An information systems portfolio, programme and project management governance framework
- Authors: Erasmus, Lodewikus Johannes
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Management information systems , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/451276 , uj:39757
- Description: Abstract: This thesis concerns the governance of information systems (IS) projects. Practice and literature indicate that most IS projects cannot be considered as successfully delivered. The outcome of an IS project is the culmination of a vast chain of processes and practices that require guidance to achieve a desired outcome. This guidance of behaviour is referred to as governance. To this end, the concept of governance was explored to determine its foundations. Various theories of governance seem pertinent to the matter when the four dimensions of governance are used as context. Governance practices are applied in a governance context influenced by the power dimension, steering ability, source of influence and method of steering... , Ph.D. (IT Management)
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- Authors: Erasmus, Lodewikus Johannes
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Management information systems , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/451276 , uj:39757
- Description: Abstract: This thesis concerns the governance of information systems (IS) projects. Practice and literature indicate that most IS projects cannot be considered as successfully delivered. The outcome of an IS project is the culmination of a vast chain of processes and practices that require guidance to achieve a desired outcome. This guidance of behaviour is referred to as governance. To this end, the concept of governance was explored to determine its foundations. Various theories of governance seem pertinent to the matter when the four dimensions of governance are used as context. Governance practices are applied in a governance context influenced by the power dimension, steering ability, source of influence and method of steering... , Ph.D. (IT Management)
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An information technology competency framework for entry level human resource strategic partners
- Authors: Joseph, Renjini Mary
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Personnel management - Information technology , Information technology , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/421230 , uj:35896
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract. , Ph.D. (Human Resource Development)
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- Authors: Joseph, Renjini Mary
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Personnel management - Information technology , Information technology , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/421230 , uj:35896
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract. , Ph.D. (Human Resource Development)
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Developing a framework for evaluation of a digital maintenance management system
- Authors: Maleho, M.S.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/393687 , uj:32582
- Description: Abstract : The increasing demand for productivity, quality and availability is driving the need for the effective management of physical assets. The depletion of traditional cost cutting, the disadvantages associated with rapid growth and the management of change has caused companies to explore more effective and efficient options. Not only do organisations have to meet customer needs and improve the availability and performance of equipment, organisations also need to do so while also reducing operational costs. These factors have led to the increasing concentration on reliability within the business sector, specifically strategic maintenance management. Maintenance is one of the most important variables of reliability and forms an integral part of productivity improvement. Digital maintenance management systems are software-based systems used for managing and controlling plant and equipment maintenance in modern manufacturing and service industries. Many companies make use of such systems to ensure the effective management of physical assets, which plays an enormously important role in maintaining a profitable business. The application of digitalization requires strategic planning, advances in technology need to be put in a business context to ensure that they are aligned with the overall objectives of the company. Efficient and effective maintenance management strategies enable organisations to attain desired levels of equipment availability, reliability and maintainability. Once the strategic maintenance management plan has been developed, various maintenance management systems are used to implement, control and monitor of the plan. The mining industry is undergoing significant market challenges such as increasing depths in shafts, fluctuating commodity prices and international competition. In order to cope with these challenges, integrated business processes are required. Literature suggests that Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) are the best solutions for integrating business processes. Historically, selecting a digital maintenance management system was simple and required minimal research, however, as markets become saturated with various types of maintenance software and technologies become more advanced, selecting digital maintenance management systems is becoming more complex. There are various methods for evaluating and selecting digital maintenance management systems. The research approach for this ... , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Maleho, M.S.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/393687 , uj:32582
- Description: Abstract : The increasing demand for productivity, quality and availability is driving the need for the effective management of physical assets. The depletion of traditional cost cutting, the disadvantages associated with rapid growth and the management of change has caused companies to explore more effective and efficient options. Not only do organisations have to meet customer needs and improve the availability and performance of equipment, organisations also need to do so while also reducing operational costs. These factors have led to the increasing concentration on reliability within the business sector, specifically strategic maintenance management. Maintenance is one of the most important variables of reliability and forms an integral part of productivity improvement. Digital maintenance management systems are software-based systems used for managing and controlling plant and equipment maintenance in modern manufacturing and service industries. Many companies make use of such systems to ensure the effective management of physical assets, which plays an enormously important role in maintaining a profitable business. The application of digitalization requires strategic planning, advances in technology need to be put in a business context to ensure that they are aligned with the overall objectives of the company. Efficient and effective maintenance management strategies enable organisations to attain desired levels of equipment availability, reliability and maintainability. Once the strategic maintenance management plan has been developed, various maintenance management systems are used to implement, control and monitor of the plan. The mining industry is undergoing significant market challenges such as increasing depths in shafts, fluctuating commodity prices and international competition. In order to cope with these challenges, integrated business processes are required. Literature suggests that Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) are the best solutions for integrating business processes. Historically, selecting a digital maintenance management system was simple and required minimal research, however, as markets become saturated with various types of maintenance software and technologies become more advanced, selecting digital maintenance management systems is becoming more complex. There are various methods for evaluating and selecting digital maintenance management systems. The research approach for this ... , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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Enterprise architecture adoption in the integrated justice system of South Africa
- Authors: Katz, H.S.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Internet in public administration , Electronic government information , Enterprise application integration (Computer systems) , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/414916 , uj:35013
- Description: Abstract: This dissertation is aimed at exploring the benefit derived from the implementation of Enterprise Architecture (EA) in the context of the South African Government. The South African Government established an e-government policy which placed into the mainstream the use of EA to facilitate the integration of disparate systems to ensure government services reaches the citizen faster and more efficient. However, there is a general scarcity of literature that assess the implementation of EA in the South African government, or the benefit derived from its implementation. As such, the Integrated Justice System (IJS) was chosen as a case study for assessing EA implementation and benefit realisation in the South African context. The IJS is the singular body charged with promoting the collaboration and integration of various departments within the Criminal Justice System (CJS). The dissertation starts off with creating a general understanding of the key concepts and benefits of EA as a discipline, and more especially the benefits to be derived from its implementation. This theoretical understanding is compared against the expected outcomes of the South African Government e-government policy, contrasted against the perceived benefit realised from the IJS implementation of EA. The main findings of the dissertation include the fact that the IJS managed to successfully develop its own data model, and managed to successfully replicate it across the various departments in the cluster. This implementation brought about both direct and strategic benefits to the cluster as well as on individual member departments. The dissertation concluded that the derived benefit of the EA effort seems to be localised to the IJS cluster, and an opportunity exist to replicate the model and processes to other departments and clusters within the sphere of government. , M.Com. (Business Management)
