An executive information system of Eureka DIY solution
- Authors: Marais, Arlette Irene
- Date: 2014-02-17
- Subjects: Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:4039 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9391
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
- Authors: Marais, Arlette Irene
- Date: 2014-02-17
- Subjects: Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:4039 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9391
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
The development of a decision support system for decisions in property development in South Africa
- Authors: Haupt, Hermann Rocher
- Date: 2014-02-10
- Subjects: Management information systems , Decision support systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3684 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9068
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , The ultimate objective of this research report was to develop a Decision Support System, (DSS), that can be used by property professionals to enable them to make better decisions regarding property development in South Africa. The DSS addresses the problem of numerous uncertain variables in property development investment decisions. The capability of the computer to do repetitive calculations with different combinations of variables, with probabilities linked to each variable, was used in a Monte Carlo analysis. The DSS was developed on a "Lotus 1-2-3™ Release 4 for Windows" spreadsheet which makes the program adaptable to suit specific applications if the need arises. The DSSwill, however, be able to address the majority of property developments without any adaptation. The DSS was appraised by property professionals and the comments received from the respondents indicate that the primary objective stated was achieved. The DSS is best suited for property investors who are also involved in the early development phases.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Haupt, Hermann Rocher
- Date: 2014-02-10
- Subjects: Management information systems , Decision support systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3684 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9068
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , The ultimate objective of this research report was to develop a Decision Support System, (DSS), that can be used by property professionals to enable them to make better decisions regarding property development in South Africa. The DSS addresses the problem of numerous uncertain variables in property development investment decisions. The capability of the computer to do repetitive calculations with different combinations of variables, with probabilities linked to each variable, was used in a Monte Carlo analysis. The DSS was developed on a "Lotus 1-2-3™ Release 4 for Windows" spreadsheet which makes the program adaptable to suit specific applications if the need arises. The DSSwill, however, be able to address the majority of property developments without any adaptation. The DSS was appraised by property professionals and the comments received from the respondents indicate that the primary objective stated was achieved. The DSS is best suited for property investors who are also involved in the early development phases.
- Full Text:
Creating strategic value through a standard business information system : an exploratory study
- Authors: Papageorgiou, Elmarie
- Date: 2010-10-25T06:30:21Z
- Subjects: Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6936 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3446
- Description: D.Comm. , This research was initially motivated for the concern with the fact that there are so many Executive Information Systems (EISs) and other information systems available in listed Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) companies as the content varies dramatically from company to company or sometimes from division to division in the same Group. This could lead to confusion for the user and interferes with decisionmaking. To maximise use, but minimise confusion it is therefore important to make sure that all information is in a standard format between the different divisions of the company within the industry. In order to do so, it was considered necessary to conduct an exploratory study to investigate the existence of an EIS in companies. Top management, executives, directors, senior managers and potential other users of EISs are firstly not always informed of the existence of an EIS, and/or secondly, unaware of the fact that they can use an EIS as a tool to report and analyse their companies on a day-to-day basis.Over the past few years, an increasing number of companies have implemented an EIS. EISs are used to effectively analyse, evaluate and compare companies’ financial statements and performances. Although users, at all levels of the business, have used an EIS, its success and shortcomings have yet to be documented conclusively at the level of the companies in a South African (SA) context. This research investigates whether listed JSE companies need a ‘standard’ ‘BIS to use as a tool to analyse and measure their performances.The input of all users of an EIS Synopsis iii with regard to unmet needs will have a significance impact on the content of an EIS; this in turn could result in ensuring them a key role in shaping the future of companies.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Papageorgiou, Elmarie
- Date: 2010-10-25T06:30:21Z
- Subjects: Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6936 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3446
- Description: D.Comm. , This research was initially motivated for the concern with the fact that there are so many Executive Information Systems (EISs) and other information systems available in listed Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) companies as the content varies dramatically from company to company or sometimes from division to division in the same Group. This could lead to confusion for the user and interferes with decisionmaking. To maximise use, but minimise confusion it is therefore important to make sure that all information is in a standard format between the different divisions of the company within the industry. In order to do so, it was considered necessary to conduct an exploratory study to investigate the existence of an EIS in companies. Top management, executives, directors, senior managers and potential other users of EISs are firstly not always informed of the existence of an EIS, and/or secondly, unaware of the fact that they can use an EIS as a tool to report and analyse their companies on a day-to-day basis.Over the past few years, an increasing number of companies have implemented an EIS. EISs are used to effectively analyse, evaluate and compare companies’ financial statements and performances. Although users, at all levels of the business, have used an EIS, its success and shortcomings have yet to be documented conclusively at the level of the companies in a South African (SA) context. This research investigates whether listed JSE companies need a ‘standard’ ‘BIS to use as a tool to analyse and measure their performances.The input of all users of an EIS Synopsis iii with regard to unmet needs will have a significance impact on the content of an EIS; this in turn could result in ensuring them a key role in shaping the future of companies.
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A strategy for managing examination security at tertiary institutions in South Africa
- Authors: van Zyl, Marthinus Petrus
- Date: 2012-09-11
- Subjects: Examinations , Management information systems , Higher education management , Computer security , Data protection
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9958 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7354
- Description: M.B.A. , More and more policy makers in South Africa’s educational environment are focusing on the impact of digital developments on lifelong learning, electronic publishing, computer-mediated communication and the growth of virtual universities. Johnson and Scholes (1999:475) state that increased availability and quality of information can enhance an organisation’s competency both by reducing the cost of processes and by improving their quality. Managers need to be clear about how these improvements in information technology should influence the way in which they manage their business processes and the benefits associated with the costs of these electronic services. President Thabo Mbeki has stated that universities have a key role to play in improving the quality of life of all South African citizens since education is the key to unlocking each person's potential and improving the quality of life in general (Le Roux, 2005). Mbeki also emphasized that South African universities should emerge from the current process of change, ready to compete with the best institutions in the world. Mbeki asserted that change must guarantee that South Africa catches up with the best in the world in terms of the generation and use of knowledge capital to create the winning society that South Africa yearns for. It must guarantee that South Africa produces the intelligentsia who must be at the cutting edge of our process of renaissance.
