Graduate School of Business and Leadership

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The 360-degree emotional competency profiler as a predictor of leadership ability.
(2003) Peters, Wilma Luther.; Coldwell, David A. L.
Leadership has been defined as the competencies and processes required to enable and empower ordinary employees to do extraordinary things in the face of adversity, it has the added advantage of constantly delivering superior performance to the benefit of individual employees and the organisation, thereby improving returns on investment for shareholders. These behaviours include being skilled in emotional competencies. This study focused on the emotional intelligence factors considered characteristic of effective leaders. Forty-eight high potential leaders (HPl) that were selected as part of the companies talent management program were included in the study. Their ratings on the 360-degree Emotional Competency Profiler (ECP) where compared to a group of twenty-four employees that were excluded from this program. Qualitative and quantitative methods where used to explore the relationship between leadership and emotional intelligence. Focus groups were used as qualitative method to determine the relationship between emotional intelligence as measured using the Emotional Competency Profiler (ECP), leadership and the leadership requirements placed on leaders as documented within the talent management program. The results from these discussions indicated a positive relationship between, emotional intelligence, leadership theory and the leadership requirements of the company. Quantitative methods where used to compare the ratings of leaders with nonleaders. The gap identified between current EQ behaviour and the importance of the EO behaviour were used to indicate the leadership demands placed on the high potential leader and non-leader groups. The outcome of the study indicated the value and application of emotional intelligence (EO) as component of effective leadership. It is well known that emotionally intelligent leaders have the ability to engage the hearts, minds and imaginations of ordinary people. They inspire people to perform beyond their own expectations. These leaders create a sense of ownership, belonging, security and joint destiny in situations of uncertainty and change. The result is that employees trust these leaders and approach their jobs with greater commitment. The resulting teamwork, mutual support and co-operation create a work environment were employees become creative and innovative. Teams with emotionally intelligent leaders reach a level of synergy that lifts their performance to a level that is more than the sum total of the individual contributions.
A conceptual framework to address challenges facing female-owned agricultural cooperatives in Pietermaritzburg.
(2023) Ndlovu, Silindile Goodness.; Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian.
The study investigated challenges encountered by small to medium-scale (primary to secondary level) female cooperatives in the agricultural sector in Pietermaritzburg. This research aimed to assess the challenges encountered by female entrepreneurs in the small to medium-scale agricultural sector in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal to present a conceptual framework to address the challenges encountered by female owned agricultural cooperatives in Pietermaritzburg. A qualitative methodology generated an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon under study. The researcher’s target population in this study was female owned cooperative enterprises in the agricultural sector in Pietermaritzburg. The sample for the study was selected through the purposive sampling method. Only 20 female-owned cooperatives out of 306 in the agricultural sector in Pietermaritzburg participated in the study. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were used to collect data on the challenges facing female entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector in Pietermaritzburg. Ten primary-level female-owned cooperatives and ten secondary-level female-owned cooperatives were selected to participate. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Study findings revealed that a lack of access to sufficient and productive land for expansion; a lack of skills; a demand for legal and regulatory frameworks; a lack of capital and markets and the issue of collateral availability; a lack of government support, a lack of infrastructure, a gap in understanding business culture; and poor value chain organisation affect female entrepreneurs in the small to medium-scale agricultural sector. These constraints presented a framework of barriers for female entrepreneurs in the small to medium-scale agricultural sector that must be addressed. This conceptual framework can be used towards the empowerment of women as a prerequisite for achieving inclusive growth or for promoting their services from primary to secondary