Reliability evaluation of an electric power distribution system : a case study in Gauteng Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Choma, August M.
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Engineering - Management , Electric power distribution , Electric power systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293822 , uj:31957
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The electrical power is a basic public service. The electrical power reliability is very essential since most of the infrastructures are dependent on it. Unplanned power outages may compromise the services such as transport, communications systems and emergency and the security services. Unplanned power outages are also inconvenient and very costly to both commercial and residential customers. As a result, the research study identify the factors that contribute to poor reliability of distribution networks and from the findings the alternative strategies are proposed and discussed. The study is intended to help electrical utilities such as municipalities to efficiently investigate the distribution network that is affected and apply the scheduled reliability development tactics to achieve the best performance. The literature review was carry out to review the existing body of the knowledge in relation to the root causes of unplanned power outages, overview of distribution reliability performance indices and the solutions that can be used to improve the performance of distribution system. A case study strategy was presented within one of the Gauteng Metropolitan Municipality with three year (2015-2017) historical power outage data of medium voltage feeders. It was found that most of these failures of medium voltage feeders under the case study take place due to equipment failures contributing high (total of 37 fault incidents in three years). Equipment failures presented a high risk, in particular the LV (Low voltage) transformer fault. Overhead line faults contributed to total of 29 fault incidents, 25 faults incidents for underground cable faults, 14 fault incidents for copper/cable theft, 12 fault incidents for electricity theft, 9 fault incidents for vandalism and 7 faults incident for extreme weather events. New factors such as motor vehicle accident, Feld fire and found no fault (unknowns) were discovered from the case study and not covered from the literature review. Metropolitan Municipality currently uses only expected reliability indices of each year to assess the distribution network performance. The research study presented the predictive reliability assessment strategy that can be used by managers and engineers of the municipality for predicting the distribution network problems of medium voltage feeders, which is by using the probability distribution of both SAIFI and SAIDI of each year.
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- Authors: Choma, August M.
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Engineering - Management , Electric power distribution , Electric power systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293822 , uj:31957
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The electrical power is a basic public service. The electrical power reliability is very essential since most of the infrastructures are dependent on it. Unplanned power outages may compromise the services such as transport, communications systems and emergency and the security services. Unplanned power outages are also inconvenient and very costly to both commercial and residential customers. As a result, the research study identify the factors that contribute to poor reliability of distribution networks and from the findings the alternative strategies are proposed and discussed. The study is intended to help electrical utilities such as municipalities to efficiently investigate the distribution network that is affected and apply the scheduled reliability development tactics to achieve the best performance. The literature review was carry out to review the existing body of the knowledge in relation to the root causes of unplanned power outages, overview of distribution reliability performance indices and the solutions that can be used to improve the performance of distribution system. A case study strategy was presented within one of the Gauteng Metropolitan Municipality with three year (2015-2017) historical power outage data of medium voltage feeders. It was found that most of these failures of medium voltage feeders under the case study take place due to equipment failures contributing high (total of 37 fault incidents in three years). Equipment failures presented a high risk, in particular the LV (Low voltage) transformer fault. Overhead line faults contributed to total of 29 fault incidents, 25 faults incidents for underground cable faults, 14 fault incidents for copper/cable theft, 12 fault incidents for electricity theft, 9 fault incidents for vandalism and 7 faults incident for extreme weather events. New factors such as motor vehicle accident, Feld fire and found no fault (unknowns) were discovered from the case study and not covered from the literature review. Metropolitan Municipality currently uses only expected reliability indices of each year to assess the distribution network performance. The research study presented the predictive reliability assessment strategy that can be used by managers and engineers of the municipality for predicting the distribution network problems of medium voltage feeders, which is by using the probability distribution of both SAIFI and SAIDI of each year.
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The measurement of cybersecurity awareness in an industrial control systems company
- Authors: Prins, Stefan
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/399083 , uj:33251
- Description: Abstract : Please refer to full text to view abstract. , M.Ing. (Electrical Engineering)
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- Authors: Prins, Stefan
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/399083 , uj:33251
- Description: Abstract : Please refer to full text to view abstract. , M.Ing. (Electrical Engineering)
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A systematic literature review of the agile methodology applied during construction project design
- Authors: Mnqonywa, Sixolile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Project management , Construction industry - Management , Construction projects , Production scheduling
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/284864 , uj:30781
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Infrastructure is one of the main agents for economic growth, infrastructure supports the improvement of a nation the people. This is more noteworthy in developing countries, countries with less developed infrastructure suffer from missed opportunities and business. Building roads, schools, airports, power stations and water treatment facilities will not only empower the country’s economy and socioeconomics but will provide sustainable jobs for the country. However, the civil construction industry is known for its time and cost overrun which can damper the progression of economic growth of a country. There are investments being wasted in the civil construction projects caused by varies issues and these issues differ from projects. The research investigated the application of agile methodology in the design phase of a civil construction project to mitigate challenges and improve the delivery in the design phase. The research conducted a literature review to get the background knowledge and to have a broader understanding of the problem and solution method. The search than conducted a systematic literature review where the guidelines, procedures, of the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Intervention, was used. Following the systematic literature rigorous procedure, the final studies that were collected amounted to 22 out of the 2440 studies. The 22 studies were analysed using thematic analysis, from conducting the analysis it found four themes for challenges in the design stage of a project, which are 1) Schedule overrun 2) Construction Waste management 3) Design Performance 4) Project Management. Applying agile methodology on the challenges indicated that the methodology can have an improvement in the design stage of a civil engineering project, by increasing transparency and adding value to the project, utilizing time management and increasing both the client’s contribution and the team’s morale this factor and much more from agile approaches can improve the delivery of the design phase.
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- Authors: Mnqonywa, Sixolile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Project management , Construction industry - Management , Construction projects , Production scheduling
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/284864 , uj:30781
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Infrastructure is one of the main agents for economic growth, infrastructure supports the improvement of a nation the people. This is more noteworthy in developing countries, countries with less developed infrastructure suffer from missed opportunities and business. Building roads, schools, airports, power stations and water treatment facilities will not only empower the country’s economy and socioeconomics but will provide sustainable jobs for the country. However, the civil construction industry is known for its time and cost overrun which can damper the progression of economic growth of a country. There are investments being wasted in the civil construction projects caused by varies issues and these issues differ from projects. The research investigated the application of agile methodology in the design phase of a civil construction project to mitigate challenges and improve the delivery in the design phase. The research conducted a literature review to get the background knowledge and to have a broader understanding of the problem and solution method. The search than conducted a systematic literature review where the guidelines, procedures, of the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Intervention, was used. Following the systematic literature rigorous procedure, the final studies that were collected amounted to 22 out of the 2440 studies. The 22 studies were analysed using thematic analysis, from conducting the analysis it found four themes for challenges in the design stage of a project, which are 1) Schedule overrun 2) Construction Waste management 3) Design Performance 4) Project Management. Applying agile methodology on the challenges indicated that the methodology can have an improvement in the design stage of a civil engineering project, by increasing transparency and adding value to the project, utilizing time management and increasing both the client’s contribution and the team’s morale this factor and much more from agile approaches can improve the delivery of the design phase.
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Infrastructure project failure caused by the lack of project management planning
- Authors: Silaule, Cleopatra
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Project management - Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/285866 , uj:30922
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The planning of infrastructure projects using project management methodologies increases the rate of their success. The planning of projects sometimes gets less attention which eventually result in project failure. Project failure involves; increased project costs, increases project duration, increased project scope and substandard quality of the delivered project. The purpose of this research was to establish and present a guideline of how a project should be planned. Planning according to the PMBOK, the Construction guide and other authors in the industry were used as references. The impact of not planning a project was addressed through literature review and the collection of evidence using two case studies. The collection of evidence was carried out by conducting document analysis on the planning documents of the two cases. Data was also collected by interviewing the professionals that were involved on the projects from initiation to project close-out. The two studied case studies each represent different setups about planning a project. The first project took place when there was no planning structure within the organization and the second one took place when there was a planning structure in place. On the first case study it was found that minimal planning was done at the beginning of the project and the second case study it was found that planning did take place. A guideline was established by looking at how the second case study was planned as this case represented a successful project that was completed within budget, within the planned duration, according to the planned scope and in good quality. The first case study represented how a project can turn out should it not be planned. The project exceeded the planned time, budget, scope and the unacceptable quality. With the findings on both case studies, this research recommends that all projects should be planned in detail prior to executing them. The project plans should be implemented and revised as and when required throughout the project until close-out.
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- Authors: Silaule, Cleopatra
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Project management - Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/285866 , uj:30922
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The planning of infrastructure projects using project management methodologies increases the rate of their success. The planning of projects sometimes gets less attention which eventually result in project failure. Project failure involves; increased project costs, increases project duration, increased project scope and substandard quality of the delivered project. The purpose of this research was to establish and present a guideline of how a project should be planned. Planning according to the PMBOK, the Construction guide and other authors in the industry were used as references. The impact of not planning a project was addressed through literature review and the collection of evidence using two case studies. The collection of evidence was carried out by conducting document analysis on the planning documents of the two cases. Data was also collected by interviewing the professionals that were involved on the projects from initiation to project close-out. The two studied case studies each represent different setups about planning a project. The first project took place when there was no planning structure within the organization and the second one took place when there was a planning structure in place. On the first case study it was found that minimal planning was done at the beginning of the project and the second case study it was found that planning did take place. A guideline was established by looking at how the second case study was planned as this case represented a successful project that was completed within budget, within the planned duration, according to the planned scope and in good quality. The first case study represented how a project can turn out should it not be planned. The project exceeded the planned time, budget, scope and the unacceptable quality. With the findings on both case studies, this research recommends that all projects should be planned in detail prior to executing them. The project plans should be implemented and revised as and when required throughout the project until close-out.
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An evaluation of factors that affect a South African supply chain organization progress to world-class manufacturing
- Authors: Seerane, Siziwe Renee
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/399055 , uj:33248
- Description: Abstract : Please refer to full text to view abstract. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Seerane, Siziwe Renee
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/399055 , uj:33248
- Description: Abstract : Please refer to full text to view abstract. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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The potential benefits of a diversified engineering workforce
- Authors: Masangu, Ntsako
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/398728 , uj:33206
- Description: Abstract : The engineering industry in South Africa is one that has previously excluded marginalised groups of people. This has resulted in the industry being undiversified and leaving these people feeling disenfranchised. Diversity is a word that is increasingly discussed in boardrooms to eradicate this exclusion and invite the participation and contribution of different people into the industry. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential benefits of diversity on an engineering workforce. Diversity in engineering organisations is currently work in progress as managers work towards redressing the social injustices of the past and transforming their organisations. The main problems with diversity in the workplace is that it is not always considered as beneficial to the performance of an organisations. Instead, diversity in some organisations is seen as a numbers game that needs to be completed for the sake of compliance. The value of diversity is not noticeably understood and as a result organisations are not diversifying. This lack of knowledge on the potential benefits of diversity has contributed towards the slow transformation of the industry. Researchers have uncovered significant information on the topic of diversity. Diversity has shown to be beneficial and has a positive impact on the performance of an organisation. However in practice, diversity has disadvantages and can negatively affect teams and organisations. These negative effects require adequate diversity management by engineering managers, human resource managers and the organisation workforce at large. In-depth knowledge was attained from completing focus group discussions with employees of an engineering firm. The focus group discussions display the opinions and experiences of people in the real world of engineering, and their thoughts on diversity in the workplace. This understanding was used to develop a theory on diversity in the workplace and the reasons behind the slow adaptation and sometimes resistance shown by certain individuals. The aim of the development of this theory is to encourage engineering managers to overcome the struggles around transformation and diversity in the workplace. Overcoming the challenges through diversifying a workforce has the potential to improve the performance of an organisation. The social injustices that remain because of the legacy of apartheid can be confronted by understanding the value that lies with a diversified workforce. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Masangu, Ntsako
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/398728 , uj:33206
- Description: Abstract : The engineering industry in South Africa is one that has previously excluded marginalised groups of people. This has resulted in the industry being undiversified and leaving these people feeling disenfranchised. Diversity is a word that is increasingly discussed in boardrooms to eradicate this exclusion and invite the participation and contribution of different people into the industry. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential benefits of diversity on an engineering workforce. Diversity in engineering organisations is currently work in progress as managers work towards redressing the social injustices of the past and transforming their organisations. The main problems with diversity in the workplace is that it is not always considered as beneficial to the performance of an organisations. Instead, diversity in some organisations is seen as a numbers game that needs to be completed for the sake of compliance. The value of diversity is not noticeably understood and as a result organisations are not diversifying. This lack of knowledge on the potential benefits of diversity has contributed towards the slow transformation of the industry. Researchers have uncovered significant information on the topic of diversity. Diversity has shown to be beneficial and has a positive impact on the performance of an organisation. However in practice, diversity has disadvantages and can negatively affect teams and organisations. These negative effects require adequate diversity management by engineering managers, human resource managers and the organisation workforce at large. In-depth knowledge was attained from completing focus group discussions with employees of an engineering firm. The focus group discussions display the opinions and experiences of people in the real world of engineering, and their thoughts on diversity in the workplace. This understanding was used to develop a theory on diversity in the workplace and the reasons behind the slow adaptation and sometimes resistance shown by certain individuals. The aim of the development of this theory is to encourage engineering managers to overcome the struggles around transformation and diversity in the workplace. Overcoming the challenges through diversifying a workforce has the potential to improve the performance of an organisation. The social injustices that remain because of the legacy of apartheid can be confronted by understanding the value that lies with a diversified workforce. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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Establishing the causes of delays in Eskom construction projects
