Information Systems and Technology

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Acceptance of mobile money technology by retailers in Accra, Ghana.
(2022) Cato, Valentine Nii Lante.; Marimuthu, Mudaray.
Mobile Money technologies have become part and parcel of people's daily lives in developing countries, especially Africa. Much effort has been made in making Mobile Money technologies available, safe, reliable, and effective amongst people in Africa. One area where the technology seems to be gradually diffusing into is the business world. More and more businesses seem to be adopting the technology. However, little is known about the dynamics involved in retailers' acceptance and usage of Mobile Money. Hence, this study sought to explore the acceptance of Mobile Money in the retail business sector while also finding out factors that influence the acceptance. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) was selected as a theoretical framework for this study. Using a quantitative survey approach, retailers in the business area of Accra, Ghana, were sampled using convenience sampling. Findings revealed that all retail businesses were aware of Mobile Money supporting businesses. Most retail businesses are using Mobile Money in different ways to support their business. Basic transactions such as receiving payments from customers and payment payments or remittances were common. Factors such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy, price value, hedonic motivation, and habit were seen to impact the use of Mobile Money by retailers. Therefore, designers of Mobile Money services must consider these factors when developing these applications by ensuring it has functionality that is useful and easy to use. Furthermore, telecommunication companies that make Mobile Money services available to retailers and the government need to work together to decrease commission and transaction costs. These measures will results in increased acceptance of Mobile Money by retailers.
The accessibility of websites for blind and visually impaired individuals.
(2010) Jurakhan, Kebashnee.; Padayachee, Indira.
This study investigates the accessibility of web sites for blind and visually impaired individuals. The researcher’s aim in this study is to highlight the different problems these individuals experience when interacting with websites. A case study approach was adopted in order to investigate accessibility problems amongst blind and visually impaired people. This was investigated by conducting a user test, observation with the think aloud technique and interviews. The user test was made up of tasks where the participants had to visit four different types of websites and complete predefined tasks for each of these websites. The researcher also analysed the data by the use of automated web evaluations. This was used to compare the automated web evaluation results with the researcher’s results. Content analysis was used to identify frequencies and intensities with which themes and concepts appear in interviewee responses. In addition, correspondence analysis was used to help corroborate the findings of the content analysis and interpret the data. Results revealed that blind and visually impaired individuals do experience many difficulties when interacting with websites. The findings identified certain technical and conceptual accessibility problems that were experienced by blind and visually impaired individuals. The results also indicate that there is a relationship between website design and accessibility problems experienced. Further, the results indicate that the use of an assistive technology has a positive effect on the performance of web based tasks.
The adoption of agile software development methodologies by organisations in South Africa.
(2015) Vanker, Cassim.; Klopper, Rembrandt.; Naidoo, Karunagaran.
The software development life cycle (SDLC) is considered to be the oldest software de-velopment methodology and is often described as a deliberate, methodical and structured approach that is used by development teams to develop information systems. There are two SDLC methodologies, which are currently being utilized by programming practition-ers, namely traditional development and Agile development. The traditional view to software development assumes that the customer does not have a full understanding of their requirements and would thus need a detailed specification de-signed before development begins. Unlike the traditional view, the agilest views software as unpredictable and rely on people and their creativity rather than on processes. Anecdotal evidence suggests various benefits associated with Agile methodologies, these include increased collaboration, the quality of the end product, transparency and produc-tivity. An international Survey conducted, amongst software development companies, shows that 80% of respondents indicated that they had practiced Agile. While international research shows the popularity of Agile methodologies very little is known about Agile in South Africa. This research provides insight into the adoption of Agile, by South African organisations. The results of the study indicate that Agile methods are being used by organisations in South Africa. However, there is no evidence to suggest its being used overwhelming. Furthermore, this study uses the Gartner hype cycle as the underpinning theoretical model and places Agile methods on the Gartner hype cycle as being in the trough of disillusionment.
Adoption of E-commerce by small, medium and micro enterprises in Pietermaritzburg and Durban.
(2012) Ndayizigamiye, Patrick.; McArthur, Brian Walter.