cooperative level within the formal sector of the economy. Iqoqa Lolu cwaningo luhlole izingqinamba izinhlangano zabesifazane ezincane neziphakathi nendawo ngobukhulu emkhakheni wezolimo ePietermaritzburg ezibhekene nazo. Lolu cwaningo lwaluhlose ukuhlola ukuthi zingakanani izingqinamba ababhekene nazo emkhakheni wezolimo osomabhizinisi besifazane abanamapulazi amancane naphakathi nendawo ngobukhulu ePietermaritzburg KwaZulu-Natali, ukuze lwethule uhlaka olucatshangelwe oluzosiza ekubhekaneni nalezo zingqinamba ezihlangabezana nazo izinhlangano zezolimo zabesifazane ePietermaritzburg. Kwasetshenziswa indlela eyikhwalithethivu ukuze kuqondwe kabanzi le ndaba ecwaningwayo. Kulolu cwaningo, umcwaningi ubegxile kubabambiqhaza abangabesifazane emkhakheni wezolimo ePietermaritzburg. Isampula locwaningo bekungolwenhloso. Zingama-20 kuphela izinhlangano zobambiswano zabesifazane kwezingama-306 emkhakheni wezolimo ePietermaritzburg ezibambe iqhaza kulolu cwaningo. Kusetshenziswe izingxoxo ezijulile ezisakuhleleka ukuze kuqoqwe imininingo emayelana nezingqinamba ababhekene nazo osomabhizinisi besifazane emkhakheni wezolimo ePietermaritzburg. Kwakhethwa izinhlangano zobambiswano zabesifazane eziyishumi ezisesigabeni sokuqala kanye neziyishumi ezakhiwa yizinhlangano zabesifazane ezisesigabeni esesithe thuthu ukuba zibambe iqhaza. Kwasetshenziswa ukuhluza ngokwezindikimba ukuhlaziya imininingo. Okutholakale kulolu cwaningo kwembula ukuthi ukuntuleka komhlaba owanele nokhiqizayo ukuze kukhuliswe ibhizinisi; ukuntuleka kwamakhono; izidingo zezinhlaka zezomthetho nezokulawula; ukuntuleka kwezimali nezimakethe okuzodayiswa kuzo nenkinga yokungabi nezibambiso ezingasetshenziselwa ukuboleka; ukuntuleka komxhaso kahulumeni, ukuntuleka kwezingqalasizinda, ukungakuqondi kahle ukuphathwa kwebhizinisi; nendlela yokusebenza kwebhizinisi lezolimo engahleliwe kahle kuba nemiphumela engemihle kosomabhizinisi besifazane abanamabhizinisi amancane naphakathi nendawo ngobukhulu emkhakheni wezolimo. Lezi zithiyo zethula uhlaka lwezingqinamba okumele kubhekwane nazo zosomabhizinisi besifazane bamabhizinisi amancane kuya kwaphakathi nendawo ngobukhulu emkhakheni wezolimo. Lolu hlaka olutuswayo lungasetshenziselwa ukukwenza kube yimfuneko yokuqala ukufukula abesifazane, ukuze kube nokukhula okubandakanya wonke umuntu noma ukuqhakambisa imisebenzi yabo kusukela esigabeni samabhizinisi obambiswano aqalisayo kanye nalawo asethe thuthu ayizinhlangano ezibambisene emkhakheni wezamabhizinisi abhalisiwe.
A perception based audit of the Employment Equity Act 55/1998 : an organisational survey conducted on the staff of the Natal Sharks Board.
(2002) Tusi, Dorothy E. B.; Coldwell, David A. L.
The aims of the study were to determine if unfair discrimination in employment is being eliminated; to establish if a diverse workforce representative of the population is in the process of being achieved, and to find out if economic development and efficiency in the workplace is being promoted. The study made use of the organizational survey research method. Organizational surveys are powerful in: identification of opportunities for improvement, reality check, determining if a strategy is outdated and needs to change, measurement of performance improvements, changing mind-set of management, where necessary, increasing the commitment of people in the organization. The sample consisted of 166 participants. These participants comprised of 110 employees described as Crew Members and 56 employees described as Officers. All races were represented within the sample. In a population of 166 staff members at Natal Sharks Board, a sample of forty (40) participants was randomly selected. The sample was further subdivided into 20 Crew members and 20 Officers. The former 20 participants (Crew) were interviewed through medium of IsiZulu because most of them could not read or write. The latter 20 participants (Officers) were given questionnaires to fill-in. These questionnaires were in English. All 20 participants are competent English-speakers and could read and write. Data gathering took three weeks to complete. Collected data was analysed through quantitative and qualitative methods. The results and the findings of the study were presented according to the aims of the study. The findings according to aim number one, that is, to determine if unfair discrimination in employment is being eliminated; show that there is a change to eliminate discrimination at Sharks Board. The second aim, that is, to establish if a diverse workforce representative of the population is in the process of being achieved; show that there is a change in the diversity of the workforce. The last aim of the study, that is, to find out if economic development and efficiency in the workplace is being promoted at Sharks Board; shows that this process has began.
A study into prospective changes in consumer behaviour and buying patterns of graduate millennials due to COVID 19 in South Africa.
(2021) Lakman, Ushir.; Pelser, Theunis Gert.
