Accountability and demonstration of the value of information services in South African law firms
- Authors: Garratt, Olwyn Gail
- Date: 2009-01-12T07:22:06Z
- Subjects: Law libraries
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14773 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1851
- Description: M. Inf. , Corporate library and information services were typically created in order to further the operational objectives of a parent organisation. The continued existence of corporate libraries was seen to be subject to management perceptions of value of its services. This study investigated strategies to measure the value of information services in the specialised environment of the South African incorporated law firm. Methodologies were developed to arrive at the unit cost of information and of the information services in an organisation at a particular period. A cost per practitioner value was calculated in order to correlate data relating to the information spending at seven South African law firms. Attempts were made to relate the unit cost of the information services at one law firm to the use that was made of the services. The potential for cost recovery and determination of return on capital employed were also investigated. These strategies were seen to have value as management tools for the information services but they failed to demonstrate the value of the investment. The study thereafter approached the problem of evaluation from the perspective of accountability. Certain accepted business practices were investigated with regard to their relevance to corporate support services. An information services audit was proposed in accordance with a recognised management process.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Garratt, Olwyn Gail
- Date: 2009-01-12T07:22:06Z
- Subjects: Law libraries
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14773 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1851
- Description: M. Inf. , Corporate library and information services were typically created in order to further the operational objectives of a parent organisation. The continued existence of corporate libraries was seen to be subject to management perceptions of value of its services. This study investigated strategies to measure the value of information services in the specialised environment of the South African incorporated law firm. Methodologies were developed to arrive at the unit cost of information and of the information services in an organisation at a particular period. A cost per practitioner value was calculated in order to correlate data relating to the information spending at seven South African law firms. Attempts were made to relate the unit cost of the information services at one law firm to the use that was made of the services. The potential for cost recovery and determination of return on capital employed were also investigated. These strategies were seen to have value as management tools for the information services but they failed to demonstrate the value of the investment. The study thereafter approached the problem of evaluation from the perspective of accountability. Certain accepted business practices were investigated with regard to their relevance to corporate support services. An information services audit was proposed in accordance with a recognised management process.
- Full Text:
Competitive intelligence skills needed in South Africa
- Authors: Strauss, Alida Cornelia
- Date: 2010-11-09T06:33:55Z
- Subjects: Business intelligence , Strategic planning , Competition , International competition
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6960 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3469
- Description: M.Comm. , South Africa as a country continues to rank low in the world of competitiveness. The research done for this dissertation focused on the need for South African organisations to perceive Competitive Intelligence (CI) as one of the most important tools to improve their competitiveness through a systematic, practical approach to make the CI cycle worth while, especially through skills development. This study intends to identify the skills CI professionals in South Africa need in order to conduct the CI process in organisations effectively, thereby improving the country’s competitive position. However, the difficulty of this task lies with organisations in general not acknowledging the necessity of CI in the workplace. Only a limited number of organisations recognise the importance of such a unit. A survey was therefore conducted, by questionnaire, among organisations with existing CI units in which the respondents had to identify the skills they deemed necessary for the CI professional to run the CI process effectively. Findings suggested that the majority of respondents were 40 years and older, in the top structure of larger organisations and had been using CI for longer than five years. The overwhelming result is thus that there are skills inequalities between what skills respondents view as crucial and those that rated highest in their self-evaluation. Skills identified as most important include, among others, networking and research skills analytical abilities. The research also indicated that where CI had been established in certain organisations for at least five years, it did not reflect positively overall on South Africa’s current competitive situation. However, where there is a systematic CI approach, problem-solving is easier to address and negatives could be turned around. With this in mind and a proper “buy-in” into skills development, it will have a very positive outcome for all the organisations that wish to improve their competitiveness.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Strauss, Alida Cornelia
- Date: 2010-11-09T06:33:55Z
- Subjects: Business intelligence , Strategic planning , Competition , International competition
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6960 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3469
- Description: M.Comm. , South Africa as a country continues to rank low in the world of competitiveness. The research done for this dissertation focused on the need for South African organisations to perceive Competitive Intelligence (CI) as one of the most important tools to improve their competitiveness through a systematic, practical approach to make the CI cycle worth while, especially through skills development. This study intends to identify the skills CI professionals in South Africa need in order to conduct the CI process in organisations effectively, thereby improving the country’s competitive position. However, the difficulty of this task lies with organisations in general not acknowledging the necessity of CI in the workplace. Only a limited number of organisations recognise the importance of such a unit. A survey was therefore conducted, by questionnaire, among organisations with existing CI units in which the respondents had to identify the skills they deemed necessary for the CI professional to run the CI process effectively. Findings suggested that the majority of respondents were 40 years and older, in the top structure of larger organisations and had been using CI for longer than five years. The overwhelming result is thus that there are skills inequalities between what skills respondents view as crucial and those that rated highest in their self-evaluation. Skills identified as most important include, among others, networking and research skills analytical abilities. The research also indicated that where CI had been established in certain organisations for at least five years, it did not reflect positively overall on South Africa’s current competitive situation. However, where there is a systematic CI approach, problem-solving is easier to address and negatives could be turned around. With this in mind and a proper “buy-in” into skills development, it will have a very positive outcome for all the organisations that wish to improve their competitiveness.
- Full Text:
Developing a scaleable information architecture for an enterprise wide consolidated information management platform
- Authors: Van der Walt, Pieter Willem
- Date: 2009-01-15T13:10:59Z
- Subjects: Information organization , Management information systems , Information technology , Information audits , Information resources management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14794 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1870
- Description: D.Litt. et Phil. , This research addresses the concept of “information architecture” as a way of visualising and describing the various information assets and interaction of these assets within the organisation. The research further provides definitions of information and contextualises the information audit and information model as key tool for the information manager in establishing the information architecture. The establishment of the information architecture is illustrated through a case study within a large conglomeration of companies requiring a scaleable information architecture in order to address its information requirements. Through a process of interviews the information requirements of key decisions makers are established. These requirements are translated into an information architecture that forms the basis of support in delivering future information requirements for the company. The results of this research have been successfully implemented and now form the foundation of all future information management projects within this particular case study.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van der Walt, Pieter Willem
- Date: 2009-01-15T13:10:59Z
- Subjects: Information organization , Management information systems , Information technology , Information audits , Information resources management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14794 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1870
- Description: D.Litt. et Phil. , This research addresses the concept of “information architecture” as a way of visualising and describing the various information assets and interaction of these assets within the organisation. The research further provides definitions of information and contextualises the information audit and information model as key tool for the information manager in establishing the information architecture. The establishment of the information architecture is illustrated through a case study within a large conglomeration of companies requiring a scaleable information architecture in order to address its information requirements. Through a process of interviews the information requirements of key decisions makers are established. These requirements are translated into an information architecture that forms the basis of support in delivering future information requirements for the company. The results of this research have been successfully implemented and now form the foundation of all future information management projects within this particular case study.
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Enterprise-wide knowledge audit conducted for a professional service firm
- Authors: Schwikkard, Diane Beryl
- Date: 2009-01-12T07:23:03Z
- Subjects: Knowledge management research
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14777 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1855
- Description: M.A. , This research paper sets out to explore the possibility that a knowledge audit methodology could be successfully implemented within a professional services enterprise in order to establish what core knowledge content requirements exist. By identifying this core knowledge, the researcher asserts that sales and professional staff should be enabled to enhance their ability to win business and improve the process of client service delivery. Using the knowledge economy as a backdrop, the researcher examines the impact this has had on the knowledge and information needs of the enterprise. The value of purely technology-based solutions to resolve the knowledge deficit within an enterprise is examined following on from which, the process of implementing a knowledge audit is discussed. Thereafter, the proposed knowledge audit methodology is developed and subsequently applied at an enterprise-wide level for a large professional services enterprise. The researcher explores the business case for implementing a knowledge management initiative. An analysis is then made of the results gathered from the knowledge audit. The existing infrastructure and resources are evaluated against any resultant knowledge management requirements. This is followed by an assessment of the current status of knowledge management within the enterprise. The researcher then provides a framework for the management of content that was identified during the knowledge audit. The importance of processes and policies in supporting the management of identified content is emphasised. This is followed by an assessment of any suitable opportunities for “quick win” projects. The researcher then examines whether the key research objectives were achieved. In closing, some additional suggestions are made regarding the future of the initiative and potential steps that might be taken to further entrench KM within the enterprise.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Schwikkard, Diane Beryl
- Date: 2009-01-12T07:23:03Z
- Subjects: Knowledge management research
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14777 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1855
- Description: M.A. , This research paper sets out to explore the possibility that a knowledge audit methodology could be successfully implemented within a professional services enterprise in order to establish what core knowledge content requirements exist. By identifying this core knowledge, the researcher asserts that sales and professional staff should be enabled to enhance their ability to win business and improve the process of client service delivery. Using the knowledge economy as a backdrop, the researcher examines the impact this has had on the knowledge and information needs of the enterprise. The value of purely technology-based solutions to resolve the knowledge deficit within an enterprise is examined following on from which, the process of implementing a knowledge audit is discussed. Thereafter, the proposed knowledge audit methodology is developed and subsequently applied at an enterprise-wide level for a large professional services enterprise. The researcher explores the business case for implementing a knowledge management initiative. An analysis is then made of the results gathered from the knowledge audit. The existing infrastructure and resources are evaluated against any resultant knowledge management requirements. This is followed by an assessment of the current status of knowledge management within the enterprise. The researcher then provides a framework for the management of content that was identified during the knowledge audit. The importance of processes and policies in supporting the management of identified content is emphasised. This is followed by an assessment of any suitable opportunities for “quick win” projects. The researcher then examines whether the key research objectives were achieved. In closing, some additional suggestions are made regarding the future of the initiative and potential steps that might be taken to further entrench KM within the enterprise.
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Establishing knowledge management for competitive advantage in an enterprise
- Authors: Ndlela, Lorna Thembisile
- Date: 2012-09-12
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Competition , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10184 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7560
- Description: M.Inf. , Enterprises are becoming more dependent on people than ever before and in the twenty first century, an enterprise's survival and success will highly depend on the ability to manage knowledge as a source for competitive advantage. This study is concerned with the establishment of a knowledge management program that will ensure sustainable competitive advantage within the enterprise. The main problem under investigation is to assess the importance of knowledge management within an enterprise and to ascertain how knowledge management can ensure sustained competitive advantage in an enterprise. In the first three chapters of the study a literature survey is done to get a better understanding of what knowledge management is, the importance of corporate culture when implementing a knowledge management program and how knowledge management can be a source for sustainable competitive advantage or business edge. The advancement in information technology has allowed enterprises to leverage people's knowledge onto higher competitive level by improving competencies and processes, reducing mistakes, etc. and the optimal application of knowledge in a knowledge-based environment is playing an ever-increasing role in enterprise success. The second part of the study was an empirical study where a qualitative research was conducted in the Eskom Transmission Group. The aim of the research was to investigate understanding of the knowledge management concept amongst business leaders, determine enablers and barriers to implementing a knowledge management, and to also determine whether knowledge is seen as a source for competitive advantage. Structured interviews were conducted with ten business leaders in the Eskom Transmission Group. The data obtained from the interviews were analysed and interpreted according to the grounded theory. It was found that although knowledge management is old but as a formalised concept in the business environment in South Africa it is new and there is no common definition or understanding of the concept. It is however evident that the need to manage knowledge is understood and its importance to the sustainability of the business. The majority of the respondents agree that people issues are critical to the success of knowledge management in an enterprise, as people own knowledge. It is suggested that enterprises should adopt a holistic and integrated approach when establishing a knowledge management program. The holistic approach together with the framework and guidelines as given in chapter six would afford enterprises the ability to manage and harness their knowledge for sustainable competitive advantage. Broad recommendations for establishing a knowledge management program that will be a source of sustainable competitive advantage are proposed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ndlela, Lorna Thembisile
- Date: 2012-09-12
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Competition , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10184 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7560
- Description: M.Inf. , Enterprises are becoming more dependent on people than ever before and in the twenty first century, an enterprise's survival and success will highly depend on the ability to manage knowledge as a source for competitive advantage. This study is concerned with the establishment of a knowledge management program that will ensure sustainable competitive advantage within the enterprise. The main problem under investigation is to assess the importance of knowledge management within an enterprise and to ascertain how knowledge management can ensure sustained competitive advantage in an enterprise. In the first three chapters of the study a literature survey is done to get a better understanding of what knowledge management is, the importance of corporate culture when implementing a knowledge management program and how knowledge management can be a source for sustainable competitive advantage or business edge. The advancement in information technology has allowed enterprises to leverage people's knowledge onto higher competitive level by improving competencies and processes, reducing mistakes, etc. and the optimal application of knowledge in a knowledge-based environment is playing an ever-increasing role in enterprise success. The second part of the study was an empirical study where a qualitative research was conducted in the Eskom Transmission Group. The aim of the research was to investigate understanding of the knowledge management concept amongst business leaders, determine enablers and barriers to implementing a knowledge management, and to also determine whether knowledge is seen as a source for competitive advantage. Structured interviews were conducted with ten business leaders in the Eskom Transmission Group. The data obtained from the interviews were analysed and interpreted according to the grounded theory. It was found that although knowledge management is old but as a formalised concept in the business environment in South Africa it is new and there is no common definition or understanding of the concept. It is however evident that the need to manage knowledge is understood and its importance to the sustainability of the business. The majority of the respondents agree that people issues are critical to the success of knowledge management in an enterprise, as people own knowledge. It is suggested that enterprises should adopt a holistic and integrated approach when establishing a knowledge management program. The holistic approach together with the framework and guidelines as given in chapter six would afford enterprises the ability to manage and harness their knowledge for sustainable competitive advantage. Broad recommendations for establishing a knowledge management program that will be a source of sustainable competitive advantage are proposed.
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Information as a resource in academic institutions
- Authors: Raphela, Mashudubele Isaiah
- Date: 2012-08-13
- Subjects: Information resources management -- South Africa , Information policy -- South Africa , Information audits , Academic libraries -- South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9126 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5582
- Description: M.Inf. , The research study investigates the importance of information as a resource in academic institutions. The study serves to answer questions appertaining to management of information as a resource, such as, what is information resource management? How should information as a resource be managed in academic institutions? How should information be audited? Which stages should be followed in developing information policy? The interrelationships of information as a resource, information auditing and information policy as managerial components are discussed. Information audit and information policy become the major components of management of information as a resource. Information in various enterprises is becoming increasingly recognized as a resource. The study purports to indicate that information as a resource can be managed like other traditional resources such as labour, entrepreneurship, capital and natural resources to use it for competitive advantage. The aims of information audit and information policy are to serve as fundamental development of an information managerial strategy. The information audit enables the information service to pursue the most significant strategic marketing of its information resources. The necessary breadth of information auditing techniques, such as Burk and Horton's "Infomap" are required to fulfill a wide variety of objectives. They analyze the effective methodology for auditing information resource controls and help to identify relevant and accurate information resources for the purpose of learning, teaching and research. The purpose of developing information policy is prompted by the objective of which the information enterprise would successfully like to achieve. It is more appropriate to develop a set of information policies, each of which is concerned with a specific area of operation or focussed on other topics of interest and informational value within the academic institution. At the ultimate end the University of the North is singled out as a model for the development of information policy.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Raphela, Mashudubele Isaiah
- Date: 2012-08-13
- Subjects: Information resources management -- South Africa , Information policy -- South Africa , Information audits , Academic libraries -- South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9126 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5582
- Description: M.Inf. , The research study investigates the importance of information as a resource in academic institutions. The study serves to answer questions appertaining to management of information as a resource, such as, what is information resource management? How should information as a resource be managed in academic institutions? How should information be audited? Which stages should be followed in developing information policy? The interrelationships of information as a resource, information auditing and information policy as managerial components are discussed. Information audit and information policy become the major components of management of information as a resource. Information in various enterprises is becoming increasingly recognized as a resource. The study purports to indicate that information as a resource can be managed like other traditional resources such as labour, entrepreneurship, capital and natural resources to use it for competitive advantage. The aims of information audit and information policy are to serve as fundamental development of an information managerial strategy. The information audit enables the information service to pursue the most significant strategic marketing of its information resources. The necessary breadth of information auditing techniques, such as Burk and Horton's "Infomap" are required to fulfill a wide variety of objectives. They analyze the effective methodology for auditing information resource controls and help to identify relevant and accurate information resources for the purpose of learning, teaching and research. The purpose of developing information policy is prompted by the objective of which the information enterprise would successfully like to achieve. It is more appropriate to develop a set of information policies, each of which is concerned with a specific area of operation or focussed on other topics of interest and informational value within the academic institution. At the ultimate end the University of the North is singled out as a model for the development of information policy.
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Information management in financial institutions in Botswana
- Authors: Lefenya, Maruapula Tartar
- Date: 2009-01-12T07:27:43Z
- Subjects: Information resources management , Financial institutions
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1863
- Description: M. Inf. , Enterprises are becoming more dependent on information than ever before and, in this new millennium, the survival and success of these enterprises will highly depend on the ability to manage information as a resource for competitive advantage. This study is concerned with establishing the extent to which information management is practiced in financial institutions in Botswana. The main problem under investigation is the importance of information management within an enterprise and to ascertain how information can ensure competitive advantage in an enterprise. In the first four chapters, a literature survey is done to get a better understanding of what information management is and how information management can transform business and how information management can be used as a source of sustainable competitive advantage. The second part of the study is the empirical survey where qualitative research was conducted on financial institutions in Botswana, including commercial banks and insurance companies. The aim of the research was to determine the status of information management in these institutions as well as to investigate what people generally understand the concept information management- to mean. It was further investigated if at all information management was an issue in the enterprise culture of Botswana and if the concerned institutions regard information management as a source for competitive advantage. Structured interviews were conducted with top management in ten business institutions. The data obtained from the interviews was analysed and interpreted according to the grounded theory. The findings of the research revealed that information management, as a formalised concept, is fairly new to most business enterprise managers, and that there is no common understanding of the concept. It is however evident that most business managers accept the fact that information management is a necessary condition for ensuring the sustainability of their business enterprises. Most of them acknowledged that information is very critical for the survival of the business and for staying ahead of others. It is recommended that enterprises should adopt a holistic approach towards information management. Business enterprises should employ people with proper information management skills and trained personnel in this area.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lefenya, Maruapula Tartar
- Date: 2009-01-12T07:27:43Z
- Subjects: Information resources management , Financial institutions
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14786 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1863
- Description: M. Inf. , Enterprises are becoming more dependent on information than ever before and, in this new millennium, the survival and success of these enterprises will highly depend on the ability to manage information as a resource for competitive advantage. This study is concerned with establishing the extent to which information management is practiced in financial institutions in Botswana. The main problem under investigation is the importance of information management within an enterprise and to ascertain how information can ensure competitive advantage in an enterprise. In the first four chapters, a literature survey is done to get a better understanding of what information management is and how information management can transform business and how information management can be used as a source of sustainable competitive advantage. The second part of the study is the empirical survey where qualitative research was conducted on financial institutions in Botswana, including commercial banks and insurance companies. The aim of the research was to determine the status of information management in these institutions as well as to investigate what people generally understand the concept information management- to mean. It was further investigated if at all information management was an issue in the enterprise culture of Botswana and if the concerned institutions regard information management as a source for competitive advantage. Structured interviews were conducted with top management in ten business institutions. The data obtained from the interviews was analysed and interpreted according to the grounded theory. The findings of the research revealed that information management, as a formalised concept, is fairly new to most business enterprise managers, and that there is no common understanding of the concept. It is however evident that most business managers accept the fact that information management is a necessary condition for ensuring the sustainability of their business enterprises. Most of them acknowledged that information is very critical for the survival of the business and for staying ahead of others. It is recommended that enterprises should adopt a holistic approach towards information management. Business enterprises should employ people with proper information management skills and trained personnel in this area.
- Full Text:
Inligtingbestuur in die onderwys
- Authors: Coetzer, Johan
- Date: 2009-01-08T13:02:37Z
- Subjects: Information resources management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14750 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1830
- Description: M.A. , Organizations become increasingly dependant on information. We live in an era called the information age, where there is an overwhelming amount of information and information resources available. Internal and external information is vital for the survival and success of the organization. Information is not static. It flows from one point to another and in the process value is added to the information. Sharing of information is crucial for managing an organization. Information management is therefore an important factor to optimize usage of information. In order to supply the right person with the right information in the right format, information systems should be replenished by human ability. This system is designed to support the employee in his work and to lead management in their decision making. Resources are managed according to certain rules. Information can be managed by means of an information policy or -strategy. Because the information strategy is more detailed than the information policy, this study considers the advantages and development of an information strategy for an enterprise. The above-mentioned will be applied to education as it is today. In this respect it is vital to keep in mind that education is involved in the education and forming of learners. Information and standardization is of the utmost importance to the professional educators involved in this process. For the educators, parents, administrative staff and learners to make decisions, the information must reach them in time. In the second half of this citation, an empirical study was conducted to determine the status of the information flow in the education department. Knowledge of the following were tested: information management, the current practice of information flow, the participants, and the response on required information. Appointments with selected participants were made by telephone and information were gathered by questionnaire. The information was then analyzed and interpreted according to the principles of the grounded theory. In spite of the fact that information management is an unmistakable part of an enterprise, there are no standing principles for the dissemination of information within the education department. There is an urgent need for the management of information in order to better the information flow in the education department. It is suggested that the enterprise should implement an information management plan as soon as possible, and attend to the information flow within the education department. Information must be supplied to the persons involved in the desired format and on the required time, for the education department to be informed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Coetzer, Johan
- Date: 2009-01-08T13:02:37Z
- Subjects: Information resources management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14750 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1830
- Description: M.A. , Organizations become increasingly dependant on information. We live in an era called the information age, where there is an overwhelming amount of information and information resources available. Internal and external information is vital for the survival and success of the organization. Information is not static. It flows from one point to another and in the process value is added to the information. Sharing of information is crucial for managing an organization. Information management is therefore an important factor to optimize usage of information. In order to supply the right person with the right information in the right format, information systems should be replenished by human ability. This system is designed to support the employee in his work and to lead management in their decision making. Resources are managed according to certain rules. Information can be managed by means of an information policy or -strategy. Because the information strategy is more detailed than the information policy, this study considers the advantages and development of an information strategy for an enterprise. The above-mentioned will be applied to education as it is today. In this respect it is vital to keep in mind that education is involved in the education and forming of learners. Information and standardization is of the utmost importance to the professional educators involved in this process. For the educators, parents, administrative staff and learners to make decisions, the information must reach them in time. In the second half of this citation, an empirical study was conducted to determine the status of the information flow in the education department. Knowledge of the following were tested: information management, the current practice of information flow, the participants, and the response on required information. Appointments with selected participants were made by telephone and information were gathered by questionnaire. The information was then analyzed and interpreted according to the principles of the grounded theory. In spite of the fact that information management is an unmistakable part of an enterprise, there are no standing principles for the dissemination of information within the education department. There is an urgent need for the management of information in order to better the information flow in the education department. It is suggested that the enterprise should implement an information management plan as soon as possible, and attend to the information flow within the education department. Information must be supplied to the persons involved in the desired format and on the required time, for the education department to be informed.
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Knowledge-sharing through communities of practice at institutions of higher education
- Authors: Buckley, Sheryl Beverley
- Date: 2012-06-05
- Subjects: Communities of practice , Information technology management , Education technology , Knowledge sharing , College teaching
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2437 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4896
- Description: D. Litt. et Phil. , As the world moved from an industrial society to a knowledge society where people tend to work smarter and not harder, knowledge (implicit and explicit) became the main asset of a modern organisation. Human assets took precedence over financial assets. However, the rate at which the knowledge bank was increased owing to the progress in information technology was so fast that it became humanly impossible for one or two people to possess all knowledge. The notion of “knowledge is power” changed to one of “knowledge sharing is power”. While explicit knowledge can be quantified, saved and reused, tacit knowledge can only be shared voluntarily. This sharing of knowledge has given rise to communities of practice (CoPs). This study investigates the phenomenon of CoPs in an academic higher education (HE) institution such as a university. The aim was to establish criteria that could be used to identify the existence of such communities and their contribution to the institution, why CoPs are formed or not and how the formation of a CoP can enrich the knowledge bank of the institution. Once these objectives were achieved, it was hoped that it would be possible to create or encourage existing CoPs and ultimately ways to manage them.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Buckley, Sheryl Beverley
- Date: 2012-06-05
- Subjects: Communities of practice , Information technology management , Education technology , Knowledge sharing , College teaching
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2437 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4896
- Description: D. Litt. et Phil. , As the world moved from an industrial society to a knowledge society where people tend to work smarter and not harder, knowledge (implicit and explicit) became the main asset of a modern organisation. Human assets took precedence over financial assets. However, the rate at which the knowledge bank was increased owing to the progress in information technology was so fast that it became humanly impossible for one or two people to possess all knowledge. The notion of “knowledge is power” changed to one of “knowledge sharing is power”. While explicit knowledge can be quantified, saved and reused, tacit knowledge can only be shared voluntarily. This sharing of knowledge has given rise to communities of practice (CoPs). This study investigates the phenomenon of CoPs in an academic higher education (HE) institution such as a university. The aim was to establish criteria that could be used to identify the existence of such communities and their contribution to the institution, why CoPs are formed or not and how the formation of a CoP can enrich the knowledge bank of the institution. Once these objectives were achieved, it was hoped that it would be possible to create or encourage existing CoPs and ultimately ways to manage them.
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Management of change in information services
- Authors: Molaudi, Marjorie Mandu
- Date: 2009-01-12T07:23:29Z
- Subjects: Information services management , Organizational change
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14780 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1858
- Description: M.Inf. , As an instrument of society, information services have always been influenced by changes in the host environment. This being the case, information services are compelled to change, posing the challenge to managers who have to see to it that the challenges are properly dealt with. The strategies and techniques for managing change in academic information services have been explored thus providing guidance for managers in this regard. This was done by using an extensive literature survey. The empirical survey investigated the extent to which change is being managed in academic information services in South Africa, which was done by using pre-structured questionnaires. The study also provides recommendations on how information services can successfully manage change in order to survive in a competitive environment. Lastly, the areas for future investigation on this subject have been outlined.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Molaudi, Marjorie Mandu
- Date: 2009-01-12T07:23:29Z
- Subjects: Information services management , Organizational change
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14780 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1858
- Description: M.Inf. , As an instrument of society, information services have always been influenced by changes in the host environment. This being the case, information services are compelled to change, posing the challenge to managers who have to see to it that the challenges are properly dealt with. The strategies and techniques for managing change in academic information services have been explored thus providing guidance for managers in this regard. This was done by using an extensive literature survey. The empirical survey investigated the extent to which change is being managed in academic information services in South Africa, which was done by using pre-structured questionnaires. The study also provides recommendations on how information services can successfully manage change in order to survive in a competitive environment. Lastly, the areas for future investigation on this subject have been outlined.
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New employee orientation in information services
- Selematsela, Daisy Nthabiseng Selloane
- Authors: Selematsela, Daisy Nthabiseng Selloane
- Date: 2012-09-10
- Subjects: Employee orientation , Information services industry - Employees
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9863 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7264
- Description: M.Inf. , The orientation of new employees is an important function in information services. This aids in the socialisation and development of new employees. This study sought to establish whether customised orientation programmes for different categories of new employees, is necessary at the academic information service of the University of South Africa. The importance, objectives, and the concept of socialization as an aspect of orientation, is examined. The process of orientation from the key players in the orientation process; the orientation needs of different categories of employees; the planning phases, implementation and evaluation of the orientation training, was addressed. Finally, the orientation process at the University of South Africa Academic Information Service was presented, and proposals are made on how the current orientation process can be managed for maximum positive impact of all the new employees.
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- Authors: Selematsela, Daisy Nthabiseng Selloane
- Date: 2012-09-10
- Subjects: Employee orientation , Information services industry - Employees
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9863 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7264
- Description: M.Inf. , The orientation of new employees is an important function in information services. This aids in the socialisation and development of new employees. This study sought to establish whether customised orientation programmes for different categories of new employees, is necessary at the academic information service of the University of South Africa. The importance, objectives, and the concept of socialization as an aspect of orientation, is examined. The process of orientation from the key players in the orientation process; the orientation needs of different categories of employees; the planning phases, implementation and evaluation of the orientation training, was addressed. Finally, the orientation process at the University of South Africa Academic Information Service was presented, and proposals are made on how the current orientation process can be managed for maximum positive impact of all the new employees.
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Records management in a management consulting firm
- Authors: Mrwebi, Seipati Elizabeth
- Date: 2012-01-24
- Subjects: Business records management , Information storage and retrieval systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:1941 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4300
- Description: M.A. , Information plays a very significant role in the economic development of the enterprises. It is increasingly used as a corporate resource to improve productivity, efficiency and effectiveness. This means that information in the form of records, is a strategic weapon to gain competitive advantage for the enterprise that creates and receives them. The study explores the problems that are facing terminology in the study of information management and records management. The problems that exist in terms of terminology are so intense that there is yet no universally acceptable definition for records and records management. The basic elements of records management are explored in attempt to position records management as an information management function. It demands records as vital information resources be managed throughout their life cycles, at a strategic level in much the same way as other economic resources such as people, money and land. In managing records effectively, the education and training of records managers is regarded as imperative. In order to test the information management function of records management, a survey is administered within Enterprise ABC to observe the records management practices amongst the records staff. The findings of the survey reveal that the records management practices within Enterprise ABC are chaotic in the sense that there are no standards and procedures that govern the flow of records within the enterprise.
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- Authors: Mrwebi, Seipati Elizabeth
- Date: 2012-01-24
- Subjects: Business records management , Information storage and retrieval systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:1941 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4300
- Description: M.A. , Information plays a very significant role in the economic development of the enterprises. It is increasingly used as a corporate resource to improve productivity, efficiency and effectiveness. This means that information in the form of records, is a strategic weapon to gain competitive advantage for the enterprise that creates and receives them. The study explores the problems that are facing terminology in the study of information management and records management. The problems that exist in terms of terminology are so intense that there is yet no universally acceptable definition for records and records management. The basic elements of records management are explored in attempt to position records management as an information management function. It demands records as vital information resources be managed throughout their life cycles, at a strategic level in much the same way as other economic resources such as people, money and land. In managing records effectively, the education and training of records managers is regarded as imperative. In order to test the information management function of records management, a survey is administered within Enterprise ABC to observe the records management practices amongst the records staff. The findings of the survey reveal that the records management practices within Enterprise ABC are chaotic in the sense that there are no standards and procedures that govern the flow of records within the enterprise.
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Strategies in information literacy instruction in academic information services
- Selematsela, Daisy Nthabiseng
- Authors: Selematsela, Daisy Nthabiseng
- Date: 2009-01-15T13:11:30Z
- Subjects: Information literacy , Adult learning , Academic libraries
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14796 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1872
- Description: D. Litt. et Phil. , The South African academic information services are starting to pay attention to the role played by instruction librarians. There is an acknowledgement that librarians as ‘educators’ need to learn how to teach information literacy skills. Instruction librarians are either not trained educators or do not have a pedagogical background. Many instruction librarians were placed in, or found themselves, assuming a teaching role with regard to information literacy instruction, and subsequently refined their craft while on the job. The motivation for this study was that librarians as ‘educators’ are faced with challenges that impact on their teaching role. They have to understand the teaching methodologies and the application of adult learning principles to the facilitation of information literacy skills programmes. The success of facilitation and development of information literacy skills programmes depends on the instruction librarians’ ability to work in collaboration with academic departments, curriculum designers and other librarians. The study was carried out in two parts: a literature survey and an empirical investigation. The investigation was confined to academic libraries and information services that have an instruction librarian or subject librarian who facilitates information literacy skills instruction. The GAELIC (Gauteng and Environs Library Consortium) members were surveyed in order to limit the study to the nine participating libraries within the consortium. The findings of the study were supportive of the objective that there is a desperate need to have understanding, knowledge and skills regarding the dynamics involved in the teaching of information literacy skills, in order to make the programme a success. The study proposes a competency framework for implementation as a management tool for designing key performance areas (KPA’s) of instruction librarians.
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- Authors: Selematsela, Daisy Nthabiseng
- Date: 2009-01-15T13:11:30Z
- Subjects: Information literacy , Adult learning , Academic libraries
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14796 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1872
- Description: D. Litt. et Phil. , The South African academic information services are starting to pay attention to the role played by instruction librarians. There is an acknowledgement that librarians as ‘educators’ need to learn how to teach information literacy skills. Instruction librarians are either not trained educators or do not have a pedagogical background. Many instruction librarians were placed in, or found themselves, assuming a teaching role with regard to information literacy instruction, and subsequently refined their craft while on the job. The motivation for this study was that librarians as ‘educators’ are faced with challenges that impact on their teaching role. They have to understand the teaching methodologies and the application of adult learning principles to the facilitation of information literacy skills programmes. The success of facilitation and development of information literacy skills programmes depends on the instruction librarians’ ability to work in collaboration with academic departments, curriculum designers and other librarians. The study was carried out in two parts: a literature survey and an empirical investigation. The investigation was confined to academic libraries and information services that have an instruction librarian or subject librarian who facilitates information literacy skills instruction. The GAELIC (Gauteng and Environs Library Consortium) members were surveyed in order to limit the study to the nine participating libraries within the consortium. The findings of the study were supportive of the objective that there is a desperate need to have understanding, knowledge and skills regarding the dynamics involved in the teaching of information literacy skills, in order to make the programme a success. The study proposes a competency framework for implementation as a management tool for designing key performance areas (KPA’s) of instruction librarians.
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The application of Belbin's team role theory in information service enterprises
- Authors: Van Heerden, Dalina Louise
- Date: 2012-09-11
- Subjects: Belbin, R. M. , University of South Africa. Library. , Teams in the workplace , Information services - South Africa , Reengineering (Management) - South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10061 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7449
- Description: M.Inf. , Belbin's team role theory is a popular team building tool. This study aims to establish whether Belbin's theory can be meaningfully applied to an information service enterprise. Belbin's team role theory is explained and its uniqueness, when compared with similar theories such as Margerison and McCann's team role theory and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, is highlighted. Belbin's theory is then applied to a team in the Unisa Library to evaluate how the 'end-user', the trainee, views the value of this team role theory. Their views are then evaluated using a research/evaluation questionnaire. The findings are discussed and the conclusion is reached that Belbin's team role theory can be meaningfully applied in an information service enterprise. The feedback of the respondents indicates that they were satisfied with the accuracy and truthfulness of the results and that they were of the opinion that their team roles reflected their personalities rather than their values and culture. For them the main value lies in the renewed self-insight and increased self-confidence gained from the exercise. They also indicated its potential for improved cooperation and problem solving within team context. Furthermore they were confident that the team roles could be used when the reengineering plan is implemented in the Unisa Library. Finally it is recommended that team building needs to form an integral part of the reengineering implementation process. With regard to team development the need to focus on the 'task', 'team', 'individual' and the 'organisational context' is emphasised.
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- Authors: Van Heerden, Dalina Louise
- Date: 2012-09-11
- Subjects: Belbin, R. M. , University of South Africa. Library. , Teams in the workplace , Information services - South Africa , Reengineering (Management) - South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10061 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7449
- Description: M.Inf. , Belbin's team role theory is a popular team building tool. This study aims to establish whether Belbin's theory can be meaningfully applied to an information service enterprise. Belbin's team role theory is explained and its uniqueness, when compared with similar theories such as Margerison and McCann's team role theory and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, is highlighted. Belbin's theory is then applied to a team in the Unisa Library to evaluate how the 'end-user', the trainee, views the value of this team role theory. Their views are then evaluated using a research/evaluation questionnaire. The findings are discussed and the conclusion is reached that Belbin's team role theory can be meaningfully applied in an information service enterprise. The feedback of the respondents indicates that they were satisfied with the accuracy and truthfulness of the results and that they were of the opinion that their team roles reflected their personalities rather than their values and culture. For them the main value lies in the renewed self-insight and increased self-confidence gained from the exercise. They also indicated its potential for improved cooperation and problem solving within team context. Furthermore they were confident that the team roles could be used when the reengineering plan is implemented in the Unisa Library. Finally it is recommended that team building needs to form an integral part of the reengineering implementation process. With regard to team development the need to focus on the 'task', 'team', 'individual' and the 'organisational context' is emphasised.
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The level of importance attached to competitive intelligence at a mass import-retail organization
- Authors: Begg, Mohsin
- Date: 2009-03-31T09:44:54Z
- Subjects: Business intelligence
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:8276 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2385
- Description: M.A. , The purpose of thi s study was to es tabl i sh the level of impor tance at tached to compet i t i ve intel l igence (CI ) at a mas s impor t - retai l organi zat ion in South Af r i ca. The rat ionale of CI i s to aler t an organi zat ion about the cur rent s i tuat ion relat ing to i ts bus ines s envi ronment , compet i tor s and how these aspect s af fect the compet i t ive s i tuat ion. CI has thus been viewed as a core tool to ut i l i ze wi thin organi zat ions in order to funct ion compet i t i vel y. The value and s igni f i cance that CI present s to organi zat ions upon implementat ion was di scus sed thoroughl y by focus ing upon the growth of CI , the manner in whi ch CI is usual l y executed, the neces s i t y of conduc t ing CI , var ious organi zat ional st ructure opt ions, establ ishing a CI cul ture, measur ing the cos t of CI relat i ve to i ts benef i ts and ethical i s sues per taining to CI operat ions. The CI c ycle was examined in depth by paying at tent ion to four phases of this c ycle. The f i rs t phase is planning, in whi ch di rec t ion and purpose i s gained for CI ; col lect ion i s the second phase in which informat ion f rom a var iet y of sour ces i s gathered; the thi rd phase i s anal ys is , in whi ch raw informat ion is anal yzed and conver ted into intel l igence and the last phase, dis seminat ion, refer s to dis t r ibut ing intel l igence to endusers in the form of a CI product . Af ter the above had been invest igated, the inf luence that CI has on deci s ion-mak ing was determined. I t was found that there i s a pos i t ive inf luence on decis ion-making since CI as s ist s in reducing the number of uncer taint ies when mak ing dec is ions and bet ter dec i sions can thus be made. 4 A sur vey was conducted at a mass impor t - retai l organi zat ion to come to a conclus ion on the purpose of the s tudy. A total of 107 employees were randoml y selec ted to complete a quest ionnai re and af ter the resul t s of the sur vey were recei ved, f indings were reached. Based on the resul ts i t was found that this organi zat ion pract ises CI , albei t in an informal manner and i t was conc luded that a relat i vel y high level of impor tance i s at tached to CI wi thin this organi zat ion; however , a few areas for improvement were ident i f ied and a recommendat ion was made on implement ing a formal CI funct ion wi thin the organi zat ion.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Begg, Mohsin
- Date: 2009-03-31T09:44:54Z
- Subjects: Business intelligence
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:8276 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2385
- Description: M.A. , The purpose of thi s study was to es tabl i sh the level of impor tance at tached to compet i t i ve intel l igence (CI ) at a mas s impor t - retai l organi zat ion in South Af r i ca. The rat ionale of CI i s to aler t an organi zat ion about the cur rent s i tuat ion relat ing to i ts bus ines s envi ronment , compet i tor s and how these aspect s af fect the compet i t ive s i tuat ion. CI has thus been viewed as a core tool to ut i l i ze wi thin organi zat ions in order to funct ion compet i t i vel y. The value and s igni f i cance that CI present s to organi zat ions upon implementat ion was di scus sed thoroughl y by focus ing upon the growth of CI , the manner in whi ch CI is usual l y executed, the neces s i t y of conduc t ing CI , var ious organi zat ional st ructure opt ions, establ ishing a CI cul ture, measur ing the cos t of CI relat i ve to i ts benef i ts and ethical i s sues per taining to CI operat ions. The CI c ycle was examined in depth by paying at tent ion to four phases of this c ycle. The f i rs t phase is planning, in whi ch di rec t ion and purpose i s gained for CI ; col lect ion i s the second phase in which informat ion f rom a var iet y of sour ces i s gathered; the thi rd phase i s anal ys is , in whi ch raw informat ion is anal yzed and conver ted into intel l igence and the last phase, dis seminat ion, refer s to dis t r ibut ing intel l igence to endusers in the form of a CI product . Af ter the above had been invest igated, the inf luence that CI has on deci s ion-mak ing was determined. I t was found that there i s a pos i t ive inf luence on decis ion-making since CI as s ist s in reducing the number of uncer taint ies when mak ing dec is ions and bet ter dec i sions can thus be made. 4 A sur vey was conducted at a mass impor t - retai l organi zat ion to come to a conclus ion on the purpose of the s tudy. A total of 107 employees were randoml y selec ted to complete a quest ionnai re and af ter the resul t s of the sur vey were recei ved, f indings were reached. Based on the resul ts i t was found that this organi zat ion pract ises CI , albei t in an informal manner and i t was conc luded that a relat i vel y high level of impor tance i s at tached to CI wi thin this organi zat ion; however , a few areas for improvement were ident i f ied and a recommendat ion was made on implement ing a formal CI funct ion wi thin the organi zat ion.
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The role of the learning organisation paradigm in improving intellectual capital
- Authors: Pienaar, Jaco Johannes
- Date: 2009-04-30T09:26:08Z
- Subjects: Intellectual capital , Knowledge management , Organizational learning , Horse racing (South Africa)
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:8331 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2458
- Description: M.A. , The purpose of this thesis is to determine to what extent intellectual capital is recognised and developed in the South African horseracing industry. A significant motivation for this study is that, despite the importance of intellectual capital in today’s market environment, no such study has been done in this specific industry. Because of the scope and nature of the horseracing industry, such a study is crucial. The study is divided into a literature review, where theoretical groundwork is discussed, and an empirical study, where the theory is practically applied within the South African horseracing industry context. The industry can be defined as an oligopoly, with Phumelela and Gold Circle as the key organisations. Therefore, Phumelela and Gold Circle’s intellectual capital recognition and development is examined in depth and compared with each other. Other industry role players and factors, such as betting types and racecourses, are also discussed, as it provides an overview essential to the study. The literature review is divided into three sections – intellectual capital, knowledge sharing, and the learning organisation. Intellectual capital is the main focus of the study, with knowledge sharing and the learning organisation seen as key intellectual capital development methods. Intellectual capital is defined according to three categories – human, structural, and relational capital. Intellectual capital’s organisational importance and measurement are also discussed. Knowledge, knowledge sharing, and knowledge sharing methods (formal and informal) are described and placed within organisational and intellectual capital frameworks. The overall importance of knowledge sharing, in addition to its importance to intellectual capital, is discussed. The learning organisation is an essential paradigm in the knowledge economy and refers to an organisational and individual mindset for knowledge improvement, goal achievement, and development. It is defined and discussed in an intellectual capital context. The learning organisation’s importance to the development of intellectual capital, knowledge sharing, and the organisation as a whole, is explained. The qualitative empirical study is conducted primarily by examining the annual reports and financial statements of Gold Circle and Phumelela. Specific structured interviews with key industry role players are also referred to and comparisons of the aforementioned organisations are given. Summaries of findings are presented and recommendations are made to assist in the industry’s task of managing and developing intellectual capital. Areas of future research are also referred to, which include studying intellectual capital on a global horseracing scale as well as the role that knowledge development plays in the international competitiveness of the horseracing industry. The South African horseracing industry is complex and vast, requiring the development of intellectual capital and other intangible assets to compete strongly globally. This thesis shows that this is not done to its full extent as yet and there is still a long way to go for the national industry to realise its full potential.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Pienaar, Jaco Johannes
- Date: 2009-04-30T09:26:08Z
- Subjects: Intellectual capital , Knowledge management , Organizational learning , Horse racing (South Africa)
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:8331 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2458
- Description: M.A. , The purpose of this thesis is to determine to what extent intellectual capital is recognised and developed in the South African horseracing industry. A significant motivation for this study is that, despite the importance of intellectual capital in today’s market environment, no such study has been done in this specific industry. Because of the scope and nature of the horseracing industry, such a study is crucial. The study is divided into a literature review, where theoretical groundwork is discussed, and an empirical study, where the theory is practically applied within the South African horseracing industry context. The industry can be defined as an oligopoly, with Phumelela and Gold Circle as the key organisations. Therefore, Phumelela and Gold Circle’s intellectual capital recognition and development is examined in depth and compared with each other. Other industry role players and factors, such as betting types and racecourses, are also discussed, as it provides an overview essential to the study. The literature review is divided into three sections – intellectual capital, knowledge sharing, and the learning organisation. Intellectual capital is the main focus of the study, with knowledge sharing and the learning organisation seen as key intellectual capital development methods. Intellectual capital is defined according to three categories – human, structural, and relational capital. Intellectual capital’s organisational importance and measurement are also discussed. Knowledge, knowledge sharing, and knowledge sharing methods (formal and informal) are described and placed within organisational and intellectual capital frameworks. The overall importance of knowledge sharing, in addition to its importance to intellectual capital, is discussed. The learning organisation is an essential paradigm in the knowledge economy and refers to an organisational and individual mindset for knowledge improvement, goal achievement, and development. It is defined and discussed in an intellectual capital context. The learning organisation’s importance to the development of intellectual capital, knowledge sharing, and the organisation as a whole, is explained. The qualitative empirical study is conducted primarily by examining the annual reports and financial statements of Gold Circle and Phumelela. Specific structured interviews with key industry role players are also referred to and comparisons of the aforementioned organisations are given. Summaries of findings are presented and recommendations are made to assist in the industry’s task of managing and developing intellectual capital. Areas of future research are also referred to, which include studying intellectual capital on a global horseracing scale as well as the role that knowledge development plays in the international competitiveness of the horseracing industry. The South African horseracing industry is complex and vast, requiring the development of intellectual capital and other intangible assets to compete strongly globally. This thesis shows that this is not done to its full extent as yet and there is still a long way to go for the national industry to realise its full potential.
- Full Text:
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