There are a number of benefits associated with e-commerce adoption. E-commerce provides an opportunity for Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) to expand their range of transactions and expansion into foreign markets (OECD, 2000). In South Africa, a study on online retail reveals that South Africans spent two (2) billion rands buying goods online in 2010 (WorldWideWorx, 2011a). The projected growth of online spending was 40% for 2011 (ibid). In addition, at the end of the year 2011, the number of internet users in South Africa was approximately 8.5 million (Goldstuck, 2012). Furthermore, the installation of new undersea telecommunications cables in South Africa that will lead to an increase of the internet bandwidth at a cheaper price, the granting of licenses that allows Internet Service Providers to build their own networks and the growth of cell phone internet are indicators that more South Africans will be able to access the internet in the near future. This suggests that there is a market for internet-enabled businesses in South Africa. It is in this context that this research examines the adoption of e-commerce by South African SMMEs in the Pietermaritzburg and Durban areas. Particularly, this research focuses on four (4) e-commerce options: i) customers payment by credit card through the SMME’s website, ii) customers placing orders through the SMME’s website, iii) providing customer services through the SMME’s website and iv) placing orders with suppliers over the internet. From a clustered sample of 400 SMMEs from Pietermaritzburg and Durban (200 from each area), this research examines the current usage of the 4 e-commerce options, the determinants and inhibitors of e-commerce, e-commerce readiness in terms of e-commerce enablers that are implemented in those areas and the knowledge that SMMEs from these locations have about the benefits of e-commerce. Variables drawn from the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and the Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) theory were tested for their significance as determinants of e-commerce within the context of SMMEs. Data were collected by means of questionnaires hand-delivered to SMME owner/managers. This study reveals that there is a disparity in e-commerce adoption rate by SMMEs between Pietermaritzburg and Durban. Such difference is mainly due to the differences in size of the businesses. In addition, it was found that three UTAUT variables influenced SMMEs’ decisions to adopt e-commerce. These variables are i) performance expectancy, ii) effort expectancy and iii) social influence. The social influence factor was found to be moderated by age. In addition, i) relative advantage, ii) compatibility and iii) complexity are the DOI variables that were found to have exerted some influence in the persuasion phase of the DOI model. The UTAUT and DOI theories were tentatively adapted to reflect the findings emanating from this study. This research also found that the majority of SMMEs that adopted e-commerce had knowledge of the benefits of e-commerce. Importantly, the research found that the majority of e-commerce adopters had an e-commerce strategy in place which is in contradiction with other research findings from the reviewed literature. The research shows that the majority of e-commerce adopters in both locations have i) their own company e-mail, ii) internet access and iii) a website. However, non-adopters in Pietermaritzburg show more readiness to e-commerce adoption compared to non-adopters in Durban as the majority of them already have i) an online presence, and ii) electronic mail. As expected, the majority of e-commerce adopters have a computerised inventory of company’s products and services. There is also evidence that customers’ and suppliers’ databases are built to carry out specific e-commerce activities. Lastly, the research found that whilst low use of e-commerce by customers is the only inhibitor that significantly affects the adoption of e-commerce in Durban, in Pietermaritzburg a number of inhibitors were found to impede e-commerce adoption. These are: i) lack of conviction of the financial and business benefits of e-commerce, ii) limited knowledge of the required technology, iii) low use of e-commerce amongst customers, iv) low use of e-commerce amongst suppliers, v) low level of computerisation within the company, vi) high cost of computers and network technologies, vii) telecommunications services not dependable, viii) concerns about internet security, and ix) concerns about legal issues, contracts and liability. In light of the research findings, it is recommended that government and policy makers be involved actively in promoting e-commerce adoption by SMMEs. In addition, SMME owners are urged to consider e-commerce adoption from an early stage of their business cycles and to take advantage of existing platforms that enable them to engage in e-commerce activities.
The adoption of virtual reality for medical training in the context of South African higher education.
(2020) Solomon, Zhane.; Ndayizigamiye, Patrick.; Raghavjee, Rushil.
Virtual reality (VR) is progressively being acknowledged as a useful tool for medical training. The adoption of VR for medical training in developing countries is at a slow pace compared to developed countries. The paucity of innovative systems such as VR training systems and the lack of exposure to these systems in developing countries tend to widen the gap in competency between medical professionals from developed and developing countries. VR in South Africa is a new concept and, therefore, limited literature exists from a South African educational perspective. This study aimed to fill the gap in literature from a South African perspective by investigating the determinants of the adoption of VR for medical training at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) was used as the guiding framework to investigate the perceived usefulness of using VR, the perceived effort required to use it, and the social factors and facilitating conditions that can influence its adoption for medical training. The study further aimed to determine the challenges associated with the adoption of VR for medical training within the South African higher education context. Findings from interviews with 12 purposively sampled lecturers revealed that most respondents perceived that VR would be easy to use for medical training should the necessary training and support be provided. Some respondents had not previously experienced VR immersive environments and hence felt that using VR for medical training would be difficult. The researcher deduced from the responses that the respondents would be influenced to adopt VR for medical training by other medical professionals who were currently using VR and that the degree of influence would be an important factor in adoption. Although the respondents perceived VR to be useful, they voiced that the adoption of VR for medical training at South African educational institutions could be hampered by challenges associated with the lack of infrastructure, knowledge of VR, finance, resistance to change, user’s inability to differentiate simulated environments from the real-world and poor design of the VR system (interface). The respondents suggested a gradual approach to VR adoption, forming partnerships with VR companies and seeking sponsorships or donations from alumni to address the finance-related impediments. Furthermore, to ensure the successful adoption of VR for medical training by South African educational institutions, they mentioned the need for: government to address financial constraints by increasing the budget allocated to South African healthcare; an effective change management process to address resistance to change; a cost-benefit analysis; and, finally, training to surmount the challenges.
Adult user perceptions of library services provided by the Bessie Head Library in Pietermaritzburg, Msunduzi, KwaZulu-Natal.
(2010) Bhim, Shanitha.; Leach, Athol Brian.; Bell, Fiona Ruth.