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- Authors: Katz, H.S.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Internet in public administration , Electronic government information , Enterprise application integration (Computer systems) , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/414916 , uj:35013
- Description: Abstract: This dissertation is aimed at exploring the benefit derived from the implementation of Enterprise Architecture (EA) in the context of the South African Government. The South African Government established an e-government policy which placed into the mainstream the use of EA to facilitate the integration of disparate systems to ensure government services reaches the citizen faster and more efficient. However, there is a general scarcity of literature that assess the implementation of EA in the South African government, or the benefit derived from its implementation. As such, the Integrated Justice System (IJS) was chosen as a case study for assessing EA implementation and benefit realisation in the South African context. The IJS is the singular body charged with promoting the collaboration and integration of various departments within the Criminal Justice System (CJS). The dissertation starts off with creating a general understanding of the key concepts and benefits of EA as a discipline, and more especially the benefits to be derived from its implementation. This theoretical understanding is compared against the expected outcomes of the South African Government e-government policy, contrasted against the perceived benefit realised from the IJS implementation of EA. The main findings of the dissertation include the fact that the IJS managed to successfully develop its own data model, and managed to successfully replicate it across the various departments in the cluster. This implementation brought about both direct and strategic benefits to the cluster as well as on individual member departments. The dissertation concluded that the derived benefit of the EA effort seems to be localised to the IJS cluster, and an opportunity exist to replicate the model and processes to other departments and clusters within the sphere of government. , M.Com. (Business Management)
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Exploring the factors affecting implementation of enterprise resource planning in South African small and medium enterprises
- Authors: Phutsisi, Tankiso Pearl
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning , Management information systems , Manufacturing resource planning , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/424647 , uj:36323
- Description: Abstract: Enterprise resource planning (ERP) structures are one among the key instruments that data systems use to encourage fast decision-making, cost minimization, and comprehensive internal control. South African Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have begun to acknowledge ERP systems as a vital tool within this marked improvement in Information Technology (IT). However, literature on this subject indicates that structure expectations and wishes don't seem to be met by the overall public on the implementation of ERP. Over one half of the ERP implementations in SMEs have recently been evidenced to fail, as revealed by research studies. Essentially, the components linked to the accomplishment of ERP execution are not fully studied in South African SMEs. In addition, the excessive failure of ERP implies a threat to South Africa, because SMEs are the foundation of the South African economy. To achieve the abovementioned goal, this study adopted a two-sided approach; firstly, the researcher critically analysed a set of previous studies that were conducted on ERP implementation within various business organisations. This helped in identifying gaps existing in the current literature. A questionnaire approach was used with three different firms located in South Africa, particularly in the province of Gauteng. The respondents were chosen by means of a convenience sampling approach, because it enabled the researcher to select participants that were easily accessible. , M.Tech.
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- Authors: Phutsisi, Tankiso Pearl
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning , Management information systems , Manufacturing resource planning , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/424647 , uj:36323
- Description: Abstract: Enterprise resource planning (ERP) structures are one among the key instruments that data systems use to encourage fast decision-making, cost minimization, and comprehensive internal control. South African Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have begun to acknowledge ERP systems as a vital tool within this marked improvement in Information Technology (IT). However, literature on this subject indicates that structure expectations and wishes don't seem to be met by the overall public on the implementation of ERP. Over one half of the ERP implementations in SMEs have recently been evidenced to fail, as revealed by research studies. Essentially, the components linked to the accomplishment of ERP execution are not fully studied in South African SMEs. In addition, the excessive failure of ERP implies a threat to South Africa, because SMEs are the foundation of the South African economy. To achieve the abovementioned goal, this study adopted a two-sided approach; firstly, the researcher critically analysed a set of previous studies that were conducted on ERP implementation within various business organisations. This helped in identifying gaps existing in the current literature. A questionnaire approach was used with three different firms located in South Africa, particularly in the province of Gauteng. The respondents were chosen by means of a convenience sampling approach, because it enabled the researcher to select participants that were easily accessible. , M.Tech.
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Managing information technology service delivery : a conceptual frame work
- Authors: Sliep, Rachel Marie
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Information technology - Management , Management information systems , Information technology , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/422288 , uj:36030
- Description: Abstract: Managing information technology (IT) in higher education institutions (HEIs) is not merely difficult but has almost become impossible. Information technology (IT) leaders in HEIs face a challenge to integrate and provide for the continuous accelerating transformation of technology and the way it is applied in HEIs to improve the quality of IT service delivery to satisfy their stakeholders’ expectations. IT leaders need to embrace change with the understanding that IT will need more than a secure set of knowledge and skills in today’s technology demands required from the unique composition of stakeholders. To position HEIs in their current marketplace and ensure competitive advantage, just implementing new technologies and innovations is not nearly enough. It is a requirement from institutional leaders to recognise IT as a key business enabler and to ensure that IT is positioned within the organisation as an investment rather than a cost. Key requirements for IT leadership are to recognise, agree and integrate various frameworks to ensure stability and agility when addressing the continuous challenges of HEIs and providing them with a dynamic application landscape and borderless end-user experience. IT departments within HEIs should dynamically change their philosophy, standards and way of thinking to meet the rapidly changing, everyday organisational demands. .. , Ph.D. (Information Technology Management)
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- Authors: Sliep, Rachel Marie
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Information technology - Management , Management information systems , Information technology , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/422288 , uj:36030
- Description: Abstract: Managing information technology (IT) in higher education institutions (HEIs) is not merely difficult but has almost become impossible. Information technology (IT) leaders in HEIs face a challenge to integrate and provide for the continuous accelerating transformation of technology and the way it is applied in HEIs to improve the quality of IT service delivery to satisfy their stakeholders’ expectations. IT leaders need to embrace change with the understanding that IT will need more than a secure set of knowledge and skills in today’s technology demands required from the unique composition of stakeholders. To position HEIs in their current marketplace and ensure competitive advantage, just implementing new technologies and innovations is not nearly enough. It is a requirement from institutional leaders to recognise IT as a key business enabler and to ensure that IT is positioned within the organisation as an investment rather than a cost. Key requirements for IT leadership are to recognise, agree and integrate various frameworks to ensure stability and agility when addressing the continuous challenges of HEIs and providing them with a dynamic application landscape and borderless end-user experience. IT departments within HEIs should dynamically change their philosophy, standards and way of thinking to meet the rapidly changing, everyday organisational demands. .. , Ph.D. (Information Technology Management)
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Strategic website optimisation to enhance customer information experience
- Authors: Ratsoana, Molefe Lebogang
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Management information systems , Web sites - Design , Information storage and retrieval systems - Architecture
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/452383 , uj:39898
