Managing changeover waste in manufacturing plants when using single minute exchange of dies
- Authors: Madhav, Rushil
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Production management , Industrial management , Process control
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213270 , uj:21127
- Description: Abstract: The research aimed to determine how single minute exchange of dies (SMED) is implemented in practice when considering the critical success factors (CSFs) of lean. It also aimed to determine what effect these factors had on waste generated within changeover processes and the possible savings that could be generated when considering these factors during the implementation of SMED. Six case studies across two production lines were conducted in order to investigate the importance and the impact of considering the CSFs of lean when implementing SMED in an organization. It helped determine that the CSFs of lean form a part of SMED’s implementation process and its prerequisites. The consideration and presence of the CSFs are critical and the analysis conducted between the two production lines indicated that these factors influence the implementation process of SMED. These factors also have a direct impact on the waste and helped manage the levels of wastes, which in turn reduced the costs of changeovers. It provided practical guidelines that integrated the soft and technical areas to achieve a fully integrated management and manufacturing system that resulted in efficient changeover processes. The result ultimately provides organizations with the required flexibility to satisfy customers as changeovers can take place more frequently with better quality, reasonable delivery periods, affordable rates, smaller lot/batch sizes and lower inventory levels. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Madhav, Rushil
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing , Production management , Industrial management , Process control
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213270 , uj:21127
- Description: Abstract: The research aimed to determine how single minute exchange of dies (SMED) is implemented in practice when considering the critical success factors (CSFs) of lean. It also aimed to determine what effect these factors had on waste generated within changeover processes and the possible savings that could be generated when considering these factors during the implementation of SMED. Six case studies across two production lines were conducted in order to investigate the importance and the impact of considering the CSFs of lean when implementing SMED in an organization. It helped determine that the CSFs of lean form a part of SMED’s implementation process and its prerequisites. The consideration and presence of the CSFs are critical and the analysis conducted between the two production lines indicated that these factors influence the implementation process of SMED. These factors also have a direct impact on the waste and helped manage the levels of wastes, which in turn reduced the costs of changeovers. It provided practical guidelines that integrated the soft and technical areas to achieve a fully integrated management and manufacturing system that resulted in efficient changeover processes. The result ultimately provides organizations with the required flexibility to satisfy customers as changeovers can take place more frequently with better quality, reasonable delivery periods, affordable rates, smaller lot/batch sizes and lower inventory levels. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
Evaluating the influence of the Mexican culture and team alignment on the success of a culturally diverse project in a global environment
- Authors: Powys, Melissa Stephanie
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Construction projects - Mexico - Management , Project management , Teams in the workplace - Mexico - Case studies , Construction industry - Mexico - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269827 , uj:28669
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The objective of this research is to develop an approach to design management of multinational construction engineering projects with a strong Mexican influence. This research focused particularly on the following elements of design management: •Project success as a key objective of design management. •The effect of team alignment on project success. •The influence of culture and in particular Mexican culture on team alignment. Roles, hierarchy, planning and control are influenced by multi-enterprise collaborations, this in turn affects project performance and organizational operability. A number of international, multicultural projects have experienced challenges in executing project successfully as a result of team misalignment at a cultural level. Current research published has focused on the various cultural influences in engineering projects yet limited attention to Mexican cultural influences in mega engineering projects undertaken by multinational teams in Mexico. To achieve the research objective, three research questions are addressed through case study of a multinational engineering design project in Mexico, the case study are complemented with focused interviews of 5 key participants in the project. The results are comparatively analysed against literature on these topics to ensure reliability and viability of the conclusions. The final conclusions of this research suggest that when embarking on a multinational engineering design project in Mexico or with a strong influence of the Mexican culture, team alignment is key to achieving project success in terms of time and quality. The Mexican influence on team alignment is most significant in alignment of culture and goals. To improve team alignment and thus project success of such projects it is suggested that design project management ensure that teams are familiar with the Mexican culture and that the project goals / expectations are also aligned with the Mexican culture.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Powys, Melissa Stephanie
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Construction projects - Mexico - Management , Project management , Teams in the workplace - Mexico - Case studies , Construction industry - Mexico - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269827 , uj:28669
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The objective of this research is to develop an approach to design management of multinational construction engineering projects with a strong Mexican influence. This research focused particularly on the following elements of design management: •Project success as a key objective of design management. •The effect of team alignment on project success. •The influence of culture and in particular Mexican culture on team alignment. Roles, hierarchy, planning and control are influenced by multi-enterprise collaborations, this in turn affects project performance and organizational operability. A number of international, multicultural projects have experienced challenges in executing project successfully as a result of team misalignment at a cultural level. Current research published has focused on the various cultural influences in engineering projects yet limited attention to Mexican cultural influences in mega engineering projects undertaken by multinational teams in Mexico. To achieve the research objective, three research questions are addressed through case study of a multinational engineering design project in Mexico, the case study are complemented with focused interviews of 5 key participants in the project. The results are comparatively analysed against literature on these topics to ensure reliability and viability of the conclusions. The final conclusions of this research suggest that when embarking on a multinational engineering design project in Mexico or with a strong influence of the Mexican culture, team alignment is key to achieving project success in terms of time and quality. The Mexican influence on team alignment is most significant in alignment of culture and goals. To improve team alignment and thus project success of such projects it is suggested that design project management ensure that teams are familiar with the Mexican culture and that the project goals / expectations are also aligned with the Mexican culture.
