Doctoral Degrees (Management)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10413/7868

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Achieving sustainable competitive advantage: the case of small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises in Botswana.
(2023) Munodawafa, Tadios.; Naude, Micheline Juliana Alberta.; Govender, Krishna Kistan.
The aim of the study was to investigate factors that impact on sustainable competitive advantage of small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) in Botswana. In Botswana, manufacturing SMEs have been targeted as a priority sector because of their potential to (1) diversify the country’s economy from diamond mining; (2) create employment thus reducing poverty; and increase the inflow of foreign currency through exports. Despite their potential, manufacturing SMEs are affected by traditional challenges which include – but are not exhaustive – lack of access to finance, lack of access to markets, lack of business acumen, lack of human capital and competition from multinational corporations. Primary data was collected from seven key government informants through face-to-face interviews and 348 manufacturing SME owners/managers using a structured questionnaire. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data gathered from key government informants. This helped to obtain in-depth information about the phenomenon under observation. The data collected from manufacturing SMEs was analysed using a combination of descriptive and inferential statistics. The main findings revealed that manufacturing enterprises in Botswana are high risk enterprises and financial institutions are reluctant to provide them with funds. These SMEs are also affected by high rentals and high cost of land to use in their operations, high equipment and product quality costs. Manufacturing SMEs which export their products face additional challenges of traceability issues and mileage charges in the countries that they export their products. The study recommends that funding organisations should continue to review issues of collateral in order to increase access to finance by manufacturing SMEs. The Botswana government and tribal authorities issuing land should remove the bottlenecks related to application for land, especially for business purposes. Manufacturing SMEs should also consider SME equity funding as an alternative to funding and offers less risk compared to commercial banks and existing government-sponsored funding agencies. The findings of the study contribute towards the development of a sustainable theoretical framework that can be used by manufacturing SMEs to identify and utilise their internal resources and capabilities to increase their competitiveness, survive and grow.
A conceptual framework for private higher educational institutions to respond to disruptions in South Africa.
(2024) Maota, Tshepo Religion.; Naidoo, Vannie.
During the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, global societies experienced widespread disruption and uncertainty, significantly affecting higher education. This "black swan" event tested the resilience of higher education institutions, necessitating an involuntary shift in instructional practices. This study explores the impact of pandemic disruptions on student and staff experiences in local PHEIs, with a focus on their operational flexibility and capacity to navigate turbulent circumstances. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, involving a sample size of 381 students and 316 staff members from various demographic backgrounds. We administered the survey using reliable measures to ensure high response rates. The findings indicate that lower-level students, such as undergraduates, faced greater difficulties in adapting to online learning compared to higher-level students, such as master's and doctoral candidates. The challenges included limited access to technology and resources, as well as difficulties maintaining engagement and motivation. In contrast, staff members initially reported high levels of support adequacy, but these ratings decreased with increased years of experience, possibly due to burnout and evolving expectations. Leaders within PHEIs highlighted the need for enhanced training and preparedness to manage disruptions effectively. They identified specific challenges, such as political and economic factors, system changes, and the absence of specialised tools for disruption management. Insights from leaders included the importance of scenario planning, robust communication strategies, and fostering a culture of adaptability and resilience. We developed a comprehensive framework for disruption management as a guiding beacon for navigating disruptive encounters. We created a machine-learning-based predictive model using a binary classification tree to predict disruption risks within this framework. The model was trained on variables such as potential impact, probability of occurrence, warning index, and relevance to the education sector, achieving high accuracy in classifying disruption risks. Despite limitations like region-specific focus and challenges of data collection during a pandemic, this study provides valuable insights into proactive strategies, support significance, effective leadership, and predictive models for disruption management in higher education. This research contributes to the understanding of disruption management in PHEIs and provides practical tools for enhancing institutional resilience.
Exploring the effects of women in Artificial Intelligence networks (WAINs) on women’s careers in Artificial Intelligence.
(2023) Hall, Paula.; Ellis, Deborah Ann.
The underrepresentation of women in the AI field is one of the causes of AI application biases needing resolution as part of the growing movement toward more ethical AI. One potential solution is to encourage more women to be involved in developing and deploying AI solutions, precipitating the growth of professional women in AI support networks. This research aimed to determine how women in AI networks contribute to women advancing and persisting in the AI workforce by developing and testing a model that links networking behaviour to women’s career persistence and advancement in AI. The study addressed the need for theoretical and empirical investigation into women in AI, networking behaviour, and the benefits networks offer to members, especially for their careers. Notably, there is a gap in the literature concerning formal women-only networks, with limited previous research on gender bias in the context of women in artificial intelligence networks (WAINs). The study followed a phased mixed method research process. First, a systematic review of AI gender bias was conducted, which supported the premise for increased gender diversity in AI. A conceptual model was then created from an intersection of multiple theories and models on gender in IT and networking, which a panel of women in AI experts reviewed, verified, and refined through in-depth interviews. The final phase tested the model propositions using structured equation modelling. The findings revealed that social support, opportunities and resources provided by professional WAINS contribute to the persistence and advancement of women in AI careers. This research provides an original contribution by suggesting a solution for improving gender diversity in AI development teams through the resources, opportunities and social support provided by WAINs. The research also contributes to a better understanding of women’s careers and networking behaviour specifically in the AI field. With the proliferation of AI-based solutions and the integration of AI into automated decision-making, reducing the gender gap in the AI workforce is more important than ever. Recommendations include active support for WAINs by businesses and policy bodies, while WAIN organisers and women in AI should co-create career enhancing resources and support in WAINs.
The professionalisation of human resource management in South Africa as a strategy to facilitate ethical practice.
(2022) Naidoo, Charuna.; Seedat, Mariam.
Human resource management has made great strides as a profession in South Africa, from its initial function as the payroll department to now being a strategic business partner and confidant to the C-suite. This profession, however, faces its fair share of challenges. In particular, the issue of ethics and lack of professionalism has become a dilemma for the profession, which, together with the absence of statutory professionalisation, has made it increasingly difficult for human resource management professionals to survive this volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environment within a South African ecosystem. While there is literature confirming that human resource management is in fact a profession, in the absence of statutory professionalization it is essential to explore the experiences and opinions of human resource management professionals who do not belong to a professional body, and to compare these with the views of those who do belong to a professional body, as well as the perceptions of clients of both professionals and non-professionals. In this research the first participant group is called nonprofessional, the second is professionals, and the last are the human resource management clients, without whom this profession would not exist. The framework and analysis that was applied in this study is a four themed framework used to investigate the participants’ understanding of general human resource management, human resource management ethics and the King Reports (with specific reference to the last King IV Report), human resource management professionalism and lastly human resource management professionalisation. The theoretical and conceptual model is based on a multilayer framework from the field of ethics, the sociology of professions, specifically from Evetts’ contribution on professions, professionalism and professionalisation, and finally, the SABPP Human Resource Competency Model. The data gathered from the in-depth interviews with participants was analysed using thematic analysis which generated the findings in the study. It is argued, based on previous literature and the data emanating from this study, that in the last two decades human resource management has continued to progress as a profession. There is a relationship between the professional development of human resource management and codes of ethical practice, as statutory professionalisation and ethical practice does affect human resource managements’ professional development. Lastly, this study offers recommendations for statutory professionalisation as a strategy for ethical practice in human resource management in South Africa.