- Description: Abstract: Websites and mobile applications continue to be the most convenient point of access to both the organizations selling products and services and user seeking to consume those. Businesses’ default language of communication when engaging with other businesses and customers is English and this is also evident in the multiple channels of communication (websites, mobile applications, chat bots, email, etc.). There are however countries like South Africa that is notorious for its diverse culture, tourist attractions and being the only country with 11 official languages. South Africa has large populations of people who use non-English languages as medium of instruction and communication who would experience English as a barrier of communication. To ensure customers and businesses make informed decisions based on information provided by businesses, it is imperative to communicate in a language most comprehendible by recipient of the information. The purpose of the study was to investigate and determine how business websites can be optimised to incorporate multi-linguistic factors (both English and non-English) within the context of South Africa. Contributing literature has been consulted to create context and better understanding of concepts including information architecture (websites), search engine optimization, customer information experience and understanding the South African language landscape. The study followed a mixed methodology research approach; the quantitative portion was fulfilled by a questionnaire and the qualitative portion was fulfilled by an information architecture checklist together with the search engine optimisation checklist. Data was collected and analysed on an Excel spreadsheet in order to elicit findings to fulfil the research objectives. The incorporation of the results from the IA an SEO checklist together with the language preferences in the strategic design of an information architecture strategy were presented on how to enhance the effectiveness of a website. , M.Com. (Business Management)
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- Authors: Ratsoana, Molefe Lebogang
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Management information systems , Web sites - Design , Information storage and retrieval systems - Architecture
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/452383 , uj:39898
- Description: Abstract: Websites and mobile applications continue to be the most convenient point of access to both the organizations selling products and services and user seeking to consume those. Businesses’ default language of communication when engaging with other businesses and customers is English and this is also evident in the multiple channels of communication (websites, mobile applications, chat bots, email, etc.). There are however countries like South Africa that is notorious for its diverse culture, tourist attractions and being the only country with 11 official languages. South Africa has large populations of people who use non-English languages as medium of instruction and communication who would experience English as a barrier of communication. To ensure customers and businesses make informed decisions based on information provided by businesses, it is imperative to communicate in a language most comprehendible by recipient of the information. The purpose of the study was to investigate and determine how business websites can be optimised to incorporate multi-linguistic factors (both English and non-English) within the context of South Africa. Contributing literature has been consulted to create context and better understanding of concepts including information architecture (websites), search engine optimization, customer information experience and understanding the South African language landscape. The study followed a mixed methodology research approach; the quantitative portion was fulfilled by a questionnaire and the qualitative portion was fulfilled by an information architecture checklist together with the search engine optimisation checklist. Data was collected and analysed on an Excel spreadsheet in order to elicit findings to fulfil the research objectives. The incorporation of the results from the IA an SEO checklist together with the language preferences in the strategic design of an information architecture strategy were presented on how to enhance the effectiveness of a website. , M.Com. (Business Management)
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The role of internal auditing on information technology within the banking industry
- Authors: Khanyile, Bridgette
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Banks and banking - Technological innovations , Management information systems , Banks and banking - Information technology , Financial services industry
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/420075 , uj:35751
- Description: Abstract: The Information Technology (IT) is a complex system used to conduct and process banking transactions. As a consequence, banking relies heavily on IT. Since banking transactions take place on an IT driven system, the systems’ infrastructure and security become the bank’s core functions. However, IT does have its risks and challenges, such as confidentiality issues, security breaches, non-compliance with regularity and poor quality services. IT governance is a framework that ensures that an organisation’s IT infrastructure supports the achievement of its corporate objectives. In the banking industry, IT governance plays a vital role, especially in the internal auditing function. Internal auditors are mandated by the Institute of Internal Audit’s standards to provide reasonable and objective assurance regarding the proper functioning of IT departments. This study considers the role of the internal audit function in IT governance in the South African banking industry. The study also highlights the IT governance risks that exist in the banking industry in South Africa. This is achieved through an extensive literature review on the governance frameworks and recommended practices for effective governance as well as the role and responsibilities of internal auditors in reducing IT risks. The study used purposive sampling to examine the integrated annual reports of the major banks in South Africa. The findings show that the banks demonstrate sound internal control systems while their internal audit approach reflects the effective and efficient implementation of systems, with embedded risk management practices, to ensure risk reduction. , M.Com. (Computer Auditing)
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- Authors: Khanyile, Bridgette
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Banks and banking - Technological innovations , Management information systems , Banks and banking - Information technology , Financial services industry
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/420075 , uj:35751
- Description: Abstract: The Information Technology (IT) is a complex system used to conduct and process banking transactions. As a consequence, banking relies heavily on IT. Since banking transactions take place on an IT driven system, the systems’ infrastructure and security become the bank’s core functions. However, IT does have its risks and challenges, such as confidentiality issues, security breaches, non-compliance with regularity and poor quality services. IT governance is a framework that ensures that an organisation’s IT infrastructure supports the achievement of its corporate objectives. In the banking industry, IT governance plays a vital role, especially in the internal auditing function. Internal auditors are mandated by the Institute of Internal Audit’s standards to provide reasonable and objective assurance regarding the proper functioning of IT departments. This study considers the role of the internal audit function in IT governance in the South African banking industry. The study also highlights the IT governance risks that exist in the banking industry in South Africa. This is achieved through an extensive literature review on the governance frameworks and recommended practices for effective governance as well as the role and responsibilities of internal auditors in reducing IT risks. The study used purposive sampling to examine the integrated annual reports of the major banks in South Africa. The findings show that the banks demonstrate sound internal control systems while their internal audit approach reflects the effective and efficient implementation of systems, with embedded risk management practices, to ensure risk reduction. , M.Com. (Computer Auditing)
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The status of material master data management implementation : implications on supply chain processes in FLSmidth
- Authors: Van der Merwe, Elmarie
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/414097 , uj:34912
- Description: Abstract: Decision making is one of the key supply chain activities within in any organisation. Sound business decisions should be based on relevant, accurate, reliable and timely information. Although data and information are two distinct concepts, these terms are used inter-changeably. Information derived from various systems within the organisation informs decision making. The quality of information depends on the quality of master data. Master data consist of sets of objects, identifiers, attributes and rules described in a consistent and uniform manner to form the core of the enterprise, and are used across multiple business processes. Master data are critical to support the transactional and analytical operations of a business. Furthermore, and more specific to supply chain management, the use of inconsistent and fragmented material master data creates supply chain inefficiencies and results in poor market penetration and a slowdown in time-to-market. Material master data management (MMDM) is the process of standardising and centralising the management of material master data elements, from the creation to the ownership and governance. The supply chain in organisations is mainly concerned with the movements of goods through the value chain. The identification of these goods through quality material master data has an impact on the efficiency of the supply chain. Mergers and acquisitions are one of the most common expansion strategies for organisations. However, mergers and acquisitions result in disparate systems and disparate sets of master data for the new organisation. FLSmidth (FLS) is a leading provider of engineering, equipment and service solutions to the global cement and mining industries. From as early as 1990, the company has grown through mergers and acquisitions of various new companies, including Pfister, Möller Materials Handling, Vecor, Abon Engineering and Buffalo. Resultantly FLS has many disparate enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, each owning its own set of data. Each company that was bought operated independently under the FLS umbrella with its own ERP system hosting its own set of master data in terms of a general ledger, suppliers, customers and materials... , M.Com. (Business Management)