This study examined the quality of service provided by the Bessie Head Library from the perspective of the adult users of the library. The study assessed the adult users’ perceptions of the quality of service and determined the level of user satisfaction at the Bessie Head Library. The purpose of the study was to identify gaps in the library services and to measure the users’ perceptions of the quality of the collections, staff services and library facilities. The study population consisted of 200 registered adult library users. Of the 200 adults under study, 197 responded to the questionnaire, yielding a response rate of 98.5% chosen by means of a convenience sample. The LibQUAL+TM survey instrument that was used in this study was modified and adapted for use in a public library, as the majority of research using the LibQUAL instrument was undertaken in academic libraries. The instrument consisted of both open-ended and closed questions. The three dimensions of service quality, that is, access to information, staff services and library facilities, formed the core of the instrument. An interview schedule was used to elicit background information from the Library Manager and Principal Librarian, on issues of library services, collection development policy, funding and general library issues. The results from the questionnaires were analyzed using SPSS to determine the frequency of responses. These were presented in the form of tables and graphs. The interview results were analyzed qualitatively, using thematic content analysis. The results from this study indicate that there is a gap between users’ expectations and perceptions of service quality at the Bessie Head Library. The extent of the gap varies depending on the individual services. The users’ expectations were not in keeping with the actual experiences at the library, especially with regard to access to information, as users experienced problems with Internet access and the reference collection. The level of satisfaction varied among the different user categories and the findings revealed that the majority of adult users rated the overall quality of services as good and that the library is, to a large extent, excelling in service provision. Based on the findings, recommendations were made to address problems presented in this study.
Alignment of IT and business strategies in small and medium-size enterprises in the Eastern Cape Province.
(2017) Motsilili, Phomolo.; Naidoo, Karunagaran.
In today’s business environment, leveraging Information Technology (IT) is of key importance as it helps organisations improve their performance. However, to achieve this, companies must ensure that their IT and business strategies are aligned. The fundamental goal of aligning IT and business strategies is to ensure that IT capability supports, enables and leads business strategy where appropriate. Alignment explains the degree to which the business plans, goals, and mission support, or are supported by their IT complements (Reich & Benbasat, 1996; Walter, Kellermanns, Floyd, Veiga, & Matherne, 2013). In this, alignment develops into a relationship where business and IT functions adjust their strategies simultaneously. Such alignment can improve business performance. Importantly, large amounts of research conducted in this area focus on large organisations, particularly in developed countries. Yet little is known about the subject in SMEs especially in developing countries. This study investigates the alignment of IT and business strategies in SMEs in the Eastern Cape Province. A survey methodology was employed to collect data, with a questionnaire as a tool. Forty-two questions developed from four main questions: the state of communication, the state of IT metrics, the state of IT business planning, and the state of alignment practices. According to data obtained from the Border-Kei Chamber, at the time of data collection, there were one hundred and seventy-three SMEs registered with the organisation. However, from that population, one hundred and twenty-eight questionnaires were filled, returned and analysed. The results showed significant agreement that there is communication between IT and business strategies in SMEs, on Metrics and on IT Business planning. However, pertaining the use of alignment models and alignment practises, there was a significant disagreement. The study recommends that SMEs should create platforms to educate IT personnel about the business; more work on value metric is required. Participation of IT in business strategic planning should be encouraged. It is recommended that SMEs look into alignment model/s that can be used to support how IT planning/ investment, managing and governance of IT is done.
Alleviating higher education challenges through strategic integration of technology: a case of selected universities in Africa.
(2018) Abatan, Omotayo Kayode.; Maharaj, Manoj Sewak.
The higher education sector in Africa is evolving and information technology continues to play a key role in driving these changes. Information and communications technologies are improving the creation and transmission of knowledge. This is attributed to the way people learn and create ideas as well as disseminate information within the educational environment and in the public sphere. In this study, an exploratory research was conducted to identify and understand the challenges and opportunities associated with information technology integration in higher education. A survey of 592 staff at the University of Lagos, Nigeria, the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa and University of South Africa was undertaken to address the research problem. The study makes use of a blend of theoretical frameworks to provide the foundation for identifying, proposing, planning and suggesting information technology strategies that can be integrated into higher education to alleviate higher education challenges in order to enhance teaching and learning outcomes. The three models used are: The Change Management Model; Model of Technology Adoption in the Classroom; and the Diffusion of Innovation Theory. The study evaluates the role of ICTs in higher education and also identified issues, challenges and instances of ICT strategic integration in higher education institutions at the selected universities in Africa. In the process of understanding the strategic integration of information technology in higher education institutions at the selected universities, the study identified what was considered successful technology integration strategies, what were not as successful, and why this was the case. The study further identified the factors that influence information technology integration in higher education. Having identified the limitations to technology integration and the significance of information technology in higher education at the selected universities, the study proffered recommendations and proposed a strategic framework. The framework offers strategies for the integration of information technology into higher education which can be used to alleviate higher education challenges, enhance teaching and learning outcomes, sustain the integrated information technologies and achieve ICTs promised benefits to higher education.
An analysis of factors affecting implementation of SAP in South Africa public sector.
(2019) Muyambi, Obert.; Marimuthu, Mudaray.