Talent development and employability of actors in South Africa: a case of KwaZulu Natal and Gauteng.
(2019) Myeni, Sifiso Nhlanhla.; Phiri, Maxwell Agabu.
The study aimed at creating a talent development framework for the employability of independent contractors who are actors in South Africa’s film and television industry. Employability was defined as consisting of an individual’s abilities to find employment based on their competencies, social capital, human capital, their talent as well as the context in which their competencies are applied. The theoretical underpinnings of the study were based on Cagne’s expanded model of talent development (Cagne, 2013) which provided the conceptual scope of the study. The South African talent development environment has been affected by the country’s past historical marginalisation and imbalances and to date, it still remains a challenge. Independent contractors exist in multiple organisational settings with the nature of the work being project-based and hence often are side-lined on development opportunities that are required to enable their employability. The film and television industry includes the internet, data consumption, television, cinema, video games, e-sports, music, publishing, out of home marketing and radio. The study followed the mixed methods research design using the rationale of triangulation and using different sampling approaches. A total of 325 actors affiliated with the South African Guild of Actors formed the population of the study. The qualitative approach collected data by means of a purposive sampling approach, using expert knowledge from 22 industry stakeholders. Semi-structured interviews were used as a data collection method and were analysed using content analysis. The quantitative approach collected data from 94 independent contractors using a random non-probability sampling approach. Self-administered questionnaires were used as a data collection method and further analysed by means inferential statistics such as anova, independent samples test and scheffe’s multiple comparisons tests. The study found social capital bearing more influence on actors employability with the networking skills identified as still lacking for South African actors. Further the study found positive influence played by talent development, self-perceived employability and human capital on employability of actors. The study recommends the adoption and further expansion of the talent development model, the formalisation of the mentorship programme and the inclusion of social media and brand awareness training and development offerings in the industry.
Service quality of the online classroom experience in higher education: the influence of lecturer-controlled variables.
(2023) Mokorotlo, Griffith Chief Joseph.; Arbee, Aradhna.
This study attempted to understand what undergraduate students expect and perceive in terms of online lecture service quality, explore the influence of interventions related to lecturer-controlled elements of the classroom experience (i.e. interaction between students and staff, physical evidence and lecture production process) on students’ initial perceptions of online lecture service quality, and propose a model/tool to measure online lecture service quality at the National University of Lesotho (NUL). In adopting an action research case study design and a mixed methods approach, the study addressed the bias in the marketing literature towards purely quantitative investigation of service quality in education. Using a sample of 188 students and 14 staff from NUL, data gathered via multiple methods and in several stages facilitated deep exploration of the quality of the online classroom encounter at NUL. The study emphasised qualitative exploration by soliciting opinions of teaching staff via interviews on interventions they implemented and challenges they faced, and by using focus group discussions to collect data from various categories of students about online lecture service quality. Thematic analysis was used for qualitative data analysis. Based on input solicited during the focus groups and interviews, a modified three dimension SERVQUAL instrument was proposed as a suitable measure of the online classroom experience at NUL. Findings suggest that three main role players in the online teaching and learning activity are lecturers, students and technological infrastructure. Students hold that their learning experiences are impacted as they interact with lecturers and co-act in the lecture production process, while technological infrastructure is vital for the online teaching and learning process. As such, an instrument designed to assess contact lecture service quality cannot be readily used to assess online lecture service quality. Iqoqa. Lolu cwaningo luzame ukuqonda ukuthi abafundi abasafundela iziqu zokuqala balindeleni futhi babubuka kanjani ubunjalo bomsebenzi wokufunda nge-inthanethi, luphenya umthelela wokungenelela okuhlobene nezinto ezenganyelwa ngumfundisi wasesikhungweni ngokwesimo saseklasini (esingathi, ukuxhumana phakathi kwabafundi nabasebenzi, ubufakazi obuphathekayo kanye nenqubo yomkhiqizo wokufunda) ekubukeni kwabafundi kokuqala ngobunjalo bomsebenzi wokufunda nge-inthanethi, bese luphakamisa imodeli/ithuluzi lokukala ubunjalo bomsebenzi wokufunda nge-inthanethi eNational University of Lesotho (NUL). Ukusebenzisa uhlaka locwaningokusebenza kanye nendlelande yezindlela ezingxube, ucwaningo lubuke ukuchema kwemibhalo ekhangisayo ichemela ngasophenyweni lwezinombolo ngqo zobunjalo bomsebenzi emfundweni. Ngokusebenzisa isampula yabafundi abayi-188 kanye nabasebenzi abayi-14 base-NUL, imininingo yaqoqwa ngezindlela eziningi futhi ngezigaba eziningana ezakhanda ukuhlola okunzulu kobunjalo bokufunda eklasini le-inthanethi e-NUL. Ucwaningo lugcizelele ukuphenya ngokufuna imibono yabasebenzi kusetshenziswa izingxoxo mayelana nezinsiza abazisebenzisayo kanye nezingqinamba ababhekana nazo, futhi lwasebenzisa izingxoxo zamaqoqo acwaningwayo ukuqoqa imininingo ezinhlotsheni eziningi zabafundi mayelana nobunjalo bomsebenzi wokufunda nge-inthanethi. Ukuhlaziya ngezindikima kwasetshenzisa ukuhlaziya imininingo yekhwalithethivu. Ngokwemininingo eyatholakala ngesikhathi kwenziwa izingxoxo zamaqoqo acwaningwayo, ithuluzi elimikhakha mithathu i-SERVQUAL laphakanyiswa njengesikali esikufanele ukusetshenziswa ukubuka isimo samaklasi e-inthanethi e-NUL. Imiphumela iveza ukuthi ababambiqhaza abaqavile abathathu emsebenzini wokufunda nokufundisa nge-inthanethi bangabafundisi basezikhungweni, abafundi, kanye nengqalasisinda yezobuchwepheshe. Abafundi banomqondo wokuthi umsebenzi wokufunda kwabo uyathinteka uma bexhumana nabafundisi babo basezikhungweni futhi uma besebenza ndawonye emsebenzini wokukhiqiza ukufunda, kanti nengqalasizinda yezobuchwepheshe ibalulekile emsebenzini wokufundisa nokufunda. Yize kunjalo, ithuluzi elakhiwe ukufinyelela ebunjalweni bomsebenzi wokufunda bendawonye angeke lisebebenziseke ukuhlola ubunjalo bomsebenzi ofundwe nge-inthanethi.