The purpose this study is to determine the prospective changes in consumer behaviour and buying patterns of graduate millennials post COVID 19 in South Africa. To this end, a quantitative research project has been undertaken. Primary data was collected via a survey. Several theories were discussed such as consumer behaviour models, the buy decision process and dynamic consumer journey to gain a better understanding of the research that was conducted. Additionally, technology adoption models such as the TRA, TPB, TAM, ETAM and in particular MOCA is discusses as the study is seeking to determine behavioural movement toward online purchasing because of the pandemic. Research was conducted on the pandemic as well as the economy of South Africa as these are important consideration when conducting a study on consumer behaviour. This study seeks to contribute to the existing knowledge on technology adoption and consumer behaviour, particularly to determine whether the switch to online purchases during the pandemic is a permanent development or just as a result of consumers being forced to due to the pandemic. These findings may prove valuable to retailers and developers. It could provide a new lens with which to inform their marketing decision as well as development plans for the future.
A study into prospective changes in consumer behaviour and buying patterns of graduate millennials due to COVID-19 in South Africa.
(2021) Lakman, Ushir.; Pelser, Theunis Gert.
The purpose this study is to determine the prospective changes in consumer behaviour and buying patterns of graduate millennials post COVID 19 in South Africa. To this end, a quantitative research project has been undertaken. Primary data was collected via a survey. Several theories were discussed such as consumer behaviour models, the buy decision process and dynamic consumer journey to gain a better understanding of the research that was conducted. Additionally, technology adoption models such as the TRA, TPB, TAM, ETAM and in particular MOCA is discusses as the study is seeking to determine behavioural movement toward online purchasing because of the pandemic. Research was conducted on the pandemic as well as the economy of South Africa as these are important consideration when conducting a study on consumer behaviour. This study seeks to contribute to the existing knowledge on technology adoption and consumer behaviour, particularly to determine whether the switch to online purchases during the pandemic is a permanent development or just as a result of consumers being forced to due to the pandemic. These findings may prove valuable to retailers and developers. It could provide a new lens with which to inform their marketing decision as well as development plans for the future.
A study of the relationship between benchmarked factor improvements and employee satisfaction : an empirical study of Johannesburg water.
(2006) Van Tonder, Leon.; Coldwell, David A. L.
Companies are constantly searching for ways to enhance productivity and the bottom line. One of the assumptions is that increased job satisfaction can contribute in this regard with improvements in motivation and productivity. The organisation that is the subject for this study is a utility company formed by the City of Johannesburg to deliver a comprehensive water and sanitation service to the City. The creation of the company was preceded by a high level of unhappiness from organised labour and consequently many of the transferred employees. In order to give effect to its mandate of providing a cost effective and quality service to the citizens whilst protecting the environment, the company adopted a number of benchmark and other measurements across the board including the measurement of levels of employee satisfaction. The research focused on the employee perceptions of job satisfaction in the company based on the head office component with the previous survey results taken 18 months earlier serving as comparison. It was therefore possible to also evaluate the relevance of results obtained with the job satisfaction survey. The results of a benchmarking exercise in the Human Resources division conducted towards the end of 2003 was also available and served as a point of reference in comparing job satisfaction levels with the results of the benchmarks that were developed based on international best practice and compared the company to other organisations in the utility sector. The study examined the possibility of the development of strategies by the Human Resources function aimed at eliminating factors that cause dissatisfaction and improving or introducing those that led to increases in levels of satisfaction. The results indicate that it is not appropriate to concentrate only on the role of Human Resources in its efforts to influence job satisfaction and that high levels of job satisfaction or otherwise do not necessarily have a relationship to the perception of the efficiency of the Human Resources function when compared to the results of human resources benchmarks. Although the literature supports the importance of job satisfaction as a factor in productivity improvement, the findings point to the need to follow an integrated approach based on sound practice and measurement of metrics as well as the incorporation of strategies that ensure that job satisfaction is not negatively affected by striving for excellence in other areas. Even though the research provided support for the Herzberg theories on Hygiene (maintenance) factors and Motivators as predictors of job satisfaction it is the author's conclusion that the research points to the fact that results of Human Resources benchmarked factors are not the sole determinants of job satisfaction. It is, based on the research results, possible to conclude that even if the important satisfiers are not always adequately addressed, sound Human Resources practice can assist in ensuring that the levels of satisfaction do not become terminally low and cause high levels of attrition or detrimentally affect productivity with the resultant affect on benchmarked factors that compare poorly to that of the target organisations.
A sustainability model for agricultural cooperatives in KwaZulu-Natal.
