The interface between technology and service operations : a business process re-engineering model for variables that have impact on the adoption of electronic customer relationship management (ECRM) systems used in the medical device industry
- Authors: Seema, Khotso Emmanuel
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Human-computer interaction , Customer relations - Management , Electronic commerce , Medical instruments and apparatus - Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/481940 , uj:43685
- Description: Abstract: The advent of digital revolution has changed the traditional way of manging businesses with a focus on better customer relationship management using sophisticated management software. From customer loyalty to demanding customers, companies and organisations have upgraded their standard business processes through transformation and re-engineering for productivity improvement. This study examines the interface between technology and service operations with an emphasis on business process re-engineering model for variables that have impact on the adoption of electronic Customer Relationship Management (eCRM) systems used in the medical device industry in South Africa. This research uses the qualitative method for technology acceptance model, McKensey, SWOT and PESTEL analysis as well as the quantitative research method to statistically measure data collected from the interviews and questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analysis were used to assess the relationship and the degree of significance between research variables that were tested reliable and valid. Results showed that critical success factors that enable successful eCRM implementation involve management and employee commitment, IT infrastructure, User acceptance, business process redesign, project champion, change management and training. Research findings showed that 78.80% of the business performance behaviour is explained by all research variables namely the human factor 1, human factor 2, user-interface and usability, standard operating procedure and the training variables. Furthermore, only the human factor 2 and the standard operations procedure variables have a positive and significant relationship with the organisational performance. However, the ANOVA statistics showed that the contribution of all these variables at once remains significant for a successful implementation of the eCRM application system in the medical device industry. Although, it is an obligation for businesses to become fully digitalised to deliver quality and on-time services, observations showed that 65% of such project implementation fails because of no commitment from the top management, no employee or end-user’s contribution on the decisionmaking process, lack of team collaboration, no “As-Is” business procedures, constant training requirements, continuous system updates as well as the eCRM system limitations. However, the use of smart technologies is currently a “must” that companies have to adopt since customer experience is growing at a high speed. Based on the above-mentioned results, this study has built up a business process re-engineering model that will guide organisations in coping with the difficult process of new management software implementation while decreasing cost implications and thus ensure customer satisfaction as well as business efficiency. , M.Tech. (Operations Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Seema, Khotso Emmanuel
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Human-computer interaction , Customer relations - Management , Electronic commerce , Medical instruments and apparatus - Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/481940 , uj:43685
- Description: Abstract: The advent of digital revolution has changed the traditional way of manging businesses with a focus on better customer relationship management using sophisticated management software. From customer loyalty to demanding customers, companies and organisations have upgraded their standard business processes through transformation and re-engineering for productivity improvement. This study examines the interface between technology and service operations with an emphasis on business process re-engineering model for variables that have impact on the adoption of electronic Customer Relationship Management (eCRM) systems used in the medical device industry in South Africa. This research uses the qualitative method for technology acceptance model, McKensey, SWOT and PESTEL analysis as well as the quantitative research method to statistically measure data collected from the interviews and questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analysis were used to assess the relationship and the degree of significance between research variables that were tested reliable and valid. Results showed that critical success factors that enable successful eCRM implementation involve management and employee commitment, IT infrastructure, User acceptance, business process redesign, project champion, change management and training. Research findings showed that 78.80% of the business performance behaviour is explained by all research variables namely the human factor 1, human factor 2, user-interface and usability, standard operating procedure and the training variables. Furthermore, only the human factor 2 and the standard operations procedure variables have a positive and significant relationship with the organisational performance. However, the ANOVA statistics showed that the contribution of all these variables at once remains significant for a successful implementation of the eCRM application system in the medical device industry. Although, it is an obligation for businesses to become fully digitalised to deliver quality and on-time services, observations showed that 65% of such project implementation fails because of no commitment from the top management, no employee or end-user’s contribution on the decisionmaking process, lack of team collaboration, no “As-Is” business procedures, constant training requirements, continuous system updates as well as the eCRM system limitations. However, the use of smart technologies is currently a “must” that companies have to adopt since customer experience is growing at a high speed. Based on the above-mentioned results, this study has built up a business process re-engineering model that will guide organisations in coping with the difficult process of new management software implementation while decreasing cost implications and thus ensure customer satisfaction as well as business efficiency. , M.Tech. (Operations Management)
- Full Text:
Beyond cryptocurrencies : financial applications of blockchain technology
- Authors: Mpinyuri, Elton Batanai
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , Financial services industry - Technological innovations , Cryptocurrencies , Currency question
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/414295 , uj:34936
- Description: Abstract: This study examines the financial applications of blockchain technology beyond cryptocurrencies. Recent studies have addressed the regulatory issues and maturity of technological innovations in the context of cryptocurrencies, however, as the adoption of this technology in the financial environment proliferates, there is need to provide support for blockchain technology in advancing financial services and adding value in this ecosystem. By investigating the concepts of distributed ledger technologies, this study draws attention to the technology underlying blockchains; expanding the discussion about its challenges, implications and potential applications within the financial industry. This dissertation concludes on how applications of blockchain technology is still within its early stages and addresses the necessary changes in the financial ecosystem required to harness its potential. , M.Com. (Finance)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mpinyuri, Elton Batanai
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , Financial services industry - Technological innovations , Cryptocurrencies , Currency question
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/414295 , uj:34936
- Description: Abstract: This study examines the financial applications of blockchain technology beyond cryptocurrencies. Recent studies have addressed the regulatory issues and maturity of technological innovations in the context of cryptocurrencies, however, as the adoption of this technology in the financial environment proliferates, there is need to provide support for blockchain technology in advancing financial services and adding value in this ecosystem. By investigating the concepts of distributed ledger technologies, this study draws attention to the technology underlying blockchains; expanding the discussion about its challenges, implications and potential applications within the financial industry. This dissertation concludes on how applications of blockchain technology is still within its early stages and addresses the necessary changes in the financial ecosystem required to harness its potential. , M.Com. (Finance)
- Full Text:
Taxation of electronic commerce : the impact of the OECD BEPS actions on the digital economy
- Authors: Bessenger, Melissa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electronic commerce - Taxation , Electronic commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/415031 , uj:35025
- Description: Abstract: Traditional business models have been revolutionised by the internet. It is no longer necessary for companies to have a physical presence in the countries where they conduct business. Without a physical presence, however, the current international tax system has no way of fairly taxing the digital income earned in the source country. The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of the OECD base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS) Action Report in efficiently taxing the digital economy. The OECD project on BEPS, introduced in 2015, proposed recommendations on domestic law and double tax convention measures to address, amongst others, the tax challenges of the digital economy. The study examines the background and history that led to the OECD BEPS project as well as the OECD’s intention behind the project. The BEPS project marks a significant shift in the amount of taxes paid by digital multinational companies, which had hitherto not been under any legal obligation to pay higher taxes. The study assesses the potential impact of these OECD BEPS recommendations, specifically focusing on taxation of the digital economy, and determines whether these recommendations will effectively address the tax challenges of the digital economy. , M.Com.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bessenger, Melissa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Electronic commerce - Taxation , Electronic commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/415031 , uj:35025
- Description: Abstract: Traditional business models have been revolutionised by the internet. It is no longer necessary for companies to have a physical presence in the countries where they conduct business. Without a physical presence, however, the current international tax system has no way of fairly taxing the digital income earned in the source country. The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of the OECD base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS) Action Report in efficiently taxing the digital economy. The OECD project on BEPS, introduced in 2015, proposed recommendations on domestic law and double tax convention measures to address, amongst others, the tax challenges of the digital economy. The study examines the background and history that led to the OECD BEPS project as well as the OECD’s intention behind the project. The BEPS project marks a significant shift in the amount of taxes paid by digital multinational companies, which had hitherto not been under any legal obligation to pay higher taxes. The study assesses the potential impact of these OECD BEPS recommendations, specifically focusing on taxation of the digital economy, and determines whether these recommendations will effectively address the tax challenges of the digital economy. , M.Com.