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- Authors: Van der Merwe, Elmarie
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/414097 , uj:34912
- Description: Abstract: Decision making is one of the key supply chain activities within in any organisation. Sound business decisions should be based on relevant, accurate, reliable and timely information. Although data and information are two distinct concepts, these terms are used inter-changeably. Information derived from various systems within the organisation informs decision making. The quality of information depends on the quality of master data. Master data consist of sets of objects, identifiers, attributes and rules described in a consistent and uniform manner to form the core of the enterprise, and are used across multiple business processes. Master data are critical to support the transactional and analytical operations of a business. Furthermore, and more specific to supply chain management, the use of inconsistent and fragmented material master data creates supply chain inefficiencies and results in poor market penetration and a slowdown in time-to-market. Material master data management (MMDM) is the process of standardising and centralising the management of material master data elements, from the creation to the ownership and governance. The supply chain in organisations is mainly concerned with the movements of goods through the value chain. The identification of these goods through quality material master data has an impact on the efficiency of the supply chain. Mergers and acquisitions are one of the most common expansion strategies for organisations. However, mergers and acquisitions result in disparate systems and disparate sets of master data for the new organisation. FLSmidth (FLS) is a leading provider of engineering, equipment and service solutions to the global cement and mining industries. From as early as 1990, the company has grown through mergers and acquisitions of various new companies, including Pfister, Möller Materials Handling, Vecor, Abon Engineering and Buffalo. Resultantly FLS has many disparate enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, each owning its own set of data. Each company that was bought operated independently under the FLS umbrella with its own ERP system hosting its own set of master data in terms of a general ledger, suppliers, customers and materials... , M.Com. (Business Management)
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Challenges of enterprise architecture a systematic review
- Sindane, Nkosinathi Nicholas
- Authors: Sindane, Nkosinathi Nicholas
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Enterprise application integration (Computer systems) , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/285996 , uj:30939
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Enterprise Architecture (EA) is a young discipline within the Computer Engineering field and its main aim is to align information technology to the strategic goals of a business. For this reason, various organisations are increasingly starting to employ enterprise architecture with the main expected benefit being bridging the gap between business and technology. Despite the significant interest in the discipline, research indicates many Enterprise Architecture initiatives within organisations are often confronted with substantial challenges. If such challenges are not overcome, Enterprise Architecture projects fail and the expected value and benefits are not realized. Majority of organisations continue to introduce technology to their day-to-day activities and therefore the alignment of technology to strategic goals of organisations remains crucial for achieving a competitive advantage and business success. Literature review suggests that various areas of Enterprise Architecture have been researched in isolation either per sector and/or in some cases per challenge. This study aims at investigating existing Enterprise Architecture challenges holistically and will provide an overall picture to the reader on the challenges encountered during Enterprise Architecture implementation. A systematic literature review was carried out, 1060 papers were retrieved from 6 databases through a manual search. 354 studies remained after the duplicates were eliminated and 60 studies were found to be eligible after screening through titles and abstracts. Only 16 studies were included in the final pool after screening through full text. The study concludes that challenges do exist during the implementation of Enterprise Architecture projects. Furthermore the study provides evidence that the majority of challenges are non-technical by nature. Recommendations in overcoming the top 5 challenges are given and further research that will examine such recommendations in detail is proposed.
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- Authors: Sindane, Nkosinathi Nicholas
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Enterprise application integration (Computer systems) , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/285996 , uj:30939
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Enterprise Architecture (EA) is a young discipline within the Computer Engineering field and its main aim is to align information technology to the strategic goals of a business. For this reason, various organisations are increasingly starting to employ enterprise architecture with the main expected benefit being bridging the gap between business and technology. Despite the significant interest in the discipline, research indicates many Enterprise Architecture initiatives within organisations are often confronted with substantial challenges. If such challenges are not overcome, Enterprise Architecture projects fail and the expected value and benefits are not realized. Majority of organisations continue to introduce technology to their day-to-day activities and therefore the alignment of technology to strategic goals of organisations remains crucial for achieving a competitive advantage and business success. Literature review suggests that various areas of Enterprise Architecture have been researched in isolation either per sector and/or in some cases per challenge. This study aims at investigating existing Enterprise Architecture challenges holistically and will provide an overall picture to the reader on the challenges encountered during Enterprise Architecture implementation. A systematic literature review was carried out, 1060 papers were retrieved from 6 databases through a manual search. 354 studies remained after the duplicates were eliminated and 60 studies were found to be eligible after screening through titles and abstracts. Only 16 studies were included in the final pool after screening through full text. The study concludes that challenges do exist during the implementation of Enterprise Architecture projects. Furthermore the study provides evidence that the majority of challenges are non-technical by nature. Recommendations in overcoming the top 5 challenges are given and further research that will examine such recommendations in detail is proposed.
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Determinants of the penetration of Software as a Service (SAAS) for improving customer service
- Authors: Motloung, Terence
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning , Management information systems , Information technology - Management , Information technology - Customer services , Performance technology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/292281 , uj:31760
- Description: M.Com. (Information and Knowledge Management) , Abstract: Due to immense competitive pressure which arises in the automotive industry, decision makers at Cummins Inc. are confronted by difficulties to implement effective and timely business decisions which are data-driven. The business has therefore decided to deploy new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Information Technology Applications (ITA) such as Distribution Management Systems and Guidance Application to enhance information flows and enable decision makers within the business to execute strategies that are data-driven. As a result, the business experiences some difficulties when it comes to aligning the business unit’s strategies with the corporate strategy and the cause of this is the disinvestment in the management of information systems within the branches. Therefore, the results of this challenge will normally affect the organisation negatively and this can be demonstrated when one is analysing the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).The research method selected for this study is a mixed method. It has allowed the researcher to collect two dataset points, the quantative and qualitative information. The data was collected through surveys, interviews with participants to fully grasp their views. The analysis was done by interpreting the responses from partcipants by using analytical tools such as Minitab and smart survey analytical tool. Furthermore, integration of the enterprise resource plan, Software as a service and management information systems can enable users within the business to collect, process, store and extract data to support the managerial role of utilising information technology to enhance business and profits. According to anecdotal evidence, there are challenges which limit the implementation of SaaS at CAME (Cummins Africa Middle East) and in this case, it is recommended that the organisation evaluates its requirements before it can proceed with new technologies. It further states that new ERP-systems and applications to be deployed in the organisation, should be able to deal with more holistic business information and allow system integration to take place. Therefore, failure to invest into an ERP which can perform these functions would then lead the business into an environment where people take decisions based on feelings and not on data. In the long run this will not contribute to the organisation improving customer service.