SAP enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementations in the South African public sector have faced many challenges and the majority of them have failed to achieve their intended purposes. They have failed to be finished within the project plan, and within the budgeted time, and are largely unable to meet the expectations of the users to the extent that the real value and returns on the IT investments have not been realised. SAP ERP implementation failure is defined in many ways; a project that is abandoned is a clear example of a failed project, a system implementation that has been delivered exceeding its budget and planned time is also classified as a failed project as it can lead to serious financial consequences for the company. A SAP ERP project that does not deliver the intended benefits to the users is also defined as failed. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore impacts of success factors on SAP ERP implementation in KwaZulu-Natal. The Technology-Organisational-Environment (TOE) framework was used and nine success factors were classified into these three domains and measured against the dependent variable, Implementation Success. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was carried out and data was gathered data from forty-seven SAP-system users from three state-owned entities in KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. Tests of reliability and validity were done, and the data analysis was carried out using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 22. The findings of the research showed that technological factors have a significant influence on implementation success. Lack of thorough data migration through various iterations of cleansed master and transactional data will lead to a new system with incorrect data. The degree of ERP flexibility was identified as a measure of implementation success, the higher the flexibility the higher the level of success. Systems that are largely inflexible and which require a high degree of customisation cause a lot of inefficiencies. Organisational factors such as change management, training, or business-process re-engineering showed a significant influence on the successful implementation of SAP systems. Respondents indicated that these factors are critical in ensuring that the SAP ERP system implementation is successful. The research findings for environmental factors showed that there is a positive relationship between vendor support and implementation success. Experienced vendors who have deep and specific knowledge of their systems, and are continuously involved with their clients, have evidenced successful implementations. However, top management support and project governance did not show any significant influence on the success of an SAP ERP implementation.
An analysis of the role of competitive intelligence (knowledge management and business intelligence) in globalisation of Saudi Arabia ICT firms.
(2019) Alarjani, Hasan Mesfer Falah.; Maharaj, Manoj Sewak.
This study explored the role of technological, organisational, environmental and attitudinal factors in facilitating the globalisation of Saudi Arabian ICT companies. In particular, the study focused on identifying the drivers of globalisation, especially knowledge management and business intelligence, and steps Saudi ICT companies should take before expanding their businesses outside of Saudi Arabia. A mixed-methods approach was adopted. A total of 81 ICT companies registered with the Communication and Information Technology Commission (CITC) in Saudi Arabia participated in this study, including the three largest ICT operators in Saudi Arabia, namely STC, Mobily, and Zain. Publicly available data from the Saudi stock exchange and other sources were analysed in respect of the three large ICT companies. The CITC organisations were surveyed via questionnaires. A quantitative analysis of the survey data viewed through the lens of the Technology, Organisation, Environment (TOE) framework and the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) model was undertaken, while a qualitative analysis of the documentary data from the three large companies was viewed through the TOE lens only. It was identified that the efficiency of software used in organisations helps them to globalise at any time and that competitive intelligence tools (KM and BI) are also very important. The organisational context is important; large ICT companies can globalise their activities while smaller companies have difficulties in doing so even though they recognise the potential economic benefits of regionalisation and globalisation. Regarding the environmental context, a country’s legislation helps and supports companies to globalise their activities. This is clearly noticeable in the three telecommunications operators, which have no obstacles to prevent them from operating in any country in the world. Finally, ICT and the attendant networked applications have accelerated the integration of the world’s economy through the globalisation of businesses. These effects are also felt by Saudi ICT companies, which are reconsidering their roles as regional economic players.
The application of a participatory evaluation method to the public library : the case of Tholulwazi Library, Besters Camp, Inanda, Durban.
(1997) Wyley, Chantelle Hulda.; Stilwell, Christine.
A participatory evaluation method used to evaluate development projects is applied to the public library. The Tholulwazi Library, Besters Camp, Inanda - the first library established by the Durban Municipal Library service in an informal settlement - is the case used in the study. The developmental context of public libraries in South Africa in the 1990s provided part of the justification for this approach. This context relates to community demands for libraries along with other development services, as well as claims of developmental and educational benefit used to motivate for public library funding. Diminishing public budgets and calls for efficiency and effectiveness in the public service, suggest the need to evaluate and demonstrate impact and community benefit. In addition a survey of the literature on library evaluation since the 1970s indicates that useful, easily applicable methods of library evaluation are unavailable to the practitioner, hence the justification for considering models developed in other sectors. This thesis surveys the library evaluation literature, and then looks to trends in the evaluation of social service and development projects and programmes. An approach which combines a systematic and objectives-oriented approach, effected by a participatory methodology is selected and applied to the Tholulwazi Library. The evaluation takes place via a questionnaire survey of a group of library users (students), a use register and library counter-based survey; supplemented by existing population data on the Besters area. A work group consisting of library staff and user representatives, facilitated by the author, conducted the evaluation. The evaluation results reflect on the validity of library planning, and quantify and qualify the extent and type of use of students users, and the benefit derived. These results are analysed in relation to library objectives, and the coincidence or deviation commented upon. Recommendations for action in the management of Tholulwazi Library are given, as well as recommendations applicable to the planning and establishment of new libraries in other informal settlements and townships. Suggestions as to further use of this evaluation approach are given, in addition to comments on the relevance and applicability of the methodology. These focus on the strategic and managerial benefit of demonstrating a link between library resources and activities (funded by public moneys), to use and user benefit. The use of a participatory methodology is shown to be technically necessary in demonstrating this link, as well as politically strategic. Valid and appropriate decision-making by management needs input from all levels, hence the value of utilising 'multiple realities' of all groupings involved with delivery at a particular service point, in such an evaluation. The approach used suggests a more conscious approach to management of libraries generally. It points to specific, periodic reflection on and analysis of the role of the library as a social institution and the societal problems addressed. This includes analysis of the library environment, focusing on existing and potential target groups. The analysis applies in relation to conscious planning procedures, as well as ongoing monitoring and periodic evaluation of endeavours.
