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A strategy for the review and maintenance of the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) information security policies
Get PDFAbstract.Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of , School of Information Technology and Governance, 202
The COVID-19 PANDEMIC’S long-term impact on the future of work in South Africa
Get PDFThe COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the global economy and work methods, highlighting Human Resources limitations. This study explores its lasting impact on the future of work in South Africa, focusing on employee engagement, mental health, burnout, work quality, and future of work expectations. To provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject, an extensive literature review was conducted, including academic articles, industry reports, and publications, to examine pandemic effects on work practices, remote work, HR strategies, employee engagement, mental health, burnout, and future work expectations. Building upon the insights that were gained from the literature review, an online survey was designed, consisting of 70 closed-ended questions. The survey sought to capture respondents’ perceptions of work before and during the pandemic, as well as their expectations for the future of work considering the observed emerging trends during the crisis. The survey link was distributed to a sample of 130 respondents using a web-based survey approach. Of the targeted population, 51% completed the survey, thereby resulting in a final study sample of 66 respondents. Subsequently, a conceptual model was developed to illustrate the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the future of work in South Africa. The collected data was subjected to rigorous statistical analysis by employing various techniques such as the data spread analysis, summary statistics, data variation measures, internal consistency analysis, linear correlation, and factor analysis. The Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was employed to ensure the validity of the measurement constructs and to ascertain the items that required removal. These statistical analyses provided an empirical evaluation of the impact of COVID-19 on employee engagement, mental health, burnout, and future work expectations. The results of the data analysis confirmed the hypothesised model, thereby indicating that all the four independent variables exerted a significant influence on the future of work in South Africa. The factors such as work engagement, work immersion, personal and professional burnout, client-related burnout, work environment, relations and cooperation, autonomy, facilities, work-life balance, work flexibility, leadership, and remote well-being were measured to assess this influence. Work burnout during the COVID-19 period was omitted from the analysis due to its failure to meet the minimum EFA loading criteria for the factor. In addition to the empirical findings, a framework for managing the future of work was designed based on the research outcomes. The study also discussed the encountered limitations, as well as called for further research in the field. It also provided recommendations for the HR professionals, the leaders, and the employees. Implementing these recommendations would enable the organisations to navigate the future world of work more successfully, which would foster greater agility and sustainability. These measures are fundamental in creating adaptable workplace models, strategies, and policies that respond adeptly to the dynamic shifts in the internal and the external contexts.Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 202
An application of the Mundell Fleming model in emerging market economies
Get PDFThe core objective of this study was to test the applicability of the Mundell-Fleming model in emerging market economies. Despite its importance, no study has examined the applicability of the Mundell-Fleming model in emerging market economies, as far as this study is aware. The Mundell-Fleming model predicts that in an environment with freely floating exchange rates, a drop in interest rates will lead to capital flight, which in turn will result in a fall in the exchange rate and a rise in net exports. The model takes into account both the international flow of capital and the flow of goods and services that might have a big impact on the country. The model's theoretical foundations offer practical instruments for assessing the impact of economic policy in light of the adopted exchange rate regimes of a nation. The model plays a key role in anticipating the link between output, interest rates, and exchange rates. A quantitative approach using panel monthly data over the period 2000 to 2017 for five emerging countries was carried out. Brazil, Malaysia, China, India, and South Africa were the considered countries due to availability of data. The Dynamic Ordinary Least Square (DOLS) and Fully Modified Ordinary Least Square (FMOLS) were used to analyse the data. The study confirmed the applicability of the Mundell-Fleming model in the studied countries given a positive relationship between interest rate and portfolio investment. This result means that when interest rates rise, capital flows also increase. In addition, the confirmation of Mundell-Fleming model is reflected in the negative relationship between portfolio investment and the rate of exchange. The Mundell-Fleming model describes how movement of capital and exchange rates behave. The study recommended that to ease the threat of currency appreciation, the Central Banks in merging market economies must ensure that the domestic interest rate is always in line with the world interest rate. This will promote exchange rate stability and whenever there is an appreciation/depreciation the Central Banks must use interest rates to bring back the exchange rate to the desired rate. In emerging market economies, the reserve banks must employ what is referred to as the "sterilization" of capital flows to lessen the threat of currency appreciation. The local component of the monetary base (bank reserves plus currency) is decreased in a successful sterilization operation to counteract the reserve influx, at least temporarily.Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 202
Formulating an operational efficient strategy for the national health laboratory services in the Eastern Cape
