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An integrated artificial intelligence framework for knowledge creation and B2B marketing rational decision making for improving firm performance

Artificial intelligence and knowledge management principles in secure corporate intranets

  • Authors: Barry, Christopher
  • Date: 2010-02-23T10:25:43Z
  • Subjects: Artificial intelligence , Knowledge management , Intranets (Computer networks) , Computer networks security measures
  • Type: Thesis
  • Identifier: uj:6634 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3035
  • Description: M.Sc. (Computer Science) , Corporations throughout the world are facing numerous challenges in today’s competitive marketplace and are continuously looking for new and innovative means and methods of gaining competitive advantage. One of the means used to gain this advantage is that of information technology, and all the associated technologies and principles. These are primarily used to facilitate business processes and procedures that are designed to provide this competitive advantage. Significant attention has been given to each of the individual technologies and principles of Artificial Intelligence, Knowledge Management, Information Security, and Intranets and how they can be leveraged in order to improve efficiency and functionality within a corporation. However, in order to truly reap the benefits of these technologies and principles, it is necessary to look at them as a collaborative system, rather as individual components. This dissertation therefore investigates each of these individual technologies and principles in isolation, as well as in combination with each other to outline potential advantages, associated risks, and disadvantages when combining them within the corporate world. Based on these, the Intelligently Generated Knowledge (IGK) framework is outlined to implement such a collaborative system. Thereafter, an investigation of a theoretical situation is conducted based on this framework to examine the impact of the implementation of this type of collaborative system. The potential increase in cost savings, efficiency and functionality of corporations that would employ the IGK framework is clearly outlined in the theoretical example, and should this approach be adopted, it would be able to provide significant competitive advantage for any corporation.
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An information management framework for the work-integrated learning process

  • Authors: Brink, Roelien
  • Date: 2014-06-21
  • Subjects: Experiential learning , Knowledge management
  • Type: Thesis
  • Identifier: uj:11562 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/11269
  • Description: Ph.D. (Information Management) , The South African landscape on employment has reached a stage which requires strategies and initiatives that can assist and elevate awareness on ways which can facilitate opportunities of placement of people in the labour market. Critical levels of unemployment have placed the priority on the skilling of work seekers at the highest level. The critical issue of unemployment has also impacted on the higher education institutions (HEIs) fraternity to turn out professional graduates that are attractive and appropriately skilled for placement at industry level. HEIs have an unspoken obligation as a research founded environment to be on the cutting edge of processes and strategies on addressing the country's needs and strategic directives. Work-integrated learning (WIL) was identified as a core area which can facilitate preparation and empowering student learning on industry level that can promote student placement and possibly address levels of employment. HEIs in South Africa require teaching and learning to include WIL within specific learning offerings. The different learning offerings provided by various faculties have unique and diverse procedures which justify different WIL approaches at HEIs. A lack of structure regarding the information management (IM) for WIL across departmental silos, result in different processes followed for WIL. Therefore a lack of structure for IM can impact negatively on the optimal utilisation of WIL. In order to establish an effective IM feedback process the information that currently is, and that potentially could be exchanged between the HEI, the industry partner and the student has to be managed. This relationship is referred to as the WIL triad partners. Effective WIL is largely reliant on the managing of information exchanged between the triad partners. Without an effective flow of information, the WIL component will be cumbersome for the triad partners with duplication taking place across faculties. WIL can be optimally managed from a centralised unit to facilitate information flow between the triad partners, but first a framework has to be developed for the IM for WIL. Frameworks for the IM for WIL have been developed at international HEIs over long periods of time, which have evolved into good practice benchmarks. An investigation into these frameworks offered valuable insights to be tested at a HEI in South Africa. It became clear from this study that significant challenges are in the order of the day, pertaining to the IM for WIL process in place at the University of Johannesburg (UJ). It is paramount that processes and techniques do not stagnate but evolve with time and in line with the latest trends and technology. Therefore HEIs should be on par and be in line with the latest trends which affect HEIs' approach to WIL. It is strategic to realise the importance of capacitating students for employment and having the latest, most effective process in place will not only benefit students but add to the value chain of student employability due to strong and established collaboration with industry partners. The ultimate goal of this study was to develop a conceptual framework for IM for WIL for a HEI. The research resulted in a conceptual framework that would lay the foundation for the ultimate development of a portal, which was identified as the most appropriate platform that could facilitate the creation and development of a centralised solution that would enable IM for WIL processes. Such a platform could then be populated with the relevant data, featuring access functions that will allow for a single repository of data which can be centrally managed. The acceptance of the IM for WIL framework was tested amongst WIL coordinators and a very positive response was achieved. This study could guide and assist the UJ, as well as other HEIs, in developing and structuring of a centralised WIL unit based on an online WIL portal benefiting the role players who are central to the WIL process.
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Online community portals for small businesses