(2023) Buthelezi, Sifiso Wiseman.; Taylor, Simon Michael.; Tefera, Orthodox.
The high attrition and stagnant rate of agricultural cooperatives in the Province of KwaZulu Natal has raised concerns, given that they are recognised globally and in South Africa for their significant role in promoting impoverished communities' social and economic development. This challenge has become a threat to community development by hampering the growth of the agricultural cooperatives. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the challenges that hinder the growth of agricultural cooperatives and assess factors that contribute to their growth. The study utilised clustered sampling to ensure the representation of all districts and was conducted in nine districts of KwaZulu-Natal Province. The sample comprised 367 respondents who were members of agricultural cooperatives from 99 cooperatives in the province. Quantitative research was employed using questionnaires, and the data were analysed using SPSS (Version 25.0.). Sustainability models used in the study included pictorial visualization, quantitative, physical, conceptual, standardising, egg of sustainability, and prism models. The literature gap in a sustainability model that considers the combined behaviour of resource management, good governance, sustainability monitoring, market access, and social and economic aspects in agricultural cooperatives has been addressed. The study revealed several factors contributing to agricultural cooperatives' demise, including a lack of good governance, leadership, technical skills, business management expertise, conflict management abilities, cohesion among members, and sustainable farming methods. These deficiencies suggest that the agricultural cooperatives under review could be more sustainable. Therefore, the study recommends adherence to cooperative principles, capacity building of cooperatives in all aspects of business, including environmental training, the appointment of boards to inculcate governance systems, the institutionalisation of social responsibility programs, and redefining the government's relationship with agricultural cooperatives. The study contributes to the body of knowledge by developing a model that enhances the sustainability of agricultural cooperatives in KwaZulu-Natal, thereby increasing their success rate.
A systems approach to the design of an idealized student enrolment support system for the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
(2008) Van Soelen, Anita.; Bodhanya, Shamim Ahmed.
In the research we considered the viability of the current student enrolment support system at the University of KwaZuku-Natal. The system relied on the coordination and integration of activities across campuses and reporting lines. Its success was dependent on the successful interactions between a variety of sub-systems and individuals. A soft systems approach was required for the investigation, which allowed us to deal with both the complexity of the system and the variety of perceptions participants brought into the situation. A theoretical framework for Soft Systems Thinking was provided in Chapter 2 with reference to General Systems Theory, Living Systems Theory and metaphors of organisation. In Chapter 3 different types of problem contexts were discussed, grouped and linked to preferred research methodologies. This framework assisted us to select Idealised Planning (IP) as research methodology. The boundaries and structure of the research process were described in Chapter 4. In this Chapter we also provided information on the selection and briefing of participants. IP philosophy supported participative planning; a seeking of consensus which generated learning and the striving towards an ideal. Our aim was to reach consensus on the transformations required within our system. Information on the application of IP in our situation and the learning generated during the process were recorded in Chapter 5. As much information as possible was collected and the transformations required for improvements were identified. We developed a mental construct of an ideal system and defined the properties such a system should have. An unconstrained design, not constrained by the current environment, was prepared as well as a constrained design in which our current limitations were recognized. The two designs were compared and the boundaries of the constrained design were pushed out as far as possible to incorporate as many of the ideal properties as possible. A detailed plan was developed for the implementation of the chosen design. In Chapter 6 we reflected on the suitability of IP in our problem context, the learning generated and the degree to which the research objectives were met. The project enabled us to consider our key processes and to prepare detailed procedures. We identified the problem areas in our system and the transformations to be introduced for the system to remain viable and able to cope with future demands.
ABSA clients' perceptions of the service quality provided by ABSA Longmarket Street branch in Pietermaritzburg.
(2005) Madikane, Nomagugu.; Ellis, Deborah Ann.