No full textThis treatise presents the formulation of an operational efficient strategy for the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) in the Eastern Cape. Operational inefficiency in the NHLS has the potential to delay laboratory results delivery for necessary health intervention, which may have a negative impact on individuals’ health or lead to death. The aim of the study is to highlight inadequacies that may cause poor service delivery and formulate an operational plan for the NHLS in the Eastern Cape. Strategic efficiency is derived from the resource-based and agent theories. Even though there is a difference between service and manufacturing industries, the operational strategic framework can be used in both. A strategic framework is implemented by assessing market requirements and using the top-down or bottom-up approach. To monitor and regulate these strategies, one can utilise, among others, scorecards, corporate social responsibility and risk management. This is a qualitative research study using semi-structured interviews to gather information from 11 participants. The study targeted managers in the NHLS Eastern Cape region, with a non-probability method, as the large number of managers in the entire region made it impossible to do a random study. Furthermore, the data were analysed by the thematic analysis method. The literature review identified six factors that influence public sector efficiency, namely, compliance issues, ethics, financial expense management, resource optimisation, accountability and service delivery. The primary study revealed several inadequacies in the NHLS Eastern Cape, namely, inefficient human resources practices, underutilising technology, ambiguous policies, delayed turnaround time, lack of financial training for management and lack of support from cross-functional departments. In addition, the results of the study warrant the following recommendations: Proper orientation of staff, with modules pertaining not only to their duties and reporting structure but also to the policies of the organisations and conduct; SWOT analyses and surveys could also be used to assess internal staff and external factors that may hinder efficiency; the installation of solar panels for laboratories, starting with the vulnerable labs in remote areas, wireless internet technology, mobile applications and software. The region also needs to practice good corporate governance, update its policies regularly and budget for all operations, including quasi fiscal activities. Lastly, support departments need to comply with an ISO certification.Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 202
The role of dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management on SMMEs business continuity in Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Get PDFBusiness continuity does not happen by chance, it is rather enabled or propelled by various activities in business operations. This study examines the role of dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management and their role in the continuity of Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. Fixated in the positivist paradigm, this study adopted a quantitative research approach to collect data from 105 SMMEs registered with the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, who were sampled using stratified and convenience sampling. Data was collected via an online survey on Google Forms and analysed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics and statistical analysis methods were applied using SPSS version 23. The analysis was done in three phases. Firstly, the researcher conducted a reliability analysis of the questionnaire, and secondly, a descriptive statistical analysis to examine the research questions. The third phase was a statistical analysis to test the hypothesis. A Pearson‟s correlation test was performed to test the relationship between dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management. The findings showed that, as enterprise risk is managed, dynamic capabilities increase, and thus there is a significant relationship between dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management. The correlation between the variables which measured the dynamic capabilities and those which measured enterprise risk management seemed to be significant as they were all above 0.05. Therefore, it can be concluded that dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management contribute to business continuity. This means that dynamic capabilities enhance business continuity, dynamic capabilities enhance enterprise risk management and enterprise risk management enhances business continuity. To leverage these positive relations, SMMEs ought to employ ERM experts or engage ERM consultants who will design Enterprise Risk management (ERM) strategies that are compatible with their enterprises. It is also recommended for SMMEs to have quarterly evaluations of the Enterprise Risk Management strategies and Dynamic Capabilities that enhance their business continuity planningThesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 202
Strategies to promote skills development of technicians for the automotive retail industry
Get PDFThe automotive retail industry in South Africa is a significant contributor to the country's economy, and the role of technicians in the industry is critical for the industry's growth and sustainability. However, the industry is faced with a shortage of skilled technicians, resulting in a skills gap that threatens the industry's progress. This study therefore aimed to identify the strategies that can be used to promote the skills development of technicians for the automotive retail industry. A qualitative research design was used, and data was collected through semi-structured interviews with stakeholders in the automotive retail industry. The data was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that the industry faces several challenges, including the lack of funding for skills development programmes, inadequate training facilities, and an outdated curriculum. To address these challenges, the study recommends that the industry should adopt a multi-stakeholder approach that involves government, industry and training institutions. The study also recommends that the government needs to provide funding for skills development programmes and create policies that promote the training of technicians. The industry should work with institutions such as technical and non-technical high schools, TVET colleges, and universities to develop a relevant curriculum that is aligned with industry needs. The study further recommends that the industry should create partnerships with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to provide training opportunities for technicians. In conclusion, the automotive retail industry in South Africa needs to invest in the skills development of technicians to address the skills gap and promote the industry's growth and sustainability. The adoption of a multi-stakeholder approach involving government, industry, and training institutions is essential for the success of skills development programmes in the industry.Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 202
The use of a feminist political economy framework to implement the African Union’s development plan
Get PDFThe purpose of this study was to determine if the African Union can achieve sustainable and inclusive growth through the adoption of a feminist political economy framework. This was done by investigating the potential gendered impact of the recently operationalised African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) on African women. The specific indicator of sustainable and inclusive growth utilised was the “income poverty and equity parameter”. Owing to the contemporary nature of the trade agreement, a historical analysis of gender mainstreaming efforts within African Regional Economic Communities was undertaken. This aided in determining the arbitrary treatment of gender provisions in regional trade initiatives. Additionally, a nexus was drawn between the role of African hegemonies and the disregard for gender sensitivity in trade policies. It was found that despite the existence of gender mainstreaming tools, the achievement of sustainable and inclusive growth by the African Union will be unattainable.Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 202