Exploring the role of pedagogical practices in the brand identity formation of selected Gambian universities.
(2022) Ikonne, Ozioma.; Arbee, Aradhna.
This study sought to facilitate insight into the potential role of pedagogy in the brand identity formation of higher education institutions (HEIs), through a study of selected HEIs in The Gambia. Specifically, the study sought to address the following research question: What role do pedagogical practices play in building the brand identity of selected universities in The Gambia? The study was underpinned by an interpretivist philosophy and the intra-paradigm qualitative mixed method of data collection (O'Reilly, Kiyimba & Drewett 2020). This facilitated a preliminary analysis of the contents of institutional documents and social media postings. This was followed by telephonic and virtually mediated in-depth interviews in which the interactionist interpretations, recollections, experiences, and opinions of 54 participants (students and staff) were explored on the themes of institutional brand management practices, institutional pedagogical practices, institutional brand identity, and the links between pedagogical practices and institutional brand identity. The study used the Corporate Brand Identity Matrix (Urde 2013) as a supporting framework of analysis. The findings indicate that the HEIs recognise the emerging trend of competition in Gambia’s higher education sector as a consequence of government’s liberalisation policy. However, there is no evidence of the majority of them responding to emerging competition using strategic marketing and branding. The evidence suggests that the HEIs use hardly differentiated, production-style portfolios of academic courses to pursue largely unengaged students, prospective students and other stakeholders. Further findings indicate that academic staff use a narrow variety of pedagogical approaches, with the teacher centered, lecturing method emerging as dominant. This insight emerged against the background of the evidence which indicates a link between pedagogy policy and practices and stakeholder impressions. A synthesis of these findings culminated in the emergence of the pedagogy-based higher education brand identity matrix (P-HEBIM), which this study proposes as a novel framework for the branding of HEIs. Drawing on this, the study sets out a practitioner guide for the use of the P-HEBIM, making specific recommedations for the brand management roles of different HE stakeholders in The Gambia.
The relationship between human capital development and performance: a case of Lagos State University in Nigeria = Ubudlelwane phakathi kokuthuthukiswa kwamakhono ezisebenzi nokusebenza kwazo: ucwaningosimo seLagos State University, eNigeria.
(2023) Lawal, Ibrahim Olanrewaju.; Gamede, Vangeli Wiseman.
Management practices and implementation of strategic planning among small businesses in Ghana.
(2023) Eshun, Egya Gyanzah.; Naidoo, Vannie.
Abstract This study focused on the management practices applicable and the extent of strategic planning among small firms in Ghana in order to propose measures for effective management of small firms. The research was conducted in the Kumasi metropolitan area of Ghana. The Pragmatic research philosophy was adopted for the research. The research respondents were small business owners/managers in Kumasi, Ghana. The study used mixed methods approach in data collection. Through this approach numerical data was gathered through the administration of questionnaire as also qualitative data was gathered through interviewing of selected small business owners/managers. The quota sampling method was applied to identify the sample of 500 small firms and the purposive sampling procedure was used to choose 10 small firm owners/managers to be interviewed. The quantitative data gathered in the research were analyzed applying the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21, whilst Content Analysis was applied for the qualitative data.The key findings identified in the study were that small businesses in Ghana have limited management skills and also some specific management practices were found to be significantly linked to various dimensions of growth of small businesses as well as competitive advantages enjoyed by small businesses.From the proposed framework developed for the effective management of small businesses it has been established that all the four categories of management practices studied, with the exception of operation-efficiency-focused management practices are significantly associated with the growth of the firm.Also all the four categories of management practices were found to be significantly associated with competitive advantages enjoyed by small businesses in Ghana. The study recommendations include improving the management capacity of small businesses in Ghana, especially in the area of strategic planning and also effectively resourcing and coordinating small business support institutions in Ghana to provide world class and seamless service to small businesses in Ghana. The study has also proposed measures for effective management of small businesses in Ghana so that they can perform their role as the prime mover of Ghana’s economy. Iqoqa Lolu cwaningo lwalubheka izindlela zokuphatha okuyizona kanye nokuthi imihlangano yokuhlonza inqubo yamafemu amancane eGhana ihamba kanjani ukuze aphathwe ngendlela efanele. Lolu cwaningo lwaqhutshwa kuMasipala weKumasi eGhana. Indlela yocwaningo ebheka ukusebenza kahle kwento yiyona eyalandelwa kulolu cwaningo. Abahlanganyeli bocwaningo ngosomabhizinisi nabaphathi bamabhizinisi eKumasi, eGhana. Lolu cwaningo lwasebenzisa indlela exubile yokukhiqiza imininingo. Ngale ndlela, imininingo eyizinombolo yakhiqizwa kusetshenziswa uhlakasikwele lwemibuzo kanti imininingo yekhwalithethivu yona yakhiqizwa kusetshenziswa inhlolovo nabahlanganyeli abangosomabhizinisi abancane nabaphathi bamabhizinisi. Indlela yokuqoka ngokungenhloso yasetshenziswa ukuthola amafemu amancane angama-500 kwase kusetshenziswa indlela yokuqoka ngenhloso ukuqoka abahlanganyeli abangosomabhizinisi abancane nabaphathi bamabhizinisi abayi-10 ababezohlatshwa ngemibuzo yenhlolovo. Imininingo yekhwantithethivu ihlaziywe kusetshenziswa indlela yokuhlaziya, iStatistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) ka-21, kwathi indlela yokuhlaziya ngokwengqikithi, iContent Analysis yona yasetshenziswa ukuhlaziya imininingo yekhwalithethivu. Imiphumela ebalulekile eyavela kulolu cwaningo ukuthi amabhizinisi amancane antula amava kwezokuphathwa kwawo kanti ezinye zezindlela zokukuphatha zinakho ukuletha ukukhula kwamabhizinisi amancane nokuwenza akwazi ukumelana nezimo zamabhizinisi amancane eGhana. Kule ndlela yokuphatha ngokuyikho amabhizinisi amancane, kuvelile ukuthi zozine izindlela zokuphatha amabhizinisi amancane, ngaphandle kwale ebheka indlela yokwenza izinto ngokuyikho, zonke zinakho ukwenza amabhizinisi amancane akhule. Zozine lezi zindlela zokuphatha amabhizinisi zatholakala zikwazi ukwenza amabhizinisi amancane akwazi ukumelana nezimo zamabhizinisi amancane eGhana. Lolu cwaningo luphakamisa ukuba kuthuthukiswe indlela yokuphathwa kwamabhizinisi amancane eGhana, ikhakhulukazi ekuhleweni kwamasu okulawula inkampani kanye nokuhlinzeka ngezidingo zokusebenza nokunikeza ukwesekwa kwezinhlaka zamabhizinisi ukuze iGhana ikwazi ukunikeza izidingo ezisezingeni lomhlaba kwezamabhizinisi amancane. Lolu cwaningo lunikezela ngamasu okwenza amabhizinisi amancane aphathwe kahle njengoba kuyiwona aphethe umcebo wezwe laseGhana kwezamabhizinisi.