The financial service industry has experienced massive change since the early 1980s. In the past, banks and building societies used to serve their customers' needs differently, but with the removal of many barriers in terms of pricing and various products which the banks and building societies sold their customers, these institutions have brought about changes concerning the expansion of the products and service which they offer to their customers. Today, many financial services encompass the philosophy of implementing marketing programmes which are aimed at looking after their customers and maximizing their satisfaction with the service. The main aim of this study was to investigate customers' perceptions vis-a-vis the service that is provided by ABSA Longmarket Street Branch, in terms of customer satisfaction. More specifically, the objectives were: • To identify customers' expectations in terms of financial services. • To ascertain the perceptions of ABSA customers towards the service ABSA Longmarket Street Branch provides them with. • To measure the gaps between the perceptions and expectations of the service that ABSA provides its customers, using the Servqual Score. • To calculate and measure the score for the five Servqual dimensions. Using the Servqual model to measure expectations in terms of service, i.e. what is expected compared with perceptions of service received, the study focused on ABSA customers who use the Longmarket Street Branch in Pietermaritzburg. Customers felt that brochures would be better when an information is printed in all languages and important messages be displayed on the Automated Teller Machine (ATM) screen and be advertised more often on television. Another concern was that customers felt that it is important for the staff to show sincere interest when solving the customers' problems. This can be achieved by keeping the customer informed with the progress of hislher query. It is of the utmost importance to provide the right service at the right time. Another concern raised was that customers need to be reassured that the problem will be solved and dealt with in a professional manner. Customers felt more secure doing their transactions at the branch rather than at the ATMs. They felt more comfortable to talk to people, as this builds long-lasting relationships. The majority of the respondents felt that management must encourage staff to share product knowledge that will help them to deliver a better quality of work. The study shows that there is a lack of individual attention when the staff deals with customers. Giving the customer undivided attention, being patient and calling them by their names, to make them feel welcome and acknowledged, can improve this. There is a necessity for the branch to extend working hours to accommodate everyone. The branch has to consider offering facilities such as the Internet and telephone banking, to make banking simple and convenient to everyone at home.
The acceleration of quality education in rural schools through systemic curriculum management : a practitioner researcher perspective.
(2011) Sambo, Dlelwane John.; Hardman, Stanley George.
I used Soft Systems Methodology (SSM), a practitioner research methodology to foster organisational learning in poor performing schools. School Management Teams (SMTs) have a role to play in accelerating the delivery of quality education through sound management of curriculum. A closer analysis of learner performance, departmental conference discussions and school visit reports in poor performing schools in Sabie and White Hazy Circuits highlighted some of the crucial issues that informed this study. Ten schools from the two circuits were identified for the study and curriculum management discussions were held with individual and groups of SMT members in their respective schools. The participative nature of SSM provided the opportunity to initiate further debates and discussions that enabled SMT members to understand the nature of management problems and developed intervention strategies that included SMT conferences, circuit-based SMT workshops and SMT functionality support visits. The SMT functionality visits were ongoing programmes in the two circuits. The purpose of these programmes was to identify and propose solutions to poor performance challenges resulting from dysfunctional and ineffective SMT members. The intervention sessions provided a platform for the sharing of good practices regarding instructional leadership and curriculum management to provide quality learning. Using SSM in the intervention sessions enabled SMT members to put in place curriculum management systems, develop monitoring programmes and account for learner performance. During SMT support visits programmes to support SMT members in adhering to their annual management plans, effective use of curriculum management tools, quality reporting and implementing school-based teacher development programmes would be monitored. Monthly reporting developed by consolidating reports by individual education specialists served as indicators about the state of management of curricula in the schools.
Acceptability of Radiofrequency Animal Identification in Rural KwaZulu-Natal.
(2017) Mahlangu, Isaiah Mahloloni.; Hoque, Muhammad.
The outbreak of animal diseases occurring in the past decades resulted in food incidents affecting animal products across the world. The subsequent decline in consumer confidence and profit losses forced the beef and dairy industries to improve production management. A ―farm-to-fork‖ traceability system in the form of Radiofrequency Identification (RFID) was adopted by many global markets as a solution. Invented to monitor military aircrafts during the World War II, RFID has transformed the traditional animal identification methods first practiced some 3 800 years ago. Other industries have also adopted RFID to improve efficiency in the supply chain. In beef production, RFID also has the potential to deter stock theft. There is insufficient evidence of how this technology is accepted by the emerging markets, particularly among rural livestock farmers. This study was motivated by the plan of the Department of Agriculture Rural Development to introduce RFID animal identification in rural areas of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa. The aim of the study was to test acceptability of RIFD by livestock farmers in rural areas of KZN. A quantitative approach was used to conduct a descriptive survey among the livestock farmers at Msinga, a Local Municipality in the Umzinyathi District of KZN. Data was collected from 170 randomly selected participants from a population of 1 000 livestock farmers. The study revealed that animal identification at Msinga is based on the use of skin colour, naming of animals, unauthorised random brand marks and authorised systematic brand marks. This approach seeks to enhance animal identification and ownership. The literature review showed that in spite of the evidence that countries without traceability systems fail to gain access into lucrative international meat markets, South Africa has not adopted RFID. Based on the Chi-Square test, the study fails to accept the null hypothesis suggesting that livestock farmers will not accept RFID. At 95% level of significance, the study concludes that there is sufficient evidence suggesting that livestock farmers at Msinga will accept RFID. As the beef industry migrates towards traceability to achieve product differentiation, gain consumer confidence and competitive advantage, it is recommended that South Africa consider a legislative framework to enable the adoption of RFID by livestock farmers, and that the government support the introduction of this technology into communal farmers in rural areas.