- Full Text:
Challenges faced in last mile e-grocery Delivery : a consumer perspective
- Authors: Brink, Beatrix Sarette
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Business logistics - South Africa - Management , Retail trade - Customer services , Electronic commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/295733 , uj:32211
- Description: Abstract: Last mile distribution has become one of the most important tasks within the supply chain, which can enable organisations to obtain a competitive advantage within the online retail market. Online grocery shopping is a new method of buying grocery products for household consumption over the Internet and is not yet a fully developed sector in this country, thus creating an opportunity for investigating this phenomenon from a South African context. The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges faced in last mile e-commerce grocery delivery from a consumer perspective to determine appropriate improvement strategies that can be recommended for online grocery retailers. The study specifically focussed on: evaluating the most preferred last mile delivery option for consumers’ of online grocery purchases; the factors that determine last mile delivery choices for South African consumers’ of online grocery purchases; the service level expectations of South African consumers’; and whether there is a relationship between last mile logistics alternatives and the decision of consumers’ to purchase groceries online. The population of this study comprised Gauteng grocery shoppers, and data was collected by means of an online questionnaire. The results of the research indicated that the most preferred method of last mile delivery was attended home / work delivery. Consumers’ further indicated that the most important factor when selecting an online delivery service was the cost of delivery. The research revealed that consumers’ have high service level expectations that, in turn, increase the challenges faced by online grocery retailers to fulfil customer demand successfully. Most respondents indicated that the delivery / collection mode available will affect their final decision to purchase groceries online, which consequently indicated that there was a definite relationship between last mile logistics alternatives and the decision of the consumer to purchase groceries online. The objectives of this study have been realised and the results add value to the body of knowledge in the challenges faced in last mile grocery delivery from a consumer perspective. This study was concluded with recommendations for future research. , M.Com. (Logistics Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Brink, Beatrix Sarette
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Business logistics - South Africa - Management , Retail trade - Customer services , Electronic commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/295733 , uj:32211
- Description: Abstract: Last mile distribution has become one of the most important tasks within the supply chain, which can enable organisations to obtain a competitive advantage within the online retail market. Online grocery shopping is a new method of buying grocery products for household consumption over the Internet and is not yet a fully developed sector in this country, thus creating an opportunity for investigating this phenomenon from a South African context. The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges faced in last mile e-commerce grocery delivery from a consumer perspective to determine appropriate improvement strategies that can be recommended for online grocery retailers. The study specifically focussed on: evaluating the most preferred last mile delivery option for consumers’ of online grocery purchases; the factors that determine last mile delivery choices for South African consumers’ of online grocery purchases; the service level expectations of South African consumers’; and whether there is a relationship between last mile logistics alternatives and the decision of consumers’ to purchase groceries online. The population of this study comprised Gauteng grocery shoppers, and data was collected by means of an online questionnaire. The results of the research indicated that the most preferred method of last mile delivery was attended home / work delivery. Consumers’ further indicated that the most important factor when selecting an online delivery service was the cost of delivery. The research revealed that consumers’ have high service level expectations that, in turn, increase the challenges faced by online grocery retailers to fulfil customer demand successfully. Most respondents indicated that the delivery / collection mode available will affect their final decision to purchase groceries online, which consequently indicated that there was a definite relationship between last mile logistics alternatives and the decision of the consumer to purchase groceries online. The objectives of this study have been realised and the results add value to the body of knowledge in the challenges faced in last mile grocery delivery from a consumer perspective. This study was concluded with recommendations for future research. , M.Com. (Logistics Management)
- Full Text:
Social media content marketing : a case of Facebook in the South African telematics industry
- Authors: Chittiah, Delisha Nengal
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Facebook (Electronic resource) , Social networks - Computer network resources , Social media - Marketing , Electronic commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/295753 , uj:32213
- Description: Abstract: Social media has risen to become an essential platform for facilitating and encouraging interaction between consumers and brands within the telematics industry, through the use of meaningful content. Moreover, social media presents a reliable platform for brands to share information timeously to targeted audiences, as well as a tool to drive both brand awareness and online conversions. In order to communicate effectively, brands are encouraged to employ content marketing techniques that make it alluring for consumers to remain connected digitally with brands. Resultantly, effective digital content plays a central role in driving customer engagement on social media. A proper understanding of the type of content that active consumers engage favourably with online will allow brands in the telematics industry to deliver effective content and make proper use of the functionality available on social media. However, research reveals ambiguities regarding the effective use of these platforms in terms of the nature of online content perceived valuable by consumers and the effective use thereof by organisations. Furthermore, only 39% of brands have an explicit content marketing plan, with a reported 60% of content focussed predominantly on product messages that have been described as “dull and irrelevant” – indicative of a possible perception gap that may exist in the value and content gratification factors as perceived by different groups such as marketers and consumers. As a result, the study sought to advance understanding of challenges faced by organisations within the telematics industry in South Africa. Moreover, address the lack of research in this area, to aid effective decision-making and help ensure the correct use of social media platforms with sought-after content. The main purpose of this study is to develop digital content best practices in the telematics industry, by analysing the content that marketing professionals in this industry provide on social media platforms, and consumers’ respective responses and behaviours towards this content. Shaped by perceptions of the participants and aimed to understand the meaning behind and the social interactions between humans the study undertakes an interpretive stance, coupled with netnography, which allows the researcher to understand people and interpret everyday occurrences or experiences... , M.Com. (Business Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chittiah, Delisha Nengal
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Facebook (Electronic resource) , Social networks - Computer network resources , Social media - Marketing , Electronic commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/295753 , uj:32213