- Full Text:
- Authors: van Zyl, Marthinus Petrus
- Date: 2012-09-11
- Subjects: Examinations , Management information systems , Higher education management , Computer security , Data protection
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9958 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7354
- Description: M.B.A. , More and more policy makers in South Africa’s educational environment are focusing on the impact of digital developments on lifelong learning, electronic publishing, computer-mediated communication and the growth of virtual universities. Johnson and Scholes (1999:475) state that increased availability and quality of information can enhance an organisation’s competency both by reducing the cost of processes and by improving their quality. Managers need to be clear about how these improvements in information technology should influence the way in which they manage their business processes and the benefits associated with the costs of these electronic services. President Thabo Mbeki has stated that universities have a key role to play in improving the quality of life of all South African citizens since education is the key to unlocking each person's potential and improving the quality of life in general (Le Roux, 2005). Mbeki also emphasized that South African universities should emerge from the current process of change, ready to compete with the best institutions in the world. Mbeki asserted that change must guarantee that South Africa catches up with the best in the world in terms of the generation and use of knowledge capital to create the winning society that South Africa yearns for. It must guarantee that South Africa produces the intelligentsia who must be at the cutting edge of our process of renaissance.
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A proactive change management database system for use in the civil engineering industry
- Authors: Strydom, John Hendrik
- Date: 2012-06-07
- Subjects: Civil engineering , Management information systems , Change - Management , Database management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8704 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5057
- Description: M. Ing. , Change management is a crucial component in the daily activities inherent within the civil engineering industry, which if used effectively, can mitigate the impact of project scope changes and be beneficial to the life cycle of the a project. Project scope changes regularly occur during the construction phase of civil engineering projects, and normally result in severe disruptions. Although scope changes during the implementation phase are avoided where possible, their existence is a practical reality. These changes can be managed by a Change Management System (CMS) that can minimize the impact of these changes. This dissertation investigates different change management systems, which are used by major companies to mitigate the impact of project scope changes. Case studies on change management systems are provided, and the advantages and disadvantages of these systems are discussed. These change management systems were used as a reference axis for a newly proposed project scope change management system, namely the Proactive Change Management Database System (PACMDS). The PACMDS was developed by the author, to minimize the impact of scope changes in civil projects. In a survey done to establish whether the PACMDS would be effective in mitigating project scope changes, it was found that the PACMDS would assist in managing project scope changes effectively.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Strydom, John Hendrik
- Date: 2012-06-07
- Subjects: Civil engineering , Management information systems , Change - Management , Database management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8704 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5057
- Description: M. Ing. , Change management is a crucial component in the daily activities inherent within the civil engineering industry, which if used effectively, can mitigate the impact of project scope changes and be beneficial to the life cycle of the a project. Project scope changes regularly occur during the construction phase of civil engineering projects, and normally result in severe disruptions. Although scope changes during the implementation phase are avoided where possible, their existence is a practical reality. These changes can be managed by a Change Management System (CMS) that can minimize the impact of these changes. This dissertation investigates different change management systems, which are used by major companies to mitigate the impact of project scope changes. Case studies on change management systems are provided, and the advantages and disadvantages of these systems are discussed. These change management systems were used as a reference axis for a newly proposed project scope change management system, namely the Proactive Change Management Database System (PACMDS). The PACMDS was developed by the author, to minimize the impact of scope changes in civil projects. In a survey done to establish whether the PACMDS would be effective in mitigating project scope changes, it was found that the PACMDS would assist in managing project scope changes effectively.
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Determinants of the penetration of Software as a Service (SAAS) for improving customer service
- Authors: Motloung, Terence
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning , Management information systems , Information technology - Management , Information technology - Customer services , Performance technology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/292281 , uj:31760
- Description: M.Com. (Information and Knowledge Management) , Abstract: Due to immense competitive pressure which arises in the automotive industry, decision makers at Cummins Inc. are confronted by difficulties to implement effective and timely business decisions which are data-driven. The business has therefore decided to deploy new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Information Technology Applications (ITA) such as Distribution Management Systems and Guidance Application to enhance information flows and enable decision makers within the business to execute strategies that are data-driven. As a result, the business experiences some difficulties when it comes to aligning the business unit’s strategies with the corporate strategy and the cause of this is the disinvestment in the management of information systems within the branches. Therefore, the results of this challenge will normally affect the organisation negatively and this can be demonstrated when one is analysing the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).The research method selected for this study is a mixed method. It has allowed the researcher to collect two dataset points, the quantative and qualitative information. The data was collected through surveys, interviews with participants to fully grasp their views. The analysis was done by interpreting the responses from partcipants by using analytical tools such as Minitab and smart survey analytical tool. Furthermore, integration of the enterprise resource plan, Software as a service and management information systems can enable users within the business to collect, process, store and extract data to support the managerial role of utilising information technology to enhance business and profits. According to anecdotal evidence, there are challenges which limit the implementation of SaaS at CAME (Cummins Africa Middle East) and in this case, it is recommended that the organisation evaluates its requirements before it can proceed with new technologies. It further states that new ERP-systems and applications to be deployed in the organisation, should be able to deal with more holistic business information and allow system integration to take place. Therefore, failure to invest into an ERP which can perform these functions would then lead the business into an environment where people take decisions based on feelings and not on data. In the long run this will not contribute to the organisation improving customer service.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Motloung, Terence
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning , Management information systems , Information technology - Management , Information technology - Customer services , Performance technology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/292281 , uj:31760
- Description: M.Com. (Information and Knowledge Management) , Abstract: Due to immense competitive pressure which arises in the automotive industry, decision makers at Cummins Inc. are confronted by difficulties to implement effective and timely business decisions which are data-driven. The business has therefore decided to deploy new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Information Technology Applications (ITA) such as Distribution Management Systems and Guidance Application to enhance information flows and enable decision makers within the business to execute strategies that are data-driven. As a result, the business experiences some difficulties when it comes to aligning the business unit’s strategies with the corporate strategy and the cause of this is the disinvestment in the management of information systems within the branches. Therefore, the results of this challenge will normally affect the organisation negatively and this can be demonstrated when one is analysing the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).The research method selected for this study is a mixed method. It has allowed the researcher to collect two dataset points, the quantative and qualitative information. The data was collected through surveys, interviews with participants to fully grasp their views. The analysis was done by interpreting the responses from partcipants by using analytical tools such as Minitab and smart survey analytical tool. Furthermore, integration of the enterprise resource plan, Software as a service and management information systems can enable users within the business to collect, process, store and extract data to support the managerial role of utilising information technology to enhance business and profits. According to anecdotal evidence, there are challenges which limit the implementation of SaaS at CAME (Cummins Africa Middle East) and in this case, it is recommended that the organisation evaluates its requirements before it can proceed with new technologies. It further states that new ERP-systems and applications to be deployed in the organisation, should be able to deal with more holistic business information and allow system integration to take place. Therefore, failure to invest into an ERP which can perform these functions would then lead the business into an environment where people take decisions based on feelings and not on data. In the long run this will not contribute to the organisation improving customer service.