The application of information and communication technologies in the management of health information by doctors and nurses in selected government hospitals in Yaounde, Cameroon.
(2003) Asah, Flora Nah.; Leach, Athol Brian.
Doctors and nurses in most developing countries lack access to adequate health information, that is, the lifeblood for the delivery of quality health care services. This problem is further compounded by the fact that correct techniques and equipment are not applied to provide access to reliable health information. Based on previous literature, it is assumed that information should be managed in the same way capital, labour and human resources are managed so that healthcare providers and medical professionals should be able to have relevant information to assist then in their daily activities, to help them to learn, to diagnose and to save lives. Relevance and reliability are paramount in meeting health information needs. A number of studies have shown that the application of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in the management of health information is a prerequisite to wider accessibility and availability of relevant health information. Health information management is the continuum of processes in managing health-related information. It is composed of the use of technologies (computers, hardware, software and telecommunication), personnel (trained information specialists), and the allocation of financial resources to achieve the major goals of the organisation such as a hospital. The aim is to collect, process, store, retrieve and disseminate adequate health information to the right person, in the right form, at the right time. This study investigated the application of ICTs in the management of health information by medical professionals in six selected government hospitals in Yaounde, Cameroon. The basis of the study was that through the effective application of ICTs in the management of health information, relevant and timely information would be made available to medical professionals. It was the researcher's view that unless we understand the importance of information in the development of the health system, and apply the use of ICTs in its management, the delivery of health care services will constantly remain poor. Data was collected from six government hospitals in Yaounde through a self-administered questionnaire given to nurses and medical doctors. The data collected from 141 medical professionals [doctors and nurses] were presented, using descriptive statistics in the form of frequency distribution and percentage. The findings of the study revealed that medical professionals are dissatisfied with the major method of information exchange activities, that is, face-to-face interaction with colleagues. In addition, the study found that health information is captured, processed and stored manually. This is very detrimental to medical professionals, because relevant information is not always available when needed. The study found that the barriers to adequate information exchange activities were lack of information support services, irregular distribution of information and poor co-operation and collaboration among medical professionals. The study also revealed the non-availability of ICTs and Internet resources and lack of basic computer skills. Consequently, there is low utilisation of ICTs by medical professionals and limited information needs are being satisfied. Medical professionals unanimously favoured the application of Internet services or an electronic health information resource to supplement the current method of managing and accessing health information. Lack of training on the use of computers and Internet resources were the main factors that hinder the use of ICTs by medical professionals. The study concluded by calling on directors of hospitals, medical professionals and the Ministry of Health Officials to provide ICTs and Internet resources to medical professionals and provide them with basic computing skills and training. It further called for the recognition of information as an important resource for national development and called for formulation of a national information policy. With an information policy, information needs would be clearly defined and the provision of information services throughout the country would be regulated. In addition, medical professionals must create a free-flow of information and constant communication outlet to exchange and disseminate local health information. The high demand for basic training on the use of ICTs could be provided through in-service training or refresher courses.
Application of knowledge management approaches and information and communication technologies to manage indigenous knowledge in the agricultural sector in selected districts of Tanzania.
(2009) Lwoga, Edda Tandi.
This study investigated the extent to which knowledge management (KM) approaches and information and communication technologies (ICTs) can be used to manage agricultural indigenous knowledge (IK), and introduce relevant exogenous knowledge in some local communities of Tanzania. The recognition and management of local practices do not only give confidence to farmers that their knowledge and skills are valued, but also leads to the preservation and continued use of their IK. Managing IK within and across communities can help to enhance cross-cultural understanding and promote the cultural dimension of agricultural development in the local communities. The current state of managing agricultural IK and access to relevant exogenous knowledge in the selected local communities in Tanzania was investigated. The study used mixed research methods, where the qualitative approach was the dominant method. Both quantitative and qualitative data were gathered simultaneously during a single phase of data collection. The primary purpose was to gather qualitative data through the semi-structured interviews, focus groups, non-participant observation, and participatory rural appraisal tools (information mapping and linkage diagrams, and problem trees). The secondary purpose was to gather quantitative data through closed questions which were embedded in the same semi-structured interviews. Both qualitative and quantitative data analyses were kept separate, and then they were combined or integrated into the meta-inferences. Some of the qualitative themes were also transformed into counts, and these counts were compared with descriptive quantitative data. The study participants included three categories of respondents: local communities (farmers and village leaders), IK policy makers (institutions that deal with intellectual property policies in Tanzania), and knowledge intermediaries (institutions that deal with agricultural KM activities in the rural areas). The findings indicated that KM approaches can be used to manage IK and appropriately introduce exogenous knowledge in the local communities, and thus the integration of both indigenous and exogenous knowledge can be feasible. The study findings showed that farmers possessed an extensive base of agricultural IK. However, this knowledge was acquired, developed and shared within a small, weak and spontaneous network, and thus knowledge loss was prevalent in the surveyed communities. Formal sources of knowledge mainly focused on disseminating exogenous knowledge in the local communities, which showed the predominance of the exogenous knowledge system over IK in the surveyed local communities. The study found that most of the farmers’ knowledge was tacit and it was created and shared through human interactions, and thus lack of ICTs did not constitute a barrier for KM practices in the rural areas. The study findings showed that radio was the major ICT used to access exogenous and indigenous knowledge in the local communities. There was low use of ICTs to share and preserve agricultural IK in the local communities. Although there was a predominance