching. Thus, the future of academia in Higher Education lies in the continuous search for innovative methods of evaluating students’ research proposal. This sentiment underpins the significance of the Research Proposal Evaluation Tool (REPRET). REPRET is a computer-based innovative tool that assists emerging research supervisors (or promoters) in the management sciences in evaluating students’ research proposals effectively. It has built-in functions that provide technical and methodological guides regarding students’ proposals. It assists students in improving the quality of their research proposals, the efficiency of research proposal development, as well as throughput. It is a Microsoft Excel-based tool managed by the research supervisor (or promoter), covers various sections of the research proposal and is compatible with quantitative, qualitative and mixed paradigms. The contribution of REPRET as an innovative tool relies on higher education’s ability to adapt to new processes. REPRET represents an innovative practice in education. It helps the higher educational sector, particularly the management sciences, to achieve competitive advantage and higher performance.
Advancing peace building programs to counter violent extremism messaging in Sidi Moumen District, Morocco
(2023) Khebbaz, Soufiane; Kaye, Sylvia Blanche; Harris, Geoffrey Thomas
Digital platforms and communication tools have transformed the way we seek information and interact with others. Extremist groups are effectively using media to spread their ideas, propagate hate, and mobilize youth. This research examines the role of new media in countering violent extremism, preventing youth radicalization and fashioning political and religious discourse throughout the implementation of the “Youth Leaders for Peace” project. Youth from marginalized urban areas of Casablanca in Morocco were engaged in a participatory action research utilizing the power of new media and technology to build peace, deliver impactful messages, and influence positive change in both online and offline spaces. They worked with civil society organizations to identify, engage, and explore issues critical to the effective use of new media to enhance youth participation in political and civic life in their community. Activities were designed and implemented to encourage marginalized urban youth to participate constructively in countering violent extremism using dialogues about the principles and mechanisms of democracy, civic engagement, political participation, peaceful coexistence, and constructive conflict resolution.
Analysing rural tourism motivation factors and ICT adoption with specific reference to Malealea Lodge in Lesotho
(2015) Tsephe, Neo Puleng; Mnguni, Erasmus M.; Eyono Obono, Seraphin Desire
Tourism can be classified either as urban tourism or as rural tourism, and it is one of the fastest growing industries globally. Rural tourism is usually associated with rural development because it has strong linkages to rural resources; but it remains underdeveloped compared to urban tourism. This underdevelopment of rural tourism serves as a motivation for this study whose aim is to examine the factors affecting the perceived satisfaction of rural tourists especially in this digital world where Information Communication and Technology (ICTs) is pervasive. In fact, ICT has transformed the travel industry in a remarkable way. The objectives of this study were: I) to select suitable theories that can explain the perceived satisfaction of rural tourists; ii) to design a conceptual model of the factors affecting the perceived satisfaction of rural tourists; iii) to empirically test the planned conceptual model of the perceived satisfaction of rural tourists, and, iv) to recommend measures to be taken for the improvement of the satisfaction levels of rural tourists to the point where they can significantly contribute to the full development of rural tourism. These objectives were achieved using content analysis of existing literature on rural tourism satisfaction and through a survey of tourists from the Malealea Lodge which is located in the Mafeteng District, in the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho. The results of this study are the following: I) the push and pull motivation theory was selected to explain the perceived satisfaction of rural tourists; ii) rural tourism demographics, their push and pull motivation, and their level of ICT adoption were hypothesized as the factors that affect tourists satisfaction with their rural tourism experiences; iii) the satisfaction of rural tourists with their rural tourism experience is affected by their occupations (demographic factor), by their level of ICT adoption, and by their pull motivation; and this satisfaction is not affected by other demographic attributes nor by the push motivation of rural tourists; iv) it is recommended that rural tourism marketing be increased in order to attract clients from other regions besides Africa and Europe and other age groups apart from young Africans which were found by xiii this study to be the biggest rural tourism clientele group, and that peace and security be maintained in rural tourism destinations as these two attributes were found to have an effect on the perceived satisfaction of rural tourism. Finally, more research should be conducted on the effect of ICT adoption on rural tourism satisfaction.
An analysis of attitudes, behaviour and perceptions of water use within urban households in the city of Durban
(2023) Banoo, Ismail; Dorasamy, Nirmala
South Africa is facing increasing water demands to meet the needs of a rapidly growing and urbanising population, including an urgent need for sustained economic growth. At the same time, climate change is driving the country towards a warmer and drier climatic future, with predicted longer droughts and intense floods. Climate change will result in reduced water availability to meet South Africa’s water demands of the future. This study addresses the urban water demand management challenge by focussing on the attitudes, behaviour and perceptions of urban households towards their water consumption, in a search for ways in which domestic demand for water may be substantially reduced. The analysis reflects the attitudes and perceptions of City of Durban urban dwellers in a period when water use restrictions are common across the country. Several national, provincial and local government calls have been made for immediate researched solutions for reducing urban water demand in South Africa (SA). The research study has brought to fore the complexity of competing forces shaping water demand and water use in the context of the socio-demographic composition of households living within different kinds of dwellings, as well as cultural, behavioural and attitudinal aspects of water consumption in City of Durban. In so doing, it aimed to inform public management policy and planning on effective ways to reduce water consumption and identify alternative and complimentary solutions towards effective water demand management. The essential questions the research addressed was to what extent do two key dimensions of urban structure - built form and the socio-behavioural characteristics of household behaviour, influence the pattern of water consumption across the Durban metropolitan area. Additionally, the study also investigated the extent to which people understood water-saving as an environmental concept and the need to conserve the natural resource, including what urban water users believed were the most effective water-saving habits, technology interventions and communication methods with water services authorities.
An analysis of business intelligence of small, medium and micro enterprises and their effect on corporate governance in the eThekwini Municipal area
(2022) Hadebe, Mlungisi Hopewell; Dlamini, Bongani Innocent
This study was initiated on intelligence because firms nowadays are developing at a faster pace. Business intelligence is projected to play a critical part in assisting policymakers at every point of their activities to ease making decisions. This expresses why business intelligence has become one of the key areas of interest to workplace management which without the right implementation to governance, it would not be feasible to realize the likely gains that the implement can offer. Consequently, it is apposite to procure a business intelligence governance structure, which represents a subsection of corporate governance. Because intelligence is needed for improvements not only in business but all organizations this study aims to explore the extent to which SMMEs operators recognizes it as a tool that guarantees successful corporate governance. The study also examined the skill of the SMME managers and operators on how they can impart business intelligence into their business to ensure effective corporate governance in their area of operation. In the study, the issues that dampen the use of intelligence in business for the development and operations of SMMEs were investigated. The inherent basis under which this research was taken on was that of human behavior of SMME managers and their underlings expressly how they can use their intelligence to contribute to humanity and subsist the competitive market. Simple random sampling was employed to accumulate data from entrepreneurs in the eThekwini Municipal Area. An aggregate of 200 entrepreneurs responded to the survey, which has made the sample of the study. The elicited data was obtained and evaluated on SPSS (version 25) and generated both descriptive and inferential statistics. The basic conclusions of the study were that the entrepreneurs stated that planning, organizing, coordination, controlling, creativity, team spirit and decision making were highly noteworthy in determining and operating a thriving business. A contest emanating from respondents was that they were unable to adapt themselves to the environment where they can seize opportunities. However, some of them have the interest of their environment at heart to invest their effort for the growth and its development. The main recommendation that is made here is that entrepreneurs must learn how to familiarize themselves to realise business opportunities amid nothing to form something reasonable in the environment. The entrepreneurs must keep their actions, activities, conduct and performance in check where they can use the communicative elements of knowledge, skills, attitude, values, and competence to the advantage of mitigating social problems and making gains.