- Description: Abstract: Social media has risen to become an essential platform for facilitating and encouraging interaction between consumers and brands within the telematics industry, through the use of meaningful content. Moreover, social media presents a reliable platform for brands to share information timeously to targeted audiences, as well as a tool to drive both brand awareness and online conversions. In order to communicate effectively, brands are encouraged to employ content marketing techniques that make it alluring for consumers to remain connected digitally with brands. Resultantly, effective digital content plays a central role in driving customer engagement on social media. A proper understanding of the type of content that active consumers engage favourably with online will allow brands in the telematics industry to deliver effective content and make proper use of the functionality available on social media. However, research reveals ambiguities regarding the effective use of these platforms in terms of the nature of online content perceived valuable by consumers and the effective use thereof by organisations. Furthermore, only 39% of brands have an explicit content marketing plan, with a reported 60% of content focussed predominantly on product messages that have been described as “dull and irrelevant” – indicative of a possible perception gap that may exist in the value and content gratification factors as perceived by different groups such as marketers and consumers. As a result, the study sought to advance understanding of challenges faced by organisations within the telematics industry in South Africa. Moreover, address the lack of research in this area, to aid effective decision-making and help ensure the correct use of social media platforms with sought-after content. The main purpose of this study is to develop digital content best practices in the telematics industry, by analysing the content that marketing professionals in this industry provide on social media platforms, and consumers’ respective responses and behaviours towards this content. Shaped by perceptions of the participants and aimed to understand the meaning behind and the social interactions between humans the study undertakes an interpretive stance, coupled with netnography, which allows the researcher to understand people and interpret everyday occurrences or experiences... , M.Com. (Business Management)
- Full Text:
The acceptance and use of mobile banking apps among millennials in Gauteng, South Africa
- Authors: Thusi, Philile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Banks and banking, Mobile , Financial institutions - Customer services , Mobile communication systems , Electronic commerce , Financial services industry - Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/402903 , uj:33738
- Description: Abstract : Mobile banking apps are one of the recent improvements in the mobile banking innovation domain that retail banks are promoting to their customers. Research into mobile banking app user behaviour is important to promoting a rapid acceptance of this banking innovation. Despite this, only limited studies have addressed this issue, particularly from the standpoint of emerging nations such as South Africa. Using the Unified Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT 2) model as its theoretical background, this research analysed the drivers of and barriers to mobile banking app acceptance and use among millennials in Gauteng, South Africa. A survey strategy using a self-administered questionnaire was applied to obtain 352 usable responses from customers of the five major South African retail banks (Capitec, Absa, FNB, Nedbank, and Standard Bank). A partial least squares structural equation modelling technique using SmartPLS version 3 was used to assess the measurement model properties and to test the hypotheses proposed for the study. The findings suggest that performance expectancy a, facilitating conditions are significant drivers of millennials’ behavioural intention to use mobile banking apps. Furthermore, perceived risk was found to be a critical barrier to millennials’ behavioural intention to accept mobile banking apps; but, surprisingly, the impact of perceived risk on the actual use of mobile banking apps was found to be insignificant, thus suggesting that perceived risk is not a deterrent to mobile banking app use among millennials who currently use the innovation. Moreover, the actual use of mobile banking apps was found be strongly and positively associated with behavioural intention and facilitating conditions. The findings of this study contribute to the limited literature that currently exists on mobile banking apps acceptance in emerging countries such as South Africa. In addition, this study validates the UTAUT2 in a different country (South Africa), in a different age group (millennials), and in a different technology domain (mobile banking apps), and thus contributes towards cross-cultural validation of the UTAUT2 beyond its original setting. , M.Com. (Marketing Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Thusi, Philile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Banks and banking, Mobile , Financial institutions - Customer services , Mobile communication systems , Electronic commerce , Financial services industry - Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/402903 , uj:33738
- Description: Abstract : Mobile banking apps are one of the recent improvements in the mobile banking innovation domain that retail banks are promoting to their customers. Research into mobile banking app user behaviour is important to promoting a rapid acceptance of this banking innovation. Despite this, only limited studies have addressed this issue, particularly from the standpoint of emerging nations such as South Africa. Using the Unified Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT 2) model as its theoretical background, this research analysed the drivers of and barriers to mobile banking app acceptance and use among millennials in Gauteng, South Africa. A survey strategy using a self-administered questionnaire was applied to obtain 352 usable responses from customers of the five major South African retail banks (Capitec, Absa, FNB, Nedbank, and Standard Bank). A partial least squares structural equation modelling technique using SmartPLS version 3 was used to assess the measurement model properties and to test the hypotheses proposed for the study. The findings suggest that performance expectancy a, facilitating conditions are significant drivers of millennials’ behavioural intention to use mobile banking apps. Furthermore, perceived risk was found to be a critical barrier to millennials’ behavioural intention to accept mobile banking apps; but, surprisingly, the impact of perceived risk on the actual use of mobile banking apps was found to be insignificant, thus suggesting that perceived risk is not a deterrent to mobile banking app use among millennials who currently use the innovation. Moreover, the actual use of mobile banking apps was found be strongly and positively associated with behavioural intention and facilitating conditions. The findings of this study contribute to the limited literature that currently exists on mobile banking apps acceptance in emerging countries such as South Africa. In addition, this study validates the UTAUT2 in a different country (South Africa), in a different age group (millennials), and in a different technology domain (mobile banking apps), and thus contributes towards cross-cultural validation of the UTAUT2 beyond its original setting. , M.Com. (Marketing Management)
- Full Text:
The blockchain technology and bitcoin : the way forward, or a recipe for financial disaster?
- Authors: Khan, Benazia
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Blockchains (Databases) , Bitcoin , Electronic commerce , Financial services industry - Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/270844 , uj:28795
- Description: LL.M. (Banking Law) , Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Khan, Benazia
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Blockchains (Databases) , Bitcoin , Electronic commerce , Financial services industry - Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/270844 , uj:28795
- Description: LL.M. (Banking Law) , Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract.