- Authors: Kgosi, Tshepo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Construction projects - South Africa , Eskom (Firm) , Construction industry - South Africa - Management , Production scheduling - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/284839 , uj:30778
- Description: Abstract: Construction projects are well known to fail or delays beyond their intended contractual duration due to multiple of reasons that pertains to project management. The commonly used construction term for such project management deferrals is referred to as delays. Delays of construction project in developing countries are disadvantageous for the economy’s progression. Therefore the research aims to determine the causes of delays in the South African construction industry, predominantly focused around Eskom capital expansion projects. It also seeks to identify potential project management activities to manage the causes of delays. The motive for conducting this research is to improve and develop the project managers’ knowledge and skills regarding project delays and how to management them. And also contribute in developing the project management society about the delays identified both locally and in the internationals constructions industries. Quantitative methodology outlining the research investigations was used to carry out the study. Snowballing sampling technique was applied to collect primary data, with the use of structured hand-outs, questionnaires and emails. Data was collected in three of Eskom construction sites. In addressing question one of the research, an initial 38 common delays were researched from various literatures on the same topic. From the 38 delays found in literature, the top 20 common causes were derived. Thereafter the highest top 5 and the least rated 5 of the 20 common causes of delays were selected for discussion. Subsequently the potential project management activities to manage the identified the causes of delays were researched and tabled. The top 5 rated causes of delays were matched with the ideal project management activities and further elaborated with supporting literature and survey results... , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Kgosi, Tshepo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Construction projects - South Africa , Eskom (Firm) , Construction industry - South Africa - Management , Production scheduling - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/284839 , uj:30778
- Description: Abstract: Construction projects are well known to fail or delays beyond their intended contractual duration due to multiple of reasons that pertains to project management. The commonly used construction term for such project management deferrals is referred to as delays. Delays of construction project in developing countries are disadvantageous for the economy’s progression. Therefore the research aims to determine the causes of delays in the South African construction industry, predominantly focused around Eskom capital expansion projects. It also seeks to identify potential project management activities to manage the causes of delays. The motive for conducting this research is to improve and develop the project managers’ knowledge and skills regarding project delays and how to management them. And also contribute in developing the project management society about the delays identified both locally and in the internationals constructions industries. Quantitative methodology outlining the research investigations was used to carry out the study. Snowballing sampling technique was applied to collect primary data, with the use of structured hand-outs, questionnaires and emails. Data was collected in three of Eskom construction sites. In addressing question one of the research, an initial 38 common delays were researched from various literatures on the same topic. From the 38 delays found in literature, the top 20 common causes were derived. Thereafter the highest top 5 and the least rated 5 of the 20 common causes of delays were selected for discussion. Subsequently the potential project management activities to manage the identified the causes of delays were researched and tabled. The top 5 rated causes of delays were matched with the ideal project management activities and further elaborated with supporting literature and survey results... , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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Evaluating the effectiveness of rolling stock maintenance strategies in South African railway service
- Authors: Seshabela, Portia
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Railroad engineering , Trainspotting , Railroad trains
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293774 , uj:31951
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: South African railway operations for freight transportation is one of the key contributors to the GDP. The railway transportation company is one of the largest rail companies in Africa. Therefore, it is imperative that the execution of supporting functions to the business is conducted effectively and efficiently. Studies suggest that the cost of maintenance of rolling stock equipment is said to be the most significant operating cost for the business. One of the biggest challenges that maintenance managers face is minimising the overall maintenance costs and maximising the reliability performance of the rolling stock. Therefore, this research aims to identify the factors that affect the performance of the maintenance strategy for rolling stock and the impact thereof on the operations of locomotives. To broadly understand the factors that affect the maintenance strategy and their impact, a coal line locomotive fleet was chosen as a case study. This was to ensure that the operational inefficiencies that affect the locomotive reliability are understood so that improvements can be made. A questionnaire was distributed to the targeted participants, to ascertain the factors that they believe have the most significant impact on the performance of the maintenance strategy. A relative index analysis was conducted on the questionnaire results with the aim of the order of significance of the maintenance management factors. Findings of the relative index importance analysis were used to study the relationship between these factors and the impact they have on locomotive operations. Finally, a literature study was used as a benchmarking tool to identify the gaps of the maintenance strategy...
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- Authors: Seshabela, Portia
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Railroad engineering , Trainspotting , Railroad trains
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293774 , uj:31951
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: South African railway operations for freight transportation is one of the key contributors to the GDP. The railway transportation company is one of the largest rail companies in Africa. Therefore, it is imperative that the execution of supporting functions to the business is conducted effectively and efficiently. Studies suggest that the cost of maintenance of rolling stock equipment is said to be the most significant operating cost for the business. One of the biggest challenges that maintenance managers face is minimising the overall maintenance costs and maximising the reliability performance of the rolling stock. Therefore, this research aims to identify the factors that affect the performance of the maintenance strategy for rolling stock and the impact thereof on the operations of locomotives. To broadly understand the factors that affect the maintenance strategy and their impact, a coal line locomotive fleet was chosen as a case study. This was to ensure that the operational inefficiencies that affect the locomotive reliability are understood so that improvements can be made. A questionnaire was distributed to the targeted participants, to ascertain the factors that they believe have the most significant impact on the performance of the maintenance strategy. A relative index analysis was conducted on the questionnaire results with the aim of the order of significance of the maintenance management factors. Findings of the relative index importance analysis were used to study the relationship between these factors and the impact they have on locomotive operations. Finally, a literature study was used as a benchmarking tool to identify the gaps of the maintenance strategy...
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A comparative study of soft skills amongst the Washington Accord engineering degree graduates with industry expectations
- Authors: Wilson, Thato Thamsanqa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Soft skills , Engineering students
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/285922 , uj:30929
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract.
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- Authors: Wilson, Thato Thamsanqa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Soft skills , Engineering students
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/285922 , uj:30929
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract.
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Technology acceptance model of internet of things for water management at a local municipality
- Authors: Morienyane, Likotsi David
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Engineering - Management , Internet of things , Water - Management , Municipal government
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293810 , uj:31955
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The research aims to identify the factors that are important for the adoption and intention to use the Internet of Things (IoT) in future by municipality employees for management of water services at a local municipality. Currently local municipalities collect, store and manage some data on water services provisioning, which might as well not be accurate, and unfortunately they struggle to make timely and accurate decisions on management of water services. IoT is seen as one of the solutions that will alleviate this problem however, in order for it to be implemented in future, it must be successfully accepted and used by the employees of the local municipality. The research uses the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to identify those TAM factors and associated moderating factors that are important to the employees in order to successfully accept the Internet of Things for a timely and accurate decision-making process for the management of water services in future. The TAM factors and associated moderating factors were analysed using quantitative statistical methods in SPSS. The statistical analysis confirmed which TAM factors that are needed to accept IoT in future for timeous and accurate decision-making in the management of water services and that the moderating factors are not necessarily needed.