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- Authors: Motloung, Terence
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning , Management information systems , Information technology - Management , Information technology - Customer services , Performance technology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/292281 , uj:31760
- Description: M.Com. (Information and Knowledge Management) , Abstract: Due to immense competitive pressure which arises in the automotive industry, decision makers at Cummins Inc. are confronted by difficulties to implement effective and timely business decisions which are data-driven. The business has therefore decided to deploy new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Information Technology Applications (ITA) such as Distribution Management Systems and Guidance Application to enhance information flows and enable decision makers within the business to execute strategies that are data-driven. As a result, the business experiences some difficulties when it comes to aligning the business unit’s strategies with the corporate strategy and the cause of this is the disinvestment in the management of information systems within the branches. Therefore, the results of this challenge will normally affect the organisation negatively and this can be demonstrated when one is analysing the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).The research method selected for this study is a mixed method. It has allowed the researcher to collect two dataset points, the quantative and qualitative information. The data was collected through surveys, interviews with participants to fully grasp their views. The analysis was done by interpreting the responses from partcipants by using analytical tools such as Minitab and smart survey analytical tool. Furthermore, integration of the enterprise resource plan, Software as a service and management information systems can enable users within the business to collect, process, store and extract data to support the managerial role of utilising information technology to enhance business and profits. According to anecdotal evidence, there are challenges which limit the implementation of SaaS at CAME (Cummins Africa Middle East) and in this case, it is recommended that the organisation evaluates its requirements before it can proceed with new technologies. It further states that new ERP-systems and applications to be deployed in the organisation, should be able to deal with more holistic business information and allow system integration to take place. Therefore, failure to invest into an ERP which can perform these functions would then lead the business into an environment where people take decisions based on feelings and not on data. In the long run this will not contribute to the organisation improving customer service.
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Signification framework of a business intelligence tool for SME business decision-making
- Authors: Magoma, Tshepo Confidence
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Business intelligence , Decision making , Business - Decision making , Business - Data processing , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/403257 , uj:33783
- Description: Abstract : Business Intelligence (BI) tools are being adopted more frequently, especially in large organisations that have the resources to deploy it. BI tools are allowing businesses to optimise their decision-making process and sustain competitive advantage. There is, however, limited published research into how BI tools are being used by small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as well as limited research in terms of the affordable features from IBM Cognos that support SMEs’ decision-making needs. Application of the key features of BI tools are helping organisations to take decisions to ensure their sustainable growth and competitive advantage. BI is also vast and complex hence it requires skilled human resources, and it makes the development and maintenance of BI highly expensive for SMEs. The main motivation of the research has been associated with the fact that finding a BI tool that is cost efficient for SMEs can be important for the success of the business and to cater effectively to their decision-making needs. Objective The study’s purpose was to determine which of the fundamental features of IBM Cognos are affordable features for addressing the business needs of SMEs. The objective was to analyse the significance of BI tools in the SMEs by identifying affordable and suitable features from IBM Cognos based on SMEs’ needs and business functions using a signification framework. Method A quantitative research method has been used in which primary method of data collection has been adopted. With respect to this, data collection instrument chosen for the research is in the form of a questionnaire online survey which was sent to the respondents through survey monkey. The sample size for this research was 200 research participants, and amongst these total 200 research participants, 80 participants were BI Consultants from consultancy firms and with the composition of their own consultancy firm’s clients, the other participants were 60 iv SME BI developers and 60 SME managers. For the purpose of data analysis, this research has used SPSS software and Microsoft Excel and analysed the results by using demographic and frequency analysis. Results The findings of this research have revealed that BI is a broad field and can be used as a tool for solving various issues faced by the SMEs. BI tool is able to solve issues through their features. All the questions asked from the respondents were associated with the features of BI and how they are effective for decisionmaking in SMEs. The features of IBM Cognos are cost effective but not necessarily affordable in the context of SME business needs. Affordability was identified as the mediating variable in this study. Conclusion The research has concluded that the SMEs established in South Africa should adopt the IBM Cognos tool for supporting their decision-making process and needs. The implementation of low cost and affordable features is important for SMEs but it requires a specialised IT employee for managing and running the tool. This tool would help the SMEs in articulating solutions based on the issues as well as making operational decisions that would improve the growth and profitability of the business. Overall, it has been indicated from the study that IBM is an important tool for the SMEs in that, it aids in gathering relevant data and further interpreting the data for making effective decisions. , M.Com. (Business Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Magoma, Tshepo Confidence
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Business intelligence , Decision making , Business - Decision making , Business - Data processing , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/403257 , uj:33783