- Full Text:
The protection of South African consumers transacting in the electronic space
- Mashabela, Motumisheng Asnath Nthame
- Authors: Mashabela, Motumisheng Asnath Nthame
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Consumer protection , Electronic commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/270739 , uj:28784
- Description: Abstract: This study considers the adequacy of consumer protection measures in the South African legislative framework, particularly where electronic contracts are concerned. A large majority of South African consumers are choosing to transact in the electronic space for reasons related to convenience, the wide range of product availability, as well as lower prices. However, the reality of e-contracting is that the consumer is not able to physically examine the product prior to making the decision to purchase it. Parties to e-contracts share personal information while transacting, and require that this information be protected against any unauthorised access. There have been legislative developments in South Africa that aim to protect parties to electronic contracts. However, even with the legislation in place, it is still important to consider if it practically meets the needs of society and adequately protects parties to electronic contracts. , LL.M.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mashabela, Motumisheng Asnath Nthame
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Consumer protection , Electronic commerce
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/270739 , uj:28784
- Description: Abstract: This study considers the adequacy of consumer protection measures in the South African legislative framework, particularly where electronic contracts are concerned. A large majority of South African consumers are choosing to transact in the electronic space for reasons related to convenience, the wide range of product availability, as well as lower prices. However, the reality of e-contracting is that the consumer is not able to physically examine the product prior to making the decision to purchase it. Parties to e-contracts share personal information while transacting, and require that this information be protected against any unauthorised access. There have been legislative developments in South Africa that aim to protect parties to electronic contracts. However, even with the legislation in place, it is still important to consider if it practically meets the needs of society and adequately protects parties to electronic contracts. , LL.M.
- Full Text:
An income tax proposal for inbound electronic services
- Authors: Mckinon, Michael J.
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Taxation - South Africa , Cloud computing , Electronic commerce , Income tax - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/237264 , uj:24308
- Description: M.Com. , Abstract: Without a doubt the digital economy has revolutionised traditional ways of conducting business around the world. The advent of mobile telephony, mobile internet access, the smart device and other cutting edge technologies have brought about a rebirth of certain existing industries and have ushered in the emergence of entirely new types of business bringing customers, products and services together in a global virtual space. This has enabled billions of consumers across the globe to connect and interface seamlessly in a rapidly expanding cyber marketplace, without actually ever physically meeting each other. Ageing global tax systems originally designed for application in a less sophisticated non-digitised business world have not kept up to date with technological advances and have as a result become ineffective in taxing the profits of business, which is transacted through the internet and in the cloud. International organisations like the G20 and the OECD as well as many governments are presently investigating ways to tax the profits from cloud and digital content in the most efficient and effective manner. The challenge is to improve tax policy and appropriateness, without impeding economic growth at a micro and macro level and without giving certain jurisdictions disproportionate taxing rights to the detriment of others. This minor dissertation considers the appropriateness of current South African tax legislation for taxing inbound (transactions where profits leave South African shores) electronic services in South Africa. Focusing on online sales and purchase transactions, this minor dissertation briefly outlines the development of digital technology and the emergence of the developing digitised economy. The minor dissertation highlights the challenges in taxing profits in the digital economy and views these challenges from a South African perspective. This minor dissertation analyses the relevant current South African legislation, exploring possible alternative solutions to the identified challenges. The research confirms that current South African tax legislation is not adequate, highlights the deficiencies and proposes a feasible solution for South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mckinon, Michael J.
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Taxation - South Africa , Cloud computing , Electronic commerce , Income tax - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/237264 , uj:24308
- Description: M.Com. , Abstract: Without a doubt the digital economy has revolutionised traditional ways of conducting business around the world. The advent of mobile telephony, mobile internet access, the smart device and other cutting edge technologies have brought about a rebirth of certain existing industries and have ushered in the emergence of entirely new types of business bringing customers, products and services together in a global virtual space. This has enabled billions of consumers across the globe to connect and interface seamlessly in a rapidly expanding cyber marketplace, without actually ever physically meeting each other. Ageing global tax systems originally designed for application in a less sophisticated non-digitised business world have not kept up to date with technological advances and have as a result become ineffective in taxing the profits of business, which is transacted through the internet and in the cloud. International organisations like the G20 and the OECD as well as many governments are presently investigating ways to tax the profits from cloud and digital content in the most efficient and effective manner. The challenge is to improve tax policy and appropriateness, without impeding economic growth at a micro and macro level and without giving certain jurisdictions disproportionate taxing rights to the detriment of others. This minor dissertation considers the appropriateness of current South African tax legislation for taxing inbound (transactions where profits leave South African shores) electronic services in South Africa. Focusing on online sales and purchase transactions, this minor dissertation briefly outlines the development of digital technology and the emergence of the developing digitised economy. The minor dissertation highlights the challenges in taxing profits in the digital economy and views these challenges from a South African perspective. This minor dissertation analyses the relevant current South African legislation, exploring possible alternative solutions to the identified challenges. The research confirms that current South African tax legislation is not adequate, highlights the deficiencies and proposes a feasible solution for South Africa.
- Full Text:
Documentary collections as a method of payment in international sale transactions
- Authors: Kotelo, Mamphahama Alina
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Banks and banking , Documentary credit , International trade , Foreign exchange , Electronic funds transfers , Electronic commerce , Trade regulation
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/59351 , uj:16520
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract , LL.M.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kotelo, Mamphahama Alina
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Banks and banking , Documentary credit , International trade , Foreign exchange , Electronic funds transfers , Electronic commerce , Trade regulation
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/59351 , uj:16520
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract , LL.M.
- Full Text:
The value of adopting e-business systems for a steel manufacturing wholesaler
- Authors: Sieberhagen, Marushca
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , Steel
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/83355 , uj:19083
- Description: Abstract: Technology innovations over the past decade have transformed the business environment and changed the way organisations offer their products and services to their customers. Organisations are looking for innovative ways to make customers’ shopping experiences more convenient. Organisations are changing their business models by providing an alternative channel (e-commerce) through which customers choose and purchase their products to ensure value is created for the organisation. The research study focuses on a steel manufacturer that wants to target small project customers (house builders), as currently the markets being targeted are experiencing pressure due to the economic decline in the country and intense rivalry between steel manufacturers. The feasibility of implementing an e-commerce system to target the small project customers is examined, as there is significant potential for the steel manufacturer to increase its earnings due to the increase of residential development in South Africa. The research method utilised during the research process was an exploratory study, as little was known about the e-commerce strategy or activities of the steel manufacturer. A qualitative survey was used to interview employees of the steel manufacturer and the house builders to ascertain the buying process currently in operation and the feasibility of introducing an e-commerce strategy. This study is based on grounded theory and data collected via the interviews was transcribed and analysed to determine the common themes. It was evident throughout the study that before the steel manufacturer could implement an e-commerce system it needs to improve its internal production capacity and feedback processes to create a positive customer experience. Marketing strategies should be implemented targeting the house builders, thus capitalising on the current growth in residential development... , M.Com. (Business Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sieberhagen, Marushca
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , Steel
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/83355 , uj:19083
- Description: Abstract: Technology innovations over the past decade have transformed the business environment and changed the way organisations offer their products and services to their customers. Organisations are looking for innovative ways to make customers’ shopping experiences more convenient. Organisations are changing their business models by providing an alternative channel (e-commerce) through which customers choose and purchase their products to ensure value is created for the organisation. The research study focuses on a steel manufacturer that wants to target small project customers (house builders), as currently the markets being targeted are experiencing pressure due to the economic decline in the country and intense rivalry between steel manufacturers. The feasibility of implementing an e-commerce system to target the small project customers is examined, as there is significant potential for the steel manufacturer to increase its earnings due to the increase of residential development in South Africa. The research method utilised during the research process was an exploratory study, as little was known about the e-commerce strategy or activities of the steel manufacturer. A qualitative survey was used to interview employees of the steel manufacturer and the house builders to ascertain the buying process currently in operation and the feasibility of introducing an e-commerce strategy. This study is based on grounded theory and data collected via the interviews was transcribed and analysed to determine the common themes. It was evident throughout the study that before the steel manufacturer could implement an e-commerce system it needs to improve its internal production capacity and feedback processes to create a positive customer experience. Marketing strategies should be implemented targeting the house builders, thus capitalising on the current growth in residential development... , M.Com. (Business Management)
- Full Text:
Export readiness of enterprises supported by government’s incentive scheme
- Authors: April, Zuko
- Date: 2014-10-20
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , International trade , Exports - Management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:12624 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/12444
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , This study set out to explore the factors that facilitate the export readiness of emerging exporters who benefit from the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) scheme at the Department of Trade and Industry (dti). I hypothesised that management commitment, management skills, financial resources; technical knowledge, capacity to manufacture and international marketing intelligence have a positive relationship with export readiness. I used a questionnaire based on the work of Van Elden (2003) to collect data from emerging exporters. I tested the reliability of each scale showing Cronbach alpha values ranging from 072 to 0.86. A regression analysis confirmed that all six factors were significantly correlated to export readiness. I recommend that the dti view more carefully whether the beneficiaries of EMIA have the capacity indicated by the six factors before spending resources on such beneficiaries. EMIA staff should recommend interventions based on these six factors to those applicants who are unsuccessful.