of the exogenous knowledge system over IK in the local communities, farmers applied IK gained from tacit and explicit sources of knowledge in their farming systems as compared to exogenous knowledge in the surveyed communities. Farmers trusted their own knowledge since it did not challenge their assumptions as would new knowledge from research institutions and universities. Low use of exogenous knowledge on some farming aspects was attributed to the fact that few knowledge intermediaries had identified and prioritized farmers’ knowledge and needs in the local communities. Individual and collective interactions were already used to integrate farmers’ knowledge and exogenous knowledge in the local communities, however, they needed to be strengthened through KM practices. The study findings showed that various factors determined access to knowledge in the communities, which included ICTs, culture of a certain locality, trust, status, context and space. The findings also showed that the lack of IK policy and existence of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) that inadequately recognised and protected IK, limited acquisition, sharing and preservation of IK in the surveyed communities in Tanzania. The study concluded that unless KM approaches are applied, IK will continue to disappear, and the rural farmers will have nothing to rely on, for their farming practices. Since knowledge is the collective expertise of everyone in the communities, this study recommends that KM practices should be embedded in the community, private and public agricultural actors and other government and private institutions as they currently function in the local communities. The government and private agricultural actors should foster the KM practices in the local communities by engaging the community leaders and rural people in the whole process. Since IK is site-specific, it can therefore seldom be scaled up without an adaptation, however it can be used to stimulate experimentation and innovation in other communities. With this view, this study recommends that knowledge should not be separated from the individuals who possess it, instead efforts should be made to enable the communities to manage their own knowledge, and to adapt other knowledge systems to suit their local context for effective KM practices. Indigenous knowledge would be effectively managed and integrated with exogenous knowledge if the government ensures that there are policies and Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) that recognise and protect the existing knowledge in the country. These policies may include sectoral policies that deal with IK, rural development, agriculture, ICTs, education issues and various other issues. These policies should comprise the following: (i) a shared definition of and vision for KM in the country; (ii) the clear goals/strategies for the innovation initiatives to take place in the rural areas; and (iii) guidance with regard to prioritizing, deciding upon, and taking action to institutionalize KM processes in the rural areas with linkages to gender perspectives. Issues related to the capacity building, culture, content, infrastructure, and leadership should be addressed at this level for effective implementation of KM services in the rural areas. This will enable the communities and agricultural actors (such as research, extension, NGOs, libraries) to establish KM practices and a culture that is conducive for KM activities in their localities. Further, the study recommends that public and private institutions, knowledge intermediaries (such as research, extension, NGOs, libraries) and village leaders should be involved in the KM practices in the rural areas, and they should ensure that there is a committed leadership for KM activities, knowledge culture, appropriate ICTs, favourable context and space, and mapping to locate knowledge bearers and knowledge resources in the rural areas. However, the absence of ICTs should not constitute a barrier for KM and knowledge integration processes, since the findings showed that communities are more likely to understand, acquire and use knowledge that is shared through indigenous communication channels which are oral in nature rather than other approaches such as ICTs.
Assessing interpersonal privacy through the usage of Facebook features by university students.
(2019) Shaik, Fatima Bibi.; Quilling, Rosemary Diane.
With online social networks swiftly growing in popularity millions of users are sharing their personal information daily without being aware of where such disseminated information eventually resides. Combined with such growth is the diversity of both users and content shared, that results in an extensive amount of personal data availed in social networks. This poses a challenge to individuals in terms of knowing what content is available: when and where, as well as the subsequent flow of that information. One such social network which has impacted modern day communication and altered the nature of digital information sharing is Facebook: Used by over one billion people world-wide, Facebook users interact with friends, family and other social contacts in a public medium. This has changed the nature of privacy and consequences of information disclosures. Despite media reports highlighting the unintended consequences of information disclosures via social network sites such as Facebook, students are often thought to be unconcerned regarding the subsequent costs of these disclosures. The current study sought to explore university student’s informational disclosures influence on their interpersonal privacy through the usage of the Friendship Pages and Timeline Facebook features. Participants of this study were 333 university students who were current users of Facebook. A significant 41.7% of the respondents revealed they used both the Friendship Page and Timeline feature of Facebook. Findings further revealed that students used Facebook for several functions. These functions include; to search for friends by disclosing their personal information such as pictures, searching for events or groups, uploading and sharing their own images, which can be accessed by friends of friends, therefore causing potential privacy concerns. Results also revealed that students had a polarized attitude towards sharing their details. Furthermore, analysis revealed that students had comprehensive profiles and they shared information that represented the reality about themselves, therefore, making it easier for strangers to understand who they are. Investigations also indicated that privacy is not a primary concern for university students based on the kind of activities and interactions gained in its usage. Results from the research indicate that a significant number of students use Facebook Friendship page to find new friends with potentially risky disclosure of personal information through the use of profile pictures that are visible to everyone. Results for the Timeline feature revealed students who adjusted their timeline settings were selective of whom has access to their uploaded content based on the different type of Facebook friends they have. In addition, the study revealed that there was a strong and positive relationship between the Friendship Page and the Timeline to the extent that individuals that are accepted as friends also gain access to the content shared on each other's timeline. There was also minimal trust found between friends on the usage of Facebook content since a significant number of respondents revealed that they could not trust their friends not to share their content with other people. Despite the negative relationship, students continued to share their private information, therefore, revealing a relaxed attitude. Additionally, many respondents felt uneasy with increased viewership and sharing of their content by people not within their friendship network which illustrates a polarized attitude.