An analysis of quality culture and quality management practices in selected South African pharmaceutical organisations
(2019-01) Swartz, Bronwyn Claudia; Singh, Shalini
South African pharmaceutical organisations struggle to compete with their counterparts in other countries. To overcome this challenge, a suitable Operational Excellence (OpEx) strategy in their manufacturing environment can improve the quality of pharmaceutical products and encourage economic growth in South Africa. This study examined the contribution of a Quality Culture on OpEx in selected pharmaceutical organisations. The objective of this study was to develop a conceptual Model of Quality Management Practices supported by Quality Culture, for Category A pharmaceutical manufacturers in the South African Pharmaceutical Industry, to promote OpEx. This study followed a two-phase sequential embedded mixed method approach. Statistical results were derived from the analysis of quantitative data from a questionnaire which used a census sample. Thereafter, a qualitative phase included an in-depth exploration of a smaller purposefully selected sample of individuals. The sample size of the pilot study was one manufacturer while the main study target population consisted of 30 pharmaceutical manufacturers. Internal validity (reliability) was assured by Cronbach’s alpha in the quantitative phase for both the pilot and main study. External validity was assured through the use of a standard instrument in the pilot study and main study. Data saturation and peer review assured validity in the qualitative phase of the pilot and main study. Ethical clearance for this study was granted through DUT’s institutional channels. Results of the quantitative phase of the main study (n=17, response rate 57%) found a significant regression relationship (68%) between successful Quality Management Practices and the Quality Culture in pharmaceutical organisations. Quantitative analysis statistically confirmed the suitability of OpEx dimensions for the Model and established a correlation between these OpEx dimensions and four important organisational culture types namely: clan culture, hierarchical culture, adhocracy culture and market-driven culture. Results of qualitative data analysis (n=3) indicated that an appropriate blend of culture types supports OpEx in the South African pharmaceutical industry. Based on these findings, an OpEx Model was developed for South African pharmaceutical manufacturers. This study recommends that the OpEx model be adopted by South African pharmaceutical manufacturers to cultivate an appropriate blend of organisational culture types, within their overall Quality Culture. This will support and enable effective Quality Management Practices and OpEx. A limitation of the SA Pharma OpEx Model developed was that it lacked a financial component. Future research should include the financial component to expand on the SA Pharma OpEx Model.
An analysis of tacit knowledge sharing behaviour, within a social capital framework, in a business environment of a South African, University of Technology
(2014-05-21) Smith, Carol; De Beer, Marie; Mason, Roger Bruce
This thesis integrates social capital and ‘reasoned action’ theory to construct a theoretical model for investigating the factors which predict an individual’s intention to share tacit knowledge in a University of Technology. It utilizes Nahapiet and Ghoshal (1998: 243) definition and conception of social capital. They define social capital as “the sum of the actual and potential resources embedded within, available through, and derived from the network of relationships possessed by an individual or social unit”. This study examined tacit knowledge sharing behaviour (i.e., knowledge that is shared between individuals) within the context of social capital. The specific type of tacit knowledge that is being studied relates to work experience ‘know-what’ and ‘know-how’. ‘Know-what’ refers to the basic mastery of a discipline that professionals achieve through education and training. ‘Know-how’ refers to procedural knowledge about a business process and the individual’s capability to perform an action with an understanding of why the action is appropriate in the particular context, (i.e., action skill or applied competence). Specifically, this study examines the relationship between the structural, relational and cognitive dimensions of social capital and the individual’s attitude towards the sharing of tacit knowledge. It further examines the relationship between the individual’s attitude towards tacit knowledge sharing, their perceived norms and perceived behavioural control over the sharing of tacit knowledge (mediating variables) and their intention to share tacit knowledge. It is a case study which consists of a mixed methods research design, incorporating nine research interviews and five hundred and fifty four self administered questionnaires. The theoretical model is examined using structural equation modeling (SEM) and as a result of the findings, the initial model is revised into a set of theoretical models, which are tested using SEM and found to be consistent with the data (i.e., a good fit). The direct, indirect and total effects of the identified predictor (social capital) and mediating variables (â€˜reasoned actionâ€™) on the individualâ€™s intention to share tacit knowledge, in each model, is examined and the results are presented. Each dimension of social capital is found to be significant for predicting the criterion variable ‘attitude towards tacit knowledge sharing’. The individual’s attitude towards tacit knowledge sharing is found to be highly significant for predicting the individual’s intention to share tacit knowledge but the ‘reasoned action’ variables are found to be not as significant, particularly perceived behavioural control over the sharing of tacit knowledge. The results of this study enrich our collective understanding regarding social capital and tacit knowledge sharing behaviour.
