Abstract
M.B.A.
In this project, the researcher has investigated the factors relevant to competitiveness within the
South African Chemicals Industry with the purpose of determining a conceptual framework of the
strategic areas important for competitiveness in the South African Chemicals Industry.
The challenge of the research problem resided in the fact that this study required the formulation
of recommendations that would contribute to the development of competitive strategy for an
industry that is diverse and fragmented in its historical development, strategies employed,
markets served, technologies used, products manufactured and marketed, and scale of
production. An additional challenge was the proprietary and confidential nature of the technology
and strategies employed by individual firms within the industry. Given this paradigm, the
researcher relied upon qualitative research techniques to address the complexity presented by
the research problem.
Individual focus interviews were employed to collect data. The data was then analysed and
transcribed according to a specific protocol. Subsequently, the data was discussed and
compared to literature available on the subject.
Finally, conclusions were drawn and recommendations made which the researcher hopes make
a positive contribution to the body of knowledge available with which to tackle the formidable
problems facing the South African Chemicals Industry.