- Full Text:
- Authors: April, Zuko
- Date: 2014-10-20
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , International trade , Exports - Management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:12624 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/12444
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , This study set out to explore the factors that facilitate the export readiness of emerging exporters who benefit from the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) scheme at the Department of Trade and Industry (dti). I hypothesised that management commitment, management skills, financial resources; technical knowledge, capacity to manufacture and international marketing intelligence have a positive relationship with export readiness. I used a questionnaire based on the work of Van Elden (2003) to collect data from emerging exporters. I tested the reliability of each scale showing Cronbach alpha values ranging from 072 to 0.86. A regression analysis confirmed that all six factors were significantly correlated to export readiness. I recommend that the dti view more carefully whether the beneficiaries of EMIA have the capacity indicated by the six factors before spending resources on such beneficiaries. EMIA staff should recommend interventions based on these six factors to those applicants who are unsuccessful.
- Full Text:
Corporate strategies for implementing internet technologies to facilitate business-to-consumer commerce of large companies in South Africa
- Authors: Sciacca, Jeanine Rosemarie
- Date: 2014-07-22
- Subjects: Internet marketing , Electronic commerce , Business enterprises - Computer networks
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:11729 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/11457
- Description: M.B.A. , As e-commerce becomes a more accepted and important way of doing business, the strategist's stock-and-status will rise accordingly. With more of a company's communications and revenue moving through the Internet, Web work will be seen less as a separate project and more as a core business process. Web business strategy will become of such fundamental importance that it will fall under the CEO's purview (Cutler, 1996:3). The Internet is an area of high seismographic activity, increasing the danger that strategies will be built along a fault line. The technology advances so rapidly, and the numbers change so often, that time scales have to be compressed, and planners must learn to make decisions in an environment filled with ambiguity (Cutler, 1996:3). Learning, comparing and evaluating how companies devise their e-commerce strategies could explore common factors, which could be summarised into key steps aimed at assisting management in the future, who plan to embark on a project of implementing Internet technologies...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sciacca, Jeanine Rosemarie
- Date: 2014-07-22
- Subjects: Internet marketing , Electronic commerce , Business enterprises - Computer networks
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:11729 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/11457
- Description: M.B.A. , As e-commerce becomes a more accepted and important way of doing business, the strategist's stock-and-status will rise accordingly. With more of a company's communications and revenue moving through the Internet, Web work will be seen less as a separate project and more as a core business process. Web business strategy will become of such fundamental importance that it will fall under the CEO's purview (Cutler, 1996:3). The Internet is an area of high seismographic activity, increasing the danger that strategies will be built along a fault line. The technology advances so rapidly, and the numbers change so often, that time scales have to be compressed, and planners must learn to make decisions in an environment filled with ambiguity (Cutler, 1996:3). Learning, comparing and evaluating how companies devise their e-commerce strategies could explore common factors, which could be summarised into key steps aimed at assisting management in the future, who plan to embark on a project of implementing Internet technologies...
- Full Text:
The EWEB framework : guideline to an enterprise-wide electronic business solution
- Authors: Rossudowska, Agata
- Date: 2014-02-10
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , Enterprise-wide electronic business solution
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3709 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9090
- Description: M.Sc. (Computer Science) , As the world enters the new millennium, we are experiencing one of the most important changes since the industrial revolution - the move to an Internet-based society. Traditional business channels are moving to a new platform of interaction that is called Electronic Business (EB). Electronic Business is becoming a significant business tool, provided that businesses understand the benefits, the application areas and impacts of EB, and can apply these concepts optimally. The problem with many businesses, especially SMMEs (Small Medium and Micro Enterprises), is that they are ignorant to many EB-related concepts, how EB can assist their business needs, and how to apply EB into their business components. Various solutions for EB exist in the industry, which are very comprehensive and complex. However, with the constant wave of mergers, acquisitions and new IT-companies forming, as well as the myriad of new solutions being developed, many businesses are not sure which solution would suit their business best, and which solution provider would be the best to approach. What businesses need is an understanding of EB and guidelines on how to start becoming EB focused. The principle aim of the Enterprise-Wide Electronic Business (EWEB) Framework developed is to form the bridge between a traditional business and an electronic business. This is achieved by defining many EB-related concepts and providing guidelines on how to streamline business processes with technology in moving to an EB platform. The EWEB Framework targets this from three perspectives. Firstly, the EWEB Framework follows a top-down approach to EB, targeting business processes across the enterprise as well as business issues from strategic, architectural and infrastructural levels. This allows EWEB to be applicable to all types of business processes and businesses needs. Secondly, the EWEB Framework also consists of business processes that are common across all industries. This allows EWEB to be applicable to all types of businesses...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Rossudowska, Agata
- Date: 2014-02-10
- Subjects: Electronic commerce , Enterprise-wide electronic business solution
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3709 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9090
- Description: M.Sc. (Computer Science) , As the world enters the new millennium, we are experiencing one of the most important changes since the industrial revolution - the move to an Internet-based society. Traditional business channels are moving to a new platform of interaction that is called Electronic Business (EB). Electronic Business is becoming a significant business tool, provided that businesses understand the benefits, the application areas and impacts of EB, and can apply these concepts optimally. The problem with many businesses, especially SMMEs (Small Medium and Micro Enterprises), is that they are ignorant to many EB-related concepts, how EB can assist their business needs, and how to apply EB into their business components. Various solutions for EB exist in the industry, which are very comprehensive and complex. However, with the constant wave of mergers, acquisitions and new IT-companies forming, as well as the myriad of new solutions being developed, many businesses are not sure which solution would suit their business best, and which solution provider would be the best to approach. What businesses need is an understanding of EB and guidelines on how to start becoming EB focused. The principle aim of the Enterprise-Wide Electronic Business (EWEB) Framework developed is to form the bridge between a traditional business and an electronic business. This is achieved by defining many EB-related concepts and providing guidelines on how to streamline business processes with technology in moving to an EB platform. The EWEB Framework targets this from three perspectives. Firstly, the EWEB Framework follows a top-down approach to EB, targeting business processes across the enterprise as well as business issues from strategic, architectural and infrastructural levels. This allows EWEB to be applicable to all types of business processes and businesses needs. Secondly, the EWEB Framework also consists of business processes that are common across all industries. This allows EWEB to be applicable to all types of businesses...
