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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Corporate message strategy of multinational organisations : a case study analysis
- Authors: Tsafack, Mbong Akiy Fokwa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Communication in organizations , International business enterprises , Intercultural communication
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/260994 , uj:27501
- Description: M.A. , Abstract: The advent of globalisation, and the proliferation of multinational organisations (MNOs), have created new dynamics for communicators within organisations whose operations span geographical and/or cultural boundaries. While many theorists have looked at the communication approaches common within MNOs, and advanced the need for standardisation, localisation, and adaptation, few studies have looked at communication within MNOs in terms of the creation and design of consistent message strategy. More so, the bulk of research in the field relates to a western market context. This differs notably from the realities in an emerging market context. This research attempts to provide clarity about the aspects that influence corporate communication message strategy within MNOs, and the extent to which multicultural variables are taken into account in the design of message strategy for diverse cultural contexts. The research examines how corporate message strategy is determined by MNOs, and how the message strategy is designed to accommodate the diverse cultural characteristics reflected in the different contexts in which multinational companies (MNCs) operate. The study also attempts to understand how organisational structures (such as the culture of organisations, and/or the management approaches that they adopt and encourage) shape the message strategy for (MNCs); and, how the message strategy differs when it is built into a modernist, versus a post-modernist paradigm. It is argued that MNOs exhibit different cultures, and generally adopt one of three management approaches. These have an impact on the communication strategy and, consequently, on the message strategy. Organisations with an open and flexible culture tend to be more localised in their approach to communication strategies; while closed organisations, described as rigid and strict, tend to be more standardised in their approach to communication and message strategy. However, several organisations have found a middle ground between the extremes of centralisation and decentralisation with a third approach – that is, coordinated decentralisation. Consistent with the management approach, organisations tend to use the adaptation approach in their communication strategies when they are challenged by the extremes of localisation and standardisation.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tsafack, Mbong Akiy Fokwa
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Communication in organizations , International business enterprises , Intercultural communication
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/260994 , uj:27501
- Description: M.A. , Abstract: The advent of globalisation, and the proliferation of multinational organisations (MNOs), have created new dynamics for communicators within organisations whose operations span geographical and/or cultural boundaries. While many theorists have looked at the communication approaches common within MNOs, and advanced the need for standardisation, localisation, and adaptation, few studies have looked at communication within MNOs in terms of the creation and design of consistent message strategy. More so, the bulk of research in the field relates to a western market context. This differs notably from the realities in an emerging market context. This research attempts to provide clarity about the aspects that influence corporate communication message strategy within MNOs, and the extent to which multicultural variables are taken into account in the design of message strategy for diverse cultural contexts. The research examines how corporate message strategy is determined by MNOs, and how the message strategy is designed to accommodate the diverse cultural characteristics reflected in the different contexts in which multinational companies (MNCs) operate. The study also attempts to understand how organisational structures (such as the culture of organisations, and/or the management approaches that they adopt and encourage) shape the message strategy for (MNCs); and, how the message strategy differs when it is built into a modernist, versus a post-modernist paradigm. It is argued that MNOs exhibit different cultures, and generally adopt one of three management approaches. These have an impact on the communication strategy and, consequently, on the message strategy. Organisations with an open and flexible culture tend to be more localised in their approach to communication strategies; while closed organisations, described as rigid and strict, tend to be more standardised in their approach to communication and message strategy. However, several organisations have found a middle ground between the extremes of centralisation and decentralisation with a third approach – that is, coordinated decentralisation. Consistent with the management approach, organisations tend to use the adaptation approach in their communication strategies when they are challenged by the extremes of localisation and standardisation.
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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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The role of participative communication towards a company's ascend to 'world class' status
- Authors: Nkadimeng, Mmabje Moffat
- Date: 2012-09-07
- Subjects: Industrial relations , Communication in organizations , Globalization , Employees - Attitudes , Work ethic , Employees - Training of
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9743 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7152
- Description: M.Phil. , This study aimed at indicating that participative communication plays an important role in ensuring that a company ascent to 'world-class' status. In order for a typical South African company to become 'world-class' it must overcome a number of hurdles namely: employees' attitudes in South African organisations; productivity and competitiveness; education, and training and development; absence of work ethics and values; the corpse shadow theory; crime; HIV/AIDS and emigration. The question of companies to become 'world-class' is imperative because of the phenomenon of globalisation. The globalisation is the state of affairs economically, politically and to a certain degree socially and scientifically in which the world has been reduced to a tonal 'global village'. The 'global village' is thus a 'global market place' in which South Africa found itself thrown into after 1994, after a long winter and cocoon of economic and political isolation of pre-1994 years. South African companies found that their contemporaries are afar in the fierce economic race. The 'global market' is a battlefield in which companies (locally and internationally) fight for acquisition of lion's share in the market, retention and attraction of skilful and talented workers. The worker suitable for the 'global labour market' simply move around the globe and so does money in billions of dollars. The level- of technology is high, states' borders are `torn' to allow free movement of knowledge, information, money and skilled workers and resources. To survive in this battlefield companies (countries) must be thus productive, profitable and competitive. The study shows South Africa as being typically sluggish: showing low ranking in terms of performance economically (productivity, profitability and competitiveness). To become productive the managers and employees must change from their confrontational attitudes of the 'them versus us', adopt a 'pentotal' employment relations mindset that take the customers and shareholders into account as stakeholders. The customers want to pay for service or product of value. Thus the role and place of core values in participative work culture is addressed in this study.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nkadimeng, Mmabje Moffat
- Date: 2012-09-07
- Subjects: Industrial relations , Communication in organizations , Globalization , Employees - Attitudes , Work ethic , Employees - Training of
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9743 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7152
- Description: M.Phil. , This study aimed at indicating that participative communication plays an important role in ensuring that a company ascent to 'world-class' status. In order for a typical South African company to become 'world-class' it must overcome a number of hurdles namely: employees' attitudes in South African organisations; productivity and competitiveness; education, and training and development; absence of work ethics and values; the corpse shadow theory; crime; HIV/AIDS and emigration. The question of companies to become 'world-class' is imperative because of the phenomenon of globalisation. The globalisation is the state of affairs economically, politically and to a certain degree socially and scientifically in which the world has been reduced to a tonal 'global village'. The 'global village' is thus a 'global market place' in which South Africa found itself thrown into after 1994, after a long winter and cocoon of economic and political isolation of pre-1994 years. South African companies found that their contemporaries are afar in the fierce economic race. The 'global market' is a battlefield in which companies (locally and internationally) fight for acquisition of lion's share in the market, retention and attraction of skilful and talented workers. The worker suitable for the 'global labour market' simply move around the globe and so does money in billions of dollars. The level- of technology is high, states' borders are `torn' to allow free movement of knowledge, information, money and skilled workers and resources. To survive in this battlefield companies (countries) must be thus productive, profitable and competitive. The study shows South Africa as being typically sluggish: showing low ranking in terms of performance economically (productivity, profitability and competitiveness). To become productive the managers and employees must change from their confrontational attitudes of the 'them versus us', adopt a 'pentotal' employment relations mindset that take the customers and shareholders into account as stakeholders. The customers want to pay for service or product of value. Thus the role and place of core values in participative work culture is addressed in this study.
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The role of internal marketing in building corporate reputation in South African retail banking, particularly ABSA
- Authors: Mokgoatlheng, Jacob Elias
- Date: 2012-06-05
- Subjects: Banks and banking , Corporate image , Communication in organizations , ABSA Bank , Reputation
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:2459 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4916
- Description: M.Comm. , Many authors perceive corporate reputation as one of the important intangibles for organisations. It is therefore important that organisations manage corporate reputation effectively. There are several ways by which organisations can build and maintain corporate reputation. One such way is through using internal marketing. This study intends to explore the research problem that is presented in the form of a question. What is the role that internal marketing can play to help Absa as a retail bank in South Africa build its corporate reputation?
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- Authors: Mokgoatlheng, Jacob Elias
- Date: 2012-06-05
- Subjects: Banks and banking , Corporate image , Communication in organizations , ABSA Bank , Reputation
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:2459 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4916
- Description: M.Comm. , Many authors perceive corporate reputation as one of the important intangibles for organisations. It is therefore important that organisations manage corporate reputation effectively. There are several ways by which organisations can build and maintain corporate reputation. One such way is through using internal marketing. This study intends to explore the research problem that is presented in the form of a question. What is the role that internal marketing can play to help Absa as a retail bank in South Africa build its corporate reputation?
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An engineering management analysis of communication management systems in an organization that supplies the mining industry
- Authors: Meid, Andreas
- Date: 2015-06-26
- Subjects: Engineering - Management , Communication in organizations , Mineral industries - Equipment and supplies , Project management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/381983 , uj:13622 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13803
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Broadly speaking, communication forms an integral component of everyone’s daily activities, be it on a personal level amongst family and friends, or in a professional environment. In many instances, the ability of project teams to communicate effectively and efficiently is taken for granted by project managers, which can result in projects being late or incomplete. However, the importance of Project Communications Management is evident in the fact that the Project Management Institute (PMI) dedicates a chapter to Project Communications Management in the PMBOK® Guide. The current research seeks to understand what effect communication has on a project, and how it can be successfully managed during a project. The research in the form of a case study investigated the state of communications within a project department, with the aim of identifying whether a lack of communication during a project is a contributing factor to projects being late or incorrect. The department in question is responsible for supplying the mining industry with critical conveyor drive equipment. The case study research was conducted utilizing the procedure outlined in the Organizational Project Management Maturity Model (OPM3®). The research found that certain areas in the department lacked the basic requirements for effective communications, and that a lack of communication between various stakeholders during a project could negatively influence the success of a project. These findings were compared to those of independent research by the PMI into global trends of project communications. The important aspects relating to Project Communication Management were discussed, and a workable solution to the problem was proposed. It was found that by implementing a communication plan in the department, and encouraging a culture of open and honest communications, the organization can expect to see an improvement in project success.
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- Authors: Meid, Andreas
- Date: 2015-06-26
- Subjects: Engineering - Management , Communication in organizations , Mineral industries - Equipment and supplies , Project management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/381983 , uj:13622 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13803
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Broadly speaking, communication forms an integral component of everyone’s daily activities, be it on a personal level amongst family and friends, or in a professional environment. In many instances, the ability of project teams to communicate effectively and efficiently is taken for granted by project managers, which can result in projects being late or incomplete. However, the importance of Project Communications Management is evident in the fact that the Project Management Institute (PMI) dedicates a chapter to Project Communications Management in the PMBOK® Guide. The current research seeks to understand what effect communication has on a project, and how it can be successfully managed during a project. The research in the form of a case study investigated the state of communications within a project department, with the aim of identifying whether a lack of communication during a project is a contributing factor to projects being late or incorrect. The department in question is responsible for supplying the mining industry with critical conveyor drive equipment. The case study research was conducted utilizing the procedure outlined in the Organizational Project Management Maturity Model (OPM3®). The research found that certain areas in the department lacked the basic requirements for effective communications, and that a lack of communication between various stakeholders during a project could negatively influence the success of a project. These findings were compared to those of independent research by the PMI into global trends of project communications. The important aspects relating to Project Communication Management were discussed, and a workable solution to the problem was proposed. It was found that by implementing a communication plan in the department, and encouraging a culture of open and honest communications, the organization can expect to see an improvement in project success.
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The impact of information and communication technology on service design and operations at ArcelorMittal South Africa
- Authors: Madonsela, Nelson Sizwe
- Date: 2015-06-25
- Subjects: Information resources management - Data procesing , Manufacturing industries - Information technology - South Africa , Manufacturing industries - Technological innovations - South Africa , Communication in organizations
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:13615 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13798
- Description: M.Tech. (Operations Management) , The South African manufacturing sector is considered the main driver of economic growth, but is falling behind in adopting and adequately using information and communication technology (ICT) to improve productivity and competitiveness. This is creating a constraint that hinders the manufacturing sector, adversely affecting its ability to access the global market and produce high value-added goods, and also to compete globally. Thus, the main objective of this dissertation is to gain an in-depth understanding of the impact of ICT on service design and operations to address barriers to manufacturing sector growth and to improve productivity and competitiveness. This study proposes an ICT-based service design model to increase productivity and competitiveness in the South African manufacturing sectors. It argues that the challenges faced can be addressed and that some of the solutions lie in the integration of ICT into service design and operations processes. The research adopted an interpretive approach through qualitative methods and, was carried out as a single case study using ArcelorMittal South Africa for which a purposive sampling technique was considered appropriate. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and tape recorded and analysed through descriptive procedures. The findings suggest that ICT diffuses rapidly, creating opportunities and challenges for manufacturing companies. In addition it was found out that the adoption and adequate use of ICT depends on the implementation phase. This is when most challenges and impacts are experienced: for example, technological capability, technical skills, resources and ICT infrastructure capabilities. In addition, the findings suggest that a more educated workforce possesses the capability to acquire the necessary skills, in the form of self-education to overcome any challenges encountered. Evidence also shows that companies are facing challenges in relation to the selection and integration of the right technologies due to lack of ICT expertise. Therefore, this research proposes an ICT-based service design model to increase productivity and global competitiveness in the manufacturing sectors in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Madonsela, Nelson Sizwe
- Date: 2015-06-25
- Subjects: Information resources management - Data procesing , Manufacturing industries - Information technology - South Africa , Manufacturing industries - Technological innovations - South Africa , Communication in organizations
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:13615 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13798
- Description: M.Tech. (Operations Management) , The South African manufacturing sector is considered the main driver of economic growth, but is falling behind in adopting and adequately using information and communication technology (ICT) to improve productivity and competitiveness. This is creating a constraint that hinders the manufacturing sector, adversely affecting its ability to access the global market and produce high value-added goods, and also to compete globally. Thus, the main objective of this dissertation is to gain an in-depth understanding of the impact of ICT on service design and operations to address barriers to manufacturing sector growth and to improve productivity and competitiveness. This study proposes an ICT-based service design model to increase productivity and competitiveness in the South African manufacturing sectors. It argues that the challenges faced can be addressed and that some of the solutions lie in the integration of ICT into service design and operations processes. The research adopted an interpretive approach through qualitative methods and, was carried out as a single case study using ArcelorMittal South Africa for which a purposive sampling technique was considered appropriate. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and tape recorded and analysed through descriptive procedures. The findings suggest that ICT diffuses rapidly, creating opportunities and challenges for manufacturing companies. In addition it was found out that the adoption and adequate use of ICT depends on the implementation phase. This is when most challenges and impacts are experienced: for example, technological capability, technical skills, resources and ICT infrastructure capabilities. In addition, the findings suggest that a more educated workforce possesses the capability to acquire the necessary skills, in the form of self-education to overcome any challenges encountered. Evidence also shows that companies are facing challenges in relation to the selection and integration of the right technologies due to lack of ICT expertise. Therefore, this research proposes an ICT-based service design model to increase productivity and global competitiveness in the manufacturing sectors in South Africa.
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Clarity and specificity of organisational change communication
- Authors: Louw, Geraldene
- Date: 2013-11-21
- Subjects: Organizational change - Management , Communication in organizations
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7779 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8674
- Description: M.Comm. (Industrial Psychology) , A substantial number of factors play a role in an individual’s acceptance of organisational change. Individuals experience a personal transition process when organisational change occurs, and as part of that process they react to organisational change in different ways. Individuals also form perceptions based on the factors that influence the acceptance of organisational change. This study focused on the manner in which organisational change is communicated to employees. Specific attention was paid to the level of detail versus the vagueness of the communication, and the reactions and perceptions as a result were explored. The sample population consisted of 36 Call Centre Consultants, selected from a Financial Institution, who were divided into three groups. Participant views on organisational change, the communication thereof and their emotional stance were assessed, after which two treatment groups received a written change announcement varying in specificity of information. Following, the views concerning the organisational change described in the written memorandum and emotional responses, as a result of the announcement were assessed. The study found that the specificity vs. ambiguity of a change communication does impact employees and influence their perceptions and emotional experience of the change. However, the nature of the change communication is not necessarily the only contributor to the employees’ acceptance of change. Further research is necessary to facilitate understanding of the contribution by other factors and the extent of each contribution.
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- Authors: Louw, Geraldene
- Date: 2013-11-21
- Subjects: Organizational change - Management , Communication in organizations
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7779 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8674
- Description: M.Comm. (Industrial Psychology) , A substantial number of factors play a role in an individual’s acceptance of organisational change. Individuals experience a personal transition process when organisational change occurs, and as part of that process they react to organisational change in different ways. Individuals also form perceptions based on the factors that influence the acceptance of organisational change. This study focused on the manner in which organisational change is communicated to employees. Specific attention was paid to the level of detail versus the vagueness of the communication, and the reactions and perceptions as a result were explored. The sample population consisted of 36 Call Centre Consultants, selected from a Financial Institution, who were divided into three groups. Participant views on organisational change, the communication thereof and their emotional stance were assessed, after which two treatment groups received a written change announcement varying in specificity of information. Following, the views concerning the organisational change described in the written memorandum and emotional responses, as a result of the announcement were assessed. The study found that the specificity vs. ambiguity of a change communication does impact employees and influence their perceptions and emotional experience of the change. However, the nature of the change communication is not necessarily the only contributor to the employees’ acceptance of change. Further research is necessary to facilitate understanding of the contribution by other factors and the extent of each contribution.
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The influence of ICT tools and project management maturity on virtual team performance
- Authors: Katane, Jacqueline
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Virtual work teams , Communication in organizations , Teams in the workplace - Computer networks , Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/282975 , uj:30503
- Description: Abstract: The expansion of organisations causes them into offering their products or services and/or consuming products and services that are offered abroad. It is no longer sufficient for organisations to operate locally if their desire is to reach their full potential. Broadening their scope provides the organisations with the desired growth. For the link between organisations and their offshore customers or suppliers to exist there needs to be communication across borders. Teams are formed between the different employees from the different locations to achieve a specified goal. The team members are not co-located and they need the assistance of information communications technology (ICT) tools to communicate with one another. This kind of team is referred to as a virtual team. A lot of attention has been given to virtual teams over the years but despite this attention, there is still little knowledge available about how to manage them (Dulebohn & Hoch, 2017). This indicates that there is still an opportunity to explore the success factors of virtual teams. Poor management of projects can cause the failure of a project (Anantatmula & Rad, 2013). This suggests that an organisation should invest in the maturity of their project management to ensure the success of their virtual projects. The research goal is to investigate the influence that information and communication technology tools and project management maturity has on the performance of virtual teams. This research looks at extended factors on virtual team performance which are: leadership, communication and trust. A good leader needs to have good communication skills in order to successfully coordinate a virtual team. Trust is needed for the virtual team to have honest communication among themselves. Face to face contact in virtual teams is minimal to none, affecting the performance of a virtual team and impacting on the authority and leadership in the virtual team. This also has an impact on the trust among virtual team members and the level of accountability by virtual team members. Virtual teams rely on ICT tools for communication and these tools are emerging at a frequent rate. This research aims to discover if keeping up with emerging ICT tools can supply virtual team members with improved communication which in turn will improve their performance... , M.Tech. (Applied Information Systems)
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- Authors: Katane, Jacqueline
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Virtual work teams , Communication in organizations , Teams in the workplace - Computer networks , Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/282975 , uj:30503
- Description: Abstract: The expansion of organisations causes them into offering their products or services and/or consuming products and services that are offered abroad. It is no longer sufficient for organisations to operate locally if their desire is to reach their full potential. Broadening their scope provides the organisations with the desired growth. For the link between organisations and their offshore customers or suppliers to exist there needs to be communication across borders. Teams are formed between the different employees from the different locations to achieve a specified goal. The team members are not co-located and they need the assistance of information communications technology (ICT) tools to communicate with one another. This kind of team is referred to as a virtual team. A lot of attention has been given to virtual teams over the years but despite this attention, there is still little knowledge available about how to manage them (Dulebohn & Hoch, 2017). This indicates that there is still an opportunity to explore the success factors of virtual teams. Poor management of projects can cause the failure of a project (Anantatmula & Rad, 2013). This suggests that an organisation should invest in the maturity of their project management to ensure the success of their virtual projects. The research goal is to investigate the influence that information and communication technology tools and project management maturity has on the performance of virtual teams. This research looks at extended factors on virtual team performance which are: leadership, communication and trust. A good leader needs to have good communication skills in order to successfully coordinate a virtual team. Trust is needed for the virtual team to have honest communication among themselves. Face to face contact in virtual teams is minimal to none, affecting the performance of a virtual team and impacting on the authority and leadership in the virtual team. This also has an impact on the trust among virtual team members and the level of accountability by virtual team members. Virtual teams rely on ICT tools for communication and these tools are emerging at a frequent rate. This research aims to discover if keeping up with emerging ICT tools can supply virtual team members with improved communication which in turn will improve their performance... , M.Tech. (Applied Information Systems)
- Full Text:
An evaluation of the role of knowledge transfer when implementing best business practices
- Authors: Huysamen, Christina Alida
- Date: 2012-01-24
- Subjects: Communication in organizations , Critical thinking
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:1942 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4301
- Description: M.Comm.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Huysamen, Christina Alida
- Date: 2012-01-24
- Subjects: Communication in organizations , Critical thinking
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:1942 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4301
- Description: M.Comm.
- Full Text:
The role of public relations theory and research in a postmodern approach to communication management in the organisation
- Authors: Holtzhausen, Derina Rhoda
- Date: 2014-10-20
- Subjects: Communication in organizations , Public relations - Management , Postmodernism
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:12621 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/12441
- Description: Ph.D. (Communication Studies) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
- Authors: Holtzhausen, Derina Rhoda
- Date: 2014-10-20
- Subjects: Communication in organizations , Public relations - Management , Postmodernism
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:12621 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/12441
- Description: Ph.D. (Communication Studies) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
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)
- Full Text:
Using virtual team project communication as a means of predicting virtual team effectiveness
- Authors: Erasmus, Estheé
- Date: 2012-09-07
- Subjects: Virtual work teams , Communication in organizations , Virtual work teams - Case studies
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9772 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7179
- Description: M.Phil. , This dissertation provides a study of Virtual Teams and possible ways of predicting their effectiveness. The motivation for carrying out this study was to discover if there was a way of quantifying why Virtual Teams used in a particular company was proving to be very effective. A brief literature study of the topic of Virtual Teams and Virtual Team communication is given, as well as an overview of different Communication Models. A case study is made of the particular company (called DevCo Software Development as a pseudonym for the sake of confidentiality). The case study presents the results of two online surveys. One survey sent to all the employees within the Labs Department and another sent to only the Virtual Team members of a specific Virtual Team within the Labs Department. The case study concludes with an analysis of the company culture and the effect it appears to have on the way the employees use technology and the effect of this on Virtual Team success.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Erasmus, Estheé
- Date: 2012-09-07
- Subjects: Virtual work teams , Communication in organizations , Virtual work teams - Case studies
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9772 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7179
- Description: M.Phil. , This dissertation provides a study of Virtual Teams and possible ways of predicting their effectiveness. The motivation for carrying out this study was to discover if there was a way of quantifying why Virtual Teams used in a particular company was proving to be very effective. A brief literature study of the topic of Virtual Teams and Virtual Team communication is given, as well as an overview of different Communication Models. A case study is made of the particular company (called DevCo Software Development as a pseudonym for the sake of confidentiality). The case study presents the results of two online surveys. One survey sent to all the employees within the Labs Department and another sent to only the Virtual Team members of a specific Virtual Team within the Labs Department. The case study concludes with an analysis of the company culture and the effect it appears to have on the way the employees use technology and the effect of this on Virtual Team success.
- Full Text:
Managing cultural diversity in information services
- Authors: Eister, Keitumetse Betsy
- Date: 2009-01-12T07:23:11Z
- Subjects: Diversity in the workplace , Personnel management , Communication in organizations , Libraries
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14778 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1856
- Description: M.Inf. , This study was conducted within the context of human resources management. The empirical investigation involved nine provincial library and information services. A questionnaire was sent to nine directors with the purpose of investigating how provincial library services have changed to accommodate needs of diverse human resources. The aims of the research were to explore the perceptions managers have on differences brought by diverse cultural backgrounds, and how they have aligned management practices to suit the changed needs. It was found from the empirical research that most of the managers are aware of the changes that have to take place, but very little has been done to address changes in a constructive, organised manner. Recommendations are made on specific areas that need to be addressed, with a view to efficiently manage employees who come from different cultural backgrounds.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Eister, Keitumetse Betsy
- Date: 2009-01-12T07:23:11Z
- Subjects: Diversity in the workplace , Personnel management , Communication in organizations , Libraries
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14778 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1856
- Description: M.Inf. , This study was conducted within the context of human resources management. The empirical investigation involved nine provincial library and information services. A questionnaire was sent to nine directors with the purpose of investigating how provincial library services have changed to accommodate needs of diverse human resources. The aims of the research were to explore the perceptions managers have on differences brought by diverse cultural backgrounds, and how they have aligned management practices to suit the changed needs. It was found from the empirical research that most of the managers are aware of the changes that have to take place, but very little has been done to address changes in a constructive, organised manner. Recommendations are made on specific areas that need to be addressed, with a view to efficiently manage employees who come from different cultural backgrounds.
- Full Text:
'n Model van organisatoriese kommunikasie
- Authors: Du Rand, Leon
- Date: 2015-11-13
- Subjects: Communication in organizations
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14571 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/15103
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Communication is the focal point of the enterprise. It is central to the control and survival of organisations, and is a prerequisite to effective management. Consequently it can be stated that communication pervades'the total managerial process, integrating the managerial functions and linking the enterprise with its environment. The present study set out to define the concept of communication and to develop a theoretically sound model of organisational communication with the objective of providing a frame of reference for future research. A literature survey was conducted during which the concept of communication was traced from its semantic origins through to contemporary interpretations thereof. A subject as complex as communication is best approached through an in-depth, comprehensive observation from different angles and varying perspectives. The variables in the communication process were discussed, utilising communication models as a theoretical framework. In addition, the role of perception in communication was reviewed. Communication variants and the concepts of enterprise, organisational environment. organisational communication structure. formal and informal communication channels were discussed. This review and subsequent analysis served as the theoretical foundation for conceiving a model of organisational communication. The components of organisational communication are presented in a model of organisational communication. The framework of organisational communication advanced in this model is multidimensional; it presents the concept of communication not as an isolated phenomenon or a singular, purely idealised process, but as interrelated constituent processes that operate at varying levels of complexity. Finally, a comment is made on the actuality of the organisational communication model and a multitude of research opportunities are indicated.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Du Rand, Leon
- Date: 2015-11-13
- Subjects: Communication in organizations
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14571 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/15103
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Communication is the focal point of the enterprise. It is central to the control and survival of organisations, and is a prerequisite to effective management. Consequently it can be stated that communication pervades'the total managerial process, integrating the managerial functions and linking the enterprise with its environment. The present study set out to define the concept of communication and to develop a theoretically sound model of organisational communication with the objective of providing a frame of reference for future research. A literature survey was conducted during which the concept of communication was traced from its semantic origins through to contemporary interpretations thereof. A subject as complex as communication is best approached through an in-depth, comprehensive observation from different angles and varying perspectives. The variables in the communication process were discussed, utilising communication models as a theoretical framework. In addition, the role of perception in communication was reviewed. Communication variants and the concepts of enterprise, organisational environment. organisational communication structure. formal and informal communication channels were discussed. This review and subsequent analysis served as the theoretical foundation for conceiving a model of organisational communication. The components of organisational communication are presented in a model of organisational communication. The framework of organisational communication advanced in this model is multidimensional; it presents the concept of communication not as an isolated phenomenon or a singular, purely idealised process, but as interrelated constituent processes that operate at varying levels of complexity. Finally, a comment is made on the actuality of the organisational communication model and a multitude of research opportunities are indicated.
- Full Text:
The influence of communication within organizations
- Authors: Dos Santos, Ayrton
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Communication in organizations , Communication in management , Corporate culture , Interpersonal communication
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/212989 , uj:21064
- Description: Abstract: Research has shown that communication is one of the key factors in organizational success and if not dealt with correctly will lead to poor organizational performance. This minor dissertation aims to investigate why modern day organizations still perform poorly in the area of communication. This will be demonstrated by researching the risk areas associated with communication as well as the factors within organizations that influence communication. This qualitative research study makes use of a case study, speed networking survey as well as a questionnaire. The findings of the research conducted identified four factors which influence communication namely, the communication software platform, organizational structure & strategy, communication competency of the employees and communication planning. Furthermore, the results found two main areas of risk associated with communication namely, the use of informal communication platforms (such as WhatsApp) and the communication of company information. The main conclusions drawn from this research were that organizations mainly perform poorly in the area of communication due to the lack of knowledge of the impact communication has on organizational performance. Modern day technologies such as email and instant messaging services have aided in the speed of communication but must not be solely relied on to solve all communication needs. This research calls for organizations to develop communication departments which work to identify the factors that influence their ability to communicate as well as the communication risk areas within the organization. Identifying and providing solutions to mitigate these factors should be their sole purpose. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dos Santos, Ayrton
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Communication in organizations , Communication in management , Corporate culture , Interpersonal communication
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/212989 , uj:21064
- Description: Abstract: Research has shown that communication is one of the key factors in organizational success and if not dealt with correctly will lead to poor organizational performance. This minor dissertation aims to investigate why modern day organizations still perform poorly in the area of communication. This will be demonstrated by researching the risk areas associated with communication as well as the factors within organizations that influence communication. This qualitative research study makes use of a case study, speed networking survey as well as a questionnaire. The findings of the research conducted identified four factors which influence communication namely, the communication software platform, organizational structure & strategy, communication competency of the employees and communication planning. Furthermore, the results found two main areas of risk associated with communication namely, the use of informal communication platforms (such as WhatsApp) and the communication of company information. The main conclusions drawn from this research were that organizations mainly perform poorly in the area of communication due to the lack of knowledge of the impact communication has on organizational performance. Modern day technologies such as email and instant messaging services have aided in the speed of communication but must not be solely relied on to solve all communication needs. This research calls for organizations to develop communication departments which work to identify the factors that influence their ability to communicate as well as the communication risk areas within the organization. Identifying and providing solutions to mitigate these factors should be their sole purpose. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
Corporate social investment educational initiatives: a perceived strategic contributor to first national bank's reputation according to their internal communication consultants
- Authors: Blumberg, Taryn Ann
- Date: 2010-06-03T05:41:32Z
- Subjects: Communication in organizations , Corporations public relations , Social responsibility of business , Corporate culture
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6860 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3292
- Description: M.A. , Organisations which practise according to a social cultural approach to organising from a systems perspective, as described by Buckley (1967:3), value the dynamics of interrelations and the importance of corporate communication, in order for an environmental balance to be maintained and an acclaimed organisational reputation to be built. By addressing the systems theory from a process model approach and the social cultural organisational context, according to organisational principles defined by the structuration theory tradition, the core principle of production and reproduction of social structures is emphasised, where it is possible to recognise the value of corporate communication as an element of the strategic management process. Literature has indicated that in its strategic capacity, corporate communication focuses on enhancing stakeholder relationships, facilitates an adaptive organisational structure and assists management to align strategies with goals. Organisations are therefore encouraged to adapt to a dynamic environment, which in turn develops a reputation based on transformation. Corporate social investment, within this context, is perceived as a strategic corporate communication facilitator which is practised with the aim of building relationships with communities and ensuring attainment of environmental goals which align with internal strategies and objectives. This study explores the corporate social investment educational initiatives of First National Bank, who have a vision of assisting to develop a better future through the youth. Through varied educational initiatives and corporate communication strategies designed around these initiatives, stakeholders should gain an enhanced impression of the organisation where First National Bank is recognised for shaping the development of South Africa in a global economy. Therefore, the primary research objective of this study was to identify the perceptions of selected First National Bank internal communication consultants, of corporate social investment educational initiatives as a strategic contributor to the reputation of First National Bank. The study assumed an overall qualitative methodological orientation; however both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies were used. The study consisted of three phases of research. Phases 1 and 2 were both of a qualitative nature and focused on the methodology of qualitative content analysis and qualitative in-depth semi-structured interviews respectively, thereby developing subjective and explanatory findings around the research objective. Phase 3 explored the quantitative research methodology of a self-administered questionnaire, and resulted in the production of empirical findings. Findings obtained in phase 3 were developed with the pursuit of substantiating and verifying what had been deduced in phases 1 and 2. From the findings yielded by this research, it is possible to surmise that First National Bank’s corporate social investment educational initiatives do strategically contribute to the organisational reputation, as they reflect the organisation’s ability to adapt to external influences, and have also revealed the need to focus on stakeholder involvement as a reputation management tool, which encourages stakeholders to make a difference to society and gain knowledge of the organisation’s strategies and goals. Findings have also suggested that First National Bank place emphasis on addressing corporate social investment educational initiatives from a holistic approach, where, through unity of efforts, a favourable organisational reputation is produced. It was perceived that alignment of organisational values with corporate social investment initiatives improves the organisation’s long-term business opportunities, and emphasis placed on relationship-building reflects the organisation’s desire to empower stakeholders who could assist in transforming strategies to reach organisational goals. However, a lack of communication at First National Bank surrounding corporate social investment was identified within this study, but it became apparent that the organisation does have an interactive culture which aims to address the external environment through their corporate social investment educational initiatives. This idea reflected how the organisation aims to achieve a dynamic environmental balance which ultimately assists the organisation in enhancing a positive reputation. This study has also indicated that it is the strategic role of corporate communication, as a social cultural phenomenon, to ensure that throughout every strategy implemented, the organisation is constantly and advantageously positioned in the minds of all stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Blumberg, Taryn Ann
- Date: 2010-06-03T05:41:32Z
- Subjects: Communication in organizations , Corporations public relations , Social responsibility of business , Corporate culture
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6860 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3292
- Description: M.A. , Organisations which practise according to a social cultural approach to organising from a systems perspective, as described by Buckley (1967:3), value the dynamics of interrelations and the importance of corporate communication, in order for an environmental balance to be maintained and an acclaimed organisational reputation to be built. By addressing the systems theory from a process model approach and the social cultural organisational context, according to organisational principles defined by the structuration theory tradition, the core principle of production and reproduction of social structures is emphasised, where it is possible to recognise the value of corporate communication as an element of the strategic management process. Literature has indicated that in its strategic capacity, corporate communication focuses on enhancing stakeholder relationships, facilitates an adaptive organisational structure and assists management to align strategies with goals. Organisations are therefore encouraged to adapt to a dynamic environment, which in turn develops a reputation based on transformation. Corporate social investment, within this context, is perceived as a strategic corporate communication facilitator which is practised with the aim of building relationships with communities and ensuring attainment of environmental goals which align with internal strategies and objectives. This study explores the corporate social investment educational initiatives of First National Bank, who have a vision of assisting to develop a better future through the youth. Through varied educational initiatives and corporate communication strategies designed around these initiatives, stakeholders should gain an enhanced impression of the organisation where First National Bank is recognised for shaping the development of South Africa in a global economy. Therefore, the primary research objective of this study was to identify the perceptions of selected First National Bank internal communication consultants, of corporate social investment educational initiatives as a strategic contributor to the reputation of First National Bank. The study assumed an overall qualitative methodological orientation; however both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies were used. The study consisted of three phases of research. Phases 1 and 2 were both of a qualitative nature and focused on the methodology of qualitative content analysis and qualitative in-depth semi-structured interviews respectively, thereby developing subjective and explanatory findings around the research objective. Phase 3 explored the quantitative research methodology of a self-administered questionnaire, and resulted in the production of empirical findings. Findings obtained in phase 3 were developed with the pursuit of substantiating and verifying what had been deduced in phases 1 and 2. From the findings yielded by this research, it is possible to surmise that First National Bank’s corporate social investment educational initiatives do strategically contribute to the organisational reputation, as they reflect the organisation’s ability to adapt to external influences, and have also revealed the need to focus on stakeholder involvement as a reputation management tool, which encourages stakeholders to make a difference to society and gain knowledge of the organisation’s strategies and goals. Findings have also suggested that First National Bank place emphasis on addressing corporate social investment educational initiatives from a holistic approach, where, through unity of efforts, a favourable organisational reputation is produced. It was perceived that alignment of organisational values with corporate social investment initiatives improves the organisation’s long-term business opportunities, and emphasis placed on relationship-building reflects the organisation’s desire to empower stakeholders who could assist in transforming strategies to reach organisational goals. However, a lack of communication at First National Bank surrounding corporate social investment was identified within this study, but it became apparent that the organisation does have an interactive culture which aims to address the external environment through their corporate social investment educational initiatives. This idea reflected how the organisation aims to achieve a dynamic environmental balance which ultimately assists the organisation in enhancing a positive reputation. This study has also indicated that it is the strategic role of corporate communication, as a social cultural phenomenon, to ensure that throughout every strategy implemented, the organisation is constantly and advantageously positioned in the minds of all stakeholders.
- Full Text:
A model of work identity in multicultural work settings
- Authors: Bester, Francois
- Date: 2012-10-25
- Subjects: Diversity in the workplace , Teams in the workplace , Multiculturalism , Intercultural communication , Communication in organizations
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10440 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7906
- Description: D.Phil. , Identity is a cognitive concept that describes “who I am”, and an important part of an individual’s identity is derived from shared social entities. However, as work and the work setting began playing prominent roles in most people’s social lives, the social identity derived from the working environment became the focus of several studies. It was, however, recognised that the locus of identification stretched beyond the organisation to other social phenomena available in the work setting. This finding encouraged a change of focus, which asserts that facets of work are sources of identification. The construct, work identity (WI), captures this extended understanding of social identity derived from work. There were also several research agendas about ways to strengthen or manipulate the relationship between employees and their work and/or workplace. Concepts such as work involvement, work commitment, work engagement, work centrality, and person-organisation fit represent this category of enquiry. As identity or identification was often mentioned in the definitions of these concepts, the concepts are perceived as WI-associated concepts. As several researchers recognised concept redundancy or concept contamination among the WI-associated concepts and between the WI-associated concepts and WI, further clarification of WI was needed. The purpose of this research project was to generate a model of the antecedents and consequences of WI in multicultural work settings. Conducting the research in a multicultural setting did not only test the theoretical ideas in a challenging context, but it contributed to a better understanding of employees from the research setting. The study used a cross-sectional field survey in order to gather responses from a convenience sample of employees from workplaces in Dubai. Data from 644 respondents was subjected to regression analysis and structural equation modelling. One characteristic of the dataset was the positively skewed distribution within some scales and significant disparity in the mean calculations of different nationality groups. Applying multiple regression to analyse and explore bivariate relationships, the data supported a positive relationship between job resources and WI. As an unexpected weak positive relationship between job demands and WI was also found, further research into the behaviour of job demands is required. A strong predictive relationship between WI and work engagement was indicated and a negative relationship between WI and turnover intentions was supported. Structural equation modelling identified a parsimonious model of WI in multicultural work settings which contained the concepts of job resources and job demands as antecedents of WI, with work engagement and turnover intentions as consequences of WI. The strength of causal relationships within this model was significantly affected by three moderator variables, namely level of education, age and, most strongly, by nationality. Therefore, although a stable covariance model was accepted, different nationality groups still processed the relationships between variables within the model in unique ways. Although WI manifested itself as a single-component structure in previous research that operationalised WI in the same way as this study, three facets of WI emerged here: work centrality, person-organisation fit, and value congruence. The different WI facets did not consistently relate to the antecedents or the consequences of WI in the same way. In addition, in response to findings of redundancy and contamination in previous studies, WI was found to be distinct from work engagement. This finding is a catalyst for future research to explore facets of WI and for researchers to revisit work engagement a consequence of WI and work engagement in multicultural work settings.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bester, Francois
- Date: 2012-10-25
- Subjects: Diversity in the workplace , Teams in the workplace , Multiculturalism , Intercultural communication , Communication in organizations
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10440 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7906
- Description: D.Phil. , Identity is a cognitive concept that describes “who I am”, and an important part of an individual’s identity is derived from shared social entities. However, as work and the work setting began playing prominent roles in most people’s social lives, the social identity derived from the working environment became the focus of several studies. It was, however, recognised that the locus of identification stretched beyond the organisation to other social phenomena available in the work setting. This finding encouraged a change of focus, which asserts that facets of work are sources of identification. The construct, work identity (WI), captures this extended understanding of social identity derived from work. There were also several research agendas about ways to strengthen or manipulate the relationship between employees and their work and/or workplace. Concepts such as work involvement, work commitment, work engagement, work centrality, and person-organisation fit represent this category of enquiry. As identity or identification was often mentioned in the definitions of these concepts, the concepts are perceived as WI-associated concepts. As several researchers recognised concept redundancy or concept contamination among the WI-associated concepts and between the WI-associated concepts and WI, further clarification of WI was needed. The purpose of this research project was to generate a model of the antecedents and consequences of WI in multicultural work settings. Conducting the research in a multicultural setting did not only test the theoretical ideas in a challenging context, but it contributed to a better understanding of employees from the research setting. The study used a cross-sectional field survey in order to gather responses from a convenience sample of employees from workplaces in Dubai. Data from 644 respondents was subjected to regression analysis and structural equation modelling. One characteristic of the dataset was the positively skewed distribution within some scales and significant disparity in the mean calculations of different nationality groups. Applying multiple regression to analyse and explore bivariate relationships, the data supported a positive relationship between job resources and WI. As an unexpected weak positive relationship between job demands and WI was also found, further research into the behaviour of job demands is required. A strong predictive relationship between WI and work engagement was indicated and a negative relationship between WI and turnover intentions was supported. Structural equation modelling identified a parsimonious model of WI in multicultural work settings which contained the concepts of job resources and job demands as antecedents of WI, with work engagement and turnover intentions as consequences of WI. The strength of causal relationships within this model was significantly affected by three moderator variables, namely level of education, age and, most strongly, by nationality. Therefore, although a stable covariance model was accepted, different nationality groups still processed the relationships between variables within the model in unique ways. Although WI manifested itself as a single-component structure in previous research that operationalised WI in the same way as this study, three facets of WI emerged here: work centrality, person-organisation fit, and value congruence. The different WI facets did not consistently relate to the antecedents or the consequences of WI in the same way. In addition, in response to findings of redundancy and contamination in previous studies, WI was found to be distinct from work engagement. This finding is a catalyst for future research to explore facets of WI and for researchers to revisit work engagement a consequence of WI and work engagement in multicultural work settings.
- Full Text:
The state of rhetorical criticism in public speaking organisations in South Africa
- Authors: Bester, Corne
- Date: 2011-02-28T06:45:05Z
- Subjects: Communication criticism , Communication in organizations , Public speaking
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7047 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3568
- Description: M.A. , The purpose of this study was to investigate the state of rhetorical criticism in public speaking organisations in South Africa. Public speaking is defined as rhetoric and the evaluation of public speaking as rhetorical criticism. The different perspectives towards rhetorical criticism are outlined and the approaches encompassed by these perspectives are discussed. The focus of the study is the state of rhetorical criticism in the public speaking organisations in South Africa. It was therefore necessary to establish the orientations and purposes of these organisations. The public speaking organisations identified at the outset of the study were Afrikaanse Taal-en Kultuurvereniging and Toastmasters International. The research project involved participant observation for the purpose of first-order interpretation ofthe methods ofevaluation used by these organisations. These organisations were founded for the purposes of promoting the skill of public speaking and developing confidence in speakers. By applying purposive sampling initially, snowball sampling emerged and the other public speaking organisations in South Africa were identified. This enabled the inclusion of the whole population for the purposes of this study. The investigation of the contemporary theories on rhetorical criticism revealed that there was a breakaway from the initial speaker orientation that focused on the effect of the speaker. Different perspectives on rhetorical criticism emerged since the traditional perspective that included approaches that focused on various forms of message analysis. Although effectiveness remained the overall criteria in the assessment ofpublic speaking, the emphasis has shifted to the message rather than the speaker. It is accepted that rhetorical criticism is subjective but at the same time it should be justified by reasons.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bester, Corne
- Date: 2011-02-28T06:45:05Z
- Subjects: Communication criticism , Communication in organizations , Public speaking
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7047 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3568
- Description: M.A. , The purpose of this study was to investigate the state of rhetorical criticism in public speaking organisations in South Africa. Public speaking is defined as rhetoric and the evaluation of public speaking as rhetorical criticism. The different perspectives towards rhetorical criticism are outlined and the approaches encompassed by these perspectives are discussed. The focus of the study is the state of rhetorical criticism in the public speaking organisations in South Africa. It was therefore necessary to establish the orientations and purposes of these organisations. The public speaking organisations identified at the outset of the study were Afrikaanse Taal-en Kultuurvereniging and Toastmasters International. The research project involved participant observation for the purpose of first-order interpretation ofthe methods ofevaluation used by these organisations. These organisations were founded for the purposes of promoting the skill of public speaking and developing confidence in speakers. By applying purposive sampling initially, snowball sampling emerged and the other public speaking organisations in South Africa were identified. This enabled the inclusion of the whole population for the purposes of this study. The investigation of the contemporary theories on rhetorical criticism revealed that there was a breakaway from the initial speaker orientation that focused on the effect of the speaker. Different perspectives on rhetorical criticism emerged since the traditional perspective that included approaches that focused on various forms of message analysis. Although effectiveness remained the overall criteria in the assessment ofpublic speaking, the emphasis has shifted to the message rather than the speaker. It is accepted that rhetorical criticism is subjective but at the same time it should be justified by reasons.
- Full Text:
First encounters in the workplace as experienced by industrial psychologists
- Authors: Adinolfi, Enrico
- Date: 2013-07-10
- Subjects: Industrial psychologists , Work environment , Communication in organizations , Interpersonal relations
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7598 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8464
- Description: M.A. (Industrial Psychology) , The object of this study is to explore the first-time work experiences of industrial psychologists. This phenomenon occurs during the entry phase of one’s career life cycle, and is associated with a reality shock, role transitions and socialisation. Ten participants were interviewed by making use of the Repertory Grid Technique to discover their mental models and personal constructs, which they created through their experiences. This information was interpreted from an interpretivist stance by using a case study and modernistic qualitative approach. Seven main themes were identified from the participant’s experiences. Four of these were considered to be enhancing and three were limiting. The three limiting themes that were regarded as negative relationships that were formed were the lack of knowledge of the industrial psychology profession, negative relationships formed and unmet expectations. The four enhancing themes were professional development, personal development, identifying the role of the industrial psychologist and identifying the value of the industrial psychologist. Recommendations were made on how to alleviate the negative experiences and a contracting model and industrial psychology career entry model were formed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Adinolfi, Enrico
- Date: 2013-07-10
- Subjects: Industrial psychologists , Work environment , Communication in organizations , Interpersonal relations
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7598 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8464
- Description: M.A. (Industrial Psychology) , The object of this study is to explore the first-time work experiences of industrial psychologists. This phenomenon occurs during the entry phase of one’s career life cycle, and is associated with a reality shock, role transitions and socialisation. Ten participants were interviewed by making use of the Repertory Grid Technique to discover their mental models and personal constructs, which they created through their experiences. This information was interpreted from an interpretivist stance by using a case study and modernistic qualitative approach. Seven main themes were identified from the participant’s experiences. Four of these were considered to be enhancing and three were limiting. The three limiting themes that were regarded as negative relationships that were formed were the lack of knowledge of the industrial psychology profession, negative relationships formed and unmet expectations. The four enhancing themes were professional development, personal development, identifying the role of the industrial psychologist and identifying the value of the industrial psychologist. Recommendations were made on how to alleviate the negative experiences and a contracting model and industrial psychology career entry model were formed.
- Full Text:
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