- Full Text:
Factors contributing to delays of aircrafts during A-check maintenance
- Authors: Mofokeng, Tseko Jan
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Airplanes - Maintenance and repair , Airplanes - Performance , Airplanes - Airworthiness , Business logistics
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233735 , uj:23871
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Aviation industry is populated with highly competitive and highly regulated businesses. It is the function of the manager in aviation to ensure that the aircraft operates cost effectively. One way to decrease aircraft operation cost is to speed up aircraft turnaround time. According to airworthiness regulation, an aircraft has to go through A-check maintenance after accumulating certain flying hours. Aircraft operators are faced with the challenges of delays during maintenance. These aircraft delays result in the loss of revenue as a results of penalties. In order to address challenges, research was conducted in the airline Maintenance Company. The objective of the research was to identify the cause of delays during A-check maintenance. The researcher decided to analyse airline Maintenance Company records and conduct interviews with several employee of airline Maintenance Company. Research findings can be shared with the reader and benefit other aircraft maintenance organisations that experience similar challenges. The research will also help the airline maintenance company to realize all the factors contributing to delays during A-check maintenance. The research identified the following factors that contribute to delays during A-check maintenance: Poor logistics process Unscheduled maintenance defects and pilot reports Poor planning Lack of manpower Lack of communication Lack of capability
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mofokeng, Tseko Jan
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Airplanes - Maintenance and repair , Airplanes - Performance , Airplanes - Airworthiness , Business logistics
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233735 , uj:23871
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Aviation industry is populated with highly competitive and highly regulated businesses. It is the function of the manager in aviation to ensure that the aircraft operates cost effectively. One way to decrease aircraft operation cost is to speed up aircraft turnaround time. According to airworthiness regulation, an aircraft has to go through A-check maintenance after accumulating certain flying hours. Aircraft operators are faced with the challenges of delays during maintenance. These aircraft delays result in the loss of revenue as a results of penalties. In order to address challenges, research was conducted in the airline Maintenance Company. The objective of the research was to identify the cause of delays during A-check maintenance. The researcher decided to analyse airline Maintenance Company records and conduct interviews with several employee of airline Maintenance Company. Research findings can be shared with the reader and benefit other aircraft maintenance organisations that experience similar challenges. The research will also help the airline maintenance company to realize all the factors contributing to delays during A-check maintenance. The research identified the following factors that contribute to delays during A-check maintenance: Poor logistics process Unscheduled maintenance defects and pilot reports Poor planning Lack of manpower Lack of communication Lack of capability
- Full Text:
Integrating software quality into an agile development environment
- Authors: Koroma, Evelyne Ingabire
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Agile software development - Quality control
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/56240 , uj:16346
- Description: Abstract: In recent years, agile methodologies have gained popularity due to their ability to accommodate volatile requirements, focus on collaboration with the customer and support early product delivery. These agile methodologies propose a set practices and principles that if applied, have the ability to theoretically produce improved software quality under time pressure and in an unstable requirements environment. However there are still challenges seen in real life scenarios within software organizations that are transitioning from traditional methods to agile development methods. This research sought to understand the practices and principles that should be put in place during agile implementation, and assessed how these practices and principles contributed to the acclaimed agile software quality according to literature. By researching agile implementation requirements through mandatory practices and principles, roles and responsibilities pre-requisites, it is possible to benchmark a certain company’s agile adoption success by comparing adopted practices with the recommended practices. The literature review showed that many of the practices and principles advocated by agile are extremely quality oriented. Practices such as automated developer testing, test-driven development, user stories, backlog grooming and pair programming contribute to improving software functional quality while practices such as refactoring, continuous integration and simple design contribute to software structural quality. It also revealed that, beyond technical practices, team spirit and social factors such as team spirit and communication practices are important in ensuring successful implementation of agile development. However, it highlighted challenges and underlying assumptions that are native to agile methods practices and principles which could be seen as an explanation to why some companies struggle to improve their software quality, even after agile has been implemented... , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Koroma, Evelyne Ingabire
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Agile software development - Quality control
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/56240 , uj:16346
- Description: Abstract: In recent years, agile methodologies have gained popularity due to their ability to accommodate volatile requirements, focus on collaboration with the customer and support early product delivery. These agile methodologies propose a set practices and principles that if applied, have the ability to theoretically produce improved software quality under time pressure and in an unstable requirements environment. However there are still challenges seen in real life scenarios within software organizations that are transitioning from traditional methods to agile development methods. This research sought to understand the practices and principles that should be put in place during agile implementation, and assessed how these practices and principles contributed to the acclaimed agile software quality according to literature. By researching agile implementation requirements through mandatory practices and principles, roles and responsibilities pre-requisites, it is possible to benchmark a certain company’s agile adoption success by comparing adopted practices with the recommended practices. The literature review showed that many of the practices and principles advocated by agile are extremely quality oriented. Practices such as automated developer testing, test-driven development, user stories, backlog grooming and pair programming contribute to improving software functional quality while practices such as refactoring, continuous integration and simple design contribute to software structural quality. It also revealed that, beyond technical practices, team spirit and social factors such as team spirit and communication practices are important in ensuring successful implementation of agile development. However, it highlighted challenges and underlying assumptions that are native to agile methods practices and principles which could be seen as an explanation to why some companies struggle to improve their software quality, even after agile has been implemented... , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
Domestic water meters optimal replacement period
- Authors: Moahloli, Aluta
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Water - Distribution , Water consumption , Water-meters , Loss control
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/242967 , uj:25076
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine the optimal point at which domestic water meters are to be replaced in order to minimize apparent water losses while ensuring efficient use of financial resources. A literature review was undertaken to review the existing body of knowledge in relation to the accuracy of water meters, the effects of ageing on water meter accuracy, the impact of water meter inaccuracies on apparent water losses, as well as water meter replacement strategies. A water meter management database was analysed using the relative meter error method to determine if a relationship exists between domestic water meter age, total registered volume and accuracy. The volume of apparent water losses caused by inaccuracies due to domestic water meter age and total registered volume was determined. The net present value chain (NPVCn) method was used to determine the optimal domestic water meter replacement period. This study found no absolute relation between water meter age and total registered volume. This is probably the reason why several authors and water boards suggest a meter lifespan either by age or total registered volume and not both. A relationship was found to exist between water meter age and accuracy as well as between total registered volume and accuracy. The trend line of the median relative meter error moved from over-registration to under-registration as water meter age increased. The trend line of the median relative meter error decreased was however found to increase from under-registration to over-registration as the total registered volume increased. The average volume of apparent losses due to meter inaccuracies was determined to be 1.8 kl per meter/per month. This figure, when considering the number of meters in the municipality, amounted to 2.8% of the municipality’s total system input volume and 7.8% of the non-revenue water. The optimal water meter replacement period of the municipality was determined using the NPVCn method to be at 9, 12 and 16 years and total registered volumes of 3 971, 5 162 and 6 750 kl at 10%, 8% and 6% real discount rates, respectively.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Moahloli, Aluta
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Water - Distribution , Water consumption , Water-meters , Loss control
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/242967 , uj:25076
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine the optimal point at which domestic water meters are to be replaced in order to minimize apparent water losses while ensuring efficient use of financial resources. A literature review was undertaken to review the existing body of knowledge in relation to the accuracy of water meters, the effects of ageing on water meter accuracy, the impact of water meter inaccuracies on apparent water losses, as well as water meter replacement strategies. A water meter management database was analysed using the relative meter error method to determine if a relationship exists between domestic water meter age, total registered volume and accuracy. The volume of apparent water losses caused by inaccuracies due to domestic water meter age and total registered volume was determined. The net present value chain (NPVCn) method was used to determine the optimal domestic water meter replacement period. This study found no absolute relation between water meter age and total registered volume. This is probably the reason why several authors and water boards suggest a meter lifespan either by age or total registered volume and not both. A relationship was found to exist between water meter age and accuracy as well as between total registered volume and accuracy. The trend line of the median relative meter error moved from over-registration to under-registration as water meter age increased. The trend line of the median relative meter error decreased was however found to increase from under-registration to over-registration as the total registered volume increased. The average volume of apparent losses due to meter inaccuracies was determined to be 1.8 kl per meter/per month. This figure, when considering the number of meters in the municipality, amounted to 2.8% of the municipality’s total system input volume and 7.8% of the non-revenue water. The optimal water meter replacement period of the municipality was determined using the NPVCn method to be at 9, 12 and 16 years and total registered volumes of 3 971, 5 162 and 6 750 kl at 10%, 8% and 6% real discount rates, respectively.