- Full Text:
The strategic implications of electronic commerce on business management
- Authors: Van Aardt, Albert Hibbert
- Date: 2014-02-10
- Subjects: Electronic commerce
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3742 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9120
- Description: D.Com. (Business Management) , In this study the impact of Electronic Commerce (EC) on the management of an organisation is researched, with the emphasis on Strategic Management. EC is the process whereby the exchange of business data is moved from the paper environment to the use of electronic media, and in particular, communications networks. EC is analysed, and special attention is given to one of its major components, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). The impact of EDI on the organisation is researched, and the possible benefits and dangers are discussed. As EC is such a new field, and one that depends very much on electronics, the danger does exist that management may look upon EC as a purely technical issue. In this study emphasis is therefore placed on the wide impact that EC has on the management function, and it is shown that the technical aspects are relatively of minor importance. The main argument of the thesis is that EC is not a technical issue, but a strategic business one.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van Aardt, Albert Hibbert
- Date: 2014-02-10
- Subjects: Electronic commerce
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3742 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9120
- Description: D.Com. (Business Management) , In this study the impact of Electronic Commerce (EC) on the management of an organisation is researched, with the emphasis on Strategic Management. EC is the process whereby the exchange of business data is moved from the paper environment to the use of electronic media, and in particular, communications networks. EC is analysed, and special attention is given to one of its major components, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). The impact of EDI on the organisation is researched, and the possible benefits and dangers are discussed. As EC is such a new field, and one that depends very much on electronics, the danger does exist that management may look upon EC as a purely technical issue. In this study emphasis is therefore placed on the wide impact that EC has on the management function, and it is shown that the technical aspects are relatively of minor importance. The main argument of the thesis is that EC is not a technical issue, but a strategic business one.
- Full Text:
The effectiveness of traditional taxation methods on e-commerce
- Authors: Coertse, Cornelius Johannes
- Date: 2013-05-01
- Subjects: Taxation , Electronic commerce
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:7488 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8347
- Description: M.Comm. (Business Management) , Traditional taxation methods do not cope effectively in collecting government revenue from e-commerce, and governments face the possibility of suffering further significant monetary losses if such methods are not modified (Kobrin, 2002). The characteristics of e-commerce are as follows: it is boderless; transmissions have insensitivity to physical distance; the taxation methods that may be applied to e-commerce are inconsistent; the nature of some product/service offerings available in e-commerce is distinct; and it can fall under multiple tax jurisdictions. All challenge the traditional territorial or 'brick-and-mortar' boundaries of taxation methods currently in use internationally.
- Full Text: false
- Authors: Coertse, Cornelius Johannes
- Date: 2013-05-01
- Subjects: Taxation , Electronic commerce
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:7488 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8347
- Description: M.Comm. (Business Management) , Traditional taxation methods do not cope effectively in collecting government revenue from e-commerce, and governments face the possibility of suffering further significant monetary losses if such methods are not modified (Kobrin, 2002). The characteristics of e-commerce are as follows: it is boderless; transmissions have insensitivity to physical distance; the taxation methods that may be applied to e-commerce are inconsistent; the nature of some product/service offerings available in e-commerce is distinct; and it can fall under multiple tax jurisdictions. All challenge the traditional territorial or 'brick-and-mortar' boundaries of taxation methods currently in use internationally.
- Full Text: false
The impact of e-commerce on customer relationship management in the financial services industry
- Authors: Viljoen, Michelle
- Date: 2012-09-06
- Subjects: Customer relations - Management , Electronic commerce
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9665 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7080
- Description: M.Comm. , The inclusion of e-commerce in an organisation's business strategies entails much more than just digitalising old business processes. Organisations need to rethink all of their business process and apply innovation, or else they will just become another industry player. In order for them to do this, organisations need to consider the impact of e-commerce on business approaches. The extent of this impact lies at the heart of this study. A study of customer relationship management activities and e-commerce developments were made, in order to identify the main CRM components and areas in implementation methodologies which will be impact on by e-commerce. South African financial institutions are facing increased competition from international and local organisations that have entered the market. Financial institutions are losing market share because of this, therefore they must become more focussed on attracting new and retaining existing customers. In today's world customers have more knowledge available to them to help them in product or service selection, causing them to become more demanding in their expectations and requirements from organisations. A CRM strategy will help organisations to understand customers, finding and keeping the right customers, building a relationship with customers and channeling the important tangible and intangible aspects to customers. One of the most important implications for organisations that implement CRM strategies is that it aids the organisation to achieve customer profitability. Organisations usually treat their customers the same, regardless of their individual profitability. But not all customers are profitable. Thus, some customers might actually cost the organisation more than their individual profit. Traditional segmentation of the customer base can aid in keeping track of the current as well as future costs and profits. The second important implication for implementing CRM strategies is the focus on customer retention. The impact of retention on the organisation's bottom line should be noted. Organisations can increase their profit with up to 100 percent if they increase their retention rate by 5 percent. Organisations need to understand the current and past behaviours of customers so that the organisation can identify those customers that are likely to switch. The third important implication is customer acquisition. This is one of the most costly activities in an organisation. The cost of attracting a new customer is estimated to be five times the cost of keeping a current customer happy. Implementing CRM strategies will help organisations to focus on the relationships resulting from customer acquisition building it into profitable relationships.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Viljoen, Michelle
- Date: 2012-09-06
- Subjects: Customer relations - Management , Electronic commerce
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9665 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7080
- Description: M.Comm. , The inclusion of e-commerce in an organisation's business strategies entails much more than just digitalising old business processes. Organisations need to rethink all of their business process and apply innovation, or else they will just become another industry player. In order for them to do this, organisations need to consider the impact of e-commerce on business approaches. The extent of this impact lies at the heart of this study. A study of customer relationship management activities and e-commerce developments were made, in order to identify the main CRM components and areas in implementation methodologies which will be impact on by e-commerce. South African financial institutions are facing increased competition from international and local organisations that have entered the market. Financial institutions are losing market share because of this, therefore they must become more focussed on attracting new and retaining existing customers. In today's world customers have more knowledge available to them to help them in product or service selection, causing them to become more demanding in their expectations and requirements from organisations. A CRM strategy will help organisations to understand customers, finding and keeping the right customers, building a relationship with customers and channeling the important tangible and intangible aspects to customers. One of the most important implications for organisations that implement CRM strategies is that it aids the organisation to achieve customer profitability. Organisations usually treat their customers the same, regardless of their individual profitability. But not all customers are profitable. Thus, some customers might actually cost the organisation more than their individual profit. Traditional segmentation of the customer base can aid in keeping track of the current as well as future costs and profits. The second important implication for implementing CRM strategies is the focus on customer retention. The impact of retention on the organisation's bottom line should be noted. Organisations can increase their profit with up to 100 percent if they increase their retention rate by 5 percent. Organisations need to understand the current and past behaviours of customers so that the organisation can identify those customers that are likely to switch. The third important implication is customer acquisition. This is one of the most costly activities in an organisation. The cost of attracting a new customer is estimated to be five times the cost of keeping a current customer happy. Implementing CRM strategies will help organisations to focus on the relationships resulting from customer acquisition building it into profitable relationships.
