33074 research outputs found
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Investigating customer shopping experience in South African shopping centres
Full text linkMaster of Commerce in Marketing Management, North-West University,Vanderbijlpark CampusThe customer shopping experience is a comprehensive construct encompassing various factors crucial for meeting and surpassing customer expectations. Understanding its nuances is imperative for businesses striving to excel. This experience not only involves different constructs but also serves as a precursor to elements such as customer loyalty, retention, trust, and satisfaction. Technological advancements have brought significant shifts across industries, enhancing operations and processes. The retail sector, in particular, has witnessed profound changes due to technology. The growth and evolution of this industry are closely tied to technological advancements, providing opportunities to expand into diverse platforms. In recent years, there has been a notable transition from physical shopping centres to online retail platforms. Despite physical shopping centres being a longstanding fixture in the retail industry, the emergence of e-commerce, social media, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have disrupted their traditional role. This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing customer shopping experience in South African shopping centres. Existing literature lacks a comprehensive examination of these factors, particularly in the context of physical shopping centres in South Africa. Therefore, this study delved into various aspects influencing customer shopping experience in these physical spaces. The research employed a qualitative approach and an exploratory research design. A non-probability purposive sampling method was utilised to select and recruit participants for in-depth interviews. Data analysis followed the Morse and Field approach with ATLAS.ti 23 used for coding, categorial, and thematic analysis. Four themes emerged, comprising 19 categories. The findings revealed diverse factors influencing customer shopping experience. Although subjective, customers consistently expressed a desire for convenience, good service, escapism, and tactility. The study also highlighted that these influencing factors encompass both tangible and intangible aspects. Organisations must consider multiple elements when curating the customer shopping experience within physical shopping centres.Master
Exploring the effectiveness of NPO annual report submission to the Department of Social Development
Full text linkMaster of Business Administration, North-West University, Vanderbijlpark CampusThis study investigates the landscape of annual reporting practices by Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) to the South African Department of Social Development (DSD). Focusing on the motivations, challenges, and compliance levels of NPOs, the research aims to improve reporting effectiveness. Through qualitative research methods, including interviews with DSD officials, this study uncovers that well-established NPOs with DSD funding demonstrate better understanding and adherence to reporting obligations. Challenges in financial statement preparation and record-keeping were identified, with compliance varying between government-funded and non-governmental funded NPOs. The study emphasises the importance of updated report templates, support mechanisms, and transparent communication between NPOs and the DSD. Furthermore, it addresses the implications of recent amendments to the NPO Act, highlighting the need for comprehensive awareness campaigns and education in the sector, particularly regarding money laundering and terrorism financing risks. The study offers actionable recommendations to enhance NPO reporting practices, fostering transparency, accountability, and effective social development outcomes.Master
An analysis into improving the negative distortion of VAT on income-based equity
Full text linkMaster of Commerce in Taxation, North-West University, Potchefstroom CampusTaxes are used by governments around the world to generate government revenue. The most important principle of taxes is that they should be fair to taxpayers and taxpayers should pay tax in accordance with their income earning levels. Taxes are structured in a manner that allows citizens to pay in accordance with what their income earning levels are, promoting equity and fairness. Value-Added Tax (VAT) is a consumption tax that is used by over 200 countries around the world and is paid on consumption, the more you consume, the more tax you pay. This places an unfair burden on taxpayers as it does not consider the taxpayer’s ability to afford the tax, which is determined by their income. The way VAT is levied and paid by taxpayers creates a negative distortion on income -based equity for different households.
The purpose of this study is to evaluate VAT around the world by selecting three distinct countries, namely South Africa, New Zealand, and France. The study provides an evaluation and comparison of the relief provisions provided by the different countries’ VAT models and additional government relief provisions to alleviate the burden placed by VAT on different households. A qualitative research method with a focus on the literature review was applied in this study, existing literature reviewed included but was not limited to Tax Acts, studies performed on VAT and other publications on government’s social development programmes. The study shows that relief provisions provided by the various VAT models do not improve the impact VAT has on income-based equity between the different households, it only reduces the burden of the tax in certain instances. Various government social development programmes are more sustainable in terms of improving the negative distortion of VAT on income-based equity as they consist of income redistribution programmes that have a positive impact on the income-based equity of the different households.