The role of the DFIs in financing small businesses in South Africa.
(2017) Ntiso, Lisebo Agnes.; Phiri, Maxwell Agabu.
This study explored the role of the development finance institutions (DFIs) in financing small businesses as a strategic tool for growth and development of the small business sector in South Africa. Although much research has been done and many debates have been argued around the problem of access to finance for small businesses, much of the documentation focuses on commercial lending and little attention has been devoted to development financing. Therefore, this study focused on the role of the DFIs in financing small business, in addition to studying the extent to which development financing narrows the financing gap and impacts on the growth of small businesses. Along with an extensive literature study, this thesis adopted a sequential exploratory mixed-methods approach consisting of two phases. Phase 1, a qualitative approach, through in-depth face-to-face interviews with the DFIs at both national and provincial level, was carried out to explore the existing programmes at the DFIs and to determine the extent to which the DFIs impact on the growth of small businesses. Phase 2, a quantitative approach, was based on a survey to investigate the perceptions of the entrepreneurs in Tshwane regarding the extent to which the financing by the DFIs, as identified from Phase 1, impacts on the growth of their businesses against business growth strategies; how it bridges the financing gap; and how the concept of development finance is constructed from the entrepreneurs’ perspective. The results from the literature study show that as an important strategic growth tool, development financing should be aligned to the growth plans of small businesses. Small businesses should therefore understand their position in the industry life cycle, which along with strategic growth and financing options available for the particular position, will allow them to make informed decisions on business financial needs. The findings of Phase 1 of the empirical research illustrate that the DFIs have both financial (in the form of asset finance, grants, loans and procurement finance) and non-financial programmes aimed at the development of small businesses. The results further show that the DFIs consider the number of employment opportunities created; skills development and business survival as measures of growth and development. Through the use of businesses support services, the DFIs help small businesses to establish banking relationships with financial markets, which can later benefit small businesses for relationship lending. The results from the Phase 2 investigation indicate that small businesses perceive financing by the DFIs as an alternative financing option. However, loans provided by the DFIs are perceived, like commercial loans, as too expensive and negatively affect cash flow. The results further show that stokvels, although informal, are used as a development financing platform by SMMEs. Entrepreneurs would prefer the establishment of a small business development bank that will work exclusively with the SMME sector and that understands the needs thereof – as per the stokvel model. The results further show that there is a perception among entrepreneurs that development finance from the DFIs is not easily accessible to the entrepreneurs. The findings of both Phase 1 and 2 show that both the DFIs and the entrepreneurs do not share a common understanding of business growth strategies and the financing options suitable for the growth stages of the business life cycle.
A socio-technical understanding of information and communication technology (ICT) integration in education − a case study of three secondary schools in Mozambique.
(2017) Ginger, Lúcia Joaquim.; Govender, Irene.
The implementation and use of Information and Communication Technology is seen as a vital strategy for boosting the educational sector (Glowa & Goodell, 2016; Kamei, 2015; Tolica, Sevrani, & Gorica, 2015). The integration of technology in education is associated with the promise of enhancing quality and efficiency in teaching and learning activities, particularly in developing countries. Monitoring and assessing the extent to which technology is integrated into the education system, so as to maximize the outcomes, affects decision-making processes. Moreover, the effective implementation of technology in the education sector must align with the contextual background, which involves political, cultural, technical, and social entities. An understanding of technology implementation in which the socio-technical context influences the acceptance and usage of technology is limited in Mozambique. A key aim of this thesis is to understand the effective implementation and use of technology in secondary schools in Mozambique, which is a developing country. In order to gain insight into the implications of this use, a blend of Actor Network Theory (ANT) and elements of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) have been employed to evaluate the process of technology integration into the education system as a package, in which the mutual dependence between the social and technical is highlighted. Maputo province in Mozambique was chosen as the site for this research. Both qualitative and quantitative data approaches were employed. Empirical data was drawn from three public secondary schools from different localities that comprise the research case study. For the contextualization of the research topic, data were collected by employing interview-based case studies, document analysis, observation, and a questionnaire-based survey to complement and explore the views of students and teachers. The findings revealed that technology implementation in secondary schools is a dynamic process which is impacted either positively or negatively by the surrounding contextual situation. The study emphasizes that the role of non-human actors such as the ICT curriculum guide, the time- table and the schools’ basic infrastructure and its relationship with human actors, such as the heads of schools, teachers, and students, is gradually shaped by technology and its related network entities. Therefore, acceptance and use of technology in the education system may be observed through a successful translation of technology into schoolwork practices. The thesis hopes to contribute to the theoretically based framework by providing an alternative perspective to research technology implementation in education, in which socio-technical assumptions are considered. The thesis captured salient actors in the integration of technology, both human and non-human, relevant to user acceptance and use of technology.
A conceptual framework for teaching and learning entrepreneurship in universities in South-West Nigeria.
(2017) Fayomi, Ezekiel Jide.; Fields, Ziska.
The process of repositioning an education system in a manner that is responsive to the needs of the learners as well as the society at large is an emerging global issue in entrepreneurial research. This is because the quest for developing an entrepreneurial knowledge and skills within a classroom environment is found to be complex and full of several challenges. Previous studies have established the problem of a mismatch between the curriculum, delivery approach and learning outcomes. As a result, making the conventional learning model more innovative in a way that the intellectual capacity of graduates is promoted, has recently become an area of concerted interest among researchers. This study determined the significance of teaching and learning methods in entrepreneurship. The study also determined the current school practices in the context of teaching and learning entrepreneurship. Other innovations in teaching and learning methods from empirical evidence in entrepreneurial research were also determined in the context of university-level training in entrepreneurship. The significance of experiential learning strategies compared with the formal model of learning provides learners with more motivation for establishing business enterprises. Recent studies suggest that such innovation in higher education institutions (HEIs) boosts entrepreneurial intention, attitude, and behaviour of a potential or nascent generation of entrepreneurs. This study explores the potential embedded in blended learning model, which supports the integration of arrays of learning techniques, to validate a scientific framework for sustainable entrepreneurship training and development. By triangulating data collection techniques, questionnaires were administered to a sample of seven hundred and one (701) respondents comprising undergraduate and post-graduate students and lecturers of three selected universities in South-West, Nigeria using stratified and systematic sampling techniques. A response rate of 94.86% was achieved. In-depth interviews were also conducted with nine (9) senior academic planning experts in the universities. Advanced total content analysis (TCA) of the qualitative data and descriptive statistics including Pearson’s correlation, t-tests and regression analyses of the quantitative data at the 0.05 level of significance, were used to address the research objectives using SPSS (version 23). A significant positive correlation between delivery strategies, institutional framework and entrepreneurial intentions was established. The traditional learning model and the mindsets to seek after remunerative employment (r = 0.151, p<.0005) were found to be positively related. The study concludes that the pedagogical blend of regular academic activity and some strategic standalone learning activities have significant positive influence on entrepreneurial intentions. The implication is that only delivery approaches preferred by the entrepreneurial education stakeholders (students, lecturers, and academic planning experts), could drive entrepreneurial desirability and intention in HEIs. Such practices appear to have remained a challenge in most HEIs in the developing nations around the world.