- Description: Abstract : Business Intelligence (BI) tools are being adopted more frequently, especially in large organisations that have the resources to deploy it. BI tools are allowing businesses to optimise their decision-making process and sustain competitive advantage. There is, however, limited published research into how BI tools are being used by small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as well as limited research in terms of the affordable features from IBM Cognos that support SMEs’ decision-making needs. Application of the key features of BI tools are helping organisations to take decisions to ensure their sustainable growth and competitive advantage. BI is also vast and complex hence it requires skilled human resources, and it makes the development and maintenance of BI highly expensive for SMEs. The main motivation of the research has been associated with the fact that finding a BI tool that is cost efficient for SMEs can be important for the success of the business and to cater effectively to their decision-making needs. Objective The study’s purpose was to determine which of the fundamental features of IBM Cognos are affordable features for addressing the business needs of SMEs. The objective was to analyse the significance of BI tools in the SMEs by identifying affordable and suitable features from IBM Cognos based on SMEs’ needs and business functions using a signification framework. Method A quantitative research method has been used in which primary method of data collection has been adopted. With respect to this, data collection instrument chosen for the research is in the form of a questionnaire online survey which was sent to the respondents through survey monkey. The sample size for this research was 200 research participants, and amongst these total 200 research participants, 80 participants were BI Consultants from consultancy firms and with the composition of their own consultancy firm’s clients, the other participants were 60 iv SME BI developers and 60 SME managers. For the purpose of data analysis, this research has used SPSS software and Microsoft Excel and analysed the results by using demographic and frequency analysis. Results The findings of this research have revealed that BI is a broad field and can be used as a tool for solving various issues faced by the SMEs. BI tool is able to solve issues through their features. All the questions asked from the respondents were associated with the features of BI and how they are effective for decisionmaking in SMEs. The features of IBM Cognos are cost effective but not necessarily affordable in the context of SME business needs. Affordability was identified as the mediating variable in this study. Conclusion The research has concluded that the SMEs established in South Africa should adopt the IBM Cognos tool for supporting their decision-making process and needs. The implementation of low cost and affordable features is important for SMEs but it requires a specialised IT employee for managing and running the tool. This tool would help the SMEs in articulating solutions based on the issues as well as making operational decisions that would improve the growth and profitability of the business. Overall, it has been indicated from the study that IBM is an important tool for the SMEs in that, it aids in gathering relevant data and further interpreting the data for making effective decisions. , M.Com. (Business Management)
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Business process reengineering in integrating enterprise ressource planning (ERP) and bank systems in consulting companies : a case study of parity software in South Africa
- Bakam Fotso Epse Kuate, Genevieve
- Authors: Bakam Fotso Epse Kuate, Genevieve
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning - Software , Management information systems , Reengineering (Management) , Internet banking
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269627 , uj:28644
- Description: M.Tech. (Operations Management) , Abstract: One of the aspect of the greener future is about reengineering information technology (IT) through system integration. The thesis challenges the concept of Business Process Reengineering (BPR) in integrating enterprise resource planning (ERP) and bank systems in consulting companies. This thesis is based on the research carried out at Parity software, as the biggest consulting company in South Africa that uses business systems and develop additional management systems to meet customer’s expectations. The four big South African banks namely First National Bank, Absa, Standardbank and Nedbank are already offering online business banking applications that can be easily integrated with other payment software through cloud computing. However, point-to-point integration between financial ERP and bank systems remain a huge challenge. The thesis aims at designing a business integration model that will be the backbone of new software development in the field of automatic and direct payment transactions between corporate and bank systems. Using model-driven architecture, the designed model intends to present benefits of direct integration that will reduce long payment process and end import and export of bank files. Following theoretical, conceptual and empirical approaches, the literature review shows the gap between standard business process reengineering and business process reengineering applied to system integration and thus define survey items. The research methodology used is a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods. The thesis uses qualitative research design to develop reengineering model using cross-functional flowchart design process from Microsoft Visio professional. Quantitative research design is used to analyse data collected from the likert scale questionnaire and to interpret descriptive statistics and correlational method to test hypothesis. Research findings showed that there is a positive and statistical significant relationship between dependent variables namely business factors, financial ERP system and IT architecture and the BPR Integration (BPRI) model known as independent variables. Additionally, interviews regarding customer’s expectations showed that 85% of customers are looking forward for a direct and automated payment solution that will reduce payment cycle and increase their profitability. Extensive research should be done to redesign the proposed integration model using computer and data language to facilitate execution by IT people.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bakam Fotso Epse Kuate, Genevieve
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning - Software , Management information systems , Reengineering (Management) , Internet banking
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269627 , uj:28644
- Description: M.Tech. (Operations Management) , Abstract: One of the aspect of the greener future is about reengineering information technology (IT) through system integration. The thesis challenges the concept of Business Process Reengineering (BPR) in integrating enterprise resource planning (ERP) and bank systems in consulting companies. This thesis is based on the research carried out at Parity software, as the biggest consulting company in South Africa that uses business systems and develop additional management systems to meet customer’s expectations. The four big South African banks namely First National Bank, Absa, Standardbank and Nedbank are already offering online business banking applications that can be easily integrated with other payment software through cloud computing. However, point-to-point integration between financial ERP and bank systems remain a huge challenge. The thesis aims at designing a business integration model that will be the backbone of new software development in the field of automatic and direct payment transactions between corporate and bank systems. Using model-driven architecture, the designed model intends to present benefits of direct integration that will reduce long payment process and end import and export of bank files. Following theoretical, conceptual and empirical approaches, the literature review shows the gap between standard business process reengineering and business process reengineering applied to system integration and thus define survey items. The research methodology used is a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods. The thesis uses qualitative research design to develop reengineering model using cross-functional flowchart design process from Microsoft Visio professional. Quantitative research design is used to analyse data collected from the likert scale questionnaire and to interpret descriptive statistics and correlational method to test hypothesis. Research findings showed that there is a positive and statistical significant relationship between dependent variables namely business factors, financial ERP system and IT architecture and the BPR Integration (BPRI) model known as independent variables. Additionally, interviews regarding customer’s expectations showed that 85% of customers are looking forward for a direct and automated payment solution that will reduce payment cycle and increase their profitability. Extensive research should be done to redesign the proposed integration model using computer and data language to facilitate execution by IT people.
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Enhancing enterprise resource planning and manufacturing execution system efficiency with simulation-based decision support
- Authors: Medoh, Chuks Nnamdi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning , Enterprise resource planning - Software , Enterprise application integration (Computer systems) , Management information systems , Business planning
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225231 , uj:22743
- Description: Abstract: Business corporates inclusive of large, medium and small-scale entities traditionally conducts activities based on business processes. Large multinationals have adopted various automation systems at various levels of business units, in capturing essential business activities across the entity. These automation systems, inclusive of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Plant systems has been adopted by larger corporates in executing and optimizing business functions. These large multinationals are described as complex entities with complex business structures inclusive of business processes. The effect of automation, escalations and other critical variables influencing these business processes has not been effectively quantified. “Systems thinking” adds the complexity of integrating all enterprise functions but creates a framework for evaluating the limitations and synergies so as to optimize these processes. This research focuses on the development and configuration of a simulation model for modelling enterprise maturity, directing attention to process maturity relative to the turnaround time of business processes. This research approach includes hierarchical layout and segregation of these business processes, investigated adopting business process tools, techniques, and methodologies aligned with systems thinking approach. A simulation framework is configured and tested adopting scenario impact assessments based on certain key business variables aligned with associated critical constraints conditions. Optimization framework of these business variables is adopted in presenting an integrated case. The results prove that a simulation model potentially benefits a complex organization specific to evaluating time taken to conduct business processes. The results indicate that interdependent processes can be modelled together with determining impacts of multiple variables in reducing interdependent business process time. This implies that business entities can adopt and utilize outputs of this research to serve as a navigation tool specific to business process time when optimizing shop floor together with top floor communications and vice versa. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Medoh, Chuks Nnamdi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning , Enterprise resource planning - Software , Enterprise application integration (Computer systems) , Management information systems , Business planning
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225231 , uj:22743
- Description: Abstract: Business corporates inclusive of large, medium and small-scale entities traditionally conducts activities based on business processes. Large multinationals have adopted various automation systems at various levels of business units, in capturing essential business activities across the entity. These automation systems, inclusive of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Plant systems has been adopted by larger corporates in executing and optimizing business functions. These large multinationals are described as complex entities with complex business structures inclusive of business processes. The effect of automation, escalations and other critical variables influencing these business processes has not been effectively quantified. “Systems thinking” adds the complexity of integrating all enterprise functions but creates a framework for evaluating the limitations and synergies so as to optimize these processes. This research focuses on the development and configuration of a simulation model for modelling enterprise maturity, directing attention to process maturity relative to the turnaround time of business processes. This research approach includes hierarchical layout and segregation of these business processes, investigated adopting business process tools, techniques, and methodologies aligned with systems thinking approach. A simulation framework is configured and tested adopting scenario impact assessments based on certain key business variables aligned with associated critical constraints conditions. Optimization framework of these business variables is adopted in presenting an integrated case. The results prove that a simulation model potentially benefits a complex organization specific to evaluating time taken to conduct business processes. The results indicate that interdependent processes can be modelled together with determining impacts of multiple variables in reducing interdependent business process time. This implies that business entities can adopt and utilize outputs of this research to serve as a navigation tool specific to business process time when optimizing shop floor together with top floor communications and vice versa. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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The significance of facilitation skills for business process engineering : financial institutions
- Authors: Choshi, Madimetja Frans
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Reengineering (Management) , Organizational effectiveness , Management information systems , Strategic planning , Financial institutions
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213386 , uj:21146
- Description: Abstract: The aim of this study is to investigate the lack of communication and facilitation skills negatively affecting the success of business process improvement projects conducted by engineers within the financial institutions. Recent studies have shown that successful and sustainable process improvement initiatives partially dependent on stakeholder (all levels) support and buy-in within any service industry. Resistance by the stakeholders has become a major concern in implementing improvement initiatives because the project outcomes are not clearly understood. An organisations ability to constantly improve processes enables it to constantly meet customer expectations and protect or improve its competitive edge. The first chapter provides insights on the certain causes and failures of business process improvement initiatives based on the research title. The chapter highlights certain information from past research conducted within the background and introduction. It further provides the significance of the study, brief introduction to each chapter and objectives the researcher wanted to achieve. In chapter two, literature information is provided to further support the study conducted. The literature focuses on business processes, business process improvement, common best practise methodologies and how they relate to facilitation. A survey was conducted by 21 experienced process engineers to analyse the process improvement projects failures researched. The outcomes indicated that most projects fail as a result of lack of leadership support, poor change management and project buy-in. The researcher further provides recommendations on how to better manage, get support and implement successful business process initiatives using facilitation skills. The researcher perceives facilitation skills as the added catalyst to ensuring positive outcome for business process improvement initiatives. The researcher anticipates that information will provide readers with a different perspective of the challenges experienced by engineers in service industries and ideas for future development of business process improvement methodology. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Choshi, Madimetja Frans
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Reengineering (Management) , Organizational effectiveness , Management information systems , Strategic planning , Financial institutions
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213386 , uj:21146
- Description: Abstract: The aim of this study is to investigate the lack of communication and facilitation skills negatively affecting the success of business process improvement projects conducted by engineers within the financial institutions. Recent studies have shown that successful and sustainable process improvement initiatives partially dependent on stakeholder (all levels) support and buy-in within any service industry. Resistance by the stakeholders has become a major concern in implementing improvement initiatives because the project outcomes are not clearly understood. An organisations ability to constantly improve processes enables it to constantly meet customer expectations and protect or improve its competitive edge. The first chapter provides insights on the certain causes and failures of business process improvement initiatives based on the research title. The chapter highlights certain information from past research conducted within the background and introduction. It further provides the significance of the study, brief introduction to each chapter and objectives the researcher wanted to achieve. In chapter two, literature information is provided to further support the study conducted. The literature focuses on business processes, business process improvement, common best practise methodologies and how they relate to facilitation. A survey was conducted by 21 experienced process engineers to analyse the process improvement projects failures researched. The outcomes indicated that most projects fail as a result of lack of leadership support, poor change management and project buy-in. The researcher further provides recommendations on how to better manage, get support and implement successful business process initiatives using facilitation skills. The researcher perceives facilitation skills as the added catalyst to ensuring positive outcome for business process improvement initiatives. The researcher anticipates that information will provide readers with a different perspective of the challenges experienced by engineers in service industries and ideas for future development of business process improvement methodology. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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Unstructured technology decision making : a case study
- Authors: Shiburi, Nyiko
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Information technology - Decision making , Decision making - Case studies , Strategic planning , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225310 , uj:22753
- Description: Abstract: Technology plays an important role in company competitiveness and, like any other sources of competition, needs to be managed based on a strategic point of view. Therefore, how technology is selected and prioritised is integral to support the company strategic objective. The information characteristics of strategic decisions are that they are ad hoc, forward looking, external and wide scoped. In addition, new technology is filled with uncertainties. Operational managers at lower levels make day-to-day decisions that are structured and information is easily available, inward looking and certain. However, from time to time they have to make technology decisions, which are unstructured in nature, or make recommendations to senior management about the technology. This creates a problem as the operational managers usually make structured decisions. If a decision-making process guideline is available to be utilised during technology rollout decisions, which are unstructured in nature, it will provide decision makers at operational management level with a structure and help decision makers to make decisions that are effective. To derive a decision-making process guideline, this study made use of two case studies within one organisation to determine how previous technology decisions were taken and what factors were taken into account. In both cases, the recommendations by the operational managers were overruled by the senior executives. The case study method was used as it provided the researcher with in-depth knowledge of how decisions were taken. It was found that the company had a high-level process of making decisions which consisted of a white paper generated by operational managers making recommendations on whether the technology should be implemented or not. A PowerPoint presentation was prepared summarising the white paper and presented to the senior executives to ratify the recommendations. It was also found that there was no standard process of generating the white paper and Power- Point presentation and as a result there were inconsistencies in how the information was gathered and presented. Based on the literature review and case study findings, a recommended decision-making process guideline was derived. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Shiburi, Nyiko
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Information technology - Decision making , Decision making - Case studies , Strategic planning , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225310 , uj:22753
- Description: Abstract: Technology plays an important role in company competitiveness and, like any other sources of competition, needs to be managed based on a strategic point of view. Therefore, how technology is selected and prioritised is integral to support the company strategic objective. The information characteristics of strategic decisions are that they are ad hoc, forward looking, external and wide scoped. In addition, new technology is filled with uncertainties. Operational managers at lower levels make day-to-day decisions that are structured and information is easily available, inward looking and certain. However, from time to time they have to make technology decisions, which are unstructured in nature, or make recommendations to senior management about the technology. This creates a problem as the operational managers usually make structured decisions. If a decision-making process guideline is available to be utilised during technology rollout decisions, which are unstructured in nature, it will provide decision makers at operational management level with a structure and help decision makers to make decisions that are effective. To derive a decision-making process guideline, this study made use of two case studies within one organisation to determine how previous technology decisions were taken and what factors were taken into account. In both cases, the recommendations by the operational managers were overruled by the senior executives. The case study method was used as it provided the researcher with in-depth knowledge of how decisions were taken. It was found that the company had a high-level process of making decisions which consisted of a white paper generated by operational managers making recommendations on whether the technology should be implemented or not. A PowerPoint presentation was prepared summarising the white paper and presented to the senior executives to ratify the recommendations. It was also found that there was no standard process of generating the white paper and Power- Point presentation and as a result there were inconsistencies in how the information was gathered and presented. Based on the literature review and case study findings, a recommended decision-making process guideline was derived. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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Development of a decision making model for the CorexR iron making facility
- Authors: Penney, A.T.