The study concludes that when VAT is in existence, it will always create a negative distortion on income-based equity and the different exclusions and provisions on certain goods and services do not address or improve the negative distortion. Income redistribution programmes are an effective way for government to address or improve the negative distortion and is proven to be the most effective way according to literature reviewed in this study. It is important to provide a quantitative analysis of this fact and further research on the quantitative effects of VAT exclusions and income redistribution programmes on income-based equity could provide a more conclusive understanding of the relationship between income-based equity and the different relief provisions evaluated in this study. Further research is likely to provide a better comprehension of VAT exclusions and the effects for both taxpayers and the various governments.Master
Developing a strategy for student accommodation by a private sector property company in Bloemfontein: A case study
Full text linkMaster of Business Administration, North-West University, Potchefstroom CampusThe study aimed to develop a strategy for student accommodation by a private-sector property company in Bloemfontein. The study interviewed students who make use of the NSFAS bursary to study as well as the business owners of student accommodation companies that rent their accommodation out to those students. A literature review was conducted to verify and inform the interviews that were held. The study focused on the internal- and external environment of student accommodation in Bloemfontein to develop a strategy. Challenges and obstacles faced by student accommodation companies were investigated, as well as students’ considerations when selecting accommodation. Students' current and future needs were analysed and cross-checked against the provisions of the student accommodation companies. A strategy for student accommodation in Bloemfontein was developed.Master
H&M's communication with stakeholders via social media in the wake of the 'monkey hoodie incident' - a corporate communication approach
Full text linkThesis (Masters of Arts) Communication, North-West University, Potchefstroom CampusWhile corporate organisations have been using various strategies and platforms to facilitate two-way communication for a long time, the rise of social media has presented new opportunities and challenges. The nature of the exchange of information via social media means that messages that are shared within the public domain happen in real time. Organisations have opportunities to engage directly and immediately with stakeholders and participate in discussions as part of two-way communication but need to consider that stakeholders can now express their views, both positive and negative, immediately, publicly and on a global scale, posing a potential risk to organisations.
The 2018 H&M “monkey hoodie incident” is a case in point. In January 2018, H&M was at the centre of a major international social media incident. Stephanie Yeboah, a Twitter personality, shared a screenshot of the Swedish retailer’s website at 11pm on January 7 that featured a picture of a boy of colour wearing a hoodie with the slogan “coolest monkey in the jungle”. After Yeboah called attention to the image’s racist overtones, her post was “retweeted” (re-shared) more than 21,000 times on the X (formerly Twitter) platform over the next 48 hours. Other users quickly began to condemn H&M’s policies and demand a response in an outpouring of “tweets”.
In this study, it is argued that H&M should have adhered to the principles of the two-way symmetrical model, the reflective paradigm and strategic communication management in communication with its stakeholders on social media to build and maintain positive stakeholder relationships. The general research question of this study was: ‘What was the nature of H&M’s communication with its stakeholders via social media in the wake of the monkey hoodie incident?
The empirical part of the study was conducted using a mixed-methods approach. The qualitative part of the study comprised a qualitative content analysis of H&M’s communication with stakeholders on their social media platforms (Facebook and X [Twitter]) in the wake of the monkey hoodie incident. The quantitative part of the study comprised a sentiment analysis of stakeholders’ responses to H&M’s communication on the matter on its social media platforms.
The key findings were that:
• H&M demonstrated signs of both asymmetrical and symmetrical worldviews in its communication practices with its stakeholders via X and Facebook.
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• The organisation did have measures in place to balance its needs with those of its stakeholders; however, these attempts were overshadowed by the core need for the organisation to drive sales via marketing-orientated communication.
• The organisation did cultivate an environment conducive to two-way communication in its messaging directed at its stakeholders, thereby showing its openness to feedback from their stakeholders.
• More consistent real time and two-way communication was, however, needed in the wake of the monkey hoodie incident, so that the organisation could work towards attaining mutual understanding and trust among its stakeholders.
• There was evidence that H&M’s communication was thought through and strategic, but that it did not necessarily facilitate two-way communication.