  • Authors: Chen, Her-Jiang
  • Date: 2011-10-11T08:53:31Z
  • Subjects: Small business , Information and communication technologies , Knowledge management
  • Type: Thesis
  • Identifier: uj:7252 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3905
  • Description: M.A. , The first part of the study is a literature review which indicate that small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) represent an important vehicle to address the challenges of job creation, economic growth and equity. Modern economy is driven by innovations and knowledge. Transforming information resources into knowledge and maximise the value of knowledge is the new challenge in achieving a sustainable competitive advantage. Information resources are needed by small businesses as much as their larger counter parts but small businesses are usually in a disadvantaged position in terms of finance and expertise. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) offer small businesses new opportunities in the information economy. Exciting ICT applications such as Web portals provide platforms for business communities to share information and communicate more efficiently than ever. Such information resources enable small businesses to react faster and adapt better to the changing global market. The stimulation of SMMEs must be seen as part of an integrated strategy to develop the society to a higher level. The research findings of this study provide all stakeholders in small business development in South Africa including government, industries and academics a better understanding and practical guideline for delivering information resources to small business owners and managers and the design of information portals that can address the information needs of small businesses in South Africa. The empirical components that follow the literature review comprised a questionnaire survey. The survey focused on non-franchised small businesses in the retail industry in the greater Johannesburg metropolitan. A total of 150 questionnaires completed by small business owners and managers were used for statistic analysis in this research. The questionnaire consisted of four sections: business biographic information, business information and agencies, information and communication technologies usage, and community and portal activities. The survey results revealed valuable insights and trends in the use of ICTs and attitudes towards information sharing amongst small business owners and managers. Textile, clothing, footwear and leather goods were the most popular trade for the small businesses use in the survey. Nearly all respondents prefer English for business communication and the businesses are typically owner manager with a small number of employees. Infrastructure for ICTs is in place for small businesses, but the usage level is still basic. Short message service (SMS) and e-mail are the most commonly used ICT tools. Traditional media such as television, radio, newspapers and magazines remain the most important source of information for these small business owners and managers. Younger businesses adapt better to ICTs than the older businesses. Despite a mixed attitude towards sharing business information, small business owners and managers showed a high level of interest in networking with other businesses, in particular with potential customers and suppliers. Most respondents do not belong to any professional or industrial organisation primarily because they were not aware of these organisations. Based on the literature review and the empirical research, the final conclusion that was made from this research is that Web community information portals can, to a great extent, promote the use of information resources for small businesses in South Africa. The results from this research give a better understanding and are useful guidelines to stakeholders in small business development in South Africa.
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Enhancing the effectiveness of a knowledge management toolkit in a professional services firm