Accountable marketing : assessing the extent to which Pietermaritzburg based companies understand and have implemented this concept.
(2002) Stewart, Malcolm William Thompson.; Ellis, Deborah Ann.
This report constitutes an exploratory study into the concept of accountable marketing in order to investigate the extent to which it is understood and has been implemented by members of a local business association. Accountable Marketing is a further natural development in the total marketingnconcept beginning with the traditional marketing concept and then developing through the addition of tested assumptions over time. The societal marketing concept is based on three implicit assumptions namely: - consumers' wishes do not always coincide with their long term interests or those of society. - consumers prefer organisations that show real concern for their satisfaction and well-being as well as the collective well-being. - the most important task of the organisation is to adapt itself to the target market in such a way as to generate not only satisfaction, but also individual and collective well-being, in order to attract and keep customers. Two key issues distinguish the societal marketing concept from the classical marketing concept and these are: - marketing must be concerned with the well-being of customers and not simply with the satisfaction of their short-term needs and; - a firm must consider the side-effects of its economic and industrial activity to ensure the long term well-being of society as a whole. Accountable marketing is a natural development from the concept of societal marketing. It can be viewed as the marketing concept practised in such a way that it enhances the total well being of society. The consumerist and environmentalist movements have forced some marketing theoreticians to widen their classical marketing concept, putting the emphasis on the necessity to develop increased consciousness of the socio-cultural side-effects of the economic and marketing activities. Broadly speaking, accountable marketing differs from societal marketing through the addition of the following two elements: Corporate ethical behaviour. o Consideration of the environment and related issues. The research consists of surveys done amongst the members of a local business association. It was found that whilst members of the association stated that they had implemented the accountable marketing concept, they had in effect implemented societal marketing. The increasing effects of globalisation continue to put pressure on South African companies to conduct business or produce products to the same high standards (including health and safety) as that of the rest of the world. South African businesses are faced with the dilemma of whether to be pro-active with regard to these latest developments in marketing or whether to become reactive and only move forward as and when any pressure is applied. It is felt that the benefits of being pro-active far out-weight any negative aspects and can eventually result in a firm becoming the acknowledged leader in its field and being recognized accordingly.
Accounting firms’ use of social media platforms.
(2017) Dundraj, Rashika.; Singh, Anesh Maniraj.
Social media can be described as a phenomenon that has completely transformed the world on both professional and personal levels. It has considerably improved relations, encouraged new affiliations and created entirely new avenues and approaches to business. The constant growth of social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn serve as an indication of the potential reach that an organisation can obtain by strategically and methodically utilising these platforms. Research has proven that despite the wide array of social media platforms available, social media is not very widely utilised by accountants. This has raised the question, “Can social media be beneficial to the accounting profession?” This study aimed to explore the current social media trends and with the aid of interviews, determine if social media is a viable and effective solution for accountants in terms of engagement with stakeholders, marketing as well as for general collaboration. Due to the nature of the study, the qualitative approach was adopted. A –semi-structured interview schedule was constructed and participants were asked a series of 16 questions. All participants held senior positions and were the most suitable to assist with the study. Six companies were approached and selected to fulfil the objectives of the study. The data collected led to the conclusion that whilst social media has been implemented in accounting firms, there is no distinct social media plan in existence, nor has social media been prioritised. Furthermore, the participants did not have any expectations from social media, it was merely employed to create awareness with the hope of attracting new clientele. These findings culminated in a number of recommendations being documented in order to assist and encourage accounting firms to implement social media. It is recommended that accounting firms create social teams, who will serve to keep clients abreast of latest developments as well as counteract negative publicity. Further, accounting firms should identify their target audience and aim to maximise their coverage. They can also exploit the most popular social media platforms, and aim to expand their range as widely as possible.
Achieving effective communication : the impact of defensive and supportive traits of supervisors.
(2003) Samuel, Linda.; Brijball, Parumasur Sanjana.
Communication is regarded as the lifeblood of any organisation. It plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth functioning of all organisational activities. Communication enables individuals and departments to work together harmoniously to achieve a common goal. It allows leaders to inform, influence and motivate employees towards goal attainment. The survival and profitability of the protection services department studied depends on their leaders ability to effectively communicate with its workforce. Effective communication should be an ongoing process in this organisation. The purpose of this dissertation was to investigate the effectiveness of communication amongst supervisors at the protection services department. The key dimensions that were explored in this study are the defensive scores dimension (namely, evaluation, neutrality, control, superiority, strategy and certainty) and the supportive scores dimension (namely, provisionalism, spontaneity, empathy, problem orientation, equality, and description). The research was conducted at the protection services department in Marianhill, Durban. Cluster sampling was used in this study. Various statistical techniques were used to test the six hypotheses. The results were analysed and a presentation and discussion of the respondents perceptions were presented. From this study, it is evident that there is an immediate need for development in the two key dimensions, namely, the defensive scores dimension (evaluation, neutrality, control, superiority, strategy and certainty) and the supportive scores dimension (provisionalism, spontaneity, empathy, problem orientation, equality and description). The limitations of the study and suggestions for further research are also outlined. Furthermore, a discussion of the possible causes for the findings are included, along with recommendations to improve the effectiveness of communication amongst supervisors in the organisation.
Achieving high performance through competitive strategy: a case of Tshwane-based small and medium enterprises.
(2018) Kgoetiane, Cecil Hlophego.; Mashau, Pfano.
The goal of the study was to explore achieving high performance for the Tshwane-based Small and Medium Enterprises based on the competitive strategies and examine the effect that the competitive strategies had on the Tshwane-based SMEs’ high performance despite the slow economic growth and inclement government legislation. However, for the Tshwane-based SMEs to succeed in achieving high performance, it was significant to introduce SMEs’ resources as a moderating construct. The SMEs’ resources provided a moderating effect on the relationship between competitive strategies and the Tshwane-based SMEs’ high performance. The study further sought to determine the existence of the relationship between the competitive strategies/resources and the SMEs’ high performance through the quantitative methods. The study used a sample size of 110 out of a population of 151 SMEs based in and around the City of Tshwane. The population was drawn out of the SMEs that had an annual turnover of between ZAR5M – ZAR10M. Since the population was known probability sampling was therefore used. The structural model was effected as a test to prove the goodness of fit index for the conceptual model using CMIN, TLI, GFI, and RMSEA. The dependent variable, based on the conceptual model, was the SMEs’ high performance. Through factor analysis, the model was adjusted which then resulted in a goodness of fit for the data observed based on the CMIN/Chi- Square. The model adjustment led to the strategy being dropped completely from the analysis since its inclusion resulted in the reliability of the study being questionable with the Alpha coefficient < .7. The findings revealed that there was a relationship between the competitive strategies and the SMEs’ high performance when moderated by the SMEs’ resources. Of key importance was the finding that when competitive strategies were applied as a unit they influenced the SMEs’ high performance. The study concluded that the Tshwane-based SMEs were unaware of the effect that the competitive strategies had on high performance. The government of the Republic of South Africa should speed up some of the processes and legislation aimed at assisting SMEs to grow and become sustainable.
Action strategies for enhancing the implementation of performance improvement initiatives within the health sector in Botswana.
(2013) Kachingwe, Lasting Ketsile.; Allen, Garth James.; Pillay, Kribendiren.