The antecedents of supply chain performance : a case of KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa
(2019-08) Mbambo, Daluxolo; Hove-Sibanda, Sibanda, Progress
Over the past years, there has been a growing significance in supply chain management (SCM) as a vehicle through which many companies/firms can reach a competitive advantage. Despite the importance of supply chain within today’s economy, little is known about how SCM mechanisms can contribute to firm performance. The main purpose of this study was to evince the influence of trust on supplier development, knowledge creation and supply chain performance (SCP) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Province, South Africa (SA). It was a cross-sectional study that was conducted with different samples and several variables. This is a quantitative study which used a probability and non-probability approach. The study was conducted using both the simple random technique and convenience sampling. Descriptive analysis was performed using the IBM SPSS 25 software package. A sample size of 495 respondents was used in this study. In total, 310 questionnaires were received from all respondents who participated in this study. Results specified that trust does not have any direct impact on SCP. However, based on the beta coefficient values, trust predicts better knowledge creation than supplier development. The empirical results show that an organisation/firm that has a high level of knowledge creation with its suppliers will yield greater performance within its supply chain (SC). As the supply chain performance enabled process was empirically defined, firms are therefore able to design appropriate collaborative strategies for their SC. Thus, the capability to integrate external knowledge from different sectors could be a major factor in firms’ improvement capacity. This study recommends that the South African Government must provide training for firm owners and easy funding access for SMEs in KZN to be able to confront competition from local and foreign competitors. Furthermore, this study suggests that staff development and training for public and private sector institutions as well as individual career management enhancement initiatives must be implemented. Collaboration with suppliers and other supply chain associates is strongly recommended, which should increase the chance to gain strengths, trust, knowledge creation, information sharing and technological proficiencies.
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.
The application of space technology and the challenges of managing water infrastructure in a selected South African municipality
(2023-04) Mokgobu, Matlou Lesley; Mason, Roger Bruce
The installation of water infrastructure in cities poses a challenge to communities, municipalities, and installation contractors. These challenges range from the inaccessibility of streets, the community’s limited access to homes, traffic jams, deep trenches with few or no barricades, leaking water pipes, water supply cut-offs, electricity supply cut-offs, vandalism, and theft of water pipes and accessories. The research problem, therefore, revolves around a better understanding of these water infrastructural problems, how to mitigate such problems caused by inadequate planning, leading, organising, controlling, and coordination by management, arising from various technical aspects of water infrastructure. The need for this study arises from the inconvenience and dangers experienced by communities with heaps of materials lying around causing disturbances to traffic flow, open hazardous trenches becoming dangerous to children playing in their vicinity, vehicle accidents because of the trenches, and damaged kerbs. The study aimed to investigate the challenges of managing water infrastructure in a selected South African municipality to find possible ways to resolve such challenges with the help of space technology. The study achieved the objectives, namely, to identify the challenges experienced by the municipality during and after the installation of water infrastructure; to rank the importance of the experienced challenges; to explore the root causes of the challenges experienced during the installation of water infrastructure; to identify how space technology can help with the management of water infrastructure; to develop a framework of the challenges and the causes; and, to explore water management strategies with the effort of finding possible ways to resolve the challenges. The study was exploratory and applied mixed methods research methodology. Data was collected via a survey (402 City of Tshwane residents), in-depth interviews (20 City of Tshwane managers of the Water Division), and two focus groups (7 participants per group of City of Tshwane contractor managers and contractor employees) through the convergent parallel design method. The quantitative data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 27), and the qualitative data was analysed using NVivo version 27, charts, tables, and themes. The results from the three sets of participants indicated multiple challenges related to skills deficits, management deficits, political interference, and inexperienced staff in the water infrastructure division. The findings indicated knowledge, ability and performance gaps in human resources, management, technical skills, financial management, socio-politics, and legal frameworks. The study contributed new knowledge to systems theory regarding the policies, systems, installation and maintenance of water infrastructure, and communication, and these aspects are supported by the findings. The application of space technology on a large scale can help the City of Tshwane fight criminal acts of vandalism and theft of infrastructure. This study found that space technology is still in its infancy in the city, and that the application of this technology requires an elevated level of education, experience and specialised technical skills to operate. This study recommended extensive investment in space technology. The study further recommended that the City of Tshwane improve human resources, training, culture, finance, operations, and control measures. The study recommended further research on the proper use of funds, the causes of community violence against the contractors doing maintenance, investigation of the delays in the procurement of services, turnaround time for the various water infrastructure activities, relationship management between the city employees and the contractors, the impact of lack of reporting by the managers and employees to the superiors in the water infrastructure division, and clearer definition of roles between municipal employees and politicians. More academic research into water infrastructure, based on the use of and relationship between water infrastructure and space technology, is warranted.
An appraisal of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in the tourism industry in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
(2020-05) Doncabe, Thembeka; Chetty, Gopalkrishna
The aim of the study is to assess current Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities employed across the tourism industry in Durban, with the primary objective of the study to examine the extent to which the tourism industry in Durban engages in CSR activities. CSR is an important part of sustainable development and should be merged with company values, described as comprising of human rights, monitoring, stakeholders’ rights and employee rights. In South Africa (SA), CSR has been evident for a number of years, with its nature and context shaped by apartheid. With tourism being part of the service industry, it is of great importance that these stakeholders are put at the forefront. Globalisation pressure and the increasing burden on governments to provide comprehensive social services has resulted in the need to better understand how organisations play a role in sharing these burdens. The city of Durban has an extensive tourism and hospitality industry that grows continuously annually and as such, industry players should initiate and participate in CSR programmes. Global changes with travellers and the industry are greatly influencing the implementation of CSR in Durban. Study findings are based on a sample of 96 respondents, with a response rate of 76 percent for the selfadministered questionnaire employed for data collection from 4-and 5-star accommodation establishments in Durban, as well as domestic airlines that service KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Results suggest the Durban tourism and hospitality industry is fairly involved in CSR, with a few exceptions. Nonetheless, many respondents indicated challenges they face in CSR initiative implementation, including the lack of assistance from organisations that drive tourism. They believe further training on CSR implementation and support would greatly influence levels of CSR implementation. The findings in this study reveal that environmental impact measures and or activities are at the forefront of CSR activities for both airlines and the hotel sector. Activities with the environmental impact measures include minimising energy consumption, such as using energy saving globes and solar panels, waste minimisation, waste recycling, and protection of the natural environment. Findings derived from the study will unveil more opportunity regarding CSR in Durban and will inform those organisations involved in tourism promotion and development to act accordingly in assisting industry participants.
Are higher education institutions positioned to reap the dividends of open education resources? : the case of Durban University of Technology
(The Clute Institute, 2013-09) Van der Merwe, Alexander Dawid
The potential benefits of open education resources (OERs) are well documented in the literature. These include cheaper education, improved equity in respect of educational prospects, greater access to higher education opportunities for non-traditional learners, encouraging new modes of collaborative learning and leveraging public funds by sharing knowledge. So compelling are these advantages that leading universities globally are currently experimenting with new business models calibrated to extract value from educational offerings that, increasingly, will be expected to include free content. In spite of the obvious merits of OERs, the open education movement faces challenges which are rooted significantly in educators' perceptions of these resources. This descriptive case study sought to examine the attitudes Durban University of Technology (DUT) faculty have towards OERs with the aim of gauging their capacity to be actively involved as developers and users of these materials. The study found that in spite of respondents' recognition of the advantages of OERs and even a degree of superficial employment of these instructional aids, there appears to be no real open education ethos at the institution. Evidence of this includes the relatively low level of sharing of content amongst faculty an d the consensus of respondents that there is no institutional support for OER initiatives. The study concludes that for the university to retain its relevance in an evolving educational landscape, it should create a framework that will not only create space for OER projects but should also address the very human need for recognition and acknowledgement that developers of free and open content have.
Assessing communication strategies at higher education institutions : a case of Walter Sisulu University
(2017) Mgweba, Chulumanco; Rawjee, Veena P.; Naidoo, P.
In South Africa the National Plan for Higher Education (NPHE, 2001) brought with it distinct changes to the higher education landscape. Amongst the major changes were the mergers of various higher education institutions. In 2005, the Walter Sisulu University for Technology (WSU) was established through the merger of the former Border Technikon, Eastern Cape Technikon and the University of Transkei. The University caters for students from the Eastern Cape’s Border and Kei regions resulting in communication with a large number of stakeholders. Effective communication as well as developing and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders therefore become pivotal. This study set out to examine the perceived effectiveness of communication strategies between the Walter Sisulu University and students. A mixed method approach found that although respondents felt that communication was satisfactory, concerns were however, raised about the effectiveness of the communication strategies being utilised. The study recommended e-communication as a key strategy to facilitate communication with students.
Assessing successful land claims and the pursuit of co-management in protected areas : a case of Tala Private Game Reserve
(2017-08) Qwatekana, Zikho; Sibiya, Nozipho P.; Mnguni, Mzobanzi Erasmus
The government of South Africa has justifiable aims to address the injustices of the past, by calling on people who were dispossessed of their land rights through racially discriminatory laws since June 1913 to reclaim their land. Consequently, the Land Claims Commission has reported 150 claims in protected areas of South Africa. This has led to an agreement between the Ministers of Environmental Affairs and Land Affairs to facilitate a national approach for settlement of all claims within protected areas: co-management. This study sought to explore land claims in South Africa’s protected areas by assessing the co-management model used by the government to resolve these claims. This qualitative study was conducted to assess the appropriateness of co-management as the only strategy for resolving land claims within protected areas. The research was guided by four research objectives: (1) To explore the tourism potential of game reserves to derive economic benefits for claimant communities; (2) To determine community attitudes towards co-management agreements employed at reserves; (3) To ascertain the level of co-operation amongst stakeholders to ensure that the co-management agreements employed at reserves remains successful; (4) To establish the extent to which co-management agreements address and protect community land rights. The study employed a case-study approach, using a resolved land Claim at Tala Private Game Reserve. The game reserve is owned by the Nkumbuleni Community Trust, which represents the 211household removed from this land in the 1970s. Following the success of their claim in 2011 a co-management agreement was signed giving the community 70 percent ownership of the game reserve.A purposive sample was selected from the claimant community and a saturation sample from the game reserve’s management. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to provide in-depth understanding of the phenomenon under study. The findings reflect that co-management may be a logical approach to involving local communities in protected area management. It remains inconsistent and flawed, however, as a model to address land claims through reconciling the needs of conservation for tourism with land rights. This study argued that co- management may be a logical approach to involving the Nkumbuleni community in the administration of the game reserve. Recommendations arising from the study include but are not limited to the following: • Processes aimed at redressing past injustice in disputes over conservation land, regardless of the approach adopted, must bring with them a strong commitment to building institutional and leadership capacities within communities, and pay serious attention to the ways in which equity and social justice can be fostered after the settlement of a land claim. • Government must recognize that sufficient time and resources are fundamental to the success of co-management projects, and ensure that commitment to and funding for such projects are in place, including adequate support structures and training facilities; • Where the feasibility of the settlement option chosen is in doubt, there should be an option for a review of this option after a stipulated period; • Government must support all available settlement options, since in some cases alternatives, like lease-back or financial compensation, could provide better alternatives for communities; and • The community must be advised that co-management does not provide immediate benefits but involves risk-taking and benefit-sharing for all parties involved.
Assessing the effectiveness of housing reconstruction and rehabilitation measures for disaster affected communities in KZN (uThukela District Municipality)
(2021) Phungula, Kwethemba Innocent; Reddy, Maliga
South Africa is experiencing the realities of climate change with the increasing intensity of disasters causing devastating impact to infrastructure, houses, roads and schools. Post disaster housing rehabilitation and reconstruction is one of the most challenging tasks confronting decision makers and disaster management practitioners in disaster affected areas and remains an under studied area. This triggered the interest of the researcher to understand the impact of the phenomenon and how communities recover from disasters. The purpose of the study was to assess the effectiveness of housing reconstruction and rehabilitation measures for disaster affected communities in KZN. The location of the study was Tholeni area in Alfred Duma Local Municipality, within uThukela District Municipality, because this area is highly vulnerable to natural hazards. This study used the philosophical worldview of pragmatism; a mixed research approach to solicit views, experiences and perspectives of affected communities, Disaster Management Practitioners and officials from Department of Human Settlements was used. Data was obtained through questionnaires and interviews. In order to achieve this, purposive sampling method was used as it helped to purposely select disaster management practitioners and officials from the Department of Human Settlements who could provide sufficient data for the purposes of completing the study. Descriptive statistical and content analysis was conducted from the analysis of emergent data. The qualitative results were triangulated to further test validity of empirical results. Data collected was computed by means of excel spread sheets and results were presented in the form of bar graphs, tables with descriptive analysis. The findings of the study showed that the affected communities were not satisfied with housing assistance post-disaster incidents. The findings sited that assistance takes longer and in some instance does not reach all affected communities. The other finding from affected communities was that government does not provide feedback to give an update of post disaster interventions. Findings from disaster management practitioners highlighted capacity constraints, poor planning, inadequate budget, and lack of close monitoring, which have a direct effect on delivery of houses post-disaster incidents. Findings from officials from the Department of Human Settlements sited long processes of verification of damages by National Disaster Management Centre and delays with approvals of disaster funding allocation by National Treasury which affects effective delivery of post-disaster housing. The other finding was the issue of inadequate internal budget and low level of preparedness by the Department of Human Settlements. The shortcomings were evident, including the existence of plans and policies exclusive of post-disaster housing information and linked to poor monitoring and coordination of projects by the Department of Human Settlements. The study proposed a guiding framework for post-disaster housing rehabilitation and reconstruction and also offered a number of recommendations that can assist the Department of Human Settlements and Municipalities to enhance disaster response and recovery. This includes recommendations to develop or review post-disaster housing policy in order to address some of the challenges which emerged from the study. The Department of Human Settlements, working with municipalities, should prioritise the land tenure security for affected communities in order to fast track post-disaster housing interventions.
Assessing the impact of language diversity on communication : a narrative inquiry conducted at a South African stevedoring company
(2021-11-14) Naidoo, Ashegan; Adam, Jamila Khatoon
Prior to 1994, South Africa was a country that had segregation among race groups due to apartheid legislation. Post 1994 South Africans had to deal with the combining of culture and races. The merging of communities required businesses to employ previously disadvantaged groups for a more diverse organisation. Although this produces superior results over uniformity, since development and creativity are more reliant on diversity working together and capitalising on their individuality than on high-intelligence sole thinkers (Herring, 2009). It also has its own set of unique challenges, according to Herring (2009) diversity can present conflict, separating a nation and other issues that diminishes an organisations effectiveness and productivity. There is a rising pressure placed on employers and employees for accountability in the workplace and an increasing importance for evaluation of performance (Denzin and Lincoln, 2003). Twenty-three years post-democracy South Africa faces many challenges in various sectors of society. Living in a rainbow nation means living amongst people of different nationalities, beliefs and customs. At the organisation which this research is based upon, there are people of varying races and culture. The problem with this is that in a predominantly English medium of instruction, the employees who communicate via other languages are finding it difficult to understand and follow instruction. Hence, the purpose of this study was to assess the impact of language diversity on communication at a South African stevedoring company. This study was driven by three research questions, namely: What are the identities of the participants of the study? Secondly, what are the employee experiences of the effects of language diversity on communication? And lastly, how does communication style between the participants affect the rate of productivity at the workplace? This research study was supported by using the principles of the Social Identity Theory and the Communication Accommodation Theory. The paradigmatic approach used viewed this research study through the lens of the interpretivist paradigm in order to understand and learn from the narratives of casual employees at a South African stevedoring company. This research study was performed within the boundaries of the qualitative design. The narrative inquiry methodology was applied to this study in order for the researcher to narratively explore the lived experiences of the participants. Five participants were selected for this study by putting into effect the principles of the purposeful sampling method. Field texts (data) were generated by employing the unstructured interviews and the collage inquiry method. The generated data was then analysed through two methods of analysis. These methods are the narrative analysis and analysis of narratives. The findings of this study show that one of the key components of high productivity is effective communication. Due to many employees including all five participants being second language (Isizulu) speaking, a barrier to language could be considered as a communication barrier. Communication barriers arise when the individuals involved speak in completely different languages from one another (van Rosse et al., 2016). Language barrier or linguistics barrier can be defined as miscommunication (Harzing and Feely, 2008). In any company or organisation, communication is the pillar of strength for any organisation, and poor communication has severe repercussion to productivity. The success of an organisation depends heavily on the flexibility and the effectiveness of the internal organisational communications between all levels of employees. For this reason, it is the job of managers to lead employees with effective communication.
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.
The assessment of disaster risk reduction strategies in dairy supply chains in Zimbabwe
(2017) Chari, Felix; Ngcamu, Bethuel Sibongiseni
Disasters are on the increase globally with devastating effects. The devastation caused by these disasters in various countries highlights the need for increased commitment and investment, by government and various stakeholders, in disaster risk reduction. This study investigated disaster risk reduction strategies in Zimbabwe’s dairy supply chains. The study was initiated on the premise that Zimbabwe is at high risk and vulnerable to natural and man-made hazards. The study is set in the backdrop of declining output across all agricultural sectors evident particularly in the dairy farming sector that has seen inadequate supply of raw milk and dairy products by local producers in Zimbabwe. This study therefore sought to assess the collaborative strategies by government, dairy organisations and dairy supply chain stakeholders to reduce disaster risks in the dairy industry. The study employed a mixed-method approach (qualitative and quantitative) to investigate collaborative disaster risk reduction strategies used by dairy supply chain stakeholders to avoid supply chain disruptions. The study used a sample size of 92 dairy farmers, from major milk producing regions of Zimbabwe, for the questionnaire. The Cronbach alpha test for reliability showed a reliable questionnaire. Furthermore, the study used information from key informants, 30 retailers and 20 dairy officers for one-on-one interviews. Quantitative data was analysed using STATA (version 13). OLS regression analysis was done and results were compared with those of the Tobit models as a test for robustness of the results. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis derived from observations and interviews and descriptive statistics presented in tables and bar charts. Notable in the literature reviewed is lack of coordination amongst stakeholders in strategies to reduce disaster risks in dairy supply chains in Zimbabwe. This study adopted a collaborative proactive framework and tested it as a strategy to reduce disaster risks in dairy supply chains. The study gives four major findings. Firstly, dairy supply chains in Zimbabwe were exposed to a number of risks which are: international competition, competition from local giants, financial risks, political risks, technological risks, environmental risks and production risks. Secondly, findings from regression analysis indicated that an overall index of disaster risks significantly influenced job losses, food security, milk productivity and growth of ventures in dairy businesses. Thirdly, there were isolated cases of planned coordination by stakeholders in the industry to reduce the negative effects of disasters across the supply chain. There was collaboration among dairy farmers, processors, NGOs, and government departments of agriculture and environment. Fourthly, an index of collaborative strategies regressed against dependent variables of variables of supply chain cost, lead time milk sales, and variety and quality of milk demonstrated that collaborative strategies in dairy supply chain significantly influenced supply chain costs and variety and quality of milk and milk products. It is expected that the study will assist government in the formulation of public policies for the dairy sector leading to improved access to high quality raw milk and milk products for consumers thus resulting in improved nutrition and food security for the people of Zimbabwe. Policy recommendations highlight that instead of the current maximum of the 5 year lease given to white commercial farmers, the government should consider issuing out long term leases in order to protect long-term investment in dairy projects. Government should, therefore, create an enabling environment for stakeholder partnerships in the dairy sector.
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.
An assessment of strategic decision-making processes in small and micro enterprises in the services sector in South Africa
(2019-02) Gopaul, Roger; Rampersad, Renitha; Pillay, Gnanam
The thesis assesses the strategic decision-making process in small and micro enterprises in the services sector in South Africa. The mortality rate of small and micro enterprises remains undesirably high in South Africa. Among the factors affecting small and micro enterprise sustainability is poor managerial skills including deficiencies in the strategic decision-making process. A review of the literature revealed that there is a gap pertaining to an assessment of strategic decision formation among this sector. On the basis of the literature review, the process of strategic decision-making was assessed in different situational contexts consisting of the external environment and internal environment which influences the decision formation. The study assumed a qualitative methodology in order to understand the phenomenon of strategic decision-making. SSemi-structured interviews, focus group sessions and observation methods were employed, as the essential form of data collection. The sample population comprised thirty businesses that satisfied the criteria of small and micro in the services sector. A content analysis was conducted in order to present the findings of the research study and offer an integrated theoretical model of the strategic decision-making process. The findings of the research indicate that the process of strategic decision-making is pivoted on the intuitive decision-making tendencies of the business owners. As such, there was diminutive reliance on a procedural rational mode towards formulating decisions among small and micro businesses. The phases of the decision formation process within these businesses were simplified with few steps involved. The phases of the decision-making process consisted of information gathering, interpretation of information and option generation for implementation. The findings show that the process of strategic decision formulation within small and micro enterprises adopts an intuitive approach consistent with a descriptive mode of decision-making. The phases of the intuitive approach to strategic decision-making among small and micro enterprises were deemed iterative and overlapped during the process of formulating the decisions as compared to a decision-making mode that is fundamentally sequential in character. The findings of this study have many potential theoretical contributions to the stock of knowledge as well as practical contributions to governmental policy-makers, supporting agencies and business owners. Recommendations for future research were advocated which have the propensity to further augment the understanding of the strategic decision-making process.