Assessing the cyber-security status of the metropolitan municipalities in South Africa.
(2018) Mabaso, Nkosiyephana Jerome.; Maharaj, Manoj Sewak.
The intention of this enquiry was to assess the status of cyber-security in the metropolitan municipalities in South Africa. The focus on this level of local government was driven by the fact that metropolitan municipalities are the economic hubs with a variety of industrial facilities and are the places with high population densities. The metropolitan municipalities have adopted information infrastructures to support the daily administrative processes and, equally important, to support the delivery of essential services such as the distribution of electricity and clean water to the local citizens and communities. Entrenched in the adoption of information infrastructures are the cyber ills which if left unattended could have devastating consequences on people and industrial facilities. Failures or interruptions to information infrastructures have cascading effects due to interconnectedness of these infrastructures. The study used the Constructivist Grounded Theory Methodology to explore the activities that are performed by the metropolitan municipalities with the intention to determine what needs to be in place to safeguard their information infrastructures from cyber ills. Cyber-security is a serious concern in all types of businesses that are largely supported by information infrastructures in pursuit of the business objectives. Information infrastructures are susceptible to cyber-security threats, which if left unattended can shut the municipality operations down with disastrous consequences. A substantive theory of integrated development cyber-security emerged from the Constructivist Grounded Theory Methodology processes of data collecting through comprehensive interviews, initial coding, focused coding, memoing, and theoretical coding. A municipal cyber-security conceptual framework was developed from the integrated development cyber-security theory constructs of integrated development cyber-security which are the core category, cyber-security governance category, cyber-security technical operations category, and human issues in cyber-security category. The conceptual framework was used to formulate the cyber-security status assessment survey questionnaire that was adopted as an instrument to assess the cyber-security status in the metropolitan municipalities. The cyber-security status assessment instrument was deployed in metropolitan municipalities, wherein data was collected and statistically analysed to test and confirm its validity. The assessment results were analysed and showed the as is posture of cyber-security, the gaps in the current implemented cyber-security controls were identified together with the risks associated with those gaps, corrective actions to address the identified deficiencies were identified and recommended/communicated to the management of relevant municipalities.
Assessing the implementation of electronic consultation in the Ghanaian health sector.
(2023) Nketia, Mark Ofori.; Maharaj, Manoj Sewak.
The Covid-19 pandemic sparked the buzz word “e-consultation” because people preferred having medical attention remotely. The researcher carried out this study with the aim to help improve access to healthcare by identifying the key issues in the adoption and use of e-consultation in the Ghanaian Health Sector. The study evaluates how e-consultation systems influence the delivery of health care services in hospitals, assesses the attitudes of clinicians and patients towards e-consultation systems and provides a framework to enhance its usage. To assess the implementation of successful e-consultation, the researcher developed a conceptual model that bridged the Delone & Mclean’s IS success model, and Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation Theory to form a suitable model for the study. The research utilized a sequential exploratory method, combining qualitative and quantitative methods to gain an in-depth understanding of the dynamics and challenges associated with e-consultation in the specific context of Ghana. The study found that the implementation of e-consultation is integrated in the internal hospital management system of very few hospitals. Hence most clinicians resort to using e-consultation informally with the help of WhatsApp video, Zoom, phone calls and other open source platforms. Also, it was found that the attitudes of clinicians and patients towards e-consultation implementation is influenced by various factors that range from system quality, information quality, ease of use, connectivity, and education. Besides, the growing concern of privacy and data security issues shows that healthcare providers should strengthen the development of e-consultation information systems. It transpired that the Ministry of Health does not have a suitable policy on software standards for e-consultation. The poor regulatory framework is a major factor contributing to resistance to the use of e-consultation. The rotated factor matrix extracted using the Principal Axis Factoring shows a high level of correlation and consistency among various factors under study. Attitude came first followed by Regulatory framework, acceptance and diffusion. The study, therefore, proposed a model for e-consultation implementation which would help regularize the implementation of e-consultation as well as enhancing the rate of diffusion of e-consultation, its adoption and usage by hospitals and the public.
An assessment of the business process review : a study of the finance division at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
(2018) Thangavelu, Nancy.; Naidoo, Vannie.
The University of Kwazulu-Natal (UKZN) Finance Division underwent a restructuring process in 2014 that saw the number of staff in Finance reduce from 120 to 75 staff. The aim of this process was to downsize staff from the support sector and re-allocate funds to the Academic sector. Overall the re-structuring has not been an easy process especially on the Human Resources of the organisation and the productivity at the University. The purpose of this study is to look at the strategies that can be used to effectively restructure the organisation without effecting the motivation and morale of the staff. Managers and change consultants need to implement the correct strategy that fits the organisation and will improve staff satisfaction which in turn will boost staff moral resulting in optimum productivity. The research was based on a quantitative approach. Random sampling was used to select a sample of 63 finance staff. A questionnaire was designed with close-ended questions and sent to the sample who were located on five of the University’s campuses. According to the findings, the respondents felt that management did not follow crucial steps in the restructuring process which according to academic theory is essential to success of any restructuring process. The results also revealed that more than 50% of staff are demotivated and have a very low morale. Staff also feel that their perceptions of restructuring is being ignored by management. The study recommends that the UKZN use a change theory for future change endeavours. It is also recommended that management should communicate pertinent information to staff when undergoing a restructuring process, should introduce rewards to those staff who are carrying more workloads than employed for, create small short-term wins for staff and ensure that a culture of positive well-being amongst staff to ensure that staff remain motivated.