A business model to improve the management and value creation of renewable independent power producer plants in South Africa.
(2018) Khonjelwayo, Bongani.; Fields, Ziska.
ABSTRACT The study proposes a renewable Independent Power Producer (IPP) business model. The model is a framework that identifies a number of business activities that need to be performed by managers in order to ensure that a IPPs business yields value for the shareholders and stakeholders. The main objective of the study was to propose an IPP business model by examining the various inputs, business processes and activities in an IPP plant that are designed to yield value to shareholders through effective and efficient management of resources. The study is important because IPPs are exposed to numerous business risks and challenges. These include construction risks, such as the risks of cost overruns and contractor underperformance. There are also operational, market and political risks to which IPPs are exposed. Additionally, existing business models don’t sufficiently capture the business risks that renewable IPPs are exposed to. These include market, technology, reputation and risks of change in legislation. This study was conducted in two stages. The first stage was conducted through interviews with managerial employees of the first 40 IPP companies that were successful bidders of the Renewable IPP Programme of the Department of Energy (REIPPP). The second stage of data collection was through a survey questionnaire to test themes and items that will be included in the proposed business model. The survey questionnaire findings were used to analyse the importance of each variable in order to make a decision whether to include it in the proposed business model. The main findings of the study are that the renewable IPP business model consists of a number of unique components which represent the chose inputs, business activities, outputs and outcomes that can be used by an IPP businesses to deliver value to its shareholders and stakeholders. These components consists of a number of themes relating to managerial activities should be executed to improve the management of IPPs, reduce business risks and create value the renewable IPPs in South Africa. Some of the inputs include pre-investment activities, post-investment activities, Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) management, grid management, planning and executing operations and maintenance (O&M) activities. iv The study succeeded in collecting and contextualising the experiences of new IPPs and linking those to relevant business sector trends. The findings of this study make a contribution towards the existing body of knowledge in the fields of management as well as energy studies. One of the research gaps emanating from this study is that there is insufficient empirical research to understand the components of business models as a managerial concept. This study makes a contribution towards closing these gaps. The study also makes a contribution in the academic knowledge in the subject of business models by expanding on the knowledge about the components of business models and their importance as a management tool. The proposed business model is presented as an original contribution to the management of IPPs, based on empirical data collected from IPPs operating in South Africa. From a management point of view, the components of the business model can be used as a guideline for business management and improvement.
The influence of supply chain management on service delivery in KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport.
(2017) Dlamini, Cynthia Vuyisile.; Bozas, A.R.
Supply chain management is the tool that was introduced by government to ensure that services are delivered effectively and efficiently through citizens of the country. Goods and services are provided to serve the interest of the people to deal with macroeconomic factors such as unemployment, poverty eradication, economic growth, health and education. The Department of Transport’s core functions are to construct, repair and maintain the provincial road network, as well as plan, regulate and provide an integrated transportation system. The Department is also responsible for managing road traffic systems. In conducting its business, the Department should ensure that it creates job opportunities and develops human resources and communities in support of the provincial growth and development plan. Supply chain management is the vehicle that will drive the department in fulfilling its mandate. If service delivery is compromised, the country could face huge protests, which often result in vandalising of the infrastructure that is very costly to the state. Supply chain management plays a crucial role in influencing service delivery. Hence, the decision to conduct this study to explore the influence of supply chain management on service delivery at KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport. Non-probability sampling, the purposive sampling method, was used to select 15 participants. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were used to generate data from participants to understand the phenomenon under the study. This data collection technique gave the researcher an opportunity to follow up on interesting issues that emerged during the interviews and it also enables valuable information to be gained through probing the participants. Data collected was analysed using a thematic method. Findings revealed that proper planning is very important for linking demand management with the budget available. Accountability and responsibility is important when making decisions that will compromise service delivery. Supply chain management must be implemented to yield the results that will benefit all the stakeholders and necessary precautions should be taken to eliminate fruitless and wasteful expenditure.
The perceived impact of management styles on employee job satisfaction and organisational commitment: a case study of Hulamin, Pietermaritzburg.
(2022) Nxumalo, Mbalenhle Mandisa.; Gamede, Vangeli Wiseman.
This study, which drew on the view that the management style that a manager uses to direct their employees plays a vital role in ensuring employee satisfaction with their jobs and decisions to commit or not to their organisations, investigated the impact of management styles on employee job satisfaction and organisational commitment. The study used a quantitative research approach in which three variables were tested using job satisfaction as a moderating factor. The study used a questionnaire that had eight Likert-scaled sections numbered from B to I with each section consisting of items that address a specific measurement or construct to collect data from 242 employees at Hu- lamin, Pietermaritzburg. The response rate was 97 percent. The reliability of these constructs was analysed using Chronbach’s Alpha statistic. The study findings revealed that not all management styles impact job satisfaction and organisational commitment. The autocratic management style had a significant negative impact on organisational commitment without job satisfaction as a moderating factor and with job satisfaction as a moderating factor. The democratic management style had a significant positive impact on organisational commitment in the absence of job satisfaction as a moderating factor and with job satisfaction as a moderating factor. It was discovered that the laissez-faire management style can be subdivided into two categories, which comprise of negative attitudes (-) and positive attitudes (+). The laissez-faire management style (-) had no significant impact on organisational commitment in the absence of job satisfaction as a moderating factor and still had no significant impact on organisational commitment with job satisfaction as a moderating factor. Job satisfaction had a significant positive impact on organisational commitment, but its presence in the regression model did not significantly affect the impact of both the laissez-faire(-) and laissez-faire(+) aspects of the laissez-faire management style on organisational commitment. The paternalistic style of management was found to have a significant positive impact on organisational commitment in the absence of job satisfaction as a moderating factor and still had no significant impact on organisational commitment with job satisfaction as a moderating factor. The persuasive management style had a significant negative impact on organisa- tional commitment without the moderating effects of job satisfaction. However, in the presence of job satisfaction, the persuasive management style had no significant impact on organisational commitment. As a result, job satisfaction had a significant moderating effect on the impact of the persuasive management style on organisational commitment. The study findings have implications for practice in organisations, organisational policy formulation and research focusing on the determinants for employee commitment in organisations.
Brand naming for black owned fast moving consumer goods-small medium and micro enterprises in the KZN province: grounded theory approach.
(2022) Kunene, Lindiwe Nqobile.; Phiri, Maxwell Agabu.; Mbhele, Thokozani Patmond.
Brand names influence consumers’ purchase decisions and the success of Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) depends on strong brand names. Black-owned Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa in the FMCG industry struggle to compete with established brands, partly due to inadequate brand name choices. In the province of KwaZulu-Natal, as in the rest of South Africa, SMMEs are at the heart of the economic development agenda and FMCG industries are a significant part of this strategy. It is argued that FMCG-SMMEs can accelerate economic growth as they provide essential goods, on-demand at all times, even during pandemics like COVID-19 and in the face of poverty. This study sought to identify the brand naming practices applied by black-owned FMCG-SMMEs without being influenced by the expectations of existing, usually Western brand naming theories. Exploratory qualitative research methods were employed and Grounded Theory (GT) was used to create theories to define brand naming by black-owned FMCG-SMMEs in KwaZulu-Natal. Saturation was employed to set the parameters for the sample size. Data was collected by means of open-ended interviews and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Data collection was guided by four objectives, namely, brand naming processes; strategies employed to select brand names; brand linguistic considerations including the use of African languages; and the socio-economic dimensions of the brand naming process. The study identified five steps in brand naming that are different from the Euro-American steps and similar to some East Asian steps. The seven strategies adopted by the FMCG-SMMEs included dimensions not commonly used in the West, including brand name motivation, promoting the family legacy in the form of selfnymic and childnymic practices, black economic consciousness and universality. Inrelation to linguistics, the study identified the use of the letter ‘d’ plosive, sound, semantics and fictitious words to define the role of language and brand naming by black-owned FMCG-SMMEs. In terms of socio-economic factors, it established that education and training programmes, as well as previous experience in a start-up business or as an employee influenced the brand naming practices of black-owned FMCG-SMMEs in KwaZulu-Natal.
A framework for the adoption of digital terrestrial television - the case of eThekwini Municipality. Uhlaka Lokutholwa Kwe-Digital Terrestrial Umabonakude - Udaba lukaMasipala weTheku.
(2022) Mabaso, Brian George.; McArthur, Brian Walter.; Naidoo, Karunagaran.
Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) brings many benefits to viewers compared to regular analogue televisions. Although many countries around the world introduced DTT with such benefits in mind, the rates of DTT adoption have been slow compared to other developing nations, and consequently, many countries, including South Africa, had to postpone the analogue switch-off date. Given the lagging consumer adoption of DTT in eThekwini Municipality, The purpose of this study is to apply the UTAUT model in predicting the citizens’ intention to adopt DTT and to determine the possible reasons for the slow adoption of DTT in eThekwini Municipality. This study is exploratory and employs a mixed methods approach, combining a quantitative approach using a survey questionnaire as a data collection tool, and a qualitative research approach, using interviews to collect data from industry experts. A total of 138 out of 267 respondents participated in the quantitative study, resulting in a 52% response rate, while 10 industry experts were interviewed as part of the qualitative study. The structural equation model (SEM) was employed to measure and analyse the relationships of observed values and latent variables, resulting in a new developed model. The findings indicate that the effect of the moderator variables on the relationship between the exogenous constructs and the dependent variable was found not to have a significant impact. The exogenous constructs of the UTAUT model that were investigated are Performance expectancy, The results from the quantitative study showed that there was a positive and significant relationship between the exogenous construct constructs and the behavioural intention to adopt, meaning that the citizens have intention to adopt DTT if it is made available. The qualitative results showed that leadership instability, policy inconsistencies, political interference and self-serving interest from some stakeholders were some of the factors behind the slow adoption of DTT. Iqoqa: I-Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) inosizo olukhulu kubabukeli uma kuqhathaniswa nohlobo lomabunakude abayi-analogue. Nakuba amazwe amaningi emhlabeni ethula lolu hlobo lwe-DDT emazweni awo ngoba elandela lezi zinto eziningi ezitholakalayo, amazinga okwamukela i-DTT asephansi kabi uma kuqhathaniswa nokwasemazweni asathuthuka kangangokuthi elaseNingizimu Afrika sekukaningi lihlehlisa usuku lokucima uhlelo lwe-analogue. Ngenxa yokulibala kwabanikazi bomabonakude ukuthi bashintshele ku-DTT ezindaweni zikaMasipala waseThekwini lolu cwaningo luhlose ukusebenzisa imodeli i-UTAUT ekuzameni ukuhlonza ngezinhloso zezakhamuzi ekuthatheni i-DTT kanye nokuthola izizathu okuyizona ezibangela ukuthi kuthathe kancane ukwamukelwa kwalolu hlelo lwe-DTT eThekwini. Lolu wucwaningo oluhlolayo futhi lusebenzisa indlela engxube luyihlanganisa neyikhwantithethivu. Ekuqoqeni imininingo lusebenzisa uhlu lwemibuzo yesaveyi bese kuthi ngokwendlela yokucwaninga eyikhwalithethivu lusebenzisa izinhlolomibono ekuqoqeni imininingo kochwepheshe bakule mboni. Kwababezophendula imibuzo abangama-267 bayi-138 sebebonke ababamba iqhaza ocwaningweni oluyikhwalithethivu, okusho ukuthi izinga lalabo abaphendula lingama-52%, kanti kwabuzwa imibuzo kochwepheshe bakule mboni abayi-10 kuyo le ngxenye eyikhwalitheyithivu. Kwasetshenziswa i-structural equation model (SEM) ekuhloleni nasekuhlaziyeni ubudlelwano bamagugu abonakalayo kanye namavariyebuli acashile ukuze kuthuthukiswe imodeli entsha. Imiphumela iveza ukuthi umthelela wamavariyebuli aziwa ngele-moderator variables ebudlelwaneni obuphakathi kwezincazelokuzakhela eziqhamuka ngaphandle kanye nevariyebuli encikile wakhombisa ukuba namandla amakhulu. Izincazelokuzakhela zangaphandle zemodeli i-UTAUT ezaphenywa zaba ngezokusebenza okulindelekile. Imiphumela yocwaningo oluyikhwantithethivu yaveza ukuthi kunobudlelwane obuhle nobukhulu phakathi kwezincazelokuzakhela zangaphandle kanye nokuzimisela ukwamukela, okuchaza ukuthi izakhamizi zizimisele ukwamukela i-DTT uma isitholakala. Imiphumela eyikhwalithethivu yaveza ukuthi ukungazinzi kobuhloli, izinqubomgomo ezishintsha njalo, ukugxambukela kwezombusazwe kanye nokuba ogombelakwesakhe kwalabo abangababambiqhaza kungezinye zezimo ezidala ukwamukeleka kwe-DTT ngendlela ehamba kancane kakhulu. Imiphumela yalolu cwaningo inemithelela eminingi kulabo abenza izinqubomgomo kanye nabasakazi kanti ingabhekiswa kakhulu ezakhamizini ngoba imininingo yesampula yayiqoqwa ezinkundleni zokuxhumana, okuyinto eyayivalela ngaphandle labo emiphakathini abangenayo indlela yokusebenzisa lezi zinkundla zokuxhumana. Imiphumela yalolu cwaningo yenezezela kwinjulalwazi ngalezi zindlela ezilandelayo: imodeli i-UTAUT yenezezelwa ngolwazi lobuchwepheshe njengencazelokuzakhela eyengeziwe kanti ibuye yenze neziphakamiso kulabo abathuthukisa izinqubomgomo.