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Information environment of the teleworker
- Authors: Nortje, Helena J.
- Date: 2009-01-12T07:22:21Z
- Subjects: Knowledge workers , Telecommuting , Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14774 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1852
- Description: M.A. , The information economy, brought about by the advances in information and communications technology, has led to significant changes in the work environment. Organisations and workers must be flexible and are required to adjust quickly to demands from external and internal market forces. Employees are expected to be knowledge workers who are not only computer literate, but information literate as well. The high demand for flexibility has led to a trend that allows workers to perform their duties in locations outside of their traditional workspace. This trend has been named teleworking or telecommuting. A literature study revealed similarities and differences between the work environment of the knowledge worker and that of the teleworker. Both the teleworker and the knowledge worker are interacting in an environment that consists of individual, group and organisational processes. These processes are interrelated and none of them can be viewed in isolation. The factors that influence the knowledge worker also affect the teleworker, but the extent and focus of the influence vary. The features of the work environment of the knowledge worker and the teleworker provided the context for investigating the information environment of both. The information environment of the knowledge worker revealed certain distinct features, such as the manner in which documents and information were managed and the systems that were used. These features were compared with the information environment of the teleworker through an investigation of teleworkers in South Africa. Although very few, if any, South African organisations were involved in formal teleworking programmes, it was possible to establish certain trends through employees who had an ad hoc arrangement with their organisations. In conclusion, it was found that the information environment of the teleworker was somewhat similar to that of the knowledge worker, but certain distinctions also came to the fore. Further areas for research were also identified.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nortje, Helena J.
- Date: 2009-01-12T07:22:21Z
- Subjects: Knowledge workers , Telecommuting , Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14774 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1852
- Description: M.A. , The information economy, brought about by the advances in information and communications technology, has led to significant changes in the work environment. Organisations and workers must be flexible and are required to adjust quickly to demands from external and internal market forces. Employees are expected to be knowledge workers who are not only computer literate, but information literate as well. The high demand for flexibility has led to a trend that allows workers to perform their duties in locations outside of their traditional workspace. This trend has been named teleworking or telecommuting. A literature study revealed similarities and differences between the work environment of the knowledge worker and that of the teleworker. Both the teleworker and the knowledge worker are interacting in an environment that consists of individual, group and organisational processes. These processes are interrelated and none of them can be viewed in isolation. The factors that influence the knowledge worker also affect the teleworker, but the extent and focus of the influence vary. The features of the work environment of the knowledge worker and the teleworker provided the context for investigating the information environment of both. The information environment of the knowledge worker revealed certain distinct features, such as the manner in which documents and information were managed and the systems that were used. These features were compared with the information environment of the teleworker through an investigation of teleworkers in South Africa. Although very few, if any, South African organisations were involved in formal teleworking programmes, it was possible to establish certain trends through employees who had an ad hoc arrangement with their organisations. In conclusion, it was found that the information environment of the teleworker was somewhat similar to that of the knowledge worker, but certain distinctions also came to the fore. Further areas for research were also identified.
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Information management and globalisation : utilising information management systems in financial systems
- Authors: Roberts, Ridwaan
- Date: 2012-08-23
- Subjects: Management information systems , Financial services industry , Online information services , Globalization , Electronic commerce
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3071 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6491
- Description: M.Comm. , The Financial Services industry is in the throes of significant changes and challenges. Managers confronted with the metoric of the "information age" may experience a variety of emotions, ranging from excitement to suspicion or even outright scepticism. What has changed is that more and more businesses are defining their strategies in terms of information or knowledge. Today we hear and read much about "the learning organisation", "working knowledge", "knowledge networks", "business ntelligence", "competitor intelligence". These concepts may be popular to all but to executives they need to be clear — they make strategic decisions. Executives must realise these MIS, CIS and Expert Systems, are more than tools, they are a way of life, a way to gain strategic competitive advantage in a new market — called global isation. Managers need to rely on knowledge to make decisions and add value to the financial performance and use their collective experience without becoming bogged down in methodological or technological complexity. Biggest is no longer necessary the best. Today it is often more profitable to focus attraction the best customers than to attempt to reduce cost. Executives should be cautious, even suspicious; of the technological and software solutions being offered and sceptical that one concept can do it all. This is not surprising because we are dealing with knowledge, information and above all people. Add these together and we are to paraphrase the physicist, Freeman Dyoon, "infinite in all direction". Nevertheless companies understand that past experience has shown that common purpose, culture and focus can mobilise people for profitable and personally rewarding creativity and achievement. The future competitive landscape demands no less!
- Full Text:
- Authors: Roberts, Ridwaan
- Date: 2012-08-23
- Subjects: Management information systems , Financial services industry , Online information services , Globalization , Electronic commerce
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3071 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6491
- Description: M.Comm. , The Financial Services industry is in the throes of significant changes and challenges. Managers confronted with the metoric of the "information age" may experience a variety of emotions, ranging from excitement to suspicion or even outright scepticism. What has changed is that more and more businesses are defining their strategies in terms of information or knowledge. Today we hear and read much about "the learning organisation", "working knowledge", "knowledge networks", "business ntelligence", "competitor intelligence". These concepts may be popular to all but to executives they need to be clear — they make strategic decisions. Executives must realise these MIS, CIS and Expert Systems, are more than tools, they are a way of life, a way to gain strategic competitive advantage in a new market — called global isation. Managers need to rely on knowledge to make decisions and add value to the financial performance and use their collective experience without becoming bogged down in methodological or technological complexity. Biggest is no longer necessary the best. Today it is often more profitable to focus attraction the best customers than to attempt to reduce cost. Executives should be cautious, even suspicious; of the technological and software solutions being offered and sceptical that one concept can do it all. This is not surprising because we are dealing with knowledge, information and above all people. Add these together and we are to paraphrase the physicist, Freeman Dyoon, "infinite in all direction". Nevertheless companies understand that past experience has shown that common purpose, culture and focus can mobilise people for profitable and personally rewarding creativity and achievement. The future competitive landscape demands no less!