  • Authors: Chetty, Lameshnee
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Information resources management , Corporate culture , Knowledge management
  • Language: English
  • Type: Masters (Thesis)
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/246168 , uj:25513
  • Description: M.Phil. (Information Management) , Abstract: This study seeks to discover the efficiency of the current knowledge management toolkit for client facing professionals in a professional services firm in South Africa (The PSF). The efficiency of the toolkit determines the overall value of the knowledge management programme in the organisation. The objective of the study conducted during 2016 as evaluation research was threefold. Firstly, to determine how the current knowledge management toolkit was providing solutions to client facing employees. Secondly, to identify what the gaps were in the current knowledge management toolkit. Thirdly, to determine what needed to be implemented to improve the efficiency of the knowledge management toolkit. A pragmatism philosophy was used for this study because the research takes into account various perspectives to interpret the data. The sample on whom this research was conducted was 30 participants who possess the following criteria: employees who work in client account teams, employees who work on strategic and target clients, and employees who ensure client sustainability for existing clients. Semi structured interviews were used to collect data to help determine which knowledge management tools worked well, which tools were not working well, and what can be included or improved on. This research gives an overview of how the knowledge management toolkit was being used in The PSF and how it can be improved on in order to enhance client engagements and provide a competitive advantage. Evaluation of the toolkit overall depicts that the experience tool, one of eight tools in The PSF’s KM toolkit, was the tool that added the most value to the organisation. The results of this research give clear indication of areas of improvement which should be considered. Most significantly, the collaboration tool was rated the least valuable to the organisation; however, it does have the potential to increase its value by implementing the necessary recommendations. The study enabled the organisation to strategically position the knowledge management toolkit towards adding value for client engagements.
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Leveraging knowledge assets in a postmodern workplace : a personal constructionist perspective

The commercialisation lifecycle of a knowledge management consulting firm in the fourth industrial revolution

  • Authors: De Koker, Lucian Theodoric
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Knowledge management , Industrial revolution , Artificial intelligence , Internet of things
  • Language: English
  • Type: Masters (Thesis)
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/415004 , uj:35021
  • Description: Abstract: Current situation in business, economies and the world indicate that artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) and robotics are some of the technologies that is and will continue to have a tremendous impact on businesses, economies and everyday human life. These technologies amongst others are reshaping the global landscape and business ecosystems and the manner in which business is conducted in the fourth industrial revolution (4IR). Generic commercialisation lifecycles and business models require adaptation in the 4IR, which will aid successful business for a knowledge management (KM) consulting firm. The study focussed on conceptualising and developing a commercialisation lifecycle (CLC) for a KM consulting firm in the 4IR. The research objective was to conceptualise a business model canvas (BMC) and develop an IKM framework that can be used specifically by a KM consulting firm, including entrepreneurs, small businesses and professional business consulting firms in the 4IR. Literature shows that commercialisation lifecycles and business models need to change continuously, especially on the front of the 4IR. To remain competitive and sustain a healthy business, KM consulting firms will need to upskill and improve current business operations. Upskilling, changing and preparing for the 4IR, give competitive advantage over competitors. New technologies need to be embraced and harnessed to exploit the innovative capabilities and value add new technologies offer. With an improved, adapted and updated CLC and BMC in place, a KM consulting firm will be able to provide innovative services to clients, ensuring profitability. The research methodology for the study was qualitative in nature, with an inductive and exploratory approach. Grounded in the interpretivist paradigm, the inductive approach allowed the study to explore a specific phenomenon and identify themes in order to explain patterns. A conceptual framework was developed, using existing literature, to conceptualise a CLC for a KM consulting firm in the 4IR. Data was collected through content analysis and in-depth faceto- face interviews, through multi-method qualitative research. Purposive sampling was selected to determine the 4 participants for the interviews, through critical case sampling, allowing 3 participants to be interviewed and the fourth participant to be used for testing the findings of the interviews. Interviews and testing of the interviews were transcribed, coded, and categorised through the Data Analysis Spiral. Research findings, through triangulation found that the conceptualisation and development of a CLC is crucial; that the conceptualisation of a BMC is crucial; and that new services and the development of an IKM framework is crucial; which will allow a KM consulting firm, including entrepreneurs, small businesses and professional business consulting firms to be successful in the 4IR. Results showed that the CLC, the BMC, new services and the IKM framework, need... , M.Phil. (Information Management)
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Knowledge management and outsourcing in an IT environment