The relationship between market efficiency and performance : the Nigerian banking sector=Ubudlelwane phakathi kokusebenza kahle kwezi makethe kanye nemiphumela yokusebenza: umkhakha wezamabhange waseNigeria.
(2022) Lisoyi, Benjamin Oludotun.; Naidoo, Vannie.
The relationships between market efficiency and performance are of relevance in Nigeria, but they remain controversial. Hence, this study examined the relationships between banking market efficiency and bank performance between 2011 and 2018. Specifically, the study investigated whether relationships exist between product marketing strategies employed by commercial banks; internal marketing; market orientations; employees’ performance; commercial bank’s competitiveness and performance. The purpose of this study is to contribute further evidence on bank efficiency by defining alternative efficiency measures and investigating the link between such measures and the market performance of financial institutions. The study adopted the survey research design. The population comprised of all male and female employees in all twenty-one (21) commercial banks operating in Nigeria. From sampling frame, there were 14, 084 employees as accessible population in the study. The sample consisted of 400 employees selected through stratified random sampling from six (6) commercial banks with Headquarters in Lagos metropolis. A highly structured self-developed research instrument tagged “Bank Market Efficiency Questionnaire (BMEQ)”was used in the study to collect data. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 was used for data set and presentation of the data. The descriptive (mean, standard deviation, percentile) and inferential statistics (Pearson Product Moment Correlation and Data Envelopment Analysis) were used to answer research questions and test hypotheses respectively. Data were presented in tables, charts and graphs to illustrate the findings of the study. Specifically, Data Envelopment Aficantlynalysis (DEA) statistical method was used to measure bank efficiency, while Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) statistical procedure was used to determine the relationship between product marketing strategies employed by commercial banks and their performance; the relationship between marketing efficiency and commercial bank’s performance; the relationship between internal marketing and market orientations of commercial banks; the relationship between internal marketing and employees’ performance in commercial banks; and the relationship between internal marketing and commercial bank’s competitiveness. The results showed that marketing efficiency ratio statistically significantly increased overtime. There was a significant relationship between product marketing strategies employed by commercial banks and their performance. Further, there was a significant relationship between marketing efficiency and commercial bank’s performance. The significant relationship between internal marketing and market orientations of commercial banks was identified. Similarly, there was a significant relationship between internal marketing and employees’ performance in commercial banks. Finally, there was a significant relationship between internal marketing and commercial bank’s competitiveness. The study concluded that market efficiency influences bank performance in the Nigerian banking sector, as marketing remains a veritable tool for attracting customers to buy into various banking services and products in the country. It was recommended that commercial banks should adopt internal marketing to improve bank performance in Nigeria. Iqoqa: Lo mqulu uhlaziya ubudlelwane phakathi kokuhwebelana kwangaphakathi kanye nomsebenzi wokwaneliseka kwabasebenzi kanye nokukhiqiza phakathi kwamabhenki ezimali eLagos eNigeria ngenhloso yokuthuthukisa izinga lokuhwelebelana kwangaphakathi kulo mkhakha. Uhlakamqondo locwaningo lobuhlobo phakathi kwezinto ezimbili kanye nendlela yocwaningozinombolo kusetshenzisiwe. Imininingo iqoqwe ngendlela yohlamibuzo okuzikhandelwe lona. Abahlanganyeli bahlanganisa abesilisa nabesifazane abakhethwe ngokuthanda abangama-348 abangabasebenzi basemabhange ezimali ezikhungweni ezintahthu zamabhange ezimali eLagos. Ukuchazwa kanye nokuhlobana kwezinombolo kusetshenzisiwe ukuhlaziya imininingo. Imiphumela iveze ubudlelwane obukhulu phakathi kokuhwebelana kwangaphakathi kanye nokwaneliseka kokusebenza kwabasebenzi kanye nokukhiqiza. Okunye futhi, izinga lokuhwebelana kwangaphakathi lithuthukise ukuqwashiseka kwabasebenzi ngezidingo zabathengi kanye nemivuzo yokuthengisa. Mayelana nale miphumela, kuyaphakanyiswa ukuthi amabhange ezimali abambe izinhlelo zokuhwebelana kwangaphakathi ezibhekene ngqo nabasebenzi ukuze kukhule ukwaneliseka kwabasebenzi kanye nokukhiqiza. Amagama Anqala: Abathengi Bangaphandle, Abathengi Bangaphakathi, Ukuhwebelana Kwangaphakathi, Ukwaneliseka, Ukukhiqiza.
Implementation of health management systems in Department of Health primary health care facilities in uMkhanyakude District, KwaZulu-Natal.
(2022) Kubheka, Zamanguni Fortunate.; Moshabela, Matlagolo Mosa.; McArthur, Brian Walter.
South Africa, as in many other countries, has had challenges attaining health outcomes, and has attributed this to weak health systems. Management strengthening has been prioritised as a critical entry point and core element towards strengthening the health system. Poor management of primary health care facilities has been identified as a major challenge to improving quality of health services. The study aimed to examine the role played by Operational Managers (OMs) on the implementation of health management systems at primary health care facilities in the uMkhanyakude Health District in the Province of KwaZulu-Natal. The World Health Organisation’s conceptual frameworks for health systems performance systems, General Systems theory and Contingency theory were used as lenses to support the study. This study was exploratory in nature, and conducted through qualitative research methodology wherein OMs and primary health care Supervisors/Managers as the line managers of OMs in 56 primary health care facilities in the KZN DoH, uMkhanyakude Health District were purposively selected and interviewed through semi-structured in-depth interviews. The findings included that most management decisions, including planning, budget planning, workforce planning, supply chain and financial management, are centralised and controlled at the sub-district level, hence OMs play an insignificant role. OMs are not involved in planning, budgeting, and management of expenditure, management of supply chain or maintenance. The inadequate support and mentorship, lack of management training, ineffective centralised management systems, shortage of staff and too many programmes make it impossible for OMs to successfully implement their management functions, leading to a weak health system. It is recommended that the inputs and suggestions of OMs must be sought or they must be partially involved in critical decision-making as they are responsible for management of operations at this level. A systemic thinking approach when formulating management strengthening interventions will ensure that the focus is on resolving challenges across all management components and will strengthen the entire health system.