- Full Text:
Business process reengineering in integrating enterprise ressource planning (ERP) and bank systems in consulting companies : a case study of parity software in South Africa
- Bakam Fotso Epse Kuate, Genevieve
- Authors: Bakam Fotso Epse Kuate, Genevieve
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning - Software , Management information systems , Reengineering (Management) , Internet banking
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269627 , uj:28644
- Description: M.Tech. (Operations Management) , Abstract: One of the aspect of the greener future is about reengineering information technology (IT) through system integration. The thesis challenges the concept of Business Process Reengineering (BPR) in integrating enterprise resource planning (ERP) and bank systems in consulting companies. This thesis is based on the research carried out at Parity software, as the biggest consulting company in South Africa that uses business systems and develop additional management systems to meet customer’s expectations. The four big South African banks namely First National Bank, Absa, Standardbank and Nedbank are already offering online business banking applications that can be easily integrated with other payment software through cloud computing. However, point-to-point integration between financial ERP and bank systems remain a huge challenge. The thesis aims at designing a business integration model that will be the backbone of new software development in the field of automatic and direct payment transactions between corporate and bank systems. Using model-driven architecture, the designed model intends to present benefits of direct integration that will reduce long payment process and end import and export of bank files. Following theoretical, conceptual and empirical approaches, the literature review shows the gap between standard business process reengineering and business process reengineering applied to system integration and thus define survey items. The research methodology used is a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods. The thesis uses qualitative research design to develop reengineering model using cross-functional flowchart design process from Microsoft Visio professional. Quantitative research design is used to analyse data collected from the likert scale questionnaire and to interpret descriptive statistics and correlational method to test hypothesis. Research findings showed that there is a positive and statistical significant relationship between dependent variables namely business factors, financial ERP system and IT architecture and the BPR Integration (BPRI) model known as independent variables. Additionally, interviews regarding customer’s expectations showed that 85% of customers are looking forward for a direct and automated payment solution that will reduce payment cycle and increase their profitability. Extensive research should be done to redesign the proposed integration model using computer and data language to facilitate execution by IT people.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bakam Fotso Epse Kuate, Genevieve
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning - Software , Management information systems , Reengineering (Management) , Internet banking
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/269627 , uj:28644
- Description: M.Tech. (Operations Management) , Abstract: One of the aspect of the greener future is about reengineering information technology (IT) through system integration. The thesis challenges the concept of Business Process Reengineering (BPR) in integrating enterprise resource planning (ERP) and bank systems in consulting companies. This thesis is based on the research carried out at Parity software, as the biggest consulting company in South Africa that uses business systems and develop additional management systems to meet customer’s expectations. The four big South African banks namely First National Bank, Absa, Standardbank and Nedbank are already offering online business banking applications that can be easily integrated with other payment software through cloud computing. However, point-to-point integration between financial ERP and bank systems remain a huge challenge. The thesis aims at designing a business integration model that will be the backbone of new software development in the field of automatic and direct payment transactions between corporate and bank systems. Using model-driven architecture, the designed model intends to present benefits of direct integration that will reduce long payment process and end import and export of bank files. Following theoretical, conceptual and empirical approaches, the literature review shows the gap between standard business process reengineering and business process reengineering applied to system integration and thus define survey items. The research methodology used is a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods. The thesis uses qualitative research design to develop reengineering model using cross-functional flowchart design process from Microsoft Visio professional. Quantitative research design is used to analyse data collected from the likert scale questionnaire and to interpret descriptive statistics and correlational method to test hypothesis. Research findings showed that there is a positive and statistical significant relationship between dependent variables namely business factors, financial ERP system and IT architecture and the BPR Integration (BPRI) model known as independent variables. Additionally, interviews regarding customer’s expectations showed that 85% of customers are looking forward for a direct and automated payment solution that will reduce payment cycle and increase their profitability. Extensive research should be done to redesign the proposed integration model using computer and data language to facilitate execution by IT people.
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Developing a framework for evaluation of a digital maintenance management system
- Authors: Maleho, M.S.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/393687 , uj:32582
- Description: Abstract : The increasing demand for productivity, quality and availability is driving the need for the effective management of physical assets. The depletion of traditional cost cutting, the disadvantages associated with rapid growth and the management of change has caused companies to explore more effective and efficient options. Not only do organisations have to meet customer needs and improve the availability and performance of equipment, organisations also need to do so while also reducing operational costs. These factors have led to the increasing concentration on reliability within the business sector, specifically strategic maintenance management. Maintenance is one of the most important variables of reliability and forms an integral part of productivity improvement. Digital maintenance management systems are software-based systems used for managing and controlling plant and equipment maintenance in modern manufacturing and service industries. Many companies make use of such systems to ensure the effective management of physical assets, which plays an enormously important role in maintaining a profitable business. The application of digitalization requires strategic planning, advances in technology need to be put in a business context to ensure that they are aligned with the overall objectives of the company. Efficient and effective maintenance management strategies enable organisations to attain desired levels of equipment availability, reliability and maintainability. Once the strategic maintenance management plan has been developed, various maintenance management systems are used to implement, control and monitor of the plan. The mining industry is undergoing significant market challenges such as increasing depths in shafts, fluctuating commodity prices and international competition. In order to cope with these challenges, integrated business processes are required. Literature suggests that Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) are the best solutions for integrating business processes. Historically, selecting a digital maintenance management system was simple and required minimal research, however, as markets become saturated with various types of maintenance software and technologies become more advanced, selecting digital maintenance management systems is becoming more complex. There are various methods for evaluating and selecting digital maintenance management systems. The research approach for this ... , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Maleho, M.S.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/393687 , uj:32582
- Description: Abstract : The increasing demand for productivity, quality and availability is driving the need for the effective management of physical assets. The depletion of traditional cost cutting, the disadvantages associated with rapid growth and the management of change has caused companies to explore more effective and efficient options. Not only do organisations have to meet customer needs and improve the availability and performance of equipment, organisations also need to do so while also reducing operational costs. These factors have led to the increasing concentration on reliability within the business sector, specifically strategic maintenance management. Maintenance is one of the most important variables of reliability and forms an integral part of productivity improvement. Digital maintenance management systems are software-based systems used for managing and controlling plant and equipment maintenance in modern manufacturing and service industries. Many companies make use of such systems to ensure the effective management of physical assets, which plays an enormously important role in maintaining a profitable business. The application of digitalization requires strategic planning, advances in technology need to be put in a business context to ensure that they are aligned with the overall objectives of the company. Efficient and effective maintenance management strategies enable organisations to attain desired levels of equipment availability, reliability and maintainability. Once the strategic maintenance management plan has been developed, various maintenance management systems are used to implement, control and monitor of the plan. The mining industry is undergoing significant market challenges such as increasing depths in shafts, fluctuating commodity prices and international competition. In order to cope with these challenges, integrated business processes are required. Literature suggests that Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) are the best solutions for integrating business processes. Historically, selecting a digital maintenance management system was simple and required minimal research, however, as markets become saturated with various types of maintenance software and technologies become more advanced, selecting digital maintenance management systems is becoming more complex. There are various methods for evaluating and selecting digital maintenance management systems. The research approach for this ... , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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Security features on IBM AS/400 processors : a practical study for implementation at Impala Platinum Limited
- Van Rooyen, Nicolaas Gustavus Appelgryn
- Authors: Van Rooyen, Nicolaas Gustavus Appelgryn
- Date: 2014-04-10
- Subjects: Management information systems , Computer security
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10584 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10108
- Description: M.Com. (Computer Auditing) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van Rooyen, Nicolaas Gustavus Appelgryn
- Date: 2014-04-10
- Subjects: Management information systems , Computer security
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10584 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10108
- Description: M.Com. (Computer Auditing) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
The extent, issues and trends of enterprise resource planning system usage in South Africa
- Authors: Worst, B.