- Full Text:
Encryption technology to address validity in transactions using the GII
- Authors: Gerber, Anton Hendrik
- Date: 2012-09-05
- Subjects: Data encryption (Computer science) , Internet -- Security measures , Electronic commerce , Electronic data interchange , Data protection , Computer security
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3604 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6984
- Description: M.Comm. , The development of electronic commerce resulted in the development of EDI and the use of the Internet to transact these data. This led to the question of whether a security technology existed that could ensure the validity and integrity of transactions. The development of the GII which will not only be used for EDI and other financial transactions, but also in the medical and educational fields, has emphasised this concern of business. Encryption is one of the technologies available which can ensure the validity of transaction during transmission and even during storage. Cryptology entails the encoding and decoding of transaction data before and after transmission through the use of secret and public keys. The following questions should be addressed: The most cost effective solution to business' security concerns; The legal and regulatory issues concerning privacy; Transmission of keys through digital and electronic media resulting in the possible breach of security in the keys themselves; Standards and infrastructures which must be agreed upon and implemented to secure the development of the Gll; and Existing internal and external audit methodologies can cater for the audit of the completeness, accuracy, validity and continuity of transactions but the methods and tests to substantiate these objectives will have to change. All of the above points are addressed in the research, except those on the legal and regulatory issues. Each of these points can, however, still be the topic for detailed future research. The objective of this dissertation is to research encryption technology to provide a questionnaire to the auditor ensuring the validity of transactions on the GII. A questionnaire or checklist is presented that could be serve a guideline for auditors when addressing risks in a GII environment.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gerber, Anton Hendrik
- Date: 2012-09-05
- Subjects: Data encryption (Computer science) , Internet -- Security measures , Electronic commerce , Electronic data interchange , Data protection , Computer security
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3604 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6984
- Description: M.Comm. , The development of electronic commerce resulted in the development of EDI and the use of the Internet to transact these data. This led to the question of whether a security technology existed that could ensure the validity and integrity of transactions. The development of the GII which will not only be used for EDI and other financial transactions, but also in the medical and educational fields, has emphasised this concern of business. Encryption is one of the technologies available which can ensure the validity of transaction during transmission and even during storage. Cryptology entails the encoding and decoding of transaction data before and after transmission through the use of secret and public keys. The following questions should be addressed: The most cost effective solution to business' security concerns; The legal and regulatory issues concerning privacy; Transmission of keys through digital and electronic media resulting in the possible breach of security in the keys themselves; Standards and infrastructures which must be agreed upon and implemented to secure the development of the Gll; and Existing internal and external audit methodologies can cater for the audit of the completeness, accuracy, validity and continuity of transactions but the methods and tests to substantiate these objectives will have to change. All of the above points are addressed in the research, except those on the legal and regulatory issues. Each of these points can, however, still be the topic for detailed future research. The objective of this dissertation is to research encryption technology to provide a questionnaire to the auditor ensuring the validity of transactions on the GII. A questionnaire or checklist is presented that could be serve a guideline for auditors when addressing risks in a GII environment.
- Full Text:
Information management and globalisation : utilising information management systems in financial systems
- Authors: Roberts, Ridwaan
- Date: 2012-08-23
- Subjects: Management information systems , Financial services industry , Online information services , Globalization , Electronic commerce
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3071 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6491
- Description: M.Comm. , The Financial Services industry is in the throes of significant changes and challenges. Managers confronted with the metoric of the "information age" may experience a variety of emotions, ranging from excitement to suspicion or even outright scepticism. What has changed is that more and more businesses are defining their strategies in terms of information or knowledge. Today we hear and read much about "the learning organisation", "working knowledge", "knowledge networks", "business ntelligence", "competitor intelligence". These concepts may be popular to all but to executives they need to be clear — they make strategic decisions. Executives must realise these MIS, CIS and Expert Systems, are more than tools, they are a way of life, a way to gain strategic competitive advantage in a new market — called global isation. Managers need to rely on knowledge to make decisions and add value to the financial performance and use their collective experience without becoming bogged down in methodological or technological complexity. Biggest is no longer necessary the best. Today it is often more profitable to focus attraction the best customers than to attempt to reduce cost. Executives should be cautious, even suspicious; of the technological and software solutions being offered and sceptical that one concept can do it all. This is not surprising because we are dealing with knowledge, information and above all people. Add these together and we are to paraphrase the physicist, Freeman Dyoon, "infinite in all direction". Nevertheless companies understand that past experience has shown that common purpose, culture and focus can mobilise people for profitable and personally rewarding creativity and achievement. The future competitive landscape demands no less!