  • Authors: Desroches, Colin Michael
  • Date: 2009-03-31T09:30:16Z
  • Subjects: Knowledge management , Contracting out
  • Type: Thesis
  • Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/370386 , uj:8252 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2363
  • Description: M.B.A. , The following study concerns Knowledge Management and Outsourcing in an IT environment. More specifically, it gives a brief description of what Knowledge Management is; the different types and phases, the economics and strategies, different drivers, the outcomes, critical success factors, the benefits, frameworks and the influence that Knowledge Management has on competitiveness and innovation in the workplace. The topic is concluded with a discussion around technologies for enabling Knowledge Management. Also discussed in the study is the definition of Outsourcing, the different theories, critical success factors, drivers and moving from traditional to transformational Outsourcing. Mention is also made about some of the obstacles and problems associated with Outsourcing and the different prescriptive models around. Lastly, the determinants of organisational adoption and the stages of the Outsourcing framework are discussed in depth. The original decision was to develop a questionnaire and distribute it throughout the company, Business Connexion, a leader in the IT Outsourcing industry. However, due to time constraints and the number of potential employees, approximately 4700, it was agreed upon to only target the staff members within the Outsourcing division. At the time of the questionnaire, the total number of employees was 539 and 127 participated in this study by responding via a URL link set up by Statkon, a division of the University of Johannesburg. The responses were fed into a database which produced the relevant results for this particular study. These questionnaires were designed to specifically measure the varying issues surrounding Knowledge Management and Outsourcing in an IT environment. Due to the fact that this study was implemented within only one division of the organisation, it is important to note that the findings of this study cannot be generalised, thus providing an opportunity for future comparative research.
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Change management in an academic library in the knowledge economy

  • Authors: Du Plessis, Tanya , Mabunda, Tiyani Tyson
  • Date: 2016
  • Subjects: Change management , Academic library , Knowledge management
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/123950 , uj:20855 , Citation: Du Plessis, T & Mabunda, T.T. 2016. Change management in an academic library in the knowledge economy. , Citation: Mabunda, TT... https://www.uj.ac.za/library , https://www.uj.ac.za/library
  • Description: Abstract: In the knowledge economy, knowledge is channelled in new ways which brings about changes to the structure and function of an organisation. Organisations such as academic libraries often introduce innovations in delivery of information services to clients which entail the use of information and communication technology. Current growth in technological applications is enabling academic libraries to change the way they deliver services to clients. Technological applications continuously redefine how academic library collections are used. This article investigates how change in terms of technology is managed in a decentralised academic library in a higher education institution of South Africa. The study was placed within a qualitative research paradigm. A case study design presented the research providing the opportunity to analyse the perception and experience of participants and ensured that real life events were investigated. Semi-structured individual interviews were used to collect data. The most significant finding of this study is the emphasis on the importance of change management in academic libraries and the need for effective communication in order to achieve low resistance to change from academic library staff.
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Information and knowledge management in support of legal research in a digital information environment

  • Authors: Du Plessis, Tanya
  • Date: 2009-01-08T13:03:45Z
  • Subjects: Knowledge management , Information technology , Information superhighway , Digital libraries , Law libraries , Law librarians , Law firms , Legal research , Management information systems
  • Type: Thesis
  • Identifier: uj:14754 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1834
  • Description: D. Litt. et Phil. , The main research question addressed by this study is whether the application of information and communication technologies (ICTs) has an effect on the practice of law, and specifically whether information and knowledge management affects the process of legal research. Various issues are considered in this regard, including what the concept of knowledge management (KM) entails in a law firm and what the current KM trends are in South African law firms. To this extent an investigation follows of the global trends in the application of ICTs for legal research purposes and what the specific applications are of KM in support of legal research. Furthermore, this study investigates how information technology applications and KM systems and strategies can support the legal research process and what the benefits of KM are to legal research. This entails a study of the unique characteristics of legal research in a digital information environment and of the challenges legal researchers face in a changing information environment. Subsequently the skills and tools that are required for effective digital legal research are discussed. This research also considers the effect the changing information environment has on the role of the legal information professional, which includes an investigation of the reasons why legal information professionals can and should support lawyers in their legal research activities. Specifically, this study considers the roles, skills and competencies of legal information professionals as knowledge managers, digital librarians and trainers of legal research skills in a changing information environment. Lastly, this study investigates whether current legal research skills training offers useful guidelines to future digital legal researchers.
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Kennisbestuur: 'n onontbeerlike komponent in die strategiese plan van Suid-Afrikaanse universiteite

Knowledge management as a strategic management tool at a South African enterprise.

  • Authors: Du Toit, Adeline , Steyn, Piet
  • Date: 2011
  • Subjects: Knowledge management , Strategic management , Technology-oriented enterprises - South Africa
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: uj:5848 , ISSN 1993-8233 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7935
  • Description: The primary aim of this article was to explore the role of a knowledge management strategy to achieve a South African technology-oriented enterprise’s business strategy. The linking between knowledge management and the business strategy was viewed as the crux for successful knowledge management in any enterprise. Knowledge plays a crucial role in the competitive nature of enterprises and hence constitutes a critical component of enterprise strategy. The purpose of the empirical survey was to determine the relationship between the knowledge management function and the business strategy at the enterprise. A questionnaire survey was conducted and 355 employees were randomly selected to form the sample. The majority of the respondents were of the opinion that knowledge management plays an important role in the enterprise’s strategies, policies and practices. When implementing a knowledge management strategy, the prioritisation of knowledge management activities, as well as their integration with other business processes, should be an important management focus area and steps for the successful implementation of a knowledge management strategy were recommended.
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The importance of knowledge management in a research and development facility : investigating perceptions and practice

  • Authors: Dube, Thamsanqa Ian
  • Date: 2013-07-11
  • Subjects: Knowledge management , Sasol (Firm)
  • Type: Thesis
  • Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/374197 , uj:7606 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8472
  • Description: M.Comm. (Business Management) , Research and Development (R&D) facilities have been used to develop new or better products and services for a long time. Organisations utilise knowledge gained from their R&D facilities to gain access to new markets and to improve the organisation’s competitiveness in the market. R&D facilities are referred to as learning organisations that employ people who specialise in specific technologies. These employees are referred to as ‘knowledge employees’. Sasol R&D was formed in 1955 to assist the organisation to develop and improve the Fischer-Tropch (F-T) technology that was adopted by the organisation to produce synthetic fuels from coal. At the time the technology had not been sufficiently proven on a commercial scale and this necessitated that research be conducted to ensure that the processes related to (F-T) technology are efficiently operated. The use of the knowledge generated by Sasol R&D has resulted in Sasol being recognised as the world leader in F-T technology and has led to joint ventures with other organisations around the world. The management of acquired knowledge has been critical in the development of Sasol and the successes that the organisation has enjoyed. It is therefore important that the employees of Sasol and those of Sasol R&D are well equipped to utilise the knowledge that was generated by previous employees to continuously improve and develop technologies. The objective of this study was to establish the perception that knowledge employees have of Knowledge Management (KM) and what Sasol R&D can improve on in this regard, i.e. business performance and individual employees’ career development. Respondents generally agree with the importance of KM in Sasol R&D and also indicated that a successful KM strategy can help improve individuals’ careers. The respondents also indicated that they were familiar with the concept of KM and the advantages for the organisation in the successful implementation of such a KM strategy. The main recommendations from the study are: 1. Employees should be involved in current the future KM strategies that the management of Sasol R&D wants to implement. 2. The adopted KM strategy’s objectives and benefits should be made clear and understandable to all employees. In addition, all relevant documentation should be made available to the employees.
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Knowledge-based automation and new workforce implementation at a financial institution

  • Authors: Elsworth, Catherine
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Industrial revolution , Artificial intelligence , Banks and banking - Technological innovations , Banks and banking - Customer services , Knowledge management , Banks and banking - Information technology
  • Language: English
  • Type: Masters (Thesis)
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/402839 , uj:33730
  • Description: Abstract : Intelligent Automation (IA) entails advanced knowledge-based technologies associated with the so-called Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). In this study, the phrase “IA journey” refers to the processes of knowledge-based automation and new workforce implementation. The study’s unit of analysis is not as much the IA journey itself, rather it is an analysis of what constitutes a balanced approach to IA implementation and adoption within an organisation. For example, employees’ feelings of uncertainty during an organisation’s IA journey could cause an imbalance in staff morale and resistance from employees to adapt to the changes. Therefore, the main research question of this study is: What are the components of a balanced approach to knowledge-based automation and new workforce implementation of a financial institution? The research question aligns to the world of service delivery that is changing at an alarming rate, with customers expecting fast, personalised, digital service. The landscape for financial institutions is changing, for example, traditional competitors are taking steps to meet customer demands and non-traditional competitors are entering the market place, threatening the existence of traditional financial institutions, commonly referred to as banks. The literature reveals that the evolution of Internet usage and the influence of social media and smart phones have increased the significance of technology and digital service in the financial services industry. Adoptions of these technologies is vital if traditional banks want to remain relevant in the market where financial technologies companies (Fintechs), and small, digitally nimble start-ups can provide the quick, personalised service that customers expect. Already many financial institutions have started to investigate the opportunities that technologies such as IA and chatbots provide. The potential of chatbot technology to improve customer experience and reduce operational costs make it an attractive option for organisations to consider. Literature reveals that the cost of implementation of this technology is a fraction of the cost of legacy system re-writes. The ability of this technology to integrate with existing systems and improve turnaround time and service to customers makes the IA journey a favourable choice. The IA journey of one South African Financial Institution (SAFI) formed the focus of this study. Research was conducted within the SAFI into the application of this technology across the organisation to understand the impact that the changes experienced had on the employees of the organisation. Understanding how these changes impact employees helps in determining the best ways to manage the changes in order to develop a balanced approach to implementation and adaption of IA within an organisation. The empirical study followed a qualitative research design, featuring qualitative data collection and analysis techniques. Secondary data were collected and displayed in order to show case v hoe IA project were implemented into the organisation. The philosophical paradigm that suited a study of this nature was interpretivism as the research was socially constructed in its aim to understand the adoption processes of the organisation implementing an IA programme. The research followed an inductive approach as the study’s conceptual framework was developed based on data collected and conclusions drawn through the analysis of this data. The study involved the collection of data through the use of interviews conducted across junior and senior management levels within the business units impacted by the changes associated with the IA journey. The aim of these interviews was to gain an understanding of employees’ perceptions of the IA journey across the organisation as well as understand the experiences of those involved in the IA programme. Secondary data was also collected from five SAFI use cases, which provided a rich source for quantitative data. The presentation of results regarding the outcomes of use cases implemented across the organisation is in accordance to the University of Johannesburg Code of Academic and Research Ethics. The research findings informed the development of a conceptual framework, which can be used to encourage a balanced approach towards IA implementation and adoption throughout an organisation that is experiencing major changes. This study reveals that employees’ fears of the changes need to be identified and managed early in order to avoid resistance to the changes and negative perceptions of the technology being created. The conceptual framework identifies the components that a financial institution can use in its balanced approach to increase adoption and reduce fears. Moreover, the study revealed the need for organisations to invest in technologies of the future and the benefits that this technology can have for the organisation. Customer experience and expectations form a vital part of any organisation and the lessons learnt in the value this technology can provide in creating a great customer experience are invaluable. The study revealed that there is a difference between digitisation and automation and that knowledge-based automation technology plays a key role in enabling a digital customer experience... , M.Phil. (Information Management)
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A consulting strategy dealing with management constraints of self-service business intelligence

  • Authors: Gaorekwe, Sedigilwe Vincent
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Knowledge management , Information technology , Business intelligence , Self-service (Economics) , Systems integration
  • Language: English
  • Type: Masters (Thesis)
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/272659 , uj:29034
  • Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Abstract: For many organisations, as business needs change, the need for better decision support systems increases. Which is why many organisations today embark on a journey of transitioning from traditional way of doing business intelligence to self-service business intelligence (SSBI). As is with many a new technology, SSBI presents different challenges to companies, therefore, to effectively deal with these challenges, it is critical to align IT and business strategies. To get real value out of the investment made on SSBI, companies tend to outsource the implementation and management of the solution to known consulting firms to assist them with effective ways of dealing with challenges posed by the solution. Which is why this study embarked on a journey of developing a practical working framework for a consulting firm named C-firm, which can then be used as a strategy to deal with management constraints of SSBI for its clients. A single case study was conducted between C-Firm and its clients to explore management constraints of SSBI, which include data governance and management, supporting infrastructure, context, and systems integration, and to subsequently develop a practical working framework for implementing and managing SSBI solution. The interactive approach model by Maxwell Loomis (2003), informed this case study research design. The flexibility of the interactive approach model best suited this study because it allowed different components of the study to interact with each other. A conceptual framework, which is one of the components of the interactive approach model, helped the researcher to focus on those factors that could assist in gaining understanding of the management issues associated with SSBI and how C-Firm can assist its clients in dealing with those issues. The research choice for this study was mixed method, mixed-model research. This means quantitative and qualitative data were collected, and researcher used quantitative analysis procedures to report on the findings. Data collection instruments used were semi structured interviews and an online questionnaire with open-ended and close-ended questions. The empirical study involved gathering data from both C-Firm’s employees and its clients. The research participants were nineteen (19) BI developers from C-Firm, and from C-Firm’s clients’ nine (9) BI developers and five (5) BI managers. The key findings of the empirical study in terms of data governance and management, supporting infrastructure, context, and systems integration were then used to develop a...
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Do problem solving, critical thinking and creativity play a role in knowledge management? A theoretical mathematics perspective

  • Authors: Giannakopoulos, Paul , Buckley, Sheryl
  • Date: 2009
  • Subjects: Knowledge management , Problem solving , Critical thinking , Creativity , Mathematics , Psychopragmatic approach
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: uj:6218 , ISBN 978-1-906638-40-5 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5308
  • Description: Litschka, Markom, Schunder (2006) state that "... a knowledge-based economy requires new approaches in management especially with employee oriented actions, because workability, well-being, and creativity of employees determine the success and sustainability of an organization." Such approaches have to be grounded on established learning theories for life long learning which are conducive to knowledge creation and knowledge acquisition. Situated learning (Lave & Wenger, 1997), constructivism (Piaget, 1971; Vygotsky, 1978), behaviourism (Thorndike, 1915; Skinner, 1958) and cognitivism (Wertheimer, 1912; Kohlberg, 1972; Mezirow, 1962, all cited by Hergenhahn and Olson (1997: 29-48) have dominated education for more than eight decades. Though each theory has made valuable contributions, management of knowledge requires higher order thinking skills such critical thinking, problem solving and creativity on the part of the manager of the organisational knowledge and the part of the knowledge creator. The importance of these three skills, especially for the last two decades, have not only been accepted as important cognitive skills by educators and employers, but they also form part of the critical outcomes in American educational policies (American college personnel association, 1994 cited by King & Baxter-Magolda, 1996) as well as in South Africa (SAQA, 1998; the White Paper on Further Education and Training, 1998: 21-23). What is suggested here is a new approach to knowledge management, the psycho-pragmatic approach, which makes use of theories of learning of mathematics as problem solving, critical thinking and creativity form the essence of knowledge acquisition (Schoenfeld, 1987; Skemp, 1977). Mathematics has been recognised as a subject that enhances higher order skills because on the one hand requires abstract thinking on the other promotes use and application of knowledge (Pushkin 2007; Alonso, 1992; Forinash, 1992). This new approach makes use of psychological learning theories for generation of knowledge and pragmatism for application of such knowledge. It is of cyclic nature as well as of spiral nature based on the idea of Nonaka and Konno (1998) model of knowledge and of Bruner's (1976) spiral curriculum.
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The role of human resources in knowledge-driven organisations : an analysis of identified companies that operate in the South African chemical industry

  • Authors: Govender, Yoganathan Kaniappen
  • Date: 2014-07-28
  • Subjects: Knowledge management , Intellectual capital , Human capital
  • Type: Thesis
  • Identifier: uj:11845 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/11577
  • Description: M.B.A , The aim of this study is to conduct a literature study on knowledge management with specific reference to the Human Resources environment and compare these practices in the various identified companies that operate In the Chemical Sector in South Africa. Knowledge management has demonstrated to be an essential contributor to business success in many global companies. As an evolving discipline within organisations, the Human Resources function can benefit from this by adopting the appropriate knowledge management tools and principles to ensure maximum Human Capital output is achieved. The foundation of this dissertation is based on the literature review, where the researcher attempts to highlight important aspects relevant to this topic. These include concepts associated with the Human Resources function - but are viewed in perspective of a knowledge-driven organisation. The focus will be primarily on Learning and Development, Compensation and Benefits, Recruitment and Placement, and Performance Management and associated concepts that support these Human Resources technologies. In order to gain a better understanding of currant practices in the identified South African companies, the researcher will survey these companies. Both the providers of Human Resources services (Human Resources Professionals) and recipients of the Human Resources services (Employees) will be surveyed. From the findings, the researcher will provide appropriate recommendations based on the expertise provided by the authors in the literature review so that the companies may adapt and implement these. Since South Africa is a developing economy, these companies can learn from the tried and tested methodologies as illustrated in the literature review, to enhance their competitive edge.
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An intranet-enabled platform to improve knowledge sharing collaboration and content management

  • Authors: Khumalo, Sithembiso
  • Date: 2016
  • Subjects: Knowledge management , Microsoft SharePoint (Electronic resource) , Edcon Limited Group (Firm : South Africa)
  • Language: English
  • Type: Masters (Thesis)
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/82557 , uj:18972
  • Description: Abstract: The full benefit of SharePoint as a Web application for content management, knowledge sharing and collaboration in support of meeting business objectives is not fully realised at Edcon. The implementation of SharePoint within Edcon gives a clear indication that the organisation recognises its potential, however, the requirement for Edcon to determine whether the implementation of SharePoint meets their users’ needs in terms of knowledge sharing, collaboration and content management needed to be investigated within Edcon Limited Group. The objectives of the study were to determine how SharePoint enables Edcon to share knowledge, collaborate and manage its content; to investigate the value brought by SharePoint within Edcon and to establish the process for improving the use of SharePoint within Edcon. The main research question determined how the current use of Microsoft SharePoint at Edcon addressed the users’ needs for knowledge sharing, collaboration and content management. The study therefore sought to determine how SharePoint can enable Edcon to improve knowledge sharing, collaboration and content management in order to effectively achieve organisational goals. Intepretivism was used for this study because it aims to interpret the different perspectives of Edcon SharePoint users with regards to their use of the web enabled platform. The ideal sample on whom this research was conducted was two employees of Edcon responsible for the development of SharePoint in the organisation. They helped determine if the implementation of SharePoint was developed considering the users’ needs and to also find out how SharePoint was... , M.Phil. (Information Management)
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Can models for knowledge management be successfully implemented to manage the diversity of indigenous knowledge?

  • Authors: Kok, J.A.
  • Date: 2005-12
  • Subjects: Knowledge management , Indigenous knowledge , Knowledge management frameworks
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: uj:5719 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3413
  • Description: With the dawn of the new political dispensation in South Africa, new frameworks emerged on macro level for a better understanding of equality, empowerment and development. Among these were the Reconstruction and Development Programme, the government's Macro-economic Strategy (GEAR), the National System for Innovation and the African Renaissance. This set the scene for reconstruction, innovation and the establishment of human rights, sustainable development and democratization in South Africa.
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Information retrieval and processing with the use of intelligent mobile software agents

  • Authors: Kolb, Derek
  • Date: 2014-02-05
  • Subjects: Knowledge management , Information technology - Management , Information storage and retrieval systems
  • Type: Thesis
  • Identifier: uj:3655 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9040
  • Description: M.A. (Information Technology) , The Internet contains large amounts of information that researchers can use, however, finding the required relevant information can be a lengthy exercise. Internet search engines, such as Google, allow users to search the Internet but these search engines only supply lists of information that "could" be relevant thereby forcing us, the users, to manually examine the list to select the relevant information that we require. Instead of requiring users to use Internet search engines to find lists of possibly useful information, it would be advantageous to have a system that would give an academic user a research summary report for the specified research query. This research summary report can be formatted in such a manner that would allow the user to have a list of links to the relevant information obtained, which could be used as an aid in the researcher's research projects. The design of the Mobile Agent Information Processing (MAIP) model and prototype relied heavily on mobile software agents (MSA). These MSAs will move from the creator system (the user's computer) to other known peer computer systems participating in the MAIP system. Whilst the MSAs are on the remote computer systems, relevant information is extracted from any of the text documents that are acknowledged as available by the remote host system. The extracted information will be returned to the creator system by each MSA where it will be processed and used to create the research summary report. The MAIP model is designed to locate, retrieve, and summarise information that is relevant to a researcher's research query, it can, therefore, be said that the MAIP model meets all the stated research objectives. The new and innovative model is deemed to offer an effective and feasible technology solution to the problem of information overload that exists within the electronic environment.
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