- Date: 2012-09-11
- Subjects: Computer integrated manufacturing systems -- South Africa , Information storage and retrieval systems , Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9941 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7339
- Description: M.Comm. , The concept is not new, but there are certain factors that complicated the application of this concept in actual practise: The rapid advances in technology, engineering and business processes, have left today's enterprise with a multitude of different computer applications to choose from. This puzzle consists of many variables, including : hardware, application software, operating systems, data bases and networks. An indication of the complexity of offerings available in the market today is reflected by a survey conducted by Paras on Process MRP Systems (Paras, 1992:7-28). The research problem is therefore to investigate the extent of usage of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems in South Africa. The research project has the following objectives: To determine the extent of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System usage in South African Industrial companies. To determine the different functional areas that ERP functionality is applied to in these companies, as well as trends in this area. To determine levels of support currently available to the South African Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System user. To determine the benefits realised . out of implementing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) functionality. This research explores the extent to which Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) functionality are being used in South Africa. As these systems are mainly used in Industrial companies, this research is limited to Industrial companies within South Africa. Companies in both the discrete and process environments are included in the study. Due to the cost of implementing such systems, these companies tend to be companieswith more than 100 employees, although relevant companies with fewer employees have been included. The larger majority of the companies operate in a distributed environment, with sites spread throughout South Africa, and in neighbouring and overseas countries. Due to the exploratory nature of the research problem, and the limited full enterprise wide use of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems in South Africa, the scope will be wide, with the intent of this study to gain a broad perspective of the topic.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Worst, B.
- Date: 2012-09-11
- Subjects: Computer integrated manufacturing systems -- South Africa , Information storage and retrieval systems , Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9941 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7339
- Description: M.Comm. , The concept is not new, but there are certain factors that complicated the application of this concept in actual practise: The rapid advances in technology, engineering and business processes, have left today's enterprise with a multitude of different computer applications to choose from. This puzzle consists of many variables, including : hardware, application software, operating systems, data bases and networks. An indication of the complexity of offerings available in the market today is reflected by a survey conducted by Paras on Process MRP Systems (Paras, 1992:7-28). The research problem is therefore to investigate the extent of usage of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems in South Africa. The research project has the following objectives: To determine the extent of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System usage in South African Industrial companies. To determine the different functional areas that ERP functionality is applied to in these companies, as well as trends in this area. To determine levels of support currently available to the South African Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System user. To determine the benefits realised . out of implementing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) functionality. This research explores the extent to which Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) functionality are being used in South Africa. As these systems are mainly used in Industrial companies, this research is limited to Industrial companies within South Africa. Companies in both the discrete and process environments are included in the study. Due to the cost of implementing such systems, these companies tend to be companieswith more than 100 employees, although relevant companies with fewer employees have been included. The larger majority of the companies operate in a distributed environment, with sites spread throughout South Africa, and in neighbouring and overseas countries. Due to the exploratory nature of the research problem, and the limited full enterprise wide use of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems in South Africa, the scope will be wide, with the intent of this study to gain a broad perspective of the topic.
- Full Text:
A framework for the strategic deployment of business intelligence systems
- Authors: Waterson, Elton
- Date: 2012-06-05
- Subjects: Business intelligence management , Information technology management , Business - Decision making , Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2445 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4903
- Description: M.Tech. , Business Intelligence (BI) is a method used to improve on business decision-making, using collections of software applications and tools to view historical, current and predictive operations of a business. However, a company‟s BI solution will not be successful if it is not implemented in a comprehensive and strategic manner. There are three key issues that prevent organisations from benefiting from BI systems. These issues include the lack of pervasiveness of BI systems, managing a variety of non-related systems that do not work well together and using traditional methods that have not evolved to meet organisational needs (Koehler, 2008). BI vendors misinform many business users that BI tools are usable by all users in an organisation, and end up been too complex for the average user to use. The first mistake an organisation makes when assessing a BI system is neglecting to include business users on selecting the best option, although they will be the main users of the solution (Quinn, 2007). Many Information Technology (IT) departments ask for BI systems based on the assumption that once it is built, that users will automatically see the benefits. BI applications require a clear and intimate understanding of the business itself and it is only by working on business and IT issues in tandem that the real value of BI is realised (Hostmann, 2007).
- Full Text:
- Authors: Waterson, Elton
- Date: 2012-06-05
- Subjects: Business intelligence management , Information technology management , Business - Decision making , Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2445 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4903
- Description: M.Tech. , Business Intelligence (BI) is a method used to improve on business decision-making, using collections of software applications and tools to view historical, current and predictive operations of a business. However, a company‟s BI solution will not be successful if it is not implemented in a comprehensive and strategic manner. There are three key issues that prevent organisations from benefiting from BI systems. These issues include the lack of pervasiveness of BI systems, managing a variety of non-related systems that do not work well together and using traditional methods that have not evolved to meet organisational needs (Koehler, 2008). BI vendors misinform many business users that BI tools are usable by all users in an organisation, and end up been too complex for the average user to use. The first mistake an organisation makes when assessing a BI system is neglecting to include business users on selecting the best option, although they will be the main users of the solution (Quinn, 2007). Many Information Technology (IT) departments ask for BI systems based on the assumption that once it is built, that users will automatically see the benefits. BI applications require a clear and intimate understanding of the business itself and it is only by working on business and IT issues in tandem that the real value of BI is realised (Hostmann, 2007).