Investigating predictors for the successful implementation of open innovation: a case of small and medium enterprises in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa=Ukuphenya iziqaguli ekuqalisweni ukusebenza okunempumelelo kombonokuziqambela ovulekile: Okucwaningwayo amabhizinisi amancane namaphakathi KwaZulu-Natali, eNingizimu Afrika.
(2022) Hlatywayo, Victor.; Williamson, Mervywn Kenneth.
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a major role in South Africa’s economic growth. These entities are faced with managerial issues that pose dangers to their survival. Open innovation (OI) emerged as a critical business strategy used predominately by large businesses to improve performance. It is defined as a distributed innovation process based on purposively managed knowledge flows across organisational boundaries, using pecuniary and nonpecuniary mechanisms compatible with the organisation’s business model. Studies shows that the OI concept is not widely used by SMEs in South Africa. Specifically, the study aimed at understanding whether internal knowledge, external knowledge, and strategic networks influence the successful implementation of OI in SMEs in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. A case study approach was used to study SMEs in Pietermaritzburg. Convergent parallel mixed methods approach was adopted where qualitative and quantitative methods were used to collect data. Purposive and convenience sampling were utilised as non-probability approaches to select participants from a sample of 260 SMEs owners, managers/supervisors, and employees. The findings indicated that there is correlation between internal knowledge, external knowledge, and strategic networks in influencing the successful implementation of OI in SMEs. The findings also identified dominant factors that affect full adaptation of OI by SMEs. The factors include lack of leadership, adaptation capacity, patent and motivation issues, lack of finance, and lack of collaboration. Given the findings of this study, SMEs are encouraged to embrace OI principles where collaborative and strategic partnerships are formed with other businesses to complement internal innovation processes for sustainable growth. Further research should be done to identify strategic and sustainable partnership models for the application of OI in SMEs. Government and policy makers are encouraged to craft and enact policies that incentivise and encourage SMEs partnerships through OI initiatives. Given the inter-relationships between internal knowledge, external knowledge, and strategic networks in predicting successful application of OI in SMEs, the study encourages SMEs owners to adopt OI to deal with failure rate and improve their innovation processes. Embracing OI will assist SMEs deal with sustainability issues as innovative processes and new partnerships are forged to boost operations. Iqoqa: Isendlalelo: Amabhizinisi amancane namaphakathi (ama-SME) abamba iqhaza elikhulu ekukhuleni komnotho eNingizimu Afrika. Lezi zingxenye zibhekene nezindaba zezimenenja ezibeka engozini ukusimama kwazo. IOpen Innovation (i-OI) iqubuka njengemiqondosu yebhizinisi elibucayi esetshenziswa ikakhulukazi emabhizinisini amakhulu ukuphucula insebenzo. Ucwaningo lukhombisa ukuthi umqondomsuka we-OI awusetshenziswa kakhulu ama-SME eNingizimu Afrika. Inhloso yocwaningo: Kunesidingo esinentshisekelo esicwaninga iziqaguli zokuqalisa ukusebenza okunempumelelo ze-OI kuma-SME KwaZulu-Natali, eNingizimu Afrika. Ikakhulukazi, ucwaningo luhlose ukuba kube nokuqonda ukuthi ulwazi lwangaphakathi, ulwazi lwangaphandle, nobuxhakaxhaka bemiqondosu enomthelela ekuqaliseni ukusebenza okuyimpumelelo kwe-OI kuma-SME KwaZulu-Natali, eNingizimu Afrika. Umumosakhiwo/Indlelakwenza ucwaningo/ Indlelasu: Indlelasu yocwaningonto yasetshenziswa ukubheka i-SME eMgungundlovu. Indlelasu yezindlelakwenza ucwaningo eziyindlelangxube eyinguqulakuqondanisa lapho kwasetshenziswa khona izindlela zekhwalithethivu nekhwantithethivu ukuqoqa imininingo. Kwathathwa amasampula ahlosiwe nasebenza ngendlela ngoba izindlelasu ezingaqaguleki zikhetha ababambiqhaza esampuleni elinabanikazi bama-SME abangama-260, izimenenja/izinduna, nabasebenzi. Imiphumela/Okutholakele: Okutholakele kukhombise ukuthi kunokuxhumana phakathi kolwazi lwangaphakathi, ulwazi lwangaphandle, nobuxhakaxhaka bemiqondosu enomthelela ekuqaliseni ukusebenza ngempumelelo ye-OI yama-SME. Okutholakele kuphinde kwakhombisa izinto eziqonelayo ezinomthelela wenguqulasimo egcwele ye-OI yama-SME. Izinto zifaka ukungabibikho kobuholi, umthamokukwazi ukufukamela, iphethenti nezindaba zokugqugquzela, ukuntuleka kwezimali, nokuncipha kwensebenziswano. Izincomo: Uma kubukwa okutholakele kulolu cwaningo, ama-SME agqugquzelwa ukuba afukamele imigomo ye-OI lapho ukubambisana kwensebenzelwanondawonye enomqondosu kwakhiwa namanye amabhizinisi ukunezezela izinhlelokusebenza nemizamokwakha yangaphakathi ukuba kube nokukhula okusimeme. Ucwaningo olwengeziwe kumele lwenziwe ukuhlonza amamodeli obambiswano olusimeme lokufaka izicelo ze-OI kuma-SME. Uhulumeni nabenzi bezinqubomgomo bagqugquzelwa ukwakha nokumisa izinqubomgomo ezifaka uxhaso nezigqugquzela ubambiswano lwama-SME ngemizamomibono ye-OI. Izinkomba zobumenenja: Uma kubhekwa ubudlelwano phakathi kolwazi lwangaphakathi, ulwazi lwangaphakathi, nobuxhakaxhaka obunemiqondosu ekuqaguleni ukufaka isicelo esiyimpumelelo se-OI kwi-SME, ucwaningo lugqugquzela abanikazi bama-SME ukuba kwemukelwe i-OI ukubhekana nesikalosilinganiso sokungaphumeleli nokuphucula izinhlelokusebenza kwemizamokusebenza. Ukufukamela i-OI kuzosiza ama-SME abhekane nezindaba zokusimama njengezinhlelokusebenza zemizamokwakhiwa nobumbanokubambisana olusha lwenziwelwa ukufukula imisebenzi. Amabinzana asemqoka: Ulwazi lwangaphandle; ulwazi lwangaphakathi; imizamokwenza evulelekile; ama-SME; ubuxhakaxhaka obunemiqondosu

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