- Full Text:
Factors influencing research in an engineering faculty
- Authors: Reynecke, Nicoline
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Engineering - Research - South Africa , Research - Methodology - Study and teaching (Higher) - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233766 , uj:23875
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Today research is no longer being done in the same manner it was done 30 years ago. With the advances of technology and with all types of knowledge available on the internet, research can now be done in almost any place on earth. Many universities have started transforming from traditional teaching universities into research universities to be able to keep up with these rapid advances in technology. But knowledge and research can no longer be left unmanaged. Universities require higher research outputs on top of all other work duties a staff member has. Researchers must be able to not only manage themselves but also manage the way they do their work, the way they do research, and how to balance all of these work aspects along with their busy home lives. There are factors that influence research in either a negative or positive manner. The better acquainted a staff member is with these factors, the easier this management can take place. Discovering the factors that influence research and finding ways to manage these factors can lead to an increases in research output which is at the heart of this study. This research sets out to explore the factors that influence research output, the support structures as well as the managerial approaches that must be put into place to be able to manage these factors at the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment to increase research output of staff members. To find the factors, support structures and managerial approaches an in-depth literature study was done to generate a survey that was distributed to permanent staff members that have published some form of research in the last five years. The data gathered from the survey was the analysed using descriptive analysis and inferential analysis to indicate which factors, support systems and managerial approaches would have a positive effect on research output. Managing these factors can then lead to an increase in research output, which in turn can lead to more research being done by staff members. Identifying the top four factors that influence research output, staff members acknowledged that having top quality colleagues to work with as well as having mentors for developing researchers might increase research output. They also highlighted that having monetary and non-monetary incentives to do research as well as workshops on time management could also have a positive effect on their research output. If these factors are managed and planned for in advance then an increase in research output of staff members is possible.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Reynecke, Nicoline
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Engineering - Research - South Africa , Research - Methodology - Study and teaching (Higher) - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233766 , uj:23875
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Today research is no longer being done in the same manner it was done 30 years ago. With the advances of technology and with all types of knowledge available on the internet, research can now be done in almost any place on earth. Many universities have started transforming from traditional teaching universities into research universities to be able to keep up with these rapid advances in technology. But knowledge and research can no longer be left unmanaged. Universities require higher research outputs on top of all other work duties a staff member has. Researchers must be able to not only manage themselves but also manage the way they do their work, the way they do research, and how to balance all of these work aspects along with their busy home lives. There are factors that influence research in either a negative or positive manner. The better acquainted a staff member is with these factors, the easier this management can take place. Discovering the factors that influence research and finding ways to manage these factors can lead to an increases in research output which is at the heart of this study. This research sets out to explore the factors that influence research output, the support structures as well as the managerial approaches that must be put into place to be able to manage these factors at the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment to increase research output of staff members. To find the factors, support structures and managerial approaches an in-depth literature study was done to generate a survey that was distributed to permanent staff members that have published some form of research in the last five years. The data gathered from the survey was the analysed using descriptive analysis and inferential analysis to indicate which factors, support systems and managerial approaches would have a positive effect on research output. Managing these factors can then lead to an increase in research output, which in turn can lead to more research being done by staff members. Identifying the top four factors that influence research output, staff members acknowledged that having top quality colleagues to work with as well as having mentors for developing researchers might increase research output. They also highlighted that having monetary and non-monetary incentives to do research as well as workshops on time management could also have a positive effect on their research output. If these factors are managed and planned for in advance then an increase in research output of staff members is possible.
- Full Text:
Management of productivity in a service call centre
- Authors: Ubisse, Sizwe Phillip
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Production management - Case studies , Consumer satisfaction , Call centers
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/376190 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225343 , uj:22757
- Description: Abstract: The aim of this research was to investigate the management of call centre productivity by identifying the factors that contribute to lack of knowledge and low productivity levels in a service call centre. This research investigated measures that are required to manage productivity, factors that affect call centre productivity, as well as the knowledge required to manage productivity in a service call centre effectively. In-depth case study research was conducted through document analysis and a questionnaire process, in order to gain insight into how lack of knowledge can affect the management of call centre productivity. The document analysis was done on operations reports from January 2011 to October 2015. The questionnaire results are a summary of 19 service call centre staff working for the same organisation representing agents, team leaders and managers. The results from the document analysis suggest that only 50% of the current call centre productivity management processes are similar to those recommended in the literature. The questionnaire results suggest that there is a knowledge gap across all staff in the call centre when it comes to knowledge required to manage productivity efficiently. The results show that 55% of the agents and 54% of the team leaders require training on call centre knowledge and processes that improve call centre productivity. The combined results from both the document analysis and the questionnaire show that call centre staff do not have enough knowledge to improve current call centre productivity. Training is recommended as the solution to the knowledge gap identified. The two types of training that are recommended for call centre staff is formal call centre qualification training, as well as on-the-job training i.e. job mentorship and job rotation for all call centre staff. The researcher hopes that the information provided in this research report will provide readers with insight into how lack of knowledge among call centre staff can affect the management of productivity levels in a service call centre. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ubisse, Sizwe Phillip
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Production management - Case studies , Consumer satisfaction , Call centers
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/376190 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225343 , uj:22757
- Description: Abstract: The aim of this research was to investigate the management of call centre productivity by identifying the factors that contribute to lack of knowledge and low productivity levels in a service call centre. This research investigated measures that are required to manage productivity, factors that affect call centre productivity, as well as the knowledge required to manage productivity in a service call centre effectively. In-depth case study research was conducted through document analysis and a questionnaire process, in order to gain insight into how lack of knowledge can affect the management of call centre productivity. The document analysis was done on operations reports from January 2011 to October 2015. The questionnaire results are a summary of 19 service call centre staff working for the same organisation representing agents, team leaders and managers. The results from the document analysis suggest that only 50% of the current call centre productivity management processes are similar to those recommended in the literature. The questionnaire results suggest that there is a knowledge gap across all staff in the call centre when it comes to knowledge required to manage productivity efficiently. The results show that 55% of the agents and 54% of the team leaders require training on call centre knowledge and processes that improve call centre productivity. The combined results from both the document analysis and the questionnaire show that call centre staff do not have enough knowledge to improve current call centre productivity. Training is recommended as the solution to the knowledge gap identified. The two types of training that are recommended for call centre staff is formal call centre qualification training, as well as on-the-job training i.e. job mentorship and job rotation for all call centre staff. The researcher hopes that the information provided in this research report will provide readers with insight into how lack of knowledge among call centre staff can affect the management of productivity levels in a service call centre. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
Developing skills of graduate engineers to enable them to design mineral processing plants
- Authors: Banda, Tshepiso
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269328 , uj:28612
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: This study investigated the development of technical and non-technical skills required for graduate engineers to design mineral processing plant in an EPCM environment. The purpose is to provide the better way of developing the skills which are essential for graduates to be responsible in designing mineral processing plants. These skills then enable graduates to effectively and efficiently design mineral process plants with less supervisory directives from their superiors. The research was inspired by what was recognised by the EPCM project delivery organisation involved in designing on mineral process plants, which placed a cognisance that graduate engineers need to build a combination set of skills, of which some is specialised, to become responsible for design of mineral processing plants. In addition, graduate engineers possess skills, which are not necessarily a prerequisite to design mineral processing plants. The investigation looked on the significant skills, activities for demonstrating possession of required skills, training and development methods imperative for upskilling graduates. This research firstly focused on the theoretical background of skills and attributes of graduates in processing plants designing, then activities demonstrating possession of such skills and training and development methods EPCM organisations should employ to ensure upskilling of graduates. To investigate a business problem, the study examined alternative solutions, and proposed the most effective solution using supporting evidence. A case study method was selected to provide the researcher with an in-depth knowledge of the phenomenon. A case study with questionnaire was conducted at an EPCM organisation which designs mineral processing plants, to compare the theoretical background with what the industry perceived as critical technical and non-technical skills, activities perceived significant to demonstrate possession of imperative skills and training and development methods significant to nurture the skills of graduates. The findings of the study revealed that on non-technical skills, communication and interpersonal skills are the most critical to ensure that graduates communicate design information effectively. This finding signifies that organisations should nurture graduates’ communication and interpersonal skills. For technical, it was found that all the theoretical background skills were essential though the knowledge of thermodynamics and mechanics, were perceived to be less required by the mineral processing plant design environment. Furthermore, mentorship and job rotation system which ranges from test work, design, commissioning and optimisation, are...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Banda, Tshepiso
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269328 , uj:28612
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: This study investigated the development of technical and non-technical skills required for graduate engineers to design mineral processing plant in an EPCM environment. The purpose is to provide the better way of developing the skills which are essential for graduates to be responsible in designing mineral processing plants. These skills then enable graduates to effectively and efficiently design mineral process plants with less supervisory directives from their superiors. The research was inspired by what was recognised by the EPCM project delivery organisation involved in designing on mineral process plants, which placed a cognisance that graduate engineers need to build a combination set of skills, of which some is specialised, to become responsible for design of mineral processing plants. In addition, graduate engineers possess skills, which are not necessarily a prerequisite to design mineral processing plants. The investigation looked on the significant skills, activities for demonstrating possession of required skills, training and development methods imperative for upskilling graduates. This research firstly focused on the theoretical background of skills and attributes of graduates in processing plants designing, then activities demonstrating possession of such skills and training and development methods EPCM organisations should employ to ensure upskilling of graduates. To investigate a business problem, the study examined alternative solutions, and proposed the most effective solution using supporting evidence. A case study method was selected to provide the researcher with an in-depth knowledge of the phenomenon. A case study with questionnaire was conducted at an EPCM organisation which designs mineral processing plants, to compare the theoretical background with what the industry perceived as critical technical and non-technical skills, activities perceived significant to demonstrate possession of imperative skills and training and development methods significant to nurture the skills of graduates. The findings of the study revealed that on non-technical skills, communication and interpersonal skills are the most critical to ensure that graduates communicate design information effectively. This finding signifies that organisations should nurture graduates’ communication and interpersonal skills. For technical, it was found that all the theoretical background skills were essential though the knowledge of thermodynamics and mechanics, were perceived to be less required by the mineral processing plant design environment. Furthermore, mentorship and job rotation system which ranges from test work, design, commissioning and optimisation, are...
- Full Text:
Factors affecting the performance of a manufacturing supply chain and the impact of the factors on the supply chain and the organization
- Authors: Mazibuko, Siphesihle
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Business logistics , Business logistics - Management , Manufacturing industries - Management , Production scheduling
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269803 , uj:28666
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Supply chain (SC) is an integrated process of various business functions used, to source raw material, add value to the raw material, and deliver the product to the customer. The common element to all manufacturing entities is the control of material flow, value adding (manufacturing) processes, and distribution channels to customers. With the ever-increasing competitive environment, many manufacturing companies around the world, including those in South Africa, experience a shortfall in the desired outcomes. As a result a number of organizations have looked at a possible mechanism to put in place to maintain or gain the competitive advantage, or to maintain or increase market share. Industry maturity saw a number of organizations implement the use of Supply Chain Management (SCM) in order to try to minimize costs, increase profits, and meet customer expectations, i.e. on time in full delivery (OTIFD) of a product or service against contractual or negotiated dates and in accordance with the customer requirements (Quality). This research examined the factors that affect the performance (on-time delivery) of a manufacturing supply chain. Two research questions had to be addressed to reach this goal:- (i) What are the factors affecting the on-time-delivery of the supply chain? (ii) What is the impact of these factors on the supply chain and the organization? In addition to the data collected from literature, two other data sets were collected for this research. Operational data were collected from a performance management tool (Qlikview) and the other set of data was collected through interviews with the use of a questionnaire. Both sets of data were analysed to identify any common patterns when it comes to the factors that affect the performance of supply chain. The results of the analysis suggest that the factors that contribute the most to poor supply chain performance are social factors. There is also an indication that there is a relationship between internal deliveries and customer deliveries...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mazibuko, Siphesihle
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Business logistics , Business logistics - Management , Manufacturing industries - Management , Production scheduling
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269803 , uj:28666
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Supply chain (SC) is an integrated process of various business functions used, to source raw material, add value to the raw material, and deliver the product to the customer. The common element to all manufacturing entities is the control of material flow, value adding (manufacturing) processes, and distribution channels to customers. With the ever-increasing competitive environment, many manufacturing companies around the world, including those in South Africa, experience a shortfall in the desired outcomes. As a result a number of organizations have looked at a possible mechanism to put in place to maintain or gain the competitive advantage, or to maintain or increase market share. Industry maturity saw a number of organizations implement the use of Supply Chain Management (SCM) in order to try to minimize costs, increase profits, and meet customer expectations, i.e. on time in full delivery (OTIFD) of a product or service against contractual or negotiated dates and in accordance with the customer requirements (Quality). This research examined the factors that affect the performance (on-time delivery) of a manufacturing supply chain. Two research questions had to be addressed to reach this goal:- (i) What are the factors affecting the on-time-delivery of the supply chain? (ii) What is the impact of these factors on the supply chain and the organization? In addition to the data collected from literature, two other data sets were collected for this research. Operational data were collected from a performance management tool (Qlikview) and the other set of data was collected through interviews with the use of a questionnaire. Both sets of data were analysed to identify any common patterns when it comes to the factors that affect the performance of supply chain. The results of the analysis suggest that the factors that contribute the most to poor supply chain performance are social factors. There is also an indication that there is a relationship between internal deliveries and customer deliveries...
- Full Text:
Energy efficiency management through the use of technology in South African industry
- Authors: Matlala, Humphrey Nkobeng
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Industries - Energy consumption - South Africa - Management , Energy consumption - Technological innovations - South Africa , Energy consumption - Economic aspects - South Africa , Energy policy - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/84140 , uj:19179
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract , M.Phil. (Engineering management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Matlala, Humphrey Nkobeng
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Industries - Energy consumption - South Africa - Management , Energy consumption - Technological innovations - South Africa , Energy consumption - Economic aspects - South Africa , Energy policy - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/84140 , uj:19179
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract , M.Phil. (Engineering management)
- Full Text:
Requirements elicitation techniques for overcoming a lack of domain knowledge
- Authors: Kawayongo, Jojo Mbumba
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Interactive computer systems , Human-computer interaction , System design , Computer software - Development
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/366326 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213034 , uj:21069
- Description: Abstract: Evidence suggests that requirements elicitation has been one of the fundamental activities in the development of software systems. Requirements elicitation entails systems analysts to interact effectively with users in order to gain knowledge of the proposed system. To ensure the quality of requirements elicitation, systems analysts might require domain knowledge of the proposed system. However, systems analysts might also be assigned to elicit requirements of a software system for which they lack domain knowledge. Thus, this research study presented a systematic literature review to identify all articles that discussed the techniques that can assist systems analysts obtain domain knowledge. This was achieved by following a systematic review protocol from which the researcher found 53 related articles. These articles were reviewed to identify which techniques might be used to obtain a specific type of domain knowledge such as behaviour, data, and process of the proposed system. The most interesting findings about this systematic review were that: - Most techniques were effective for obtaining domain knowledge of process. - A great number of techniques might be used for obtaining domain knowledge of behaviour. However, scenarios seemed to be the most effective. - Structure interview, card sorting, repertory grid, and prototyping were relatively a good fit for obtaining domain knowledge of data. Despite a great number of findings, this systematic review was also exposed to some validity threats. These threats were drastically reduced by following a well-defined systematic review protocol. However, not all of these threats were minimized completely and thus might need to be further investigated in future studies. In summary, this systematic review might be used as a guideline for helping both systems analysts who lack domain knowledge and practitioners in requirements elicitation. This systematic review also contributed to the body of literature in requirements elicitation techniques. , M.Ing.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kawayongo, Jojo Mbumba
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Interactive computer systems , Human-computer interaction , System design , Computer software - Development
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/366326 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213034 , uj:21069
- Description: Abstract: Evidence suggests that requirements elicitation has been one of the fundamental activities in the development of software systems. Requirements elicitation entails systems analysts to interact effectively with users in order to gain knowledge of the proposed system. To ensure the quality of requirements elicitation, systems analysts might require domain knowledge of the proposed system. However, systems analysts might also be assigned to elicit requirements of a software system for which they lack domain knowledge. Thus, this research study presented a systematic literature review to identify all articles that discussed the techniques that can assist systems analysts obtain domain knowledge. This was achieved by following a systematic review protocol from which the researcher found 53 related articles. These articles were reviewed to identify which techniques might be used to obtain a specific type of domain knowledge such as behaviour, data, and process of the proposed system. The most interesting findings about this systematic review were that: - Most techniques were effective for obtaining domain knowledge of process. - A great number of techniques might be used for obtaining domain knowledge of behaviour. However, scenarios seemed to be the most effective. - Structure interview, card sorting, repertory grid, and prototyping were relatively a good fit for obtaining domain knowledge of data. Despite a great number of findings, this systematic review was also exposed to some validity threats. These threats were drastically reduced by following a well-defined systematic review protocol. However, not all of these threats were minimized completely and thus might need to be further investigated in future studies. In summary, this systematic review might be used as a guideline for helping both systems analysts who lack domain knowledge and practitioners in requirements elicitation. This systematic review also contributed to the body of literature in requirements elicitation techniques. , M.Ing.
- Full Text:
Lack of training opportunities in South African foundries
- Authors: Mkansi, Jonathan
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/263115 , uj:27809
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: had a negative impact on the number of graduates who are offered an opportunity to complete practical training and consequently graduate. This also leads to a shortage of skilled foundrymen and foundry-women who are capable of taking the industry forward and helping South Africa compete with big producers of cast products such as China and India. Universities and foundries need partnership to establish ways in which foundry skills are taught to young technicians while they are nurtured for a brighter future. To achieve this, a quantitative study was conducted and data were collected and analysed to investigate the participants’ understanding of lack of in-service training and its effect on the number of metallurgical students graduating each year. Expert review of the data collected was conducted, to complete triangulation of information. The data were aimed to answer all questions from 52 foundries using the minimum sample size formula. The statistical analysis was based on actual data collected from all foundries which were randomly selected. Using this information, three types of questions (yes/no questions, five-point Likert scale, most to least contributing factors) were adopted during interviews and document review. Frequency and percentage distribution graphs were employed to display the results for easy interpretation of trends. Based on the data collected and analysed, three main factors (financial support and budget, lack of government support, and lack of training awareness) were found to contribute 71% of the problem and recommendations were made, based on these findings. It is also noteworthy that foundries were willing to assist wherever they could, if there was value that could be extracted from the training process.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mkansi, Jonathan
- Date: 2017
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/263115 , uj:27809
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: had a negative impact on the number of graduates who are offered an opportunity to complete practical training and consequently graduate. This also leads to a shortage of skilled foundrymen and foundry-women who are capable of taking the industry forward and helping South Africa compete with big producers of cast products such as China and India. Universities and foundries need partnership to establish ways in which foundry skills are taught to young technicians while they are nurtured for a brighter future. To achieve this, a quantitative study was conducted and data were collected and analysed to investigate the participants’ understanding of lack of in-service training and its effect on the number of metallurgical students graduating each year. Expert review of the data collected was conducted, to complete triangulation of information. The data were aimed to answer all questions from 52 foundries using the minimum sample size formula. The statistical analysis was based on actual data collected from all foundries which were randomly selected. Using this information, three types of questions (yes/no questions, five-point Likert scale, most to least contributing factors) were adopted during interviews and document review. Frequency and percentage distribution graphs were employed to display the results for easy interpretation of trends. Based on the data collected and analysed, three main factors (financial support and budget, lack of government support, and lack of training awareness) were found to contribute 71% of the problem and recommendations were made, based on these findings. It is also noteworthy that foundries were willing to assist wherever they could, if there was value that could be extracted from the training process.
- Full Text:
Risks and mitigations associated with infrastructure development projects in South Africa
- Authors: Kudumela, Frans Phetole
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) - South Africa , Sustainable development - South Africa , Project management - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/82759 , uj:18999
- Description: Abstract: Infrastructure development describes a group of activities that contribute towards the positive outcome of socio-economic conditions for communities. The two commonly known types of infrastructure are economic infrastructure and social infrastructure. Economic infrastructure promotes economic activities through the provision of physical assets such as power stations (electricity), telecommunication networks, roads, highways, railways, airports etc. Social infrastructure contributes to the welfare of communities by promoting education, healthcare and cultural norms of the population. Though infrastructure plays an important role in the livelihood of communities, there have been instances whereby infrastructure development projects are overshadowed by risks that impede their successful implementation. Some infrastructure development projects in South Africa showed evidence of been negatively affected by risks. Thus the purpose of this research study is to identify infrastructure development risks and mitigations in South Africa. A questionnaire survey was used to collect data from professionals involved in the implementation of infrastructure projects. The questionnaire contained a list of risks identified from literature, and respondents were asked to identify risks that they have encountered while implementing infrastructure projects and provide mitigations that were implemented. The results of the study revealed that infrastructure development risks encountered in South Africa are similar to risks experienced in other parts of Africa and the rest of the world. Many professionals in the industry associate with performance risks and inadequate skills capacity risks. Political risks and corruption have also been identified by a large number of the participants, followed by commercial and lack of funding risks. Financial risk and economic risks were identified by a small number of participants, which indicates that such risks are seldom experienced on infrastructure development projects in South Africa. Risk mitigations were identified for each of the identified risks by the research participants. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kudumela, Frans Phetole
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) - South Africa , Sustainable development - South Africa , Project management - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/82759 , uj:18999
- Description: Abstract: Infrastructure development describes a group of activities that contribute towards the positive outcome of socio-economic conditions for communities. The two commonly known types of infrastructure are economic infrastructure and social infrastructure. Economic infrastructure promotes economic activities through the provision of physical assets such as power stations (electricity), telecommunication networks, roads, highways, railways, airports etc. Social infrastructure contributes to the welfare of communities by promoting education, healthcare and cultural norms of the population. Though infrastructure plays an important role in the livelihood of communities, there have been instances whereby infrastructure development projects are overshadowed by risks that impede their successful implementation. Some infrastructure development projects in South Africa showed evidence of been negatively affected by risks. Thus the purpose of this research study is to identify infrastructure development risks and mitigations in South Africa. A questionnaire survey was used to collect data from professionals involved in the implementation of infrastructure projects. The questionnaire contained a list of risks identified from literature, and respondents were asked to identify risks that they have encountered while implementing infrastructure projects and provide mitigations that were implemented. The results of the study revealed that infrastructure development risks encountered in South Africa are similar to risks experienced in other parts of Africa and the rest of the world. Many professionals in the industry associate with performance risks and inadequate skills capacity risks. Political risks and corruption have also been identified by a large number of the participants, followed by commercial and lack of funding risks. Financial risk and economic risks were identified by a small number of participants, which indicates that such risks are seldom experienced on infrastructure development projects in South Africa. Risk mitigations were identified for each of the identified risks by the research participants. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
A roadmap for smart city services to address small business challenges
- Authors: Du Plessis, Haydn
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable urban development , City planning - Economic aspects - South Africa , Small business - South Africa - Management , Informal sector (Economics) - South Africa , Cities and towns - South Africa - Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213282 , uj:21129
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
- Authors: Du Plessis, Haydn
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sustainable urban development , City planning - Economic aspects - South Africa , Small business - South Africa - Management , Informal sector (Economics) - South Africa , Cities and towns - South Africa - Designs and plans
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213282 , uj:21129
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
The competency level of project managers within an organization : individual and managers' perspective
- Authors: Nkgoeng, R.M.
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Project managers , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233793 , uj:23878
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nkgoeng, R.M.
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Project managers , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233793 , uj:23878
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
Factors required for the successful management of a material recovery facility
- Authors: Yusuff, Suleman
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Integrated solid waste management , Waste minimization , Sanitary landfills
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233546 , uj:23846
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The use of Material recovery facilities to recover recyclable materials from the solid waste stream is a favourite alternative to landfilling, with over 90% of the waste generated in South Africa ending up in landfills. Establishing MRFs in a solid waste management system will help reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfill, thereby increasing the lifespan of available landfills. This will also help in the reduction of the amount of energy and resources used up in the manufacturing process by virgin materials, will generate income from the sale of recyclables, and create employment. Numerous MRF’s have been established in the past and been unsuccessful. In order for MRFs to be able to achieve their role in waste management, it is imperative for them to be successful. This study will identify the factors required for the success of a MRF. The study will also identify the limitations faced by a MRF and how the limitations can be managed. In order to carry out this research, a case study was done on a Zerowaste MRF. Here, data was gathered through direct observation and interview. The case study provided information on how different factors affect the MRF, the limitations of these factors on the MRF and the manner in which the facility manages the limitations. The case study was the preferred study method as it provided detailed information on the subject of study, while focusing on a single case. From the study, it was discovered that many factors come into play to ensure the success of a MRF. One factor being the availability of ‘clean’ raw material, as well as ensuring high quality of the recovered product. The level of contamination of the incoming waste can go a long way in affecting other factors. From the sorting process, to the product quality, health, cost and residue, high level of contamination is one of the main limitations faced by the MRF. The facility has been able to manage the limitations of contamination by ensuring that only ‘clean waste’ is collected for processing at the facility, and ensuring the sorters sort with care when sorting a contaminated load. Minimizing the cost of running the facility to ensure its financial viability was an additional success factor identified. This involves minimizing the cost for maintenance, transportation, and residue disposal. Other success factors include: a good management with the requisite management skills, educating the waste generators to separate waste at the source of generation, availability of extra storage space, and allocating extra space for future expansions during the design phase of the facility. By achieving the aim of this research, the study is able to contribute to the body of knowledge relating to material recovery facilities. This study will be useful to researchers who are studying MRFs and their successes. It will also be useful to MRF operators and managers as well as individual managers and institutions who intend to establish a MRF.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Yusuff, Suleman
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Integrated solid waste management , Waste minimization , Sanitary landfills
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233546 , uj:23846
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The use of Material recovery facilities to recover recyclable materials from the solid waste stream is a favourite alternative to landfilling, with over 90% of the waste generated in South Africa ending up in landfills. Establishing MRFs in a solid waste management system will help reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfill, thereby increasing the lifespan of available landfills. This will also help in the reduction of the amount of energy and resources used up in the manufacturing process by virgin materials, will generate income from the sale of recyclables, and create employment. Numerous MRF’s have been established in the past and been unsuccessful. In order for MRFs to be able to achieve their role in waste management, it is imperative for them to be successful. This study will identify the factors required for the success of a MRF. The study will also identify the limitations faced by a MRF and how the limitations can be managed. In order to carry out this research, a case study was done on a Zerowaste MRF. Here, data was gathered through direct observation and interview. The case study provided information on how different factors affect the MRF, the limitations of these factors on the MRF and the manner in which the facility manages the limitations. The case study was the preferred study method as it provided detailed information on the subject of study, while focusing on a single case. From the study, it was discovered that many factors come into play to ensure the success of a MRF. One factor being the availability of ‘clean’ raw material, as well as ensuring high quality of the recovered product. The level of contamination of the incoming waste can go a long way in affecting other factors. From the sorting process, to the product quality, health, cost and residue, high level of contamination is one of the main limitations faced by the MRF. The facility has been able to manage the limitations of contamination by ensuring that only ‘clean waste’ is collected for processing at the facility, and ensuring the sorters sort with care when sorting a contaminated load. Minimizing the cost of running the facility to ensure its financial viability was an additional success factor identified. This involves minimizing the cost for maintenance, transportation, and residue disposal. Other success factors include: a good management with the requisite management skills, educating the waste generators to separate waste at the source of generation, availability of extra storage space, and allocating extra space for future expansions during the design phase of the facility. By achieving the aim of this research, the study is able to contribute to the body of knowledge relating to material recovery facilities. This study will be useful to researchers who are studying MRFs and their successes. It will also be useful to MRF operators and managers as well as individual managers and institutions who intend to establish a MRF.
- Full Text:
Factors contributing to the failure of emerging construction companies
- Authors: Novela, Maqhawe Bennito
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Construction industry , Business failures
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/286085 , uj:30950
- Description: Abstract: The construction industry in South Africa plays a major role in the country’s GDP. It plays a significant role in the ability to boost growth for the country and create temporary and long term employment for many individuals. With the high number of emerging construction companies failing to succeed within the first 3 years after being established, there is an increasing risk of having a high unemployment rate in the country. The study focuses on factors which contribute to emerging construction companies failing to succeed and how successful companies are able to overcome failure in the same industry. Through literature 8 factors were identified as being the factors which contribute to failure for emerging construction companies. Questionnaires distributed via an online survey where used to collect data from individuals who own companies with Construction Industry Development Board(CIDB) grade 1 - 4 or individuals who are in management positions in companies with grade 5 - 9. From the results it was found that poor managing of company finances by leadership is the biggest reason emerging construction companies fail to sustain. It was found that established companies manage the 8 factors identified from literature better compared to emerging companies and thereby are able to overcome failure. The study has contributed to the limited knowledge available to the construction industry about why emerging construction companies fail to succeed by identifying the causes and what to do to avoid failure. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Novela, Maqhawe Bennito
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Construction industry , Business failures
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/286085 , uj:30950
- Description: Abstract: The construction industry in South Africa plays a major role in the country’s GDP. It plays a significant role in the ability to boost growth for the country and create temporary and long term employment for many individuals. With the high number of emerging construction companies failing to succeed within the first 3 years after being established, there is an increasing risk of having a high unemployment rate in the country. The study focuses on factors which contribute to emerging construction companies failing to succeed and how successful companies are able to overcome failure in the same industry. Through literature 8 factors were identified as being the factors which contribute to failure for emerging construction companies. Questionnaires distributed via an online survey where used to collect data from individuals who own companies with Construction Industry Development Board(CIDB) grade 1 - 4 or individuals who are in management positions in companies with grade 5 - 9. From the results it was found that poor managing of company finances by leadership is the biggest reason emerging construction companies fail to sustain. It was found that established companies manage the 8 factors identified from literature better compared to emerging companies and thereby are able to overcome failure. The study has contributed to the limited knowledge available to the construction industry about why emerging construction companies fail to succeed by identifying the causes and what to do to avoid failure. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
Factors impacting on the implementation of Total Quality Management in the mineral processing industry
- Authors: Mashamba, Rendani
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Total quality management , Mineral industries - Quality control
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/57341 , uj:16381
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mashamba, Rendani
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Total quality management , Mineral industries - Quality control
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/57341 , uj:16381
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
The implementation and application of Lean : case study on rail transportation manufacturing company
- Authors: Bambo, Lebogang Ezra
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing - Case studies , Production management - Case studies , Manufacturing processes , Just-in-time systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233720 , uj:23869
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: South Africa is a developing country, which makes it a very attractive country for investors. This opportunity for investment poses a challenge for companies in the market to create an operating system and a culture that will deliver and satisfy demand. At the rate at which South Africa is growing, the understanding and the ability to implement engineering principles such as Lean Manufacturing (LM) is essential. The study objective is therefore to identify gaps towards successful implementation of LM in an international rail transportation manufacturing company in order to improve product quality and customer satisfaction. Due to confidentiality, the name of the company is withheld and the access to conduct a survey on Ford and Toyota with the employees were denied. The study included a thorough literature study, analysis and comparison of how companies such as Ford and Toyota implemented LM. Subsequently research questions focusing on Lean were formulated in order to determine how: (i) the best way forward the rail transportation manufacturing company should apply the lean principles to improve their product quality output; (ii) how other well-developed such as Ford and Toyota implemented LM compared to the said company, (iii) barriers / gaps can be identified in order to eliminate the risk of not successfully implementing LM principles. In total 25 (n=25) knowledgeable participants were selected in terms of lean application to participate in the study. The study reveals that there are distinct shortcomings in implementing LM in the company in terms of lean versus implementation at Ford and Toyota. Furthermore the results of the study indicated that 48% of the participants believed that limited lean principles has been implemented, whilst 36% indicated that it has not been implemented, whilst 16% are unsure. The results also identified that that 84% of employees experienced wastage. A major concern is that 60% of the employees believe that customer requirements are not met. In conclusion, the study paves a way towards improvement in lean application at the company and as such a starting point in resolving and improving the quality output of their products. The study results assisted the organisation to utilise the information gathered to determine gaps and barriers in their systems and application of lean.
- Full Text:
The implementation and application of Lean : case study on rail transportation manufacturing company
- Authors: Bambo, Lebogang Ezra
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Lean manufacturing - Case studies , Production management - Case studies , Manufacturing processes , Just-in-time systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/233720 , uj:23869
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: South Africa is a developing country, which makes it a very attractive country for investors. This opportunity for investment poses a challenge for companies in the market to create an operating system and a culture that will deliver and satisfy demand. At the rate at which South Africa is growing, the understanding and the ability to implement engineering principles such as Lean Manufacturing (LM) is essential. The study objective is therefore to identify gaps towards successful implementation of LM in an international rail transportation manufacturing company in order to improve product quality and customer satisfaction. Due to confidentiality, the name of the company is withheld and the access to conduct a survey on Ford and Toyota with the employees were denied. The study included a thorough literature study, analysis and comparison of how companies such as Ford and Toyota implemented LM. Subsequently research questions focusing on Lean were formulated in order to determine how: (i) the best way forward the rail transportation manufacturing company should apply the lean principles to improve their product quality output; (ii) how other well-developed such as Ford and Toyota implemented LM compared to the said company, (iii) barriers / gaps can be identified in order to eliminate the risk of not successfully implementing LM principles. In total 25 (n=25) knowledgeable participants were selected in terms of lean application to participate in the study. The study reveals that there are distinct shortcomings in implementing LM in the company in terms of lean versus implementation at Ford and Toyota. Furthermore the results of the study indicated that 48% of the participants believed that limited lean principles has been implemented, whilst 36% indicated that it has not been implemented, whilst 16% are unsure. The results also identified that that 84% of employees experienced wastage. A major concern is that 60% of the employees believe that customer requirements are not met. In conclusion, the study paves a way towards improvement in lean application at the company and as such a starting point in resolving and improving the quality output of their products. The study results assisted the organisation to utilise the information gathered to determine gaps and barriers in their systems and application of lean.
- Full Text:
Managing change in an engineering organisation
- Authors: Junkoon, Larissa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Organizational change , Corporate reorganizations , Reengineering (Management)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269771 , uj:28662
- Description: Abstract: The purpose of this study was to achieve an understanding of the factors which contribute to organisational change resistance by engineers in a civil engineering consulting organisation in order to better manage them in future. The research was conducted within a civil engineering consulting organisation which implemented an organisational change initiative. The organisation carried out change readiness surveys on a regular basis during the organisational change initiative, the data of which provided the research problem and was also used as a basis for the study. It was clear from this data that there was little to no interest from most of the engineers (and other technical staff) within the organisation. The literature review provided a list of factors which contribute to organisational change resistance . Many common reasons for resistance were found within various professions as well as many ways in which these resistances can be reduced. The background obtained from the literature review assisted in drafting a questionnaire that was sent out to all employees in order to establish the applicable reasons within the case organisation. Available documents on the organisational change were also analysed to understand if similar trends as compared to the questionnaire and literature were found. After these were compared, a number of steps the organisation should take during future organisational changes were put forth to assist in reducing employee resistance. The intention of this research was to add to the engineering management fraternity by identifying the factors that cause employee resistance to organisational change by engineers and to find appropriate change management methods or steps to better manage the resistance during future change initiatives. If these factors are known, they can be managed and can help to ensure earlier commitment by employees to the change. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Junkoon, Larissa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Organizational change , Corporate reorganizations , Reengineering (Management)
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269771 , uj:28662
- Description: Abstract: The purpose of this study was to achieve an understanding of the factors which contribute to organisational change resistance by engineers in a civil engineering consulting organisation in order to better manage them in future. The research was conducted within a civil engineering consulting organisation which implemented an organisational change initiative. The organisation carried out change readiness surveys on a regular basis during the organisational change initiative, the data of which provided the research problem and was also used as a basis for the study. It was clear from this data that there was little to no interest from most of the engineers (and other technical staff) within the organisation. The literature review provided a list of factors which contribute to organisational change resistance . Many common reasons for resistance were found within various professions as well as many ways in which these resistances can be reduced. The background obtained from the literature review assisted in drafting a questionnaire that was sent out to all employees in order to establish the applicable reasons within the case organisation. Available documents on the organisational change were also analysed to understand if similar trends as compared to the questionnaire and literature were found. After these were compared, a number of steps the organisation should take during future organisational changes were put forth to assist in reducing employee resistance. The intention of this research was to add to the engineering management fraternity by identifying the factors that cause employee resistance to organisational change by engineers and to find appropriate change management methods or steps to better manage the resistance during future change initiatives. If these factors are known, they can be managed and can help to ensure earlier commitment by employees to the change. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text: