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Performance of construction projects in South Africa: perceptions of consultants and contractors

  • Authors: Aigbavboa, Clinton , Oke, Ayodeji , Mohapeloa, Khosi
  • Date: 2016
  • Subjects: Construction , Key performance indicators (KPis) , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/122802 , uj:20706 , Citation: Aigbavboa, C., Oke, A., & Mohapeloa, K. 2016. Performance of construction projects in South Africa: perceptions of consultants and contractors.
  • Description: Abstract: Performance of construction projects is an issue of concern, not only to contractors and professionals, but other stakeholders including clients, project sponsors and end-users. This is due to complexity of construction process, innovation in the use of raw materials and machinery, new construction management techniques and more importantly, variation in requirement from clients. Thus, this research evaluates factors affecting performance of construction projects from the perspective of consultants and contractors, in order to enhance the quest of the construction industry in contributing positively to the growth of economies. Using quantitative approach, data were collected through close-ended questionnaires administered on a group of learned and experienced consultants and contractors who are based within the study area. From the analysed data, there is a significant difference in the perceptions of consultants and contractors regarding factors affecting performance of construction projects. To consultants, general time factors and conformance to specification are the most important performance indicator for project success while from contractors' view, cost factors including delay in payment from owner to contractor is a major critical success factor. The two groups unilaterally agreed that bringing about the best planning and scheduling technique before and during construction would assist in improving performance of construction projects in the country.
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The relationship between leadership and work engagement

  • Authors: Bisnath, Roma
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Transformational leadership , Employee retention , Organizational behavior , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Masters (Thesis)
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225653 , uj:22795
  • Description: Abstract: Work engagement is a topic that has gained momentum in recent research. Many organisations believe it has an impact on the retention and performance of employees as well as bottom line earnings (Bakker, Albrecht & Leiter, 2011; (Tims, Bakker, & Xanthopoulou, 2011) Many factors influence the level of work engagement in an organisation. One specific factor, namely, transformational leadership has been identified as such a factor (Lockwood, 2007). The purpose of this study was to determine what impact transformational leadership has on work engagement. A quantitative research approach was selected and primary data was obtained through the distribution of two structured self-administered questionnaires. The Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ), used to measure transformational leadership, and the Benchmark of Engagement Quotient (BEQ) were used to measure work engagement. The structured self-administered questionnaires were distributed to employees at a financial services firm in South Africa. A sample size of n = 265 responses was obtained. These responses were summarised and subjected to various statistical analyses using SPSS (Version 17). The data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. The results aimed to understand the relationship between transformational leadership style and work engagement better. The results of the study provided empirical support for theories postulating that transformational leadership can result in higher engagement levels. Key terms: work engagement, transformational leadership, leader-member exchange theory, benchmark of engagement quotient, multifactor leadership questionnaire. , M.Phil.
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The relationship between leadership styles, motivation and performance in a mining company

  • Authors: Dabula, Matsiliso Agnes
  • Date: 2011-09-15T07:40:12Z
  • Subjects: Leadership , Performance , Motivation (Psychology) , De Beers Consolidated Mines
  • Type: Thesis
  • Identifier: uj:7209 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3843
  • Description: M.Comm. , The realities of competing in today’s rapidly changing environment require flexible leadership styles, motivation, empowerment, creativity and innovation to drive maximum performance. The core of leadership today is the art of mobilising and putting together the intellectual resources of all employees (i.e. skills, knowledge and experience) of the organisation to maximise productivity. Most organisations are experiencing the challenges of understanding that leadership styles do have a significant impact on performance and employee motivation. This study investigates the relationship between these concepts (i.e. leadership, motivation and performance) and the impact they have on employees and the organisation. A quantitative research project was conducted within the De Beers Corporate Headquarters through an online survey. A random sample of employees at various job levels and within various disciplines was selected. A total of 310 questionnaires were distributed and a response rate of 79% was achieved. The main findings of the research discovered that a significant relationship exists between the style of leadership demonstrated in a particular situation and the impact it has on the motivation and performance levels of employees in an organisation. Recommendations are made regarding improvements and changes that should be made should the study be repeated in the future. The recommendations include: putting in place measures to recognise and reward the successful implementation of new ideas made by employees; consider providing employees with flexibility in terms of structuring their remuneration packages and negotiating flexible working arrangements; putting in place performance systems that recognise and reward team performance adequately and consistently; putting in place measures to monitor the evaluation and tracking of poor performers within De Beers and regularly benchmark the reward system with ii world-class systems to ensure that De Beers remains competitive and is able to retain its exceptional performers. Limitations of the study were identified and outlined. The main limitation was that the research study was limited only to employees based at the headquarters and did not include employees at the various operations in other regions. This results in limited respondents’ perceptions, which would have been better enhanced if all operations were included in the study. The research has added value in that it will ensure that De Beers leaders are aware of the various leadership styles that they can use. This can establish a broader understanding of how and when to use the various leadership styles to ensure maximum performance, through happy and motivated employees.
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Is the Entrepreneurial Intention (EI) of University Students dependant on gender?

Die verband tussen angs en prestasie in takseersentrumdimensies.

  • Authors: Ehlers, E.J. , Roodt, G.
  • Date: 1996
  • Subjects: Anxiety , Performance , Assessment centre dimensions
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: uj:6295 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1044
  • Description: The relationship between anxiety and performance in assessment centre dimensions. This study is aimed at determining whether there is a relationship between Anxiety (Tension and Anxiety), as measured by the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire, and performance in assessment centre dimensions. The data set was collected from 145 white male candidates on entry and middle management level in an auditing firm in Gauteng. Ages of candidates varied from 24 to 35 years (x = 27,52; sd = 6,33). By using regression analyses it was found that Tension and Anxiety mainly show a negative relationship with the so-called interpersonal behaviour dimensions, such as Perseverance, Eogical and persuasive reasoning ability, and Perceived leadership image. The multiple analyses of variance (MANOVAS) for the low, middle and high tension groups and low, middle and high anxiety groups revealed no statistically significant differences in respect of the assessment centre dimensions as a whole. Implications of the findings are discussed in the article.
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Effects of Financial Management practices on technical performance of building contractors in Northeast Nigeria

  • Authors: Gambo, Nuru , Musonda, Innocent
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Financial Management Practices , Technical , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/458287 , uj:40700 , Gambo, N., Musonda, I.: Effects of Financial Management practices on technical performance of building contractors in Northeast Nigeria.
  • Description: Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to assess the effects of financial management practices of small scale building contractors on the technical performance of the contractors in northern part of Nigeria with international best practices. Previous studies argued that the technical performance of small scale building contractors in developing countries is poor because of insufficient cash to acquire strategic resources at the outset of a project. This continues to pose a challenge to the sustainable development of the construction industry, particularly, in developing countries like Nigeria. There is therefore, a need to identify, assess, and compare the effects of financial practices of the contractors with technical performance best practices. Design/methodology/approach – The technical performance of each contractor was evaluated using a five-point Likert scale. This is used to obtain the mean technical performance levels of the contractors. A questionnaire survey was administered to the professionals in the industry who were selected by using a proportionate stratified random sampling technique. The contractors’ performance was compared by using ANOVA with post hoc and the effects of contractors’ financial management practices were determined using multiple regression analysis. Findings – The results indicated that the contractors in Nigeria were average technical performers and there were large effects of financial management practices on technical performance of contractors in building projects’. . Research limitations/implications – The study is limited to small scale building contractors in the northeast Nigeria. One of the implications of this study is that it provides the criteria for an evaluation of small scale building contractors’ technical performance in Nigeria and other developing countries that faced similar problems. Practical implications - The practical implications of this study is that it establishes the current level of contractors' technical performance and serves as awareness to contractors current financial practices. Social implications – The study created bases for self-evaluation of contractors’ technical performance and competition among small scale contractors in Nigeria for the enhancement of productivity particularly in rural areas and general national development. Originality/value – This study emanated from the governmental reports and past researches in the area of performance management based on the persistence of poor technical performance of small scale contractors in construction industry.
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Analysis of sports science perceptions and research needs among South African coaches

Comparative evaluation of the performance of a bi-fuel vehicle on biogas and natural gas

The physical attributes of sub-elite rugby union referees of inland provinces in South Africa

Employee engagement in the trade union federation(s) versus management saga in the South African mineral exploration industry

A theoretical assessment of the performance of Small and Medium Sized Enterprise through lmowledge management in the South Africa construction industry

The factors militating internal stakeholders on road infrastructure projects

  • Authors: Mashwama, Nokulunga Xolile , Mushatu, Winnie , Thwala, Didibhuku , Aigbavboa, Clinton
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Performance , Projects stakeholders , Participants
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/464654 , uj:41519 , Citation: Mashwama, N.X., Mushatu, W., Thwala, D. & Aigbavboa, C. 2020. The factors militating internal stakeholders on road infrastructure projects. , DOI: 10.14455/ISEC.res.2020.7(1).CON-21
  • Description: Abstract: There are numerous participants involved in construction projects including the client or sponsor of the project, regulatory bodies, contractors, consultants, ward councilors, community who affect or become affected by the project. Stakeholders can affect the road construction positive or negatively. Stakeholder’s engagement is done to avoid unnecessary conflicts and controversies and to attain the desired successful implementation of the project. The paper aims to identify the impact of internal stakeholders on road construction project. Quantitative approach was adopted for this study. 100 questionnaires were distributed and 76 were collected and analyzed. The data was collected through primary and secondary sources. Factor analysis was conducted, Correlation matric coefficients has been conducted to ensure visibility of coefficients greater than 0.3 and Kaiser-Meyer-Olkim (KMO) and Barlett’s test were conducted. From the findings it transpired that late payment to service providers; failure to verify contractor qualification; Client knowledge to review design documentation; inadequate involvement during construction project, lack of understanding project feasibility. The participation of stakeholders encourages the public to share their knowledge with the regulatory authorities, fosters better-informed decisions and decreases likelihood of project failure. Early stakeholder’s involvement can add benefits of diffusing opposition to a project.
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Assuring health and safety (H&S) performance on construction projects - clients' role and influence

Assessment of current and future critical skills in the South African Construction Industry

  • Authors: Musonda, Innocent , Okoro, Chioma
  • Date: 2021
  • Subjects: Construction industry , Performance , Productivity
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/487810 , uj:44420 , Citation: Musonda, I. & Okoro, C. 2021. Assessment of current and future critical skills in the South African Construction Industry.
  • Description: Abstract: The role of skills development in attaining productivity and competitiveness in industry and global level cannot be overemphasized in the construction sector. The study aims to evaluate the critical skills needed in the construction industry. A quantitative study was conducted and data were collected using questionnaires distributed among construction professionals including project managers, construction managers, quantity surveyors, architects and engineers based in South Africa. The data amassed were analyzed to output descriptive statistics. The skills were ranked according to the level of priority as perceived by the respondents. Findings from the empirical data analysis established that the critical skills needed within the construction industry at present and in the future are health and safety competence, decision-making, leadership, and problem-solving skills. On the other hand, public-speaking, big data mining, and internet of things were not considered to be critical. These findings indicated that even with technological advancements, skills needed to ensure that projects were delivered successfully included managerial skills. The study sheds more light on skills considered critical at present and which might be relevant in the future. The study signposts the importance of critical skills to an individual and the entire construction industry. Efforts can be made to ensure that relevant critical skills for high output are emphasized and planning can be made for future and predicted construction industry workforce needs.
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Occupational Health and Safety challenges in the Ghanaian construction industry

  • Authors: Mustapha, Zakari , Aigbavboa, Clinton , Thwala, Wellington Didibhuku
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Construction , Ghana , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/75838 , uj:18726 , Citation: Mustapha, Z., Aigbavboa, C. & Thwala, W.D. 2015. Occupational Health and Safety challenges in the Ghanaian construction industry.
  • Description: Abstract: The prevalence of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) issues in most of the African countries have been attributed to the insufficient attention received from industry and government. The review of literature in the existing body of knowledge becomes paramount on the subject matter. The road map for the identification of occupational health and safety practices in the Ghanaian construction industry was obtained through literature review. Studies relevant to OHS practices were selected out of the numerous studies reviewed, through a rigorous process. The results from the literature study were analysed to obtain specific issues that are relevant to the OHS in the Ghanaian construction industry. Based on the identified practices, needs are clearly defined and strategies are proposed to come out with appropriate solutions for health and safety improvements in the Ghanaian construction industry. Findings from the study show that ignorance and lack of interest in dealing with OHS issues in Ghana is one of the contributing factors to the OHS challenging. It is concluded that proactive measures should be provided at all levels of organisations in the country to deal with OHS issues. There should also be the establishment of OHS culture robust enough to deal with all issues in the country. Serious attention should be given to effective OHS management in order to eliminate accident in the construction industries.
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Assessing the performance of Trichardt wastewater treatment plant (South Africa)

  • Authors: Negwamba, Thulani , Dinka, Megersa Olumana
  • Date: 2019
  • Subjects: Wastewater treatment , Performance , Quality standard
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/404679 , uj:33949 , Citation: Negwamba, T. & Dinka, M.O. 2019. Assessing the performance of Trichardt wastewater treatment plant (South Africa).
  • Description: Abstract: The main task in treating the wastewater in South Africa is to reduce the pollutants (solids, organic matter, nutrients, and micro-organisms) to meet the standard requirements from Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS). That means the discharged effluent should be without polluting the environment and posing safety risks. The objective of this study was to investigate the performance of the Trichardt Wastewater Treatment Plant (South Africa) and come up with recommendations for the improvement of the wastewater treatment plant. The performance of the plant was evaluated for its compliance with the standard set by the DWS. The water quality parameters tested include: Ammonia (NH3), Nitrate (NO3-), Phosphate (PO4-3), Chemical Oxygen Demands (COD), Turbidity (T) and Total Suspended Solids (TSS). The result indicates that the concentration of most of the considered parameters (TSS, NH4, COD, PO4-3) are above the permissible limit set by DWS throughout the year, except Nitrate. The operating flowrate is below the design capacity (1.8 m3/s) throughout the year, except September. Overall, the final effluent discharged to the stream do not comply with the standard set by DWS. Thus, measures for the improvement of the treatment plants’ performance are highly recommended. The increase of the hydraulic loading capacity and the use appropriate methods of treatment process such as biological nitrification-denitrification processes are suggested. The increase of retention time to 3 hrs and decrease of the screen openings to 12 mm are also highly recommended.
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The effect of variable environmental factors on sport performance

  • Authors: Nolte, Petrus Louis
  • Date: 2014-04-01
  • Subjects: Judo - Environmental aspects , Martial artists - Psychology , Human beings - Effect of climate on , Human beings - Effect of environment on , Performance
  • Type: Thesis
  • Identifier: uj:4569 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9917
  • Description: M.Phil. (Sport Management) , Available literature revealed a gap in the body of knowledge regarding the effect of environmental and related factors on the performance of elite under 17 judokas in South Africa in order to address the lack of available research. Scholars increasingly researched the social importance attached to the performance of athletes and the competitive environment, including the role of social agents and simulated training. The aim of this study translates into objectives, namely: i) to describe the sport competition environment through an extensive literature study, ii) to determine the effect of environmental and selected physical factors (sleep and nutrition) on the performance of elite judokas in South Africa in the under 17 age category with a self-designed questionnaire, iii) to determine psychosocial effects on judo performance with the Sport Competition Anxiety Test (SCAT) and the Sports Mental Toughness Questionnaire (SMTQ), iv) to determine the effect of environmental factors, selected physical factors and psychosocial factors on the performance of elite under 17 judokas with a focus group, v) to determine the effect of environmental, psychosocial and selected physical factors on the performance of elite judokas from the perspective of judo coaches by way of interviews, and vi) to conduct a comparative analysis based on various variables such as gender, locality, frequency of competition participation and access to resources. Both qualitative and quantitative data were gathered, constituting an exploratory research design. Questionnaires (SCAT and SMTQ) and qualitative data was gathered by way of interviews with judo coaches (n=8) and a focus group with judokas (n=8). In total sixty five (n=65) judokas participated in this study. A purposive sample of coaches and elite judokas were recruited as research participants. Results indicate that judokas have relatively moderate mental toughness (M=41.66) and that mentally tougher judokas experience relatively less anxiety whilst competing (r=-.48, n=60, p<.01). An increase in anxiety is correlated with a decline in performance and medal winning judokas were relatively more confident than non-medal winners. All research participants were negatively affected by not having adequate exposure to environmental simulated training conditions, with temperature as a main factor impacting on performance.
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A comparative analysis of Donald Bradman and Steven Smith: what are their secrets?

  • Authors: Noorbhai, Habib
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Biomechanics , Cricket , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/415459 , uj:35105 , Citation: Noorbhai H. A comparative analysis of Donald Bradman and Steven Smith: what are their secrets? BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine 2020;6:e000720. doi:10.1136/ bmjsem-2019-000720
  • Description: Abstract: , There has been growing evidence on the batting backlift technique in cricket at varying levels of cricket ability and the way in which batsmen direct or manoeuvre their bat in various ways. Most recently, there has been elevated awareness and discussion around the technique of Steven Smith. To an extent, there has been some comparison and reference been made to Sir Donald Bradman. Both Donald Bradman and Steven Smith have exhibited techniques and movements at the crease which many regard as ‘unorthodox’ or ‘unnatural’. This paper compares each of the batting technique components of both batsmen. The paper describes that both Bradman and Smith held their bat with an open grip which allowed them to hit the ball in most scoring areas of the field. The most common element that both batsmen demonstrate is a backlift that is directed towards the gulley or point region, otherwise known as the rotary method of batting, which is contrary to most of the coaching literature. Future research would require objective measures on Steven Smith to fully understand the kinetics and kinematics associated with his batting technique. The variances of performance averages across other formats (one-day internationals and 20-20 cricket) must be noted.
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Evaluating and aligning facilities management operations in a South African higher education institution : a case study

  • Authors: Ogbeifun, Edoghogho
  • Date: 2016
  • Subjects: University of Johannesburg , Facility management , Education, Higher - Facilities - Planning , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225370 , uj:22762
  • Description: Abstract: The quality of the support facilities and facilities services available in the learning environments of a Higher Education institution influences the performance of the core functions of teaching, learning and research, whether in the physical or virtual space. It further affects the level of customer satisfaction in the workplace interface and the competitive advantages of the institution in the community of similar institutions. It is imperative, therefore to continuously evaluate and align the operations of the organ responsible for the development and operation of the support facilities towards achieving the objectives of the institution, using the instrument of performance management. The case study method of qualitative research was adopted. The data collection involved using the combination of in-depth interviews, evaluation of periodic reports, and observation of evacuation drill exercises as well as coordinating the mutual development of the performance measuring standards, using the Delphi technique. The research reveals that the Facilities Management unit in the University of Johannesburg is recognised for its strategic importance; the unit has a suitable organisational structure and operational system. However, the unit has not been able to manage the relationship between it and the customer effectively, due to unsatisfactory service delivery in capital development, operation and maintenance projects as well low quality of periodic reports as tools for effective communication. The academics and Facilities Management unit mutually developed the performance measuring standards. Further analysis helped in identifying the source and magnitude of variances contributed by the customer and the service provider. If the service provider will apply due diligence and use the developed performance measurement tool, after addressing the observed variances, the application will facilitate improved relationship between the customer and service provider. Furthermore, the performance measurement tool provide for continuous evaluation and alignment of the operation of the service provider towards achieving the objectives of the institution. The research is situated in single case study; therefore care should be taken to contextualise the result before applying same to other context. , D.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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Exploring the applicability of deming’s concept of “continuous improvement” in the contemporary public sector organisations

  • Authors: Okanga, Boniface , Sambumbu, Antony Matemba
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: A cyclical framework , Continuous improvement , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/254623 , uj:26660 , Citation: Okanga, B. & Sambumbu, A.M. 2017. Exploring the applicability of deming’s concept of “continuous improvement” in the contemporary public sector organisations. Public Policy and Administration Research Vol.7, No.5, 2017.
  • Description: Abstract: Continuous improvement is a prerequisite for effective performance of the contemporary public sector organisations. This research explores the applicability of Deming’s concept of “continuous improvement” in the contemporary South African public sector organisations. The motive of the study was to identify the major paradoxes and the remedial improvement strategies that can be suggested. Using conceptual analysis as a qualitative research technique, a meta-synthesis of continuous improvement theories was undertaken and triangulated with the results of empirical studies conducted on continuous improvement in the South African public sector organisations. In contrast to the articulation in the continuous improvement theory of Plan-Do- Check-Act, the concept of continuous improvement was found to be overshadowed by over-emphasis of monitoring and evaluation which are also in turn largely saddled by unsupportive cultural practices, ineffective implementation of improvement measures and lack of easily discernible plans. In the context of such paradoxes, the study enriches the existing theories by suggesting a five steps’ (Analyse-Plan- Improve-Measure- Improve) cyclical framework that the public sector managers can emulate as a moderator for undertaking effective continuous improvement in the increasingly contemporary complex and demanding public sector organisations.
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