Abstract
M.Com. (Business Management)
The purpose of this study is to show that local government as a
section of the public sector can contribute to the improvement of
productivity, and more specifically labour productivity, in South
Africa.
An empirical study was undertaken to determine the methods
applied by the Town Council of Alberton in order to improve
labour productivity to such an extent as to be awarded a Golden
National Productivity Award in 1987. Reference is made to the
application of principles re1evant to the improvement of labour
productivity as found in the literature.
The role of the National Productivity Institute with regard to
instruments for the improvement and measurement of productivity,
is discussed. The reasons for Alberton's success are identified,
the one being management's total commitment to the improvement of
productivity. The other being the staff's involvement in
productivity improvement and the fostering of their needs for
self-actualisation through participative management.
The Town Council of Alberton's achievements regarding the
improvement of labour productivity, are evaluated.
Recommendations are made for application by the Town Council of
Alberton specifically and local authorities in general.
Although the endeavours of the Town Council of Alberton to
improve labour productivity form the subject of this study, it is
assumed that this town council is not the only local authority to
have developed and implemented strategies for the improvement of
productivity.
This study concludes that local authorities are in a position to
contribute to economic growth and the creation of prosperity by
means of effective productivity management.