- Full Text:
- Authors: Roberts, Ridwaan
- Date: 2012-08-23
- Subjects: Management information systems , Financial services industry , Online information services , Globalization , Electronic commerce
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3071 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6491
- Description: M.Comm. , The Financial Services industry is in the throes of significant changes and challenges. Managers confronted with the metoric of the "information age" may experience a variety of emotions, ranging from excitement to suspicion or even outright scepticism. What has changed is that more and more businesses are defining their strategies in terms of information or knowledge. Today we hear and read much about "the learning organisation", "working knowledge", "knowledge networks", "business ntelligence", "competitor intelligence". These concepts may be popular to all but to executives they need to be clear — they make strategic decisions. Executives must realise these MIS, CIS and Expert Systems, are more than tools, they are a way of life, a way to gain strategic competitive advantage in a new market — called global isation. Managers need to rely on knowledge to make decisions and add value to the financial performance and use their collective experience without becoming bogged down in methodological or technological complexity. Biggest is no longer necessary the best. Today it is often more profitable to focus attraction the best customers than to attempt to reduce cost. Executives should be cautious, even suspicious; of the technological and software solutions being offered and sceptical that one concept can do it all. This is not surprising because we are dealing with knowledge, information and above all people. Add these together and we are to paraphrase the physicist, Freeman Dyoon, "infinite in all direction". Nevertheless companies understand that past experience has shown that common purpose, culture and focus can mobilise people for profitable and personally rewarding creativity and achievement. The future competitive landscape demands no less!
- Full Text:
A macro-economic perspective on electronic commerce policy and strategy in government, corporate, small, medium and micro enterprises sectors : an exploratory analysis
- Authors: Kunene, Sipho
- Date: 2012-03-05
- Subjects: Electronic commerce
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2136 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4503
- Description: M.Comm. , This study aims to provide information on the macroeconomic impact of electronic commerce and its effects on business, consumer and government sectors. Electronic commerce as a new phenomenon has the potential to bring substantial benefits to government, businesses and consumers. Developed countries such as the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom have had an experience of electronic commerce for the last ten years. Electronic commerce is the catchall phrase for many advances in technology centred on the Internet, and heralds fundamental changes for the world economy. The expansion of the Internet globally has made it an ideal means to conduct commercial transactions. The Internet is being used more and more to advertise and sell goods and service globally. Electronic commerce is an instrument that is handy to globalise trade among countries and nations. It has become highly possible to conduct business transactions with all parts of the world that have access to Internet, without being physically there. The transactions take place technologically. The use of Internet and the World Wide Web is creating a revolution in the manner in which business transactions are conducted. The increase in the number of users is taking place at a rapid pace, especially in the developed economies. It is estimated that there are now more than 150 million users, and the figure increases by more than 50 000 on a daily basis (UNCTAD, 1999:55). More than half of the current user population is located in the United States of America, but the geographical spread is fast diversifying. Even developing countries are now having an access to the Internet. Revenue attributed to electronic commerce is still relatively small though it is projected to grow over the years. Empirical evidence about the use of electronic commerce is largely confined to developed countries, though developing countries are now using it. It shows that in several sectors, which include financial services, tourism, books, music and entertainment industry, the digital revolution is spreading rapidly. This also shows that many aspects of governments' dealings with communities, international project management and consultancy work are increasingly being facilitated by electronic operations. The United States has developed the Global Information Infrastructure, which is seen as a global marketplace, to enable it to reach every comer of the globe on trade. This development is based on the following principles:- • Private sector leadership The private sector is leading the development of electronic commerce and the Internet, though the government assisted with bulk financing. Innovation, expanded services, broader participation, and lower prices will arise in a market-driven arena, not in an environment that operates as a regulated industry. The American government is encouraging industry self-regulation whenever appropriate, and supports all initiatives and efforts of the private sector to develop mechanisms to facilitate the successful operation of the Internet and electronic commerce. • Government to avoid undue restrictions on electronic commerce The government has not intervened when business transactions on goods and services are effected across the Internet. The government is of the view that intervention and unnecessary regulation of commercial activities will distort the development of an electronic marketplace by decreasing supply and raising the cost of goods and services for consumers globally. The United States government has further undertaken to refrain from imposing new regulations, bureaucratic procedures, or taxes and tariffs on commercial activities that take place via the Internet. • Minimum government intervention when necessary The government will intervene to support and enforce a predictable, consistent and simple legal environment for commerce. In some areas it will be necessary for government to play a minimal role where consumers have to be protected.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kunene, Sipho
- Date: 2012-03-05
- Subjects: Electronic commerce
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2136 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4503
- Description: M.Comm. , This study aims to provide information on the macroeconomic impact of electronic commerce and its effects on business, consumer and government sectors. Electronic commerce as a new phenomenon has the potential to bring substantial benefits to government, businesses and consumers. Developed countries such as the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom have had an experience of electronic commerce for the last ten years. Electronic commerce is the catchall phrase for many advances in technology centred on the Internet, and heralds fundamental changes for the world economy. The expansion of the Internet globally has made it an ideal means to conduct commercial transactions. The Internet is being used more and more to advertise and sell goods and service globally. Electronic commerce is an instrument that is handy to globalise trade among countries and nations. It has become highly possible to conduct business transactions with all parts of the world that have access to Internet, without being physically there. The transactions take place technologically. The use of Internet and the World Wide Web is creating a revolution in the manner in which business transactions are conducted. The increase in the number of users is taking place at a rapid pace, especially in the developed economies. It is estimated that there are now more than 150 million users, and the figure increases by more than 50 000 on a daily basis (UNCTAD, 1999:55). More than half of the current user population is located in the United States of America, but the geographical spread is fast diversifying. Even developing countries are now having an access to the Internet. Revenue attributed to electronic commerce is still relatively small though it is projected to grow over the years. Empirical evidence about the use of electronic commerce is largely confined to developed countries, though developing countries are now using it. It shows that in several sectors, which include financial services, tourism, books, music and entertainment industry, the digital revolution is spreading rapidly. This also shows that many aspects of governments' dealings with communities, international project management and consultancy work are increasingly being facilitated by electronic operations. The United States has developed the Global Information Infrastructure, which is seen as a global marketplace, to enable it to reach every comer of the globe on trade. This development is based on the following principles:- • Private sector leadership The private sector is leading the development of electronic commerce and the Internet, though the government assisted with bulk financing. Innovation, expanded services, broader participation, and lower prices will arise in a market-driven arena, not in an environment that operates as a regulated industry. The American government is encouraging industry self-regulation whenever appropriate, and supports all initiatives and efforts of the private sector to develop mechanisms to facilitate the successful operation of the Internet and electronic commerce. • Government to avoid undue restrictions on electronic commerce The government has not intervened when business transactions on goods and services are effected across the Internet. The government is of the view that intervention and unnecessary regulation of commercial activities will distort the development of an electronic marketplace by decreasing supply and raising the cost of goods and services for consumers globally. The United States government has further undertaken to refrain from imposing new regulations, bureaucratic procedures, or taxes and tariffs on commercial activities that take place via the Internet. • Minimum government intervention when necessary The government will intervene to support and enforce a predictable, consistent and simple legal environment for commerce. In some areas it will be necessary for government to play a minimal role where consumers have to be protected.
- Full Text: