Perceptions and experiences of senior managers regarding organisational transformation and change within eThekwini Municipality.
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Date
2013
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Abstract
This study explores the perceptions and experiences of senior managers regarding organisational
transformation and change. To achieve this objective, a qualitative methodology was undertaken
and twelve open-ended questions were formulated for the study. Twenty-two semi-structured
interviews were conducted. A non-probability sampling technique was utilised, along with
snowball sampling and judgement sampling methods to select participants for the study. The
sample consisted of twenty-two senior managers from different Units and Departments within
the eThekwini Municipality. The data collected were then qualitatively analysed using thematic
analysis. The findings of the study were presented under key themes that had emerged during
the study. The main findings of the study showed that the municipality had radically
transformed in response to the new political dispensation in South Africa, as of 1994. The study
highlighted the general consensus amongst senior managers that fundamental transformation of
the Municipality was imperative. The participants of the study expressed the view that the former
municipal organisation had become misaligned with its environment. It was therefore imperative
to ensure fundamental transformation of the municipality. Most senior managers, however, felt
that the transformation process was poorly managed. These negative views were attributed to,
inter alia, the long period of transformation, poor change management, and lack of a clearly
articulated organisational culture coupled with some poorly implemented systems. Although
negative views were expressed with regard to the transformation process, most senior managers
were satisfied with their specific jobs. This surprising finding was attributed to positive
personality characteristics and humanistic-existential perspectives that most senior managers
were found to possess. Existentialists believe in people taking responsibility for their lives and
the humanists stresses the importance of self-actualisation.
Description
Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2013.
Keywords
Psychology, Industrial--KwaZulu-Natal--eThekwini Metropolitan Area., Work--Psychological aspects., Theses--Industrial psychology., South Africa--Politics and government.