• The overall negative sentiment results from H&M stakeholders indicate that more social media listening engagement is needed to overcome potential misunderstandings regarding topics of shared interest, such as the topics of diversity and inclusion.
• H&M did not fully utilise all the built-in social media functions that can be used to facilitate the principles of two-way symmetrical communication, the reflective paradigm and stakeholder relationship management.Master
Exploring the impact of original equipment manufacturer aftermarket services in the mining industry in South Africa
Full text linkMaster of Business Administration, North-West University, Vanderbijlpark CampusThis is a comprehensive study of the relationship between the South African mining industry and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), emphasising the advantages and challenges of using OEM services. The study is situated within the context of South Africa’s mining industry, which is a significant contributor to the country’s GDP and employment rates. Key challenges in equipment maintenance and cost management are examined, highlighting the role of maintenance in equipment reliability and cost reduction. OEMs play a crucial role within this context, driving innovation and providing aftermarket services, but they also face challenges in balancing cost-effectiveness, product quality, and sustainability.
The study emphasises the importance of collaboration between the mining industry and OEMs to address unique local conditions effectively. It comprises a qualitative research approach, employing interpretive and inductive paradigms to gather and analyse data. The research process follows rigorous ethical standards, ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of participants. The study’s trustworthiness is upheld through criteria such as transferability, credibility, dependability, and confirmability.
The findings of the qualitative research are presented and compared to the theoretical background. Key objectives, including examining the advantages and disadvantages of using OEM spares and aftermarket services, determining service level requirements, and assessing perceptions of mining companies towards OEMs, are addressed.
The results highlight issues such as high costs, skills drainage, local community development requirements, and the demand for long-term contracts and service-level agreements. The study provides practical recommendations to address these challenges, emphasising communication, investment in training, on-site OEM representatives, collaborative maintenance models, and improved service delivery.
While acknowledging geographical limitations, the study contributes valuable insights into the mining industry and OEMs in South Africa, fostering a more collaborative and efficient relationship. Potential future research areas that can further enhance the understanding of these issues in the South African mining context are identified.Master
Exploring the viability of marketing renewable energy in South Africa
Full text linkMaster of Business Administration, North-West University, Vanderbijlpark CampusNo Abstract availableMaster
Exploring responsible management practices and strategies to promote sustainable development in South African companies
Full text linkMaster of Business Administration, North-West University, Vanderbijlpark CampusThe research problem is the lack of knowledge about management practises and strategies employed in private South African organisations to ensure responsible management (RM), which limits our understanding of RM and its conduct. The purpose of the study was to explore the extent to which RM practises and strategies are being implemented by senior managers in private South African organisations and to identify the challenges and opportunities of implementing these practices. The research also seeks to understand how RM practises can be used to achieve the United Nations (UN) Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and what specific practises can be identified for broader application in promoting sustainable development. Responsible managers are needed to establish and sustain an ethical, responsible, and sustainable economic framework. The implementation of RM practises requires competencies in ethics, responsibility, and sustainability. Ten senior managers from private South African companies who are involved in sustainable development strategies voluntarily participated. The study employed a cross-sectional exploratory research design and a qualitative research approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect qualitative data from a purposively selected sample. The data transcripts from interview recordings were thematically analysed to answer the research questions. The findings showed that, overall, managers demonstrate a commitment to RM practises and strategies to promote sustainable development, provided they have the competence to do so. It was clearly indicated in the interview data that South African private organisations have a good understanding of the UN Agenda 2030 SDGs, and they prioritise RM practises such as environmental sustainability, community engagement, ethical sourcing, diversity and inclusion, responsible finance, water and waste reduction, and sustainability reporting and communication. A managerial implication for organisations that set themselves out to conduct RM and sustainability is that they should develop their managers’ ethical, responsibility, and sustainability competence to ensure the integration of RM practises into their daily operations, including ethical investments and sustainability-aligned supply chains and operations. Transparency, reporting, community engagement, diversity, and inclusion are emphasised as crucial elements of RM practices. Collaborations and partnerships with various organisations are also recommended to contribute to RM practises and sustainable development.