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- Authors: Morienyane, Likotsi David
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Engineering - Management , Internet of things , Water - Management , Municipal government
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293810 , uj:31955
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The research aims to identify the factors that are important for the adoption and intention to use the Internet of Things (IoT) in future by municipality employees for management of water services at a local municipality. Currently local municipalities collect, store and manage some data on water services provisioning, which might as well not be accurate, and unfortunately they struggle to make timely and accurate decisions on management of water services. IoT is seen as one of the solutions that will alleviate this problem however, in order for it to be implemented in future, it must be successfully accepted and used by the employees of the local municipality. The research uses the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to identify those TAM factors and associated moderating factors that are important to the employees in order to successfully accept the Internet of Things for a timely and accurate decision-making process for the management of water services in future. The TAM factors and associated moderating factors were analysed using quantitative statistical methods in SPSS. The statistical analysis confirmed which TAM factors that are needed to accept IoT in future for timeous and accurate decision-making in the management of water services and that the moderating factors are not necessarily needed.
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A systematic literature review of Industry 4.0 competencies for a control systems engineer
- Authors: Sakuneka, Tumelo C.
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Control theory , Systems engineering
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293890 , uj:31965
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The global industry has already gone through three documented changes in its entire existence. These documented changes are referred to as industrial revolutions. The First Industrial Revolution was influenced by the use of steam in industry. The Second Industrial Revolution was influenced by the use of electricity in industry. The Third Industrial Revolution was influenced by the use of Information Technology (IT) in industry. The global industry is currently going through the Fourth Industrial Revolution, at a different pace in different parts of the world. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is influenced by the advancement of technology and a drive towards autonomy in industry. Sometimes referred to as Industry 4.0, the Fourth Industrial Revolution presents exciting opportunities and challenges for the future work environment around the world. These opportunities and challenges include but are not limited to the required competencies for the professionals of the future. The change in required competencies is brought upon by the Industry 4.0 technologies such as Cyber-Physical Systems, Internet of Things and Smart Factory. These technologies should be thoroughly understood by the future workforce in order to be implemented properly. The concept of autonomy presents complex system automation design and complex system integration requirements, both directly linked to a control systems engineer. The problem posed by this change to a control systems engineer is, therefore, the need to acquire the necessary competencies required to implement these technologies. In light of this, this current research study aims to identify the required Industry 4.0 competencies for a control systems engineer. In identifying the required competencies for a control systems engineer, this current research study filters through existing Industry 4.0 literature. By so doing, this current research study summarizes what is currently researched throughout the world in regard to the required competencies of a control systems engineer, facilitating a competency gap analysis between...
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- Authors: Sakuneka, Tumelo C.
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Control theory , Systems engineering
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293890 , uj:31965
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The global industry has already gone through three documented changes in its entire existence. These documented changes are referred to as industrial revolutions. The First Industrial Revolution was influenced by the use of steam in industry. The Second Industrial Revolution was influenced by the use of electricity in industry. The Third Industrial Revolution was influenced by the use of Information Technology (IT) in industry. The global industry is currently going through the Fourth Industrial Revolution, at a different pace in different parts of the world. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is influenced by the advancement of technology and a drive towards autonomy in industry. Sometimes referred to as Industry 4.0, the Fourth Industrial Revolution presents exciting opportunities and challenges for the future work environment around the world. These opportunities and challenges include but are not limited to the required competencies for the professionals of the future. The change in required competencies is brought upon by the Industry 4.0 technologies such as Cyber-Physical Systems, Internet of Things and Smart Factory. These technologies should be thoroughly understood by the future workforce in order to be implemented properly. The concept of autonomy presents complex system automation design and complex system integration requirements, both directly linked to a control systems engineer. The problem posed by this change to a control systems engineer is, therefore, the need to acquire the necessary competencies required to implement these technologies. In light of this, this current research study aims to identify the required Industry 4.0 competencies for a control systems engineer. In identifying the required competencies for a control systems engineer, this current research study filters through existing Industry 4.0 literature. By so doing, this current research study summarizes what is currently researched throughout the world in regard to the required competencies of a control systems engineer, facilitating a competency gap analysis between...
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Factors that influence project cost estimate accuracy at an engineering broadcasting company
- Authors: Ngobeni, Princess
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Broadcasting - Economic aspects , Costs, Industrial - Estimates , Activity-based costing , Budget in business , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/393695 , uj:32583
- Description: Abstract : Engineering broadcasting is a highly competitive industry governed by an independent regulatory body. Due to the increasing demand of broadcast services, broadcasting companies need to deliver projects within allocated time, quality and budget. The engineering broadcasting company is a matrix structured organisation which makes use of projects to broaden or increase the company revenue to stay relevant in the market. However, the broadcasting company is faced with the problem of inaccurate project cost estimations which resulted to compromised quality of work (underestimated) or wasteful expenditure and lost opportunities (overestimated). To address the problem, a research was conducted at an engineering broadcasting company. The objective of the research was to identify factors influencing the accuracy of project cost estimation. The researcher conducted open-ended interviews with several employees of the broadcasting company. The research findings were shared with the reader and engineering broadcasting companies experiencing the same problem. This research will help engineering broadcasting companies become fully aware of factors influencing the accuracy of project cost estimation. The research identified both internal and external factors influencing the accuracy of project cost estimation. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Ngobeni, Princess
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Broadcasting - Economic aspects , Costs, Industrial - Estimates , Activity-based costing , Budget in business , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/393695 , uj:32583
- Description: Abstract : Engineering broadcasting is a highly competitive industry governed by an independent regulatory body. Due to the increasing demand of broadcast services, broadcasting companies need to deliver projects within allocated time, quality and budget. The engineering broadcasting company is a matrix structured organisation which makes use of projects to broaden or increase the company revenue to stay relevant in the market. However, the broadcasting company is faced with the problem of inaccurate project cost estimations which resulted to compromised quality of work (underestimated) or wasteful expenditure and lost opportunities (overestimated). To address the problem, a research was conducted at an engineering broadcasting company. The objective of the research was to identify factors influencing the accuracy of project cost estimation. The researcher conducted open-ended interviews with several employees of the broadcasting company. The research findings were shared with the reader and engineering broadcasting companies experiencing the same problem. This research will help engineering broadcasting companies become fully aware of factors influencing the accuracy of project cost estimation. The research identified both internal and external factors influencing the accuracy of project cost estimation. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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The identification of common leadership competencies for engineering managers
- Authors: Magada, Tshilidzi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Engineering - Management , Engineering - Technological innovations - Management , Core competencies , Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/297423 , uj:32424
- Description: Abstract: The rate of techno-globalization remains one of the aspects forcing organizations to evaluate their leadership competencies. Organizations now seek leaders who are excellent in the art of leadership and also have the technical acumen to lead the organization in the age of technology. This is even more so in developing countries such as South Africa where technology will play a major role in improving the economic outlook. This global shift has seen the emergence and rise to prominence of degrees such as engineering management and technology management to equip generally technical people with management skills. Engineering management is a discipline that includes the efficient allocation and management of organizational resources to ensure organizational efficiency and competitiveness. It aims to equip engineers with management and leadership skills to act in a leadership role. Engineering managers equipped with adequate leadership competencies assist organizations to greatly increase performance. This study focus area is in the science and art of leadership for engineering managers. In general, the career path of engineers may lead to management activities as a leader of a unit or project. The promotion of an engineer to a management role is primarily driven by their technical performance. This is even truer in the age where technology has become so pervasive and central to organizational competitiveness. However, many engineers struggle to transition to the new role of management due to their penchant need for logical thinking and high dependency on evidence. This study focused on the leadership competencies engineering managers must harness and their importance as perceived by those involved within the engineering related industries. Research has shown that lack of leadership competencies appear to be one common cause of failure when it comes to engineers transitioning into leadership roles. Even though there is a vast literature on the leadership competencies engineers must acquire to be effective leaders, empirical evidence on specific leadership competencies is very limited. This study investigated the 18 specific leadership competencies grouped into three categories; individual (i.e. innate), engineer (i.e... , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Magada, Tshilidzi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Engineering - Management , Engineering - Technological innovations - Management , Core competencies , Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/297423 , uj:32424
- Description: Abstract: The rate of techno-globalization remains one of the aspects forcing organizations to evaluate their leadership competencies. Organizations now seek leaders who are excellent in the art of leadership and also have the technical acumen to lead the organization in the age of technology. This is even more so in developing countries such as South Africa where technology will play a major role in improving the economic outlook. This global shift has seen the emergence and rise to prominence of degrees such as engineering management and technology management to equip generally technical people with management skills. Engineering management is a discipline that includes the efficient allocation and management of organizational resources to ensure organizational efficiency and competitiveness. It aims to equip engineers with management and leadership skills to act in a leadership role. Engineering managers equipped with adequate leadership competencies assist organizations to greatly increase performance. This study focus area is in the science and art of leadership for engineering managers. In general, the career path of engineers may lead to management activities as a leader of a unit or project. The promotion of an engineer to a management role is primarily driven by their technical performance. This is even truer in the age where technology has become so pervasive and central to organizational competitiveness. However, many engineers struggle to transition to the new role of management due to their penchant need for logical thinking and high dependency on evidence. This study focused on the leadership competencies engineering managers must harness and their importance as perceived by those involved within the engineering related industries. Research has shown that lack of leadership competencies appear to be one common cause of failure when it comes to engineers transitioning into leadership roles. Even though there is a vast literature on the leadership competencies engineers must acquire to be effective leaders, empirical evidence on specific leadership competencies is very limited. This study investigated the 18 specific leadership competencies grouped into three categories; individual (i.e. innate), engineer (i.e... , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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Complexity factors affecting the duration of research and development projects
- Authors: Molepo, P.M.
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Project management - Research , Engineering - Management , Technological complexity , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/393908 , uj:32611
- Description: Abstract : Research and development (R&D) plays an important role in the development of the economy. Organisations are encouraged to strive for innovative ways to survive due to worldwide competition, constant changes of customer needs and technological advancements. Today R&D projects are fast becoming the core business of many organisations and are used to increase profitability and growth. These projects have a time based competition and fast technological development. Therefore, the time it takes to get an innovation into the market becomes a very significant and critical index of global competition. Despite being the core business of many organisations, R&D projects are beset with time and cost overrun and thus are terminated before achieving the objectives. These projects are characterised by high uncertainties and complex properties. As a result, organisations are faced with the challenges of effectively managing these projects. The core objective of this study is to identify the complexities of the R&D project management process and their impact on project duration. This research study is executed through literature review and a single case study conducted on the R&D team in an engineering organisation. The case study was conducted using questionnaires and interviews. The questionnaires were sent to the R&D technical specialists whereas the interviews were conducted with the managers. Literature review identified eight sources of R&D project complexity as technological, organisational, intraorganisational, technical, development, marketing, dynamic and uncertainty. Under each complexity, there are different factors contributing to the source of project complexity. In terms of the impact the complexity has on project duration; the results show that lack of competent resources is the main reason why projects end up delayed. Again, the change in project scope involves addition of project activities to the project, requiring more time to complete the project. The main findings of the research show that the R&D technical specialists and the managers have different perspectives regarding the factors that contribute to R&D project complexity. According to the technical specialists, changes in process management and scope variation are the highest complexity contributors. However, the results from interviews with the managers indicate that lack of top management support is the cause of complexities in projects. Although the identified list of R&D complexity factors might differ depending on the project type and industry, the results of this research will benefit the project managers of R&D ... , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Molepo, P.M.
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Project management - Research , Engineering - Management , Technological complexity , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/393908 , uj:32611
- Description: Abstract : Research and development (R&D) plays an important role in the development of the economy. Organisations are encouraged to strive for innovative ways to survive due to worldwide competition, constant changes of customer needs and technological advancements. Today R&D projects are fast becoming the core business of many organisations and are used to increase profitability and growth. These projects have a time based competition and fast technological development. Therefore, the time it takes to get an innovation into the market becomes a very significant and critical index of global competition. Despite being the core business of many organisations, R&D projects are beset with time and cost overrun and thus are terminated before achieving the objectives. These projects are characterised by high uncertainties and complex properties. As a result, organisations are faced with the challenges of effectively managing these projects. The core objective of this study is to identify the complexities of the R&D project management process and their impact on project duration. This research study is executed through literature review and a single case study conducted on the R&D team in an engineering organisation. The case study was conducted using questionnaires and interviews. The questionnaires were sent to the R&D technical specialists whereas the interviews were conducted with the managers. Literature review identified eight sources of R&D project complexity as technological, organisational, intraorganisational, technical, development, marketing, dynamic and uncertainty. Under each complexity, there are different factors contributing to the source of project complexity. In terms of the impact the complexity has on project duration; the results show that lack of competent resources is the main reason why projects end up delayed. Again, the change in project scope involves addition of project activities to the project, requiring more time to complete the project. The main findings of the research show that the R&D technical specialists and the managers have different perspectives regarding the factors that contribute to R&D project complexity. According to the technical specialists, changes in process management and scope variation are the highest complexity contributors. However, the results from interviews with the managers indicate that lack of top management support is the cause of complexities in projects. Although the identified list of R&D complexity factors might differ depending on the project type and industry, the results of this research will benefit the project managers of R&D ... , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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Design rework in bulk water distribution capital projects : an assessment of a structured design process
- Authors: Masigo, Lebogang
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Engineering design - Management , Construction projects - Management , Water utilities - South Africa - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/297453 , uj:32428
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: In South Africa, National budget availability is a challenge. The budget is distributed across departments and the Department of Water and Sanitation infrastructure budget is one of the smallest pieces of the pie [2]. Water supply infrastructure in South Africa is outdated and due to past inequalities and the ever-growing population, the demand for new infrastructure is critical [5]. In the context of this study a case study of a Water utility which is an institution that supplies bulk potable water has been done. This institution as well as other water utilities need to assess their culture, policies and procedures to ensure easy management of the projects and ensure successful delivery of the projects to their clients [6]. Studies have shown that a significant amount of time and money is wasted in the planning phase of a project [1]. The design phase, one of the steps in the planning phase is the focus area for this case study. The study investigates if a structured design process is fast tracked due to delivery constraints and where activities during the design process are either partially or not done, rework is caused. Past studies conducted on rework in construction projects focused more on causal factors and the cost thereof, while these studies further identified that the causes are interdependent. A checklist, to assess the design office process document, and a questionnaire were used and analysed to complete this study. There was a substantial number of respondents and a representation of the design office was balanced in terms of experience and skills profile. Respondents agreed with most of what was found in the literature review in Chapter 2, while an in depth analysis with the findings thereof provided clarity on their perceptions. The value of this research might be a drop in the ocean but every drop counts. It was found important to follow procedures in enhancing and managing the quality of a product. The design office shows evidence of efforts to follow procedures, but improvements need to be implemented to reduce the average amount of rework in completing a design.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Masigo, Lebogang
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Engineering design - Management , Construction projects - Management , Water utilities - South Africa - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/297453 , uj:32428
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: In South Africa, National budget availability is a challenge. The budget is distributed across departments and the Department of Water and Sanitation infrastructure budget is one of the smallest pieces of the pie [2]. Water supply infrastructure in South Africa is outdated and due to past inequalities and the ever-growing population, the demand for new infrastructure is critical [5]. In the context of this study a case study of a Water utility which is an institution that supplies bulk potable water has been done. This institution as well as other water utilities need to assess their culture, policies and procedures to ensure easy management of the projects and ensure successful delivery of the projects to their clients [6]. Studies have shown that a significant amount of time and money is wasted in the planning phase of a project [1]. The design phase, one of the steps in the planning phase is the focus area for this case study. The study investigates if a structured design process is fast tracked due to delivery constraints and where activities during the design process are either partially or not done, rework is caused. Past studies conducted on rework in construction projects focused more on causal factors and the cost thereof, while these studies further identified that the causes are interdependent. A checklist, to assess the design office process document, and a questionnaire were used and analysed to complete this study. There was a substantial number of respondents and a representation of the design office was balanced in terms of experience and skills profile. Respondents agreed with most of what was found in the literature review in Chapter 2, while an in depth analysis with the findings thereof provided clarity on their perceptions. The value of this research might be a drop in the ocean but every drop counts. It was found important to follow procedures in enhancing and managing the quality of a product. The design office shows evidence of efforts to follow procedures, but improvements need to be implemented to reduce the average amount of rework in completing a design.
- Full Text:
Determining the optimal energy use mix in a low-income household
- Authors: Mulumba, Kaniki Joel
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Households - Energy consumption - South Africa , Poor - Energy consumption - South Africa , Clean energy - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293796 , uj:31954
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Energy is at a pivotal point of sustainable development and crucial to our way of living. However, our usage of energy resources is one of the main issues that impinge on the human health as well as on the environment. Around 60 percent of low-income households on the South African Highveld still rely on solid energy carriers (coal or wood) to meet their energy needs such as cooking, water heating, and space heating, especially in winter months despite their electrification status. Consequently, the domestic burning of solid fuels is a major cause of adverse health effects due to poor air quality in the low-income settlements. The aim of this study is to investigate the optimal (i.e. most economical, lowest emissions and equivalent utility) energy mix for a low-income household following a set of interventions (low emissions coal stove, an electricity subsidy and LPG devices combined with a thermal insulation) rolled out to reduce emissions associated with energy use. The study employed secondary data drawn from the air quality offsets pilot project initiated by Eskom in KwaZamokuhle and other studies on energy use. The energy use profile of KwaZamokuhle was expressed as linear programming models. The models were implemented and solved using LINGO 17.0. software tool. The resolution of the linear programming model revealed that using coal for cooking, space and water heating and electricity for lighting and appliances is the least cost option. As far as the least CO2 and PM10 emissions are concerned, LPG is the most suitable energy carrier for meeting cooking, space and, water heating needs, while electricity remains the primary energy carrier for lighting and appliances. These findings suggest that policies and initiatives that encourage LPG and electricity use to lessen coal consumption and its related emissions compared to control households in the low-income settlements should be implemented. However, the cleaner energy options have a cost penalty for households, which needs to be addressed in order to ensure sustainable energy transitions for low-income households.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mulumba, Kaniki Joel
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Households - Energy consumption - South Africa , Poor - Energy consumption - South Africa , Clean energy - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293796 , uj:31954
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Energy is at a pivotal point of sustainable development and crucial to our way of living. However, our usage of energy resources is one of the main issues that impinge on the human health as well as on the environment. Around 60 percent of low-income households on the South African Highveld still rely on solid energy carriers (coal or wood) to meet their energy needs such as cooking, water heating, and space heating, especially in winter months despite their electrification status. Consequently, the domestic burning of solid fuels is a major cause of adverse health effects due to poor air quality in the low-income settlements. The aim of this study is to investigate the optimal (i.e. most economical, lowest emissions and equivalent utility) energy mix for a low-income household following a set of interventions (low emissions coal stove, an electricity subsidy and LPG devices combined with a thermal insulation) rolled out to reduce emissions associated with energy use. The study employed secondary data drawn from the air quality offsets pilot project initiated by Eskom in KwaZamokuhle and other studies on energy use. The energy use profile of KwaZamokuhle was expressed as linear programming models. The models were implemented and solved using LINGO 17.0. software tool. The resolution of the linear programming model revealed that using coal for cooking, space and water heating and electricity for lighting and appliances is the least cost option. As far as the least CO2 and PM10 emissions are concerned, LPG is the most suitable energy carrier for meeting cooking, space and, water heating needs, while electricity remains the primary energy carrier for lighting and appliances. These findings suggest that policies and initiatives that encourage LPG and electricity use to lessen coal consumption and its related emissions compared to control households in the low-income settlements should be implemented. However, the cleaner energy options have a cost penalty for households, which needs to be addressed in order to ensure sustainable energy transitions for low-income households.
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Issues affecting the adoption of advanced water meters in South Africa
- Authors: Griffioen, Rowan
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Water-meters - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293761 , uj:31949
- Description: Abstract: The increased availability of the internet of things has allowed technologies available to municipal service delivery to develop. Several municipalities in South Africa have adopted the strategy and goal to upgrade and transform to Smart Cities on the back of these developments. An observation in practice pertaining to water meters has led to the proposition that these upgrades are lethargic with current technology being replaced with similar technology. This study set out to determine the status quo on the adoption of advanced water meters in South Africa compared to other countries as well as the reasons for the current situation. This snapshot of the unique situation in South Africa leads to a proposed roadmap to deliver on the strategy and goals of municipalities to become Smart Cities in the aspect of water provision. It was found that South Africa have a relatively low rate of adoption of advanced water meters even though they were one of the first countries globally to adopt these meters in the form of pre-paid water meters on a broader scale. The reasons for this was found to be rooted in a comparatively low per capita GDP combined with the dismal outlook in terms of municipal financial management. Inherent risks and the involvement and behaviour of consumers compound the root causes and debilitate the upgrade to advanced water metering. These issues are addressed through selected theories and principles in the fields of business management, financial management, human psychology, systems engineering and water conservation and are summarized and combined in order to indicate the direction of planning and level of management collaboration required to enhance the adoption and effective use of advanced water metering in South Africa. Case studies and localised research on the adoption of advanced water meters in South Africa have previously been conducted but this research looks at the issues affecting the adoption of advanced water metering technology holistically, in a South African context. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Griffioen, Rowan
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Water-meters - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/293761 , uj:31949
- Description: Abstract: The increased availability of the internet of things has allowed technologies available to municipal service delivery to develop. Several municipalities in South Africa have adopted the strategy and goal to upgrade and transform to Smart Cities on the back of these developments. An observation in practice pertaining to water meters has led to the proposition that these upgrades are lethargic with current technology being replaced with similar technology. This study set out to determine the status quo on the adoption of advanced water meters in South Africa compared to other countries as well as the reasons for the current situation. This snapshot of the unique situation in South Africa leads to a proposed roadmap to deliver on the strategy and goals of municipalities to become Smart Cities in the aspect of water provision. It was found that South Africa have a relatively low rate of adoption of advanced water meters even though they were one of the first countries globally to adopt these meters in the form of pre-paid water meters on a broader scale. The reasons for this was found to be rooted in a comparatively low per capita GDP combined with the dismal outlook in terms of municipal financial management. Inherent risks and the involvement and behaviour of consumers compound the root causes and debilitate the upgrade to advanced water metering. These issues are addressed through selected theories and principles in the fields of business management, financial management, human psychology, systems engineering and water conservation and are summarized and combined in order to indicate the direction of planning and level of management collaboration required to enhance the adoption and effective use of advanced water metering in South Africa. Case studies and localised research on the adoption of advanced water meters in South Africa have previously been conducted but this research looks at the issues affecting the adoption of advanced water metering technology holistically, in a South African context. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
Strategic supplier selection criteria during supplier selection process in sourcing
- Authors: Lesisa, Tumelo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Industrial procurement - Management , Strategic planning , Business logistics , Multiple criteria decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/280371 , uj:30126
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The rail industry has become important in executing government’s projects to improve South African transportation system. Rail industry is showing to have potential of becoming an alternative transport system, into which the South African government is investing money. This has led to the project that a company in rail industry is currently undertaking to manufacture new commuter trains for the South African community. The project requires a development of supplier base which includes South African suppliers when executing this project of manufacturing newly improved trains in South Africa. Regardless of how exciting this project is, a company in rail industry is faced with a challenge of searching for suppliers that are able to help it to achieve its objective. This can be achieved through a proper supplier selection process that is consistently assessing supplier risks prior to selecting them. A robust selection process must be in place with established selection criteria to assess areas in which risks could arise from. The selection criteria can assist in identifying risks in the early stages of the supplier selection process. This research studies supplier risk assessment implemented by a company in rail industry to identify supplier selection criteria. A literature review was completed to identify supplier selection criteria that should be considered during the supplier selection process and matched with criteria implemented by a company in rail industry. The research further studies risk management frameworks which would provide structure to the risk management process of a company. The frameworks that are considered in this research are: ISO 31000:2009 framework, COSO: 2004 framework, AS/NZ 2004 framework, SCRM framework as well as PMBOK framework. By utilizing pattern matching technique, gaps are identified between the supplier selection criteria implemented by a company and literature reviewed. Further the research proposed a theoretical supplier onboarding model which incorporates risk assessment activities within the supplier selection process focusing on all identified selection criteria. This would reduce chances of having inconsistencies during supplier risk assessments process.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lesisa, Tumelo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Industrial procurement - Management , Strategic planning , Business logistics , Multiple criteria decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/280371 , uj:30126
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: The rail industry has become important in executing government’s projects to improve South African transportation system. Rail industry is showing to have potential of becoming an alternative transport system, into which the South African government is investing money. This has led to the project that a company in rail industry is currently undertaking to manufacture new commuter trains for the South African community. The project requires a development of supplier base which includes South African suppliers when executing this project of manufacturing newly improved trains in South Africa. Regardless of how exciting this project is, a company in rail industry is faced with a challenge of searching for suppliers that are able to help it to achieve its objective. This can be achieved through a proper supplier selection process that is consistently assessing supplier risks prior to selecting them. A robust selection process must be in place with established selection criteria to assess areas in which risks could arise from. The selection criteria can assist in identifying risks in the early stages of the supplier selection process. This research studies supplier risk assessment implemented by a company in rail industry to identify supplier selection criteria. A literature review was completed to identify supplier selection criteria that should be considered during the supplier selection process and matched with criteria implemented by a company in rail industry. The research further studies risk management frameworks which would provide structure to the risk management process of a company. The frameworks that are considered in this research are: ISO 31000:2009 framework, COSO: 2004 framework, AS/NZ 2004 framework, SCRM framework as well as PMBOK framework. By utilizing pattern matching technique, gaps are identified between the supplier selection criteria implemented by a company and literature reviewed. Further the research proposed a theoretical supplier onboarding model which incorporates risk assessment activities within the supplier selection process focusing on all identified selection criteria. This would reduce chances of having inconsistencies during supplier risk assessments process.
- Full Text:
Design-build delivery : a method to reduce delays in the South African construction industry
- Authors: Crossman, Kurt
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Construction industry - Management , Project management , Production planning , Construction projects
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/284033 , uj:30664
- Description: Abstract: Delays during construction are a global problem which results in large cost to the construction industry. Delays are common in construction projects and cause considerable losses to all parties involved. The construction industry continues to struggle to cope and to implement measures to either mitigate the impact of a delay, or prevent the delay altogether. The construction of large public and private sector facilities is still largely implemented through a project delivery method named design-bid-build otherwise known as the traditional project delivery method. The traditional method of project delivery is still used as it is considered to obtain the lowest cost for the client and protect their interests with the expected guarantee of a sound engineering job. However, it has been found that design & build methods are beginning to produce better results than traditional methods. The objective of this research was to determine the impact of a construction project delivery method on the prevalence and effect of delays, with the aim of proving a reduction in overall delays through the use of the design & build delivery method. This study made use of two similar case studies which differed largely by the project delivery method used. The case study method was chosen for its ability to determine operational links over a period of time, instead of simply determining frequencies of specific occurrences. The method used provides insights into organisations and gives an in-depth understanding of the topic being studied. Analysis of project documentation was performed along with semi-structured interviews. Themes were generated and compared with documentation allowing in depth analysis of each case. A comparison was then performed between cases and conclusions made from the findings presented. It was found that design & build was able to reduce the impact of civil, variation order and consultant related delays. No impact was found between methods for delays related to design changes and the contractor. Most significantly, it was found that delays related to the client were increased drastically under the design & build method, due to a break in the responsibility required for the successful implementation of design & build projects. This had the single largest effect on schedule overrun, and as a result meant that the use of the design & build delivery method may not necessarily reduce delays. However, future research into the performance of design & build was recommended where all work is maintained within the contractor’s scope, thus allowing a more accurate representation of the method. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Crossman, Kurt
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Construction industry - Management , Project management , Production planning , Construction projects
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/284033 , uj:30664
- Description: Abstract: Delays during construction are a global problem which results in large cost to the construction industry. Delays are common in construction projects and cause considerable losses to all parties involved. The construction industry continues to struggle to cope and to implement measures to either mitigate the impact of a delay, or prevent the delay altogether. The construction of large public and private sector facilities is still largely implemented through a project delivery method named design-bid-build otherwise known as the traditional project delivery method. The traditional method of project delivery is still used as it is considered to obtain the lowest cost for the client and protect their interests with the expected guarantee of a sound engineering job. However, it has been found that design & build methods are beginning to produce better results than traditional methods. The objective of this research was to determine the impact of a construction project delivery method on the prevalence and effect of delays, with the aim of proving a reduction in overall delays through the use of the design & build delivery method. This study made use of two similar case studies which differed largely by the project delivery method used. The case study method was chosen for its ability to determine operational links over a period of time, instead of simply determining frequencies of specific occurrences. The method used provides insights into organisations and gives an in-depth understanding of the topic being studied. Analysis of project documentation was performed along with semi-structured interviews. Themes were generated and compared with documentation allowing in depth analysis of each case. A comparison was then performed between cases and conclusions made from the findings presented. It was found that design & build was able to reduce the impact of civil, variation order and consultant related delays. No impact was found between methods for delays related to design changes and the contractor. Most significantly, it was found that delays related to the client were increased drastically under the design & build method, due to a break in the responsibility required for the successful implementation of design & build projects. This had the single largest effect on schedule overrun, and as a result meant that the use of the design & build delivery method may not necessarily reduce delays. However, future research into the performance of design & build was recommended where all work is maintained within the contractor’s scope, thus allowing a more accurate representation of the method. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
Challenges of enterprise architecture a systematic review
- Sindane, Nkosinathi Nicholas
- Authors: Sindane, Nkosinathi Nicholas
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Enterprise application integration (Computer systems) , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/285996 , uj:30939
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Enterprise Architecture (EA) is a young discipline within the Computer Engineering field and its main aim is to align information technology to the strategic goals of a business. For this reason, various organisations are increasingly starting to employ enterprise architecture with the main expected benefit being bridging the gap between business and technology. Despite the significant interest in the discipline, research indicates many Enterprise Architecture initiatives within organisations are often confronted with substantial challenges. If such challenges are not overcome, Enterprise Architecture projects fail and the expected value and benefits are not realized. Majority of organisations continue to introduce technology to their day-to-day activities and therefore the alignment of technology to strategic goals of organisations remains crucial for achieving a competitive advantage and business success. Literature review suggests that various areas of Enterprise Architecture have been researched in isolation either per sector and/or in some cases per challenge. This study aims at investigating existing Enterprise Architecture challenges holistically and will provide an overall picture to the reader on the challenges encountered during Enterprise Architecture implementation. A systematic literature review was carried out, 1060 papers were retrieved from 6 databases through a manual search. 354 studies remained after the duplicates were eliminated and 60 studies were found to be eligible after screening through titles and abstracts. Only 16 studies were included in the final pool after screening through full text. The study concludes that challenges do exist during the implementation of Enterprise Architecture projects. Furthermore the study provides evidence that the majority of challenges are non-technical by nature. Recommendations in overcoming the top 5 challenges are given and further research that will examine such recommendations in detail is proposed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sindane, Nkosinathi Nicholas
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Enterprise application integration (Computer systems) , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/285996 , uj:30939
- Description: M.Phil. (Engineering Management) , Abstract: Enterprise Architecture (EA) is a young discipline within the Computer Engineering field and its main aim is to align information technology to the strategic goals of a business. For this reason, various organisations are increasingly starting to employ enterprise architecture with the main expected benefit being bridging the gap between business and technology. Despite the significant interest in the discipline, research indicates many Enterprise Architecture initiatives within organisations are often confronted with substantial challenges. If such challenges are not overcome, Enterprise Architecture projects fail and the expected value and benefits are not realized. Majority of organisations continue to introduce technology to their day-to-day activities and therefore the alignment of technology to strategic goals of organisations remains crucial for achieving a competitive advantage and business success. Literature review suggests that various areas of Enterprise Architecture have been researched in isolation either per sector and/or in some cases per challenge. This study aims at investigating existing Enterprise Architecture challenges holistically and will provide an overall picture to the reader on the challenges encountered during Enterprise Architecture implementation. A systematic literature review was carried out, 1060 papers were retrieved from 6 databases through a manual search. 354 studies remained after the duplicates were eliminated and 60 studies were found to be eligible after screening through titles and abstracts. Only 16 studies were included in the final pool after screening through full text. The study concludes that challenges do exist during the implementation of Enterprise Architecture projects. Furthermore the study provides evidence that the majority of challenges are non-technical by nature. Recommendations in overcoming the top 5 challenges are given and further research that will examine such recommendations in detail is proposed.
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