This study investigates the extent to which performance improvement initiatives are efficiently and effectively implemented in the Botswana health sector. The study is prompted by numerous public complaints through various media, the results of customer satisfaction surveys that lowly rated the delivery of health services, and the acknowledgement by public officials that the provision of services, particularly health services, left a lot to be desired. The perceived under-performance in the delivery of health services to the public was in spite of the significant health sector expenditure that is in line with the Governments‟ efforts to prioritise the improvement of the health status of the nation and the introduction of performance improvement initiatives. The study assesses the evidential base for sustaining a three-fold hypothesis, that is: performance improvement initiatives were imposed in a top-down manner in the Botswana health sector with the noble belief that they were valuable in contributing towards the achievement of the goals of Vision 2016; there is limited knowledge on the part of the health workers at the operational level regarding the usefulness of the performance improvement initiatives and this contributes to their low uptake of the initiatives in Botswana health sector; and the frequency of complaints by health services consumers is a reflection of the poor quality of health services provided in the health sector in Botswana. The perceptions of staff and patients regarding the quality indicators of efficiency, effectiveness, empowerment and equity were examined. Data collection was triangulated through the use of different data collection methods and the collection of data from different sources such as self-administered questionnaires for senior management in the Ministry of Health, in-depth interviews of health workers and consumers of health services in the form of patients and Focus Group Discussions for community members. The health facilities under study in the public sector were stratified according to the level of operation with systematic sampling used to select hospitals from each level. The conclusions of the study, based on the empirical work, is that although the staff proved to be knowledgeable of the existence of the performance improvement initiatives, there was a moderate effectiveness of the initiatives in the public health sector with a higher success rate in the private health sector. The efficiency with which the initiatives were implemented was compromised by the perceived internal inequities and poor conditions of service as well as low remuneration packages for health sector staff. The consumers of health services indicated their satisfaction with the equitable distribution of services. There were weaknesses in the empowerment mechanisms for both health workers and consumers of health services. The findings revealed inadequacies in the implementation of the initiatives. Positive results were noted for the empowerment of employees through their participation in the planning for health services delivery. Recommendations include: the need to strengthen the community interface with health service providers; the inculcation into health workers of values that prioritise the interests of clients; the involvement of all stakeholders in planning; and the contextualisation of the performance improvement initiatives.
Adopting price-earnings and enterprise multiples to beat the Johannesburg Stock Exchange All Share Index.
(2009) Allison, Dylan Mayne.; Geach, Walter Dayson.
The theory behind the efficient market hypothesis exerts that it is not possible to consistently outperform the overall stock market by using stock picking and market timing strategies. The argument holds that, in an efficient market, all stock prices are appropriately priced and there is no over- or undervalued stocks to be found. Nevertheless, deviations from true stock prices can occur according to the hypothesis, although these deviations are mostly random occurrences. Thus, the only way an investor can outperform the overall stock market is by luck alone. However, the efficient market hypothesis is a controversial topic where it is often discussed within modern financial circles where academic theory has strong arguments both for and against the theory. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate whether it is feasible to outperform the overall stock market through investing in stocks that appear undervalued according to enterprise multiple (EV/EBITDA) and the price-earnings ratio.
Advancing gross farming income sustainability of smallholder farmers in the Free State Province, South Africa.
(2023) Moloabi, Badiri Victor Motlhabani.; Yalezo, Bhasela.
Abstract available in PDF.
Advancing gross fixed capital formation (investment) paradigm in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa: historical trends and prospects.
(2018) Yalezo, Bhasela.; Bokana, Koye Gerry.
Current rates of investment in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa are insufficient to drive substantial economic growth. These rates have not changed significantly from 1995 to date. This study examined the reasons for low investment rates in the Eastern Cape Province in the post-democratic era by both the private and public sectors and explored the hindrances to attracting investment. Its examination of trends and prospects informed the study’s recommendations to address the current situation. A mixed methods research methodology that incorporated econometrics was employed to calculate the investment gap and the investment required to close this gap. The quantitative research analysis results indicated that; there is an investment gap, low investment and a dire lack of infrastructure, which discourages investment in rural and urban areas in the Eastern Cape. The qualitative research analysis results indicated that: the province lacks adequate infrastructure, an integrated investment model and strategy as well as poor political leadership at provincial and local levels were significant contributors to low investment rates. The econometrics analysis, indicated that an investment rate of 11.05% of the province’s Gross Domestic Product is required to close the current investment gap. Some policy implications of these three results are that in advancing investment in the province, the foremost priority should be infrastructure investment which must be underpinned by intelligent public sector investment. Amongst other priorities there is an urgent need to strengthen the province’s political leadership and administration.
The African renaissance : what can be done to improve trading between South Africa and Africa.
(2006) Baijnath, Kavita.; Challenor, Robin Martin.
The fundamental aim of this study has been to analyze the experiences of fifteen small South African companies that are currently trading with Africa. The sample included Durban based businessmen who frequently travelled to the respective countries in Africa. Their responses were analyzed against the major documented challenges that are faced when trading in Africa. A wide range of literature has been consulted in order to familiarize the researcher with current business strategies practiced in South Africa, the bodies that have been set up to assist free trade between Africa and South Africa and business practices that are inherent to Africa. The recommendations conclude that the small businessman battles with on-the-ground trading, and even though much has been done by the South African government to "get his foot through the door", the smaller businessman battles with the day to day intricacies of trading in African countries. These problems have to be addressed, as it is the private sector, which is the engine for growth in Africa.

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