Adopting RM practises and strategies reduces costs, improves operational efficiency, and strengthens corporate citizenship. Overall, RM strategies contribute to long-term sustainability, profitability, and success.Master
Investigating the influence of academic staff's resistance to change regarding technology readiness: The mediating role of technology self-efficacy
Full text linkMaster of Business Administration, North-West University, Vanderbijlpark CampusThis research investigates the influence of academic staff’s resistance to change regarding technology readiness: The mediating role of technology self-efficacy. The comprehensive survey findings offer distinct perspectives on participants’ viewpoints, showing a generally favourable disposition towards their readiness and competence in utilising technology within educational settings. The participants’ exceptional acceptance is evident in the mean scores, particularly the significant average of 4.60, accompanied by a small level of variability (standard deviation = 1.38) concerning software readiness. Likewise, the mean score of 4.69 signifies the participants’ level of assurance in embracing technological tools across multiple academic disciplines, suggesting a disposition towards incorporating technology. The aforementioned favourable viewpoints align with the principles of the technology self-efficacy theory, which underscores the significance of individuals’ confidence in their aptitude to use technology effectively.
Moreover, the research sheds light on the impact of anxiety as a potential source of stress that affects individuals’ inclination to engage with technology, specifically among individuals who have grown up in the digital age. The participants exhibited notable self-assurance and perceived proficiency in incorporating technology, emphasising satisfying psychological needs for motivation and optimal performance. This underscores the significance of self-determination theory and flow theory. Significantly, the mean ratings indicating substantial proficiency in technology utilisation, ranging from 4.4 to 4.6, reflect a positive and assured perception among academic faculty members. The present study acknowledges the variability in responses, as indicated by the standard deviations, which reflect individual variations in viewpoints and experiences within educational interventions.
The results presented here enhance our understanding of the intricate relationship between resistance to change among academic staff, readiness to adopt technology and self-perceived ability to effectively use technology. Including precise quantitative measures, such as means and standard deviations pertaining to various constructs, provides a robust foundation for comprehending the research outcomes. This study underscores the significance of tailored interventions and support systems within educational settings to address psychological factors and promote successful technology adoption.Master
Developing a framework for SMME survival based on events during Covid-19 in the Western Cape, South Africa
Full text linkDoctor of Philosophy in Business Administration, North-West University, Vanderbijlpark CampusThis study aims to comprehend how certain SMMEs managed to survive, and some even thrived during the Covid pandemic in the Western Cape of South Africa. The impact of the pandemic and the various levels of lockdown in South Africa, as determined by the National Government, affected some SMMEs' operating capability more than others, as some had essential status and some did not. The surviving skills of these SMMEs have to be studied to ascertain how they survived. These survival skills and actions will assist the researcher in developing a framework for SMME survival in future difficult economic circumstances, such as a pandemic. The methodology approach to be followed in this study is by applying a qualitative research method, using semi-structured interviews to collect the data and then following a manual qualitative data analysis process. Research limitations of this study included the restrictions placed on the researcher via the POPI Act being applicable in South Africa. Hence, the successful SMMEs in the Western Cape could only be accessed via snowball sampling. The findings of this study will contribute to the literature about the challenges experienced by the SMMEs before and during the Covid period, the mentorship role and motivational factors that convinced them to start their SMMEs and how these aspects contributed to their SMME survival during a pandemic. Furthermore, this study will clarify what these SMMEs saw as necessary personal skills, attributes and characteristics an entrepreneur requires to survive a pandemic. The leadership styles of the SMME owner as applied have contributed to their survival, and this study will indicate in which way. Their view on success pre-Covid and post-Covid have been analysed to ascertain how the pandemic impacted their idea of what constitutes a successful SMME. The majority reported that their perceptions of success have changed since the pandemic. Whether the Western Cape Government's interventions created an entrepreneurial ecosystem was investigated, and whether these SMMEs received sufficient assistance to contribute to
their survival, with the overall feeling that the government did not supply adequate support to SMMEs in the province. Finally, the factors they employed, their actions to survive or thrive, and their advice and recommendations have been recorded to answer this study's primary and secondary objectives to comprehend fully how SMMEs could survive the pandemic. Further study is recommended on how digitalisation and "going online" affected SMME survival and whether this can be grounds for creating a new entrepreneurial theory.Doctora