Attitude of healthcare workers towards the use of the virtual electronic medical record system at Ithembalabantu Clinic, Durban.
(2020) Kalalizi, Bahindwa.; Subramaniam, Prabhakar Rontala.
Successful implementation of electronic medical record systems (EMRs) can result in many benefits. This study conceptualized a model to investigate the predictors influencing the use of the Virtual Electronic Medical Record (VEMR) system. The Theory of Reasoned Action was adopted to investigate healthcare workers’ attitudes and behaviours toward the use of the VEMR system at Ithembalabantu clinic. The model guided in measuring the attitude of healthcare workers towards the use of the VEMR system at Ithembalabantu clinic, Durban by conducting observation and interview schedules. Thirty (30) responses were obtained from the employees who were exposed to the use of the VEMR system where narrative qualitative technique was used to analyze the results. The individual attitude toward the use of the system, the subjective norms and the intention behaviour were found to be significant predators of the actual usage of the VEMR system. System benefits and user satisfaction were found to hypothetically lead to the continuance intention to use the system. As a result of this study, healthcare facilities will be better placed to understand the insights of healthcare workers regarding the adoption of the VEMR system and how those come to influence their usage behaviours.
The attitudes and self-reported competencies of educators in rural schools of KwaZulu-Natal regarding the use of information communication technology to delivery e-education to rural communities.
(2008) Matsemela, Yvonne Nonhlanhla.; Klopper, Rembrandt.
In 2004 the South African Department of Education released a White Paper on e-Education in which it outlined its intention to introduce Information Communication Technology (ICT) to deliver e-Education in South African schools by 2013. The White Paper prompted this study on the attitudes, perceptions and competencies of educators in rural schools of KwaZulu- Natal towards this policy with the aim to establish whether they would be willing to adopt e-Education and whether they would be ready to implement the policy in the classroom. A study of educators' perceptions about e- Education and their willingness to adopt this form of education delivery enables one to establish their level of e-Readiness. The researcher conducted a literature review and formulated e- Readiness as the theoretical framework of the study. This was followed by a quantitative research involving a suitably representative sample of educators in rural schools of KZN. It aimed at establishing educators' use of basic and advanced electronic communication technologies as indicative of e-Readiness. A follow-up survey was conducted which intended to establish educators' use of cell phones as an indication of e-Readiness. Both surveys were conducted by means of structured questionnaires. Data processing and analysis were done using analytical program SPSS 13. The major findings of this study are that educators in rural schools of KwaZulu-Natal are not ready for the rollout of e-Education. Among the factors limiting their e-Readiness are: a lack of exposure to advanced electronic communication technologies emanating from lack of technological infrastructure as well as resources in the majority of schools in the rural areas. Another factor is inadequate computer skills needed for effective teaching in an e- Education setting. Those with computer training have not been able to utilize their skills at the poorly equipped schools where they teach and would therefore require retraining. The study, however, revealed positive attitudes among educators and willingness to adopt and implement the e-Education policy should these problems be addressed. Finally comparison of the results of PC based e-Education survey and the cell phone survey indicate that while educators in rural communities are ill-equipped to use computers, they are sophisticated cell phone users, leading one to surmise that they would readily adopt emerging and converging technologies that are set to make available powerful multi-functional communication-computation devices.
Barriers and enablers experienced by women in senior information technology positions in South Africa.
(2022) Shange, Pretty Ngenzeni.; Quilling, Rosemary Diane.
The under-representation of women in senior and leadership positions in the IT industry has long been an issue of concern for both organisations and governments. This has led to this topic gaining global attention, which has led to studies undertaken to understand the causes of this under-representation. In South Africa we have seen efforts such as employment equality acts by government and diversity programmes by organisations that aim to address this under-representation. This study aims to understand the barriers that women encounter in their career journeys and the enablers that helped them overcome the barriers as they persisted and advanced in IT. This study followed a qualitative research approach using open-ended online interviews for data production using a sample of fifteen female senior IT managers. This sample consisted of Chief Information Officers (CIOs), Heads of Department, and different IT managers in their areas of specialities within IT. The results of this study showed that factors such as computer access at a young age played an important role in creating a positive attitude towards IT or computer related careers. Factors such as availability of bursaries for IT qualifications and knowledge of family members about the IT careers were most likely to increase the chances of a young woman to choose an IT career. The results also showed that young women who liked Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects such as mathematics were also more likely to study IT or computer related qualifications. The IT industry career stream and the support employees received from family and organisations also played a big role in determining the persistence of women in their IT career. Furthermore, mentorship and sharing of opportunities within professional networks also contributed positively to the advancement of women in this industry. The flexibility and ability to work from home were among the highlighted benefits that encouraged women to persist. Results also showed that more women were concentrated in middle management and that the career path to the Csuite level is not clear. The understanding of barriers and enablers presented in this study will guide and inform the choices women and the societies make about this industry and better position government and organisations with understanding needed in creating an IT industry that nurtures women to success.

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