- Date: 2015-03-18
- Subjects: Management information systems , Decision making - Data processing , Decision support systems , Iron industry and trade - South Africa - Management , CorexR (Firm)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:13459 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13495
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
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- Authors: Penney, A.T.
- Date: 2015-03-18
- Subjects: Management information systems , Decision making - Data processing , Decision support systems , Iron industry and trade - South Africa - Management , CorexR (Firm)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:13459 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13495
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
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Achieving customer data integration through master data management in enterprise information management
- Authors: Lerche, Stephen
- Date: 2014-06-19
- Subjects: Management information systems , Enterprise application integration (Computer systems)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:11552 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/11259
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Data and the use thereof, is considered to be a source of competitive advantage for organisations. In order to achieve this it needs to be managed appropriately, and existing literature considers enterprise information management (EIM) to be the foundation for organisations to manage information successfully. (For the purposes of this dissertation, data and information will be treated as analogous concepts.) Key contributing factors to the success of EIM have been identified as ensuring data governance is in place, and that there is a focus on data quality. Within EIM, a key set of data that must be managed effectively is customer data. In many organisations – including the financial services organisation that is the focus of this study – customer data is held in disparate systems across the organisation. Creating a single view of how customers interact with an organisation is deemed of crucial importance for future organisational growth, and the initiatives that organisations undertake to create this view is referred to in the literature as customer data integration (CDI). In order for CDI to be successful, master data management (MDM) needs to be addressed; this will ensure that core data is managed consistently across the disparate systems. This study sought to determine how the concepts of EIM, CDI and MDM were being applied in the organisation under review, and how closely this application matched the recommendations of the literature. In addition, the study sought to uncover additional factors that had an impact on customer data integration, and information management in general, in the organisation. What was found is that in the organisation in question, how information management is being addressed is consistent with the literature in some areas – primarily the importance of a single view of customer and the supporting roles of information governance and data quality – but divergent in others, the key area being that there is no EIM strategy in the organisation that drives a consolidated approach to information management. Organisational culture was also highlighted by the literature as being a critical influencer on how information is managed, and this was supported by the findings. Additional factors that were found to have a significant influence on data management – which were not highlighted by the literature – included the importance of processes, and especially for CDI the critical role played by legislation, in particular the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA). An additional crucial factor, again not highlighted by the literature, is the difficulty organisations have in placing an actual financial value on the use of information. Although intrinsically it is understood that information is valuable, the difficulty in ascribing an explicit value to it is a key inhibitor (in conjunction with organisational culture), to the organisation initiating data management projects at a strategic level, and instead having to address data management as a component of projects driven by individual business units.
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- Authors: Lerche, Stephen
- Date: 2014-06-19
- Subjects: Management information systems , Enterprise application integration (Computer systems)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:11552 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/11259
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Data and the use thereof, is considered to be a source of competitive advantage for organisations. In order to achieve this it needs to be managed appropriately, and existing literature considers enterprise information management (EIM) to be the foundation for organisations to manage information successfully. (For the purposes of this dissertation, data and information will be treated as analogous concepts.) Key contributing factors to the success of EIM have been identified as ensuring data governance is in place, and that there is a focus on data quality. Within EIM, a key set of data that must be managed effectively is customer data. In many organisations – including the financial services organisation that is the focus of this study – customer data is held in disparate systems across the organisation. Creating a single view of how customers interact with an organisation is deemed of crucial importance for future organisational growth, and the initiatives that organisations undertake to create this view is referred to in the literature as customer data integration (CDI). In order for CDI to be successful, master data management (MDM) needs to be addressed; this will ensure that core data is managed consistently across the disparate systems. This study sought to determine how the concepts of EIM, CDI and MDM were being applied in the organisation under review, and how closely this application matched the recommendations of the literature. In addition, the study sought to uncover additional factors that had an impact on customer data integration, and information management in general, in the organisation. What was found is that in the organisation in question, how information management is being addressed is consistent with the literature in some areas – primarily the importance of a single view of customer and the supporting roles of information governance and data quality – but divergent in others, the key area being that there is no EIM strategy in the organisation that drives a consolidated approach to information management. Organisational culture was also highlighted by the literature as being a critical influencer on how information is managed, and this was supported by the findings. Additional factors that were found to have a significant influence on data management – which were not highlighted by the literature – included the importance of processes, and especially for CDI the critical role played by legislation, in particular the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA). An additional crucial factor, again not highlighted by the literature, is the difficulty organisations have in placing an actual financial value on the use of information. Although intrinsically it is understood that information is valuable, the difficulty in ascribing an explicit value to it is a key inhibitor (in conjunction with organisational culture), to the organisation initiating data management projects at a strategic level, and instead having to address data management as a component of projects driven by individual business units.
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Security features on IBM AS/400 processors : a practical study for implementation at Impala Platinum Limited
- Van Rooyen, Nicolaas Gustavus Appelgryn
- Authors: Van Rooyen, Nicolaas Gustavus Appelgryn
- Date: 2014-04-10
- Subjects: Management information systems , Computer security
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10584 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10108
- Description: M.Com. (Computer Auditing) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van Rooyen, Nicolaas Gustavus Appelgryn
- Date: 2014-04-10
- Subjects: Management information systems , Computer security
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10584 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10108
- Description: M.Com. (Computer Auditing) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
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An executive information system of Eureka DIY solution
- Authors: Marais, Arlette Irene
- Date: 2014-02-17
- Subjects: Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:4039 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9391
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
- Authors: Marais, Arlette Irene
- Date: 2014-02-17
- Subjects: Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:4039 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9391
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text: