The role of South African strategic communication practitioners as a 'moral compass' of an organisation during ethical crisis communication
- Authors: Gombarume, Cleopatra
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Business communication , Business ethics , Communication - Moral and ethical aspects , Communication in crisis management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/477691 , uj:43170
- Description: Abstract: As technology accelerates the Fourth Industrial Revolution, several aspects of ethics in a crisis have changed. It has become increasingly difficult for organisations to hide from ethical issues because of the advent of technology playing two key roles: amplifying the organisation's communication and compelling organisations to be transparent during crisis communication. These roles could expose the organisation's unethical behaviour... , M.A. (Strategic Communication)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gombarume, Cleopatra
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Business communication , Business ethics , Communication - Moral and ethical aspects , Communication in crisis management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/477691 , uj:43170
- Description: Abstract: As technology accelerates the Fourth Industrial Revolution, several aspects of ethics in a crisis have changed. It has become increasingly difficult for organisations to hide from ethical issues because of the advent of technology playing two key roles: amplifying the organisation's communication and compelling organisations to be transparent during crisis communication. These roles could expose the organisation's unethical behaviour... , M.A. (Strategic Communication)
- Full Text:
How advertising agencies in SA have had to adapt their business strategies in response to the mac charter through their internal and external communications – a comparative study
- Makhetha, Cathleen Brigette Palesa
- Authors: Makhetha, Cathleen Brigette Palesa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Advertising agencies , Advertising - South Africa , Business communication
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/420371 , uj:35790
- Description: M.A. (Strategic Communications) , Abstract: The overall purpose of this study aimed to uncover how two advertising agencies that operate in South Africa’s landscape have had to adapt their business strategies in response to the MAC Charter. In the history of advertising there have been issues pertaining to racism, gender stereotyping and the telling of a one-sided narrative (Jackson, 2019). These issues have long existed in a global and local context. Due to the nature of advertising having an influence in how society perceives the world around them, it has been noted that the communication messages that are portrayed – the industry should do well in being wholly representative of the diversity that exists within the country (MAC SA, 2016). The adoption and embrace of diversity therefore challenged advertising agencies when in May 2016, the South African department of Trade and Industry issued a code of Good Practice on Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) in South Africa by issued the Marketing and Communications industry with act 53 of 2003 – now commonly known as the MAC Charter (Cinman, 2017). The legislation called for advertising agencies to adhere to certain levels of racial transformation within their leadership and employee structures to give work opportunities to previously disadvantaged racial groups. Taking this into consideration, the study aimed to uncover more about the charter and why it has come into existence in South African advertising agencies. This was done while similarly exploring how the two agencies that differ in size and tenure have had to adapt their business strategies to ensure that they are fully compliant to industry standards in an authentic way. The theoretical framework that guided this study is the emerging strategic communication paradigm as it helps assist in understanding how rapid changes in an external environment are able to be implemented and understood, even in a chaotic context. This framework and its principles set out to demonstrate how they can be applied in practice to ensure agency sustainability in the wake of change.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Makhetha, Cathleen Brigette Palesa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Advertising agencies , Advertising - South Africa , Business communication
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/420371 , uj:35790
- Description: M.A. (Strategic Communications) , Abstract: The overall purpose of this study aimed to uncover how two advertising agencies that operate in South Africa’s landscape have had to adapt their business strategies in response to the MAC Charter. In the history of advertising there have been issues pertaining to racism, gender stereotyping and the telling of a one-sided narrative (Jackson, 2019). These issues have long existed in a global and local context. Due to the nature of advertising having an influence in how society perceives the world around them, it has been noted that the communication messages that are portrayed – the industry should do well in being wholly representative of the diversity that exists within the country (MAC SA, 2016). The adoption and embrace of diversity therefore challenged advertising agencies when in May 2016, the South African department of Trade and Industry issued a code of Good Practice on Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) in South Africa by issued the Marketing and Communications industry with act 53 of 2003 – now commonly known as the MAC Charter (Cinman, 2017). The legislation called for advertising agencies to adhere to certain levels of racial transformation within their leadership and employee structures to give work opportunities to previously disadvantaged racial groups. Taking this into consideration, the study aimed to uncover more about the charter and why it has come into existence in South African advertising agencies. This was done while similarly exploring how the two agencies that differ in size and tenure have had to adapt their business strategies to ensure that they are fully compliant to industry standards in an authentic way. The theoretical framework that guided this study is the emerging strategic communication paradigm as it helps assist in understanding how rapid changes in an external environment are able to be implemented and understood, even in a chaotic context. This framework and its principles set out to demonstrate how they can be applied in practice to ensure agency sustainability in the wake of change.
- Full Text:
Talent management during mergers and acquisitions in emerging economies
- Authors: Retief, Lance Andre
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Consolidation and merger of corporations , Employee retention , Corporate culture , Business communication , Organizational change - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/271946 , uj:28933
- Description: Abstract: Ninety percent of high tech mergers and acquisitions fail to deliver the expected increases. Talent retention, communication and integration of corporate cultures are of the major people challenges experienced in mergers and acquisitions. The failure to retain key talented staff and the successful integration of corporate cultures often cause productivity levels to drop to as low as 50 percent, employee satisfaction levels drop by 14 percent and 80 percent of employees feel that leaders were concerned with the financial benefits at the expense of people. Research on mergers and acquisitions over the last 20 years were predominantly conducted using quantitative research methods with a focus on finance, accounting and economics. The need to conduct more qualitative research methodologies have been expressed with a focus on people as oppose to financials and economic data. This study followed a qualitative, realism, interpretivist approach in order to understand and seek rich descriptions from various participants on their diverse acquisition experiences which tells a story of why talent may decide to stay or leave post an acquisition. Data was collected using predominantly semi-structured open ended interviews. Nine acquired employees from different acquisitions were interviewed, some of which resigned post their acquisition. A thematic analysis process was used to analyse the data. Conclusions were drawn from the themes and the relationships between them. The study confirmed what the literature says on mergers and acquisitions and people integration challenges. Corporate culture differences, HR due diligence, HR integration plans and the management of change are key drivers impacting employees’ decision to leave or stay post an acquisition. Corporate culture differences include, structural, process and procedure difference. HR due diligence include effective communication before and during an acquisition and HR integration plans refer to the initiatives acquirer firms implement to manage the integration process. The management of change include the acquirer firms’ ability to put robust change management plans in place and the personal coping mechanisms acquired employees adopt to manage the change. The study concluded that the factors that impacted employees’ decision to stay or leave after an acquisition varied. Of the main factors included the inability to cope with... , M.Phil. (Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Retief, Lance Andre
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Consolidation and merger of corporations , Employee retention , Corporate culture , Business communication , Organizational change - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/271946 , uj:28933
- Description: Abstract: Ninety percent of high tech mergers and acquisitions fail to deliver the expected increases. Talent retention, communication and integration of corporate cultures are of the major people challenges experienced in mergers and acquisitions. The failure to retain key talented staff and the successful integration of corporate cultures often cause productivity levels to drop to as low as 50 percent, employee satisfaction levels drop by 14 percent and 80 percent of employees feel that leaders were concerned with the financial benefits at the expense of people. Research on mergers and acquisitions over the last 20 years were predominantly conducted using quantitative research methods with a focus on finance, accounting and economics. The need to conduct more qualitative research methodologies have been expressed with a focus on people as oppose to financials and economic data. This study followed a qualitative, realism, interpretivist approach in order to understand and seek rich descriptions from various participants on their diverse acquisition experiences which tells a story of why talent may decide to stay or leave post an acquisition. Data was collected using predominantly semi-structured open ended interviews. Nine acquired employees from different acquisitions were interviewed, some of which resigned post their acquisition. A thematic analysis process was used to analyse the data. Conclusions were drawn from the themes and the relationships between them. The study confirmed what the literature says on mergers and acquisitions and people integration challenges. Corporate culture differences, HR due diligence, HR integration plans and the management of change are key drivers impacting employees’ decision to leave or stay post an acquisition. Corporate culture differences include, structural, process and procedure difference. HR due diligence include effective communication before and during an acquisition and HR integration plans refer to the initiatives acquirer firms implement to manage the integration process. The management of change include the acquirer firms’ ability to put robust change management plans in place and the personal coping mechanisms acquired employees adopt to manage the change. The study concluded that the factors that impacted employees’ decision to stay or leave after an acquisition varied. Of the main factors included the inability to cope with... , M.Phil. (Management)
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Language as barrier to communication among black African students at the University of Johannesburg, Soweto Campus (Gauteng, South Africa).
- Authors: Pather, M. R.
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Business communication , Language , Language barrier
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/247489 , uj:25698 , Citation: Pather, M.R. 2017. Language as barrier to communication among black African students at the University of Johannesburg, Soweto Campus (Gauteng, South Africa).
- Description: Abstract: This paper explores the inadequacy in expressive language of undergraduate (diploma) students. It adopts a communication systems approach and data was collected through one-on-one and focus group interviews with 120 black African students at University of Johannesburg Soweto campus and analysed qualitatively. The findings revealed that if African student’s language does not fit the cultural norm of a group, society or nation, they easily “disown” or reject it and this obviously inhibits an individual’s potential which becomes a cause of dysfunctional interactions.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Pather, M. R.
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Business communication , Language , Language barrier
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/247489 , uj:25698 , Citation: Pather, M.R. 2017. Language as barrier to communication among black African students at the University of Johannesburg, Soweto Campus (Gauteng, South Africa).
- Description: Abstract: This paper explores the inadequacy in expressive language of undergraduate (diploma) students. It adopts a communication systems approach and data was collected through one-on-one and focus group interviews with 120 black African students at University of Johannesburg Soweto campus and analysed qualitatively. The findings revealed that if African student’s language does not fit the cultural norm of a group, society or nation, they easily “disown” or reject it and this obviously inhibits an individual’s potential which becomes a cause of dysfunctional interactions.
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Communication challenges of English second language (ESL) employees
- Authors: Teng, Hung-Ting
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Business communication , Communication in organizations , English language - Business English , Employees - Language
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/214732 , uj:21318
- Description: Abstract: Despite the substantial predominance of ESL (English Second Language) employees over native English language speakers in the South African workplace, there is not a good understanding of the communication challenges these people face in the course of their working lives. Limited language skills lead to a wide variety of communication challenges for ESL and LEP (Limited English Proficient) workers, both at a personal as well as an organisational level in the workplace. From the findings presented in this research, it is evident that both English proficiency level and the extent of the communication challenges experienced can be addressed to facilitate the rate at which language skills impede ESL employees’ integration into an organisation from the start of their working careers to the present time. Therefore, one can conclude that every effort, from either individuals or organisations, counts in developing their language and communication competency. , M.Com. (Business Management)
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- Authors: Teng, Hung-Ting
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Business communication , Communication in organizations , English language - Business English , Employees - Language
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/214732 , uj:21318
- Description: Abstract: Despite the substantial predominance of ESL (English Second Language) employees over native English language speakers in the South African workplace, there is not a good understanding of the communication challenges these people face in the course of their working lives. Limited language skills lead to a wide variety of communication challenges for ESL and LEP (Limited English Proficient) workers, both at a personal as well as an organisational level in the workplace. From the findings presented in this research, it is evident that both English proficiency level and the extent of the communication challenges experienced can be addressed to facilitate the rate at which language skills impede ESL employees’ integration into an organisation from the start of their working careers to the present time. Therefore, one can conclude that every effort, from either individuals or organisations, counts in developing their language and communication competency. , M.Com. (Business Management)
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Project success depends on effective communication
- Authors: Fourie, Marco Louis
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Communication in management , Project management , Communication in organizations , Business communication
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/56957 , uj:16361
- Description: Abstract: Companies all over the world rise and fall; this is mostly due to a lack of effective management and leadership. Management and leadership are often mistaken for one another, but the true definitions indicate that the two are as different as night and day, yet still remain part of one another. In leading companies, the need for effective communication is critical, as it promotes and allows the enhancement of achievements. NASA embarked on one of the most complex projects to date, namely the Apollo Program (1967–1975). This project consisted of many elements, in which communication played a major role. The project was a success, yet it was accomplished with only rotary dial phones and typewriters as communication channels. Therefore, communication and the effective action behind it could affect the success of a project or company. Communication within an organisation is seen as a vital resource. However, in reality it sometimes happens that insufficient attention is dedicated to the concept, process, and content of communication in the workplace, thus leading to the intended message being misunderstood. The managing of this resource is required to have a basic objective, in covering all communication facets within an organisation, and its immediate environment. Success in communicating efficiently and effectively requires a change of values within the culture of the organisation. This document elucidated on new investigations through empirical research to provide solutions to questions such as: “What makes a project successful?” “What does effective communication endorse?”; and “What is the link between success and effective communication?” To deliver a conclusive answer for the key objective of this investigation, which is to endorse new ways of thinking in the project management sector. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Fourie, Marco Louis
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Communication in management , Project management , Communication in organizations , Business communication
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/56957 , uj:16361
- Description: Abstract: Companies all over the world rise and fall; this is mostly due to a lack of effective management and leadership. Management and leadership are often mistaken for one another, but the true definitions indicate that the two are as different as night and day, yet still remain part of one another. In leading companies, the need for effective communication is critical, as it promotes and allows the enhancement of achievements. NASA embarked on one of the most complex projects to date, namely the Apollo Program (1967–1975). This project consisted of many elements, in which communication played a major role. The project was a success, yet it was accomplished with only rotary dial phones and typewriters as communication channels. Therefore, communication and the effective action behind it could affect the success of a project or company. Communication within an organisation is seen as a vital resource. However, in reality it sometimes happens that insufficient attention is dedicated to the concept, process, and content of communication in the workplace, thus leading to the intended message being misunderstood. The managing of this resource is required to have a basic objective, in covering all communication facets within an organisation, and its immediate environment. Success in communicating efficiently and effectively requires a change of values within the culture of the organisation. This document elucidated on new investigations through empirical research to provide solutions to questions such as: “What makes a project successful?” “What does effective communication endorse?”; and “What is the link between success and effective communication?” To deliver a conclusive answer for the key objective of this investigation, which is to endorse new ways of thinking in the project management sector. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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An internal communication audit at Western Platinum Mine
- Janse Van Rensburg, Johannes Hendrik
- Authors: Janse Van Rensburg, Johannes Hendrik
- Date: 2014-02-05
- Subjects: Communication in management , Business communication
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3660 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9045
- Description: M.B.A. , The purpose of this audit was to investigate factors related to the communication structure at Western Platinum Mine. These factors had been investigated regarding their validity regarding all levels ofcommunication. The factors included the following: I. Top-Down Communication 2. Bottom-Up Communication 3. Lateral Communication 4. Objectives ofCommunication 5. Informal Communication 6. Meetings 7. Feedback 8. Written Communication 9. External Communication 10. General Attitudes towards Western Platinum Mine The researcher relied on both quantitative and qualitative research techniques. During the audit, analysis were carried out by means ofthe following data collection methods: • Individual focus interviews with top management, • Focus group discussions with junior level staff, and • Self completion questionnaires were completed by supervisors and middle management When comparing the conclusions with the research hypotheses a high correlation was evident between the original hypotheses and the information generated by the research. It was established that communication, at the lower levels, needs attention. Messages are totally distorted and employees rely on the " ... grapevine ... " Top Management's perception that communication is sound, was proved to be a fallacy. The research thus proved that the hypotheses in fact was in general accurate, correct and evident. As a result of the research a proper communication strategy was developed for Western Platinum Mine which could satisfy all the objectives...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Janse Van Rensburg, Johannes Hendrik
- Date: 2014-02-05
- Subjects: Communication in management , Business communication
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3660 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9045
- Description: M.B.A. , The purpose of this audit was to investigate factors related to the communication structure at Western Platinum Mine. These factors had been investigated regarding their validity regarding all levels ofcommunication. The factors included the following: I. Top-Down Communication 2. Bottom-Up Communication 3. Lateral Communication 4. Objectives ofCommunication 5. Informal Communication 6. Meetings 7. Feedback 8. Written Communication 9. External Communication 10. General Attitudes towards Western Platinum Mine The researcher relied on both quantitative and qualitative research techniques. During the audit, analysis were carried out by means ofthe following data collection methods: • Individual focus interviews with top management, • Focus group discussions with junior level staff, and • Self completion questionnaires were completed by supervisors and middle management When comparing the conclusions with the research hypotheses a high correlation was evident between the original hypotheses and the information generated by the research. It was established that communication, at the lower levels, needs attention. Messages are totally distorted and employees rely on the " ... grapevine ... " Top Management's perception that communication is sound, was proved to be a fallacy. The research thus proved that the hypotheses in fact was in general accurate, correct and evident. As a result of the research a proper communication strategy was developed for Western Platinum Mine which could satisfy all the objectives...
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Business communication as a means of worker participation
- Authors: Msada, Sicelo Ncelashe
- Date: 2014-02-05
- Subjects: Business communication , Interpersonal communication , Diversity in the workplace , Management - Employee participation , Council for Mineral Technology (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/387120 , uj:3625 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9003
- Description: M.Comm. (Business Management) , Communication in a business environment is an aspect that cannot be replaced. Theoretical considerations as revealed by literature indicate that the process is a complicated process. In this study, this is proven by the different types such as information theory which is concerned with the transmission aspects of communication process. The impact that information theory has had on the study of communication is analogous to the tremendous influence that quantitative techniques have had on management decision-making. Interpersonal communication emphasises transference of information from one person to another. It has both verbal and non-verbal forms. In verbal communication there is direct contact between parties involved. In non-verbal communication body postures are used as a means of communication. Written communication involves transmitting information through written word. Business communication within organisations is also influenced by other factors related to the diversity of workforce. Intercultural communication covers a wide variety of attitudes, perceptions and values. Language also plays an important role in communication as illustrated by the communicative, explanatory, regulatory and interrogative functions. The differences between American and British English illustrate the complexity of the process. The situation is more complex in South African organisations as there are eleven official languages. Of these only English and Afrikaans are used in workplaces as business languages. The population census conducted in 1996 indicated that about 43% of South Africans are functionally, illiterate and this number can be as high as 52% amongst blacks. As a result the majority of South Africans have poor understanding of these languages as a result of historical problems. In this study business communication is studies in a South African organisation, Mintek, to establish the effectiveness of communication in that organisation. Questionnaires are used to test the opinions of the employees. The results are tabulated and interpreted. Relevant literature is brought in when discussing the results, recommendations are made aiming at improving communication within Mintek.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Msada, Sicelo Ncelashe
- Date: 2014-02-05
- Subjects: Business communication , Interpersonal communication , Diversity in the workplace , Management - Employee participation , Council for Mineral Technology (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/387120 , uj:3625 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9003
- Description: M.Comm. (Business Management) , Communication in a business environment is an aspect that cannot be replaced. Theoretical considerations as revealed by literature indicate that the process is a complicated process. In this study, this is proven by the different types such as information theory which is concerned with the transmission aspects of communication process. The impact that information theory has had on the study of communication is analogous to the tremendous influence that quantitative techniques have had on management decision-making. Interpersonal communication emphasises transference of information from one person to another. It has both verbal and non-verbal forms. In verbal communication there is direct contact between parties involved. In non-verbal communication body postures are used as a means of communication. Written communication involves transmitting information through written word. Business communication within organisations is also influenced by other factors related to the diversity of workforce. Intercultural communication covers a wide variety of attitudes, perceptions and values. Language also plays an important role in communication as illustrated by the communicative, explanatory, regulatory and interrogative functions. The differences between American and British English illustrate the complexity of the process. The situation is more complex in South African organisations as there are eleven official languages. Of these only English and Afrikaans are used in workplaces as business languages. The population census conducted in 1996 indicated that about 43% of South Africans are functionally, illiterate and this number can be as high as 52% amongst blacks. As a result the majority of South Africans have poor understanding of these languages as a result of historical problems. In this study business communication is studies in a South African organisation, Mintek, to establish the effectiveness of communication in that organisation. Questionnaires are used to test the opinions of the employees. The results are tabulated and interpreted. Relevant literature is brought in when discussing the results, recommendations are made aiming at improving communication within Mintek.
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Communication needs towards developing a communication strategy in the public sector
- Authors: Van den Berg, Juanita
- Date: 2012-08-27
- Subjects: Business communication , Communication in organizations , Intercultural communication
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3166 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6582
- Description: M.Comm. , The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry's (DWAF) Directorate Waste Discharge and Disposal, as well as personnel in its Regional Offices, has identified a need to communicate with various target audiences with regard to water quality and the management thereof in South Africa. As a sub-directorate of the directorate Waste Discharge and Disposal, Mining has to develop a sub-strategy for Mining as part of the Framework Communication Strategy for Waste Discharge and Disposal as a whole. A communication strategy is a framework document that clearly outlines the rationale for, and desired outcomes of, the organisation's information campaign (Government Communications Unit, undated). The primary objective of the research is to do an in-depth literature study regarding communication and communication needs towards developing an effective communication strategy. Secondary objectives include the following: Providing a reference document for officials tasked with developing a communication strategy within the Directorate Waste Discharge and Disposal; and Presenting a document that outlines the theory of communication in organisation, thereby assisting with the development of an effective communication strategy. The communication strategy should define very specific objectives to provide a clear framework within which to formulate strategies, and against which to evaluate outcomes. Currently a Framework Communication Strategy for Waste Discharge and Disposal exists. Each sub-directorate has to develop its own sector-specific communication strategy. The sub-directorate Mining has various stakeholders. The sub-directorate Mining do not know what the stakeholders' needs are regarding communication with DWAF on Mining and water quality. This lack of communication leads to misunderstandings with regard to policy and regulations. Erasmus-Kritzinger (2004:12) points out that communicating effectively with clients and employees has the following advantages for an organisation: Better employee and customer relationships, Saving time and money, More effective decision-making, Successful problem-solving, Increased productivity. The Government Communication Unit of Australia states that all communication campaigns must be based on thorough research. While this research can certainly contribute to the development of the communication strategy, and can often provide some valuable insights into the target audience's attitudes to the program, it is unlikely to be able to provide information about specific communication issues that are needed to write up a communication strategy. As such, it is likely that some developmental communication research is required to fill gaps in existing knowledge. The findings of this research will assist the development of the communication strategy. The method of research used with this dissertation is that of a literature study. A literature survey will be conducted on the latest trends in the fields of communication and communication strategies. The main source of information will be journal articles as well as recently published books. The information collected will be described, analysed, interpreted and evaluated on a qualitative basis to develop a communication strategy taking into account communication theory and communication needs. It is hoped that the conclusions drawn and propositions made at the end of this research will constitute a meaningful contribution towards the ultimate development of a communication strategy for the sub-directorate Mining within DWAF's Directorate Waste Discharge and Disposal.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van den Berg, Juanita
- Date: 2012-08-27
- Subjects: Business communication , Communication in organizations , Intercultural communication
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3166 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6582
- Description: M.Comm. , The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry's (DWAF) Directorate Waste Discharge and Disposal, as well as personnel in its Regional Offices, has identified a need to communicate with various target audiences with regard to water quality and the management thereof in South Africa. As a sub-directorate of the directorate Waste Discharge and Disposal, Mining has to develop a sub-strategy for Mining as part of the Framework Communication Strategy for Waste Discharge and Disposal as a whole. A communication strategy is a framework document that clearly outlines the rationale for, and desired outcomes of, the organisation's information campaign (Government Communications Unit, undated). The primary objective of the research is to do an in-depth literature study regarding communication and communication needs towards developing an effective communication strategy. Secondary objectives include the following: Providing a reference document for officials tasked with developing a communication strategy within the Directorate Waste Discharge and Disposal; and Presenting a document that outlines the theory of communication in organisation, thereby assisting with the development of an effective communication strategy. The communication strategy should define very specific objectives to provide a clear framework within which to formulate strategies, and against which to evaluate outcomes. Currently a Framework Communication Strategy for Waste Discharge and Disposal exists. Each sub-directorate has to develop its own sector-specific communication strategy. The sub-directorate Mining has various stakeholders. The sub-directorate Mining do not know what the stakeholders' needs are regarding communication with DWAF on Mining and water quality. This lack of communication leads to misunderstandings with regard to policy and regulations. Erasmus-Kritzinger (2004:12) points out that communicating effectively with clients and employees has the following advantages for an organisation: Better employee and customer relationships, Saving time and money, More effective decision-making, Successful problem-solving, Increased productivity. The Government Communication Unit of Australia states that all communication campaigns must be based on thorough research. While this research can certainly contribute to the development of the communication strategy, and can often provide some valuable insights into the target audience's attitudes to the program, it is unlikely to be able to provide information about specific communication issues that are needed to write up a communication strategy. As such, it is likely that some developmental communication research is required to fill gaps in existing knowledge. The findings of this research will assist the development of the communication strategy. The method of research used with this dissertation is that of a literature study. A literature survey will be conducted on the latest trends in the fields of communication and communication strategies. The main source of information will be journal articles as well as recently published books. The information collected will be described, analysed, interpreted and evaluated on a qualitative basis to develop a communication strategy taking into account communication theory and communication needs. It is hoped that the conclusions drawn and propositions made at the end of this research will constitute a meaningful contribution towards the ultimate development of a communication strategy for the sub-directorate Mining within DWAF's Directorate Waste Discharge and Disposal.
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The branding role that product labelling plays within integrated marketing communication
- Authors: Hasert, Rudolf Karl
- Date: 2012-01-25
- Subjects: Brand name products management , Business communication , Branding management , Marketing management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/376972 , uj:1968 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4325
- Description: M.A. , This study focuses on empirically determining the branding role that product labelling plays as a strategic element in Integrated Marketing Communication functioning within the food and beverage industry. This research topic was selected for a number of reasons. Firstly, there is a general misconception of the definition of the term Integrated Marketing Communication. Secondly, there is also an emergence of the perception that labelling plays an important role as a strategic element in Integrated Marketing Communication functioning. Thirdly, there is also speculation regarding what this actual role is, that labelling plays within the Integrated Marketing Communication functioning. Fourthly, on closer investigation, it becomes evident that although there is a degree of literaturebased evidence that identifies the role that product labelling plays (within Integrated Marketing Communication), as that of branding, there is no empirical research to substantiate these claims. For these combined reasons there is a direct need for research into these issues. To facilitate the effective fulfilment of the research goals, there was a thorough examination of the theoretical literature available and the completion of an empirical study. Furthermore it was found that the examination of the branding role that product labelling plays as a strategic element in Integrated Marketing Communication functioning would be attainable if the research goal was restricted to a manageable field. To satisfy this aim, the study was focused on the food and beverage industry. The key terms of branding as well as Integrated Marketing Communication were investigated and defined. From the literature available, the branding role that product labelling plays as a strategic element in Integrated Marketing Communication functioning was examined and also defined. From this context it was found that ample evidence was available to conduct empirical research into this area. It became clear that the identification of the branding role that product labelling plays as a strategic element in Integrated Marketing Communication functioning within the food and beverage industry would rest upon the identification of the transmission of functional and non-functional attributes, consequences and values to consumers via verbal and visual images. The method best suited to identifying the transmission of these values was shown to be that of qualitative research. The proof of the transmission of these functions within the sample formed the focus of the empirical study. Ultimately this proof would illustrate the branding role of labelling. Within the context of the qualitative research, it was shown that the most appropriate approach to identify the transmission of functionality was through the use of the Means-end theory utilising the laddering technique. Within the context of the research document through the laddering technique, it also became apparent that there is a clear role that product labelling plays as a strategic element in Integrated Marketing Communication functioning within the food and beverage industry. It is also evident through literature-based and empirical evidence that this role is one ofbranding.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Hasert, Rudolf Karl
- Date: 2012-01-25
- Subjects: Brand name products management , Business communication , Branding management , Marketing management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/376972 , uj:1968 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4325
- Description: M.A. , This study focuses on empirically determining the branding role that product labelling plays as a strategic element in Integrated Marketing Communication functioning within the food and beverage industry. This research topic was selected for a number of reasons. Firstly, there is a general misconception of the definition of the term Integrated Marketing Communication. Secondly, there is also an emergence of the perception that labelling plays an important role as a strategic element in Integrated Marketing Communication functioning. Thirdly, there is also speculation regarding what this actual role is, that labelling plays within the Integrated Marketing Communication functioning. Fourthly, on closer investigation, it becomes evident that although there is a degree of literaturebased evidence that identifies the role that product labelling plays (within Integrated Marketing Communication), as that of branding, there is no empirical research to substantiate these claims. For these combined reasons there is a direct need for research into these issues. To facilitate the effective fulfilment of the research goals, there was a thorough examination of the theoretical literature available and the completion of an empirical study. Furthermore it was found that the examination of the branding role that product labelling plays as a strategic element in Integrated Marketing Communication functioning would be attainable if the research goal was restricted to a manageable field. To satisfy this aim, the study was focused on the food and beverage industry. The key terms of branding as well as Integrated Marketing Communication were investigated and defined. From the literature available, the branding role that product labelling plays as a strategic element in Integrated Marketing Communication functioning was examined and also defined. From this context it was found that ample evidence was available to conduct empirical research into this area. It became clear that the identification of the branding role that product labelling plays as a strategic element in Integrated Marketing Communication functioning within the food and beverage industry would rest upon the identification of the transmission of functional and non-functional attributes, consequences and values to consumers via verbal and visual images. The method best suited to identifying the transmission of these values was shown to be that of qualitative research. The proof of the transmission of these functions within the sample formed the focus of the empirical study. Ultimately this proof would illustrate the branding role of labelling. Within the context of the qualitative research, it was shown that the most appropriate approach to identify the transmission of functionality was through the use of the Means-end theory utilising the laddering technique. Within the context of the research document through the laddering technique, it also became apparent that there is a clear role that product labelling plays as a strategic element in Integrated Marketing Communication functioning within the food and beverage industry. It is also evident through literature-based and empirical evidence that this role is one ofbranding.
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Environmental and social reporting as a tool for dialogue with stakeholders in the Highveld region
- Authors: Mboshane, Makoma Maureen
- Date: 2010-11-09T06:24:19Z
- Subjects: Industrial management , Corporate governance , Business communication , Social responsibility of business
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/369839 , uj:6955 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3464
- Description: M.Comm. , Challenges to businesses have become ever more complex and unpredictable in a fast changing and globalised world. Businesses continuously have to find ways to respond to pressing challenges that were not on the agenda in the past two decades. The traditional stakeholder base has broadened and includes diverse groups of interested parties inside and outside the boundaries of business. The business imperative is now the ability to balance the conflicting demands of its various stakeholders. Businesses are anxious to protect their reputation and to comply with legislation, however, growing stakeholder activism signals emerging gaps or barriers between organisational methods and stakeholder expectations. Broader stakeholder engagement and collaboration to find a win-win solution to these concerns, while valuing stakeholder relationships is key to unlocking value in today’s ramified network based economy. Businesses need to establish meaningful collaborative communication with stakeholders. The possibility to enter into dialogue and advocate greater transparency and information disclosure per stakeholder group is highly recommended. It is also recommended that business consider a shift from stakeholder management to stakeholder collaboration practices.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mboshane, Makoma Maureen
- Date: 2010-11-09T06:24:19Z
- Subjects: Industrial management , Corporate governance , Business communication , Social responsibility of business
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/369839 , uj:6955 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3464
- Description: M.Comm. , Challenges to businesses have become ever more complex and unpredictable in a fast changing and globalised world. Businesses continuously have to find ways to respond to pressing challenges that were not on the agenda in the past two decades. The traditional stakeholder base has broadened and includes diverse groups of interested parties inside and outside the boundaries of business. The business imperative is now the ability to balance the conflicting demands of its various stakeholders. Businesses are anxious to protect their reputation and to comply with legislation, however, growing stakeholder activism signals emerging gaps or barriers between organisational methods and stakeholder expectations. Broader stakeholder engagement and collaboration to find a win-win solution to these concerns, while valuing stakeholder relationships is key to unlocking value in today’s ramified network based economy. Businesses need to establish meaningful collaborative communication with stakeholders. The possibility to enter into dialogue and advocate greater transparency and information disclosure per stakeholder group is highly recommended. It is also recommended that business consider a shift from stakeholder management to stakeholder collaboration practices.
- Full Text:
Information overload in the South African banking industry
- Authors: Burger, Elsa
- Date: 2008-05-14T10:48:05Z
- Subjects: Information resources management , Information technology , Electronic mail systems , Business communication , Banks and banking information resources
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7230 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/387
- Description: At present, the average employee is being bombarded with an ever-increasing number of messages information on his/her company, its products and services, as well as information on its strategy all flooding in from a myriad of sources, including internal vehicles such as e-mail, the intranet, management memoranda, internal publications, as well as the external media, such as the Internet, the local newspaper, television news and national business and industry magazines. The term “information overload” is usually understood to present a state of affairs where an individual’s efficiency in using information in his/her work is hampered by a surplus amount of relevant and potentially useful information available to him/her. The principal aim of this study, therefore, is to establish the extent and impact of information overload on the knowledge worker in the banking industry, with special reference to the part that e-mail technology plays in the creation of such overload. Broadcasting, the telephone and the Internet have revolutionised the way in which workers communicate around the globe. Electronic-messaging systems such as e-mail have become the medium of choice in many organisations, and hold significant and valuable business data, information and knowledge. These systems have had a profound impact on the way in which personal and business communications are effected in the office. With e-mail having acquired mission-critical status, a number of concomitant circumstances and consequences have arisen that present organisations, such as banks, with a variety of challenges, among which • the impact on employees’ productivity, owing to the time spent on e-mailing activities • employees’ attitudes towards e-mail • compliance with corporate policies, such as those policies governing electronic communication and computer use • surveillance and monitoring of e-mail • the quest for finding formal archiving solutions. , Prof. C.W. Rensleigh
- Full Text:
- Authors: Burger, Elsa
- Date: 2008-05-14T10:48:05Z
- Subjects: Information resources management , Information technology , Electronic mail systems , Business communication , Banks and banking information resources
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7230 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/387
- Description: At present, the average employee is being bombarded with an ever-increasing number of messages information on his/her company, its products and services, as well as information on its strategy all flooding in from a myriad of sources, including internal vehicles such as e-mail, the intranet, management memoranda, internal publications, as well as the external media, such as the Internet, the local newspaper, television news and national business and industry magazines. The term “information overload” is usually understood to present a state of affairs where an individual’s efficiency in using information in his/her work is hampered by a surplus amount of relevant and potentially useful information available to him/her. The principal aim of this study, therefore, is to establish the extent and impact of information overload on the knowledge worker in the banking industry, with special reference to the part that e-mail technology plays in the creation of such overload. Broadcasting, the telephone and the Internet have revolutionised the way in which workers communicate around the globe. Electronic-messaging systems such as e-mail have become the medium of choice in many organisations, and hold significant and valuable business data, information and knowledge. These systems have had a profound impact on the way in which personal and business communications are effected in the office. With e-mail having acquired mission-critical status, a number of concomitant circumstances and consequences have arisen that present organisations, such as banks, with a variety of challenges, among which • the impact on employees’ productivity, owing to the time spent on e-mailing activities • employees’ attitudes towards e-mail • compliance with corporate policies, such as those policies governing electronic communication and computer use • surveillance and monitoring of e-mail • the quest for finding formal archiving solutions. , Prof. C.W. Rensleigh
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