The determinants of manufacturing sector growth among East African Community countries
Get PDFGiven the concern of the meagre contribution of the manufacturing sector output in total GDP within the East African Community (EAC) member states, the purpose of this study was to in-vestigate whether growth rates in the manufacturing sector output of the five East African Com-munity member states can be explained by variations in the factors of input, productivity and governance. The study benchmarks the growth frameworks of neoclassical growth and its exten-sions, as well as the institutionalist growth theory, which guided the formulation of empirical growth models. Estimation is achieved by implementing first difference generalised method of moments (D-GMM) on a linear dynamic panel model through the specific-to-general modelling technique. Among the factors motivated by the neoclassical growth paradigm and its extensions, estimates from this study indicate that human capital and the gross capital formation input factors can help in predicting variations in manufacturing sector output growth in EAC member countries. Among the productivity factors, estimates show that higher lending rates and increased openness had a significant negative effect on the growth of the manufacturing sector among EAC member states. The productivity variables of foreign direct investment, inflation, domestic credit and financial deepening showed no ability to influence manufacturing sector growth in the EAC member states. Estimates further indicate that among the governance factors, control of corrupt-ion could help boost manufacturing sector output growth among EAC member states. Results from this study show that the governance variables of voice and accountability, and of regulatory quality, had an insignificant effect on the growth of manufacturing sector output among EAC member states. So the study shows that manufacturing sector output variations in EAC member states can partially be explained by the neoclassical and endogenous growth models, with little efficacy in the institutional growth model, suggesting the incompleteness of the growth frame-works adopted in assessing the sources of growth in manufacturing sector output in EAC mem-ber states. The study results suggest that the EAC member states can boost their manufacturing sector output growth by implementing policies and programmes that create incentives for more additions to capital stocks and improving the quality of human resources while equipping people with skills, establishng financial instituitions which offer access to cheap capital, like the East African Development Bank, and adopting import substitution growth strategies which could re-duce the quantity of imports and limit outflows of foreign exchange.Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 202
Creating a value proposition in the optometry industry: perceptions of customers
Get PDFThe highly competitive environment in the optometry healthcare industry, the over-serviced urban market and the cost of keeping businesses operating with little knowledge of how a profitable business operates lead most independent business owners to employ inappropriate strategies to manage situations that arise, and the optometry industry, particularly standalone practices, are particularly vulnerable to these challenges. As a result, creating a value proposition for customers has become a common approach to operations and ensuring service providers’ survival in new and existing practices. Therefore, the limitations under which service providers operate need to be investigated to determine which competencies are lacking. The study aimed to create a value proposition in the optometry industry in South Africa by exploring optometry customers’ perceptions. Through a qualitative research approach a total of 17 telephone interviews and eight mask-to-mask interviews were conducted with participants (five per chosen service provider from all nine provinces). The participants were drawn from all service providers’ current customers, including those whom in the past three months used the services or products, purchased an optical frame temple or full pair of spectacles, underwent an eye examination, and others. The qualitative data analysis employed content and thematic analyses, focusing on key elements such as the importance of creating a value proposition, developing a value proposition process, and the challenges associated with its creation. The five building blocks for creating a value proposition are visibility, service and product, price and value, reputation management and communication. This study’s findings will assist individual service providers to evaluate themselves against customers’ expectations and benefit customers and researchers. The main recommendations are 24-hour online access to a website, quality of services or products, full standard optometry service, affordable health care products or services, a short turnaround time for complete products, and acquired management skills to grow and generate sales.Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 202
The contribution of generic coaching to self-leadership
Get PDFThe working landscape underwent significant changes due to the Covid-19 pandemic, leading to an increased need for employees to enhance their self-leadership skills. The advancement of these skills could assist individuals to adapt and thrive in the face of relentless change. While self-leadership skills have traditionally been cultivated through training, coaching research has typically not considered it as a process of contributing to the growth of self-leadership. This study aims to explore the contribution of generic coaching to self-leadership. A qualitative research design using a purposive sampling method was applied to a sample group consisting of nine coachees. Coaches from the researcher’s network in South Africa had referred coachees who had previously been engaged in an individual generic coaching process, such as life, health, career, business or executive coaching. This exploratory study involved conducting semi-structured online interviews to collect data. An interpretative phenomenological analysis was adopted to learn about the lived coaching experiences of the participants. A thematic analysis approach was applied to the data to extract repeated themes that could provide answers to the research questions. The themes that emerged from the data included (1) the generic coaching process, (2) the factors that facilitate effective coaching, (3) the impact of coaching, and (4) the understanding of self-leadership. The findings of the research had, to a large extent, indicated that generic coaching contributed to self-leadership. The connection between the three self-leadership strategies, the coaching process and the tools that were used made this apparent. Coaching is another method of development that can enhance employees’ self-leadership skills, accelerate growth and facilitate learning.Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 202