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Ensuring succesful ERP implementations using the vision-to-project framework
- Authors: Marnewick, Carl
- Date: 2011-09-15T08:16:55Z
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning systems , Management information systems , Business planning , Project management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7219 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3852
- Description: PhD. (Computer Science) , Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are implemented within organisations to enable them to work more efficiently and enhance productivity. They also ensure that different levels of information are available to managers within the organisation for strategic and tactical decision-making. The implementation of ERP systems is often associated with great costs, they are resource intensive and cover the whole organisation. The implementation of ERP systems is perceived as a project that often fails owing to overrun on cost and time. The return on investment (ROI) is also often questioned once an ERP system has been implemented, since the organisation does not always see the benefits of the ERP system versus the effort and cost of implementing it. The purpose of this thesis is twofold: firstly it determines what an ERP system is and whether it can be subdivided into different components. The focus of this section is on the operational side of an ERP system to determine how it is managed and operated within an organisation. The second focus is on the way that ERP systems are implemented and the management that goes hand in hand with this implementation. The first focus area is addressed by developing a model that explains ERP and the different components within it. It describes the interactions between the different components and how the ERP system affects the organisation. This model provides a better understanding of an ERP system and shows the technology to be mature. The second focus area is addressed by a framework that assists organisations in deriving projects from the organisational vision. This ensures that the implementation of an ERP system will directly support the organisation’s vision and strategies. This addresses the issue of determining the value of the ERP system as well as ROI. The framework also provides alternative ways and methods that can be used to implement ERP systems. The value of this research is firstly that it provides a holistic model of what constitutes an ERP system and its effect on the organisation. ERP systems change not only the financial systems, but also the way the organisation operates. They introduce organisational change. The value of the framework is that it can assist organisations in identifying and implementing projects that will enable the implementation of the organisation’s vision and strategies. This will eliminate any favoured projects that are not in support of the organisation’s vision and can save the organisation’s scarce resources that would have been wasted on these projects. The framework can also assist organisations in determining if they must implement an ERP system and what value this implementation will have for the organisation.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Marnewick, Carl
- Date: 2011-09-15T08:16:55Z
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning systems , Management information systems , Business planning , Project management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7219 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3852
- Description: PhD. (Computer Science) , Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are implemented within organisations to enable them to work more efficiently and enhance productivity. They also ensure that different levels of information are available to managers within the organisation for strategic and tactical decision-making. The implementation of ERP systems is often associated with great costs, they are resource intensive and cover the whole organisation. The implementation of ERP systems is perceived as a project that often fails owing to overrun on cost and time. The return on investment (ROI) is also often questioned once an ERP system has been implemented, since the organisation does not always see the benefits of the ERP system versus the effort and cost of implementing it. The purpose of this thesis is twofold: firstly it determines what an ERP system is and whether it can be subdivided into different components. The focus of this section is on the operational side of an ERP system to determine how it is managed and operated within an organisation. The second focus is on the way that ERP systems are implemented and the management that goes hand in hand with this implementation. The first focus area is addressed by developing a model that explains ERP and the different components within it. It describes the interactions between the different components and how the ERP system affects the organisation. This model provides a better understanding of an ERP system and shows the technology to be mature. The second focus area is addressed by a framework that assists organisations in deriving projects from the organisational vision. This ensures that the implementation of an ERP system will directly support the organisation’s vision and strategies. This addresses the issue of determining the value of the ERP system as well as ROI. The framework also provides alternative ways and methods that can be used to implement ERP systems. The value of this research is firstly that it provides a holistic model of what constitutes an ERP system and its effect on the organisation. ERP systems change not only the financial systems, but also the way the organisation operates. They introduce organisational change. The value of the framework is that it can assist organisations in identifying and implementing projects that will enable the implementation of the organisation’s vision and strategies. This will eliminate any favoured projects that are not in support of the organisation’s vision and can save the organisation’s scarce resources that would have been wasted on these projects. The framework can also assist organisations in determining if they must implement an ERP system and what value this implementation will have for the organisation.
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Enhancing enterprise resource planning and manufacturing execution system efficiency with simulation-based decision support
- Authors: Medoh, Chuks Nnamdi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning , Enterprise resource planning - Software , Enterprise application integration (Computer systems) , Management information systems , Business planning
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225231 , uj:22743
- Description: Abstract: Business corporates inclusive of large, medium and small-scale entities traditionally conducts activities based on business processes. Large multinationals have adopted various automation systems at various levels of business units, in capturing essential business activities across the entity. These automation systems, inclusive of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Plant systems has been adopted by larger corporates in executing and optimizing business functions. These large multinationals are described as complex entities with complex business structures inclusive of business processes. The effect of automation, escalations and other critical variables influencing these business processes has not been effectively quantified. “Systems thinking” adds the complexity of integrating all enterprise functions but creates a framework for evaluating the limitations and synergies so as to optimize these processes. This research focuses on the development and configuration of a simulation model for modelling enterprise maturity, directing attention to process maturity relative to the turnaround time of business processes. This research approach includes hierarchical layout and segregation of these business processes, investigated adopting business process tools, techniques, and methodologies aligned with systems thinking approach. A simulation framework is configured and tested adopting scenario impact assessments based on certain key business variables aligned with associated critical constraints conditions. Optimization framework of these business variables is adopted in presenting an integrated case. The results prove that a simulation model potentially benefits a complex organization specific to evaluating time taken to conduct business processes. The results indicate that interdependent processes can be modelled together with determining impacts of multiple variables in reducing interdependent business process time. This implies that business entities can adopt and utilize outputs of this research to serve as a navigation tool specific to business process time when optimizing shop floor together with top floor communications and vice versa. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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- Authors: Medoh, Chuks Nnamdi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Enterprise resource planning , Enterprise resource planning - Software , Enterprise application integration (Computer systems) , Management information systems , Business planning
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225231 , uj:22743
- Description: Abstract: Business corporates inclusive of large, medium and small-scale entities traditionally conducts activities based on business processes. Large multinationals have adopted various automation systems at various levels of business units, in capturing essential business activities across the entity. These automation systems, inclusive of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Plant systems has been adopted by larger corporates in executing and optimizing business functions. These large multinationals are described as complex entities with complex business structures inclusive of business processes. The effect of automation, escalations and other critical variables influencing these business processes has not been effectively quantified. “Systems thinking” adds the complexity of integrating all enterprise functions but creates a framework for evaluating the limitations and synergies so as to optimize these processes. This research focuses on the development and configuration of a simulation model for modelling enterprise maturity, directing attention to process maturity relative to the turnaround time of business processes. This research approach includes hierarchical layout and segregation of these business processes, investigated adopting business process tools, techniques, and methodologies aligned with systems thinking approach. A simulation framework is configured and tested adopting scenario impact assessments based on certain key business variables aligned with associated critical constraints conditions. Optimization framework of these business variables is adopted in presenting an integrated case. The results prove that a simulation model potentially benefits a complex organization specific to evaluating time taken to conduct business processes. The results indicate that interdependent processes can be modelled together with determining impacts of multiple variables in reducing interdependent business process time. This implies that business entities can adopt and utilize outputs of this research to serve as a navigation tool specific to business process time when optimizing shop floor together with top floor communications and vice versa. , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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Information and knowledge management in support of legal research in a digital information environment
- Authors: Du Plessis, Tanya
- Date: 2009-01-08T13:03:45Z
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Information technology , Information superhighway , Digital libraries , Law libraries , Law librarians , Law firms , Legal research , Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14754 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1834
- Description: D. Litt. et Phil. , The main research question addressed by this study is whether the application of information and communication technologies (ICTs) has an effect on the practice of law, and specifically whether information and knowledge management affects the process of legal research. Various issues are considered in this regard, including what the concept of knowledge management (KM) entails in a law firm and what the current KM trends are in South African law firms. To this extent an investigation follows of the global trends in the application of ICTs for legal research purposes and what the specific applications are of KM in support of legal research. Furthermore, this study investigates how information technology applications and KM systems and strategies can support the legal research process and what the benefits of KM are to legal research. This entails a study of the unique characteristics of legal research in a digital information environment and of the challenges legal researchers face in a changing information environment. Subsequently the skills and tools that are required for effective digital legal research are discussed. This research also considers the effect the changing information environment has on the role of the legal information professional, which includes an investigation of the reasons why legal information professionals can and should support lawyers in their legal research activities. Specifically, this study considers the roles, skills and competencies of legal information professionals as knowledge managers, digital librarians and trainers of legal research skills in a changing information environment. Lastly, this study investigates whether current legal research skills training offers useful guidelines to future digital legal researchers.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Du Plessis, Tanya
- Date: 2009-01-08T13:03:45Z
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Information technology , Information superhighway , Digital libraries , Law libraries , Law librarians , Law firms , Legal research , Management information systems
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14754 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1834
- Description: D. Litt. et Phil. , The main research question addressed by this study is whether the application of information and communication technologies (ICTs) has an effect on the practice of law, and specifically whether information and knowledge management affects the process of legal research. Various issues are considered in this regard, including what the concept of knowledge management (KM) entails in a law firm and what the current KM trends are in South African law firms. To this extent an investigation follows of the global trends in the application of ICTs for legal research purposes and what the specific applications are of KM in support of legal research. Furthermore, this study investigates how information technology applications and KM systems and strategies can support the legal research process and what the benefits of KM are to legal research. This entails a study of the unique characteristics of legal research in a digital information environment and of the challenges legal researchers face in a changing information environment. Subsequently the skills and tools that are required for effective digital legal research are discussed. This research also considers the effect the changing information environment has on the role of the legal information professional, which includes an investigation of the reasons why legal information professionals can and should support lawyers in their legal research activities. Specifically, this study considers the roles, skills and competencies of legal information professionals as knowledge managers, digital librarians and trainers of legal research skills in a changing information environment. Lastly, this study investigates whether current legal research skills training offers useful guidelines to future digital legal researchers.
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Development of a decision making model for the CorexR iron making facility
- Authors: Penney, A.T.
- Date: 2015-03-18
- Subjects: Management information systems , Decision making - Data processing , Decision support systems , Iron industry and trade - South Africa - Management , CorexR (Firm)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:13459 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13495
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
- Authors: Penney, A.T.
- Date: 2015-03-18
- Subjects: Management information systems , Decision making - Data processing , Decision support systems , Iron industry and trade - South Africa - Management , CorexR (Firm)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:13459 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13495
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
Towards a management information system for use in the strategic management of South African consulting engineering firms
- Authors: Marshall, Thomas
- Date: 2009-01-22T05:37:11Z
- Subjects: Engineering firms , Management information systems , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14815 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1940
- Description: D.Ing. , This study documents the process whereby a practical and relevant industry-wide strategic management information system (SMIS) was developed for the South African consulting engineering industry. The SMIS was designed to provide South African consulting engineers with an improved understanding of the business environment in which they operate and to provide some advance warning of new trends in order to extend the strategic planning horizons of management and owners of consulting engineering firms. This was done against a background of very limited availability of current industry statistics. A literature survey of available historical or secondary data relating to the South African consulting engineering, building and construction industries was conducted in order to determine the relevance and usefulness of such data for the purposes of developing the SMIS. This survey provided background information on the consulting engineering industry, relevant aspects of the South African business environment and the impact of changes in this environment on the local consulting engineering industry. The importance and principles of strategic planning and strategic management are discussed, with specific reference to the nature of environmental scanning. The use of management information systems in the business environment is reviewed with specific emphasis on the application of management information systems in consulting engineering enterprises. The quantitative secondary data collected in the literature survey was used as a benchmark or reference databank to calibrate and/ or evaluate the accuracy of the information collected through ten regular industry surveys that were conducted to collect statistically representative primary data. The secondary and primary data were used to construct a number of time series for each of three key indicators of the health of the South African consulting engineering industry, namely employment, salaries and fee income. The SMIS developed, consists of: • A system to identify new key issues in the business environment and to decide on issues that no longer require further monitoring, • a system of industry surveys at fixed intervals, using both quantitative and qualitative survey techniques, • a system to capture and interpret survey data, • updating time series for key business indicators with latest survey data, and • producing reports on the state of the industry, including limited short term forecasts for business conditions. The SMIS has proved itself useful and provides information to assist strategic management in the South African consulting engineering industry, especially in decision situations regarding large strategic management issues. The system also manages to address the needs of other current and potential users of the system, such as operational managers, industry lobbyists, media liaison and public relations managers, human resources managers, construction contractors etc. The SMIS furthermore complies with all the specific criteria that were set at the commencement of this study, such as confidential handling of source data, affordability and sustainability and, by improving general understanding of the business of consulting engineering in South Africa, contributes to the previously existing knowledge base.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Marshall, Thomas
- Date: 2009-01-22T05:37:11Z
- Subjects: Engineering firms , Management information systems , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14815 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1940
- Description: D.Ing. , This study documents the process whereby a practical and relevant industry-wide strategic management information system (SMIS) was developed for the South African consulting engineering industry. The SMIS was designed to provide South African consulting engineers with an improved understanding of the business environment in which they operate and to provide some advance warning of new trends in order to extend the strategic planning horizons of management and owners of consulting engineering firms. This was done against a background of very limited availability of current industry statistics. A literature survey of available historical or secondary data relating to the South African consulting engineering, building and construction industries was conducted in order to determine the relevance and usefulness of such data for the purposes of developing the SMIS. This survey provided background information on the consulting engineering industry, relevant aspects of the South African business environment and the impact of changes in this environment on the local consulting engineering industry. The importance and principles of strategic planning and strategic management are discussed, with specific reference to the nature of environmental scanning. The use of management information systems in the business environment is reviewed with specific emphasis on the application of management information systems in consulting engineering enterprises. The quantitative secondary data collected in the literature survey was used as a benchmark or reference databank to calibrate and/ or evaluate the accuracy of the information collected through ten regular industry surveys that were conducted to collect statistically representative primary data. The secondary and primary data were used to construct a number of time series for each of three key indicators of the health of the South African consulting engineering industry, namely employment, salaries and fee income. The SMIS developed, consists of: • A system to identify new key issues in the business environment and to decide on issues that no longer require further monitoring, • a system of industry surveys at fixed intervals, using both quantitative and qualitative survey techniques, • a system to capture and interpret survey data, • updating time series for key business indicators with latest survey data, and • producing reports on the state of the industry, including limited short term forecasts for business conditions. The SMIS has proved itself useful and provides information to assist strategic management in the South African consulting engineering industry, especially in decision situations regarding large strategic management issues. The system also manages to address the needs of other current and potential users of the system, such as operational managers, industry lobbyists, media liaison and public relations managers, human resources managers, construction contractors etc. The SMIS furthermore complies with all the specific criteria that were set at the commencement of this study, such as confidential handling of source data, affordability and sustainability and, by improving general understanding of the business of consulting engineering in South Africa, contributes to the previously existing knowledge base.
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An investigation into the importance of a successful SAP/R3 implementation in the power tool warehousing industry in Gauteng`
- Authors: Swanepoel, Johan
- Date: 2008-06-26T05:52:20Z
- Subjects: Management information systems , SAP R/3 , Warehouse management , Business logistics , Gauteng (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9931 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/732
- Description: Prof. Johan du Plessis
- Full Text:
- Authors: Swanepoel, Johan
- Date: 2008-06-26T05:52:20Z
- Subjects: Management information systems , SAP R/3 , Warehouse management , Business logistics , Gauteng (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9931 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/732
- Description: Prof. Johan du Plessis
- Full Text:
The feasibility of single source strategic partnerships in relation to plant control networks
- Authors: Willcock, Peter Richard
- Date: 2010-10-04T08:02:29Z
- Subjects: Management information systems , Automation
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6912 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3423
- Description: M.Comm. , The potential information available to managers through the management information system is considerably greater than a decade ago. Managers can through web portals view exactly where a product is in the manufacturing process anywhere in the world. The significant difference lies in how the information is passed from the control engineering layer to the business information layer. Substantial leaps forward have been achieved in the transparency of the various networks. In a manufacturing plant, information, right down to a pulse from the simplest sensor, can now immediately be shown to a user on the internet a thousand kilometres away. Making information from the factory floor available in real-time into the management system in the correct format, is not as simple as might appear. Over the past decade plant automation systems and business information systems have become more integrated than ever before. The organization’s management must make the correct, informed choice of networks for each application. Management must be aware of the various automation networks and their limitations. Management must also take cognisance of the possible compatibility issues associated with choices of networks and the associated automation equipment. Management needs to consider from whom and how to source the plant control networks. Supply chain management techniques have lead the trend in many industries to move to fewer, more strategic suppliers. The possibility of a single source strategic supplier relationship is investigated. The first part of research aims to determine whether a single supplier is a technically-sound solution. A number of automation networks are researched, their usability, industry support and future potential evaluated. iii These included various fieldbus networks and the newer reputedly more universal industrial Ethernets. The literature suggested that the solutions proposed by some of the major suppliers should be comprehensive. The research concurred that the offerings of two major worldwide automation suppliers were sufficiently all-inclusive. The second part of the research investigated whether strategic partnering is sound business practice. The customer to supplier relationship is examined. The advantage to both parties of pursuing a closer relationship is explored. The literature reported benefit and an increase in closer supplier partnering in other industries. The research confirmed that there was indeed benefit in a closer customer supplier relationship in the automation industry. The results of the literature study and the research conducted conclude that a single-vendor plant control network is feasible. Moreover entering a strategic partnership with a single automation supplier is best business practice.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Willcock, Peter Richard
- Date: 2010-10-04T08:02:29Z
- Subjects: Management information systems , Automation
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6912 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3423
- Description: M.Comm. , The potential information available to managers through the management information system is considerably greater than a decade ago. Managers can through web portals view exactly where a product is in the manufacturing process anywhere in the world. The significant difference lies in how the information is passed from the control engineering layer to the business information layer. Substantial leaps forward have been achieved in the transparency of the various networks. In a manufacturing plant, information, right down to a pulse from the simplest sensor, can now immediately be shown to a user on the internet a thousand kilometres away. Making information from the factory floor available in real-time into the management system in the correct format, is not as simple as might appear. Over the past decade plant automation systems and business information systems have become more integrated than ever before. The organization’s management must make the correct, informed choice of networks for each application. Management must be aware of the various automation networks and their limitations. Management must also take cognisance of the possible compatibility issues associated with choices of networks and the associated automation equipment. Management needs to consider from whom and how to source the plant control networks. Supply chain management techniques have lead the trend in many industries to move to fewer, more strategic suppliers. The possibility of a single source strategic supplier relationship is investigated. The first part of research aims to determine whether a single supplier is a technically-sound solution. A number of automation networks are researched, their usability, industry support and future potential evaluated. iii These included various fieldbus networks and the newer reputedly more universal industrial Ethernets. The literature suggested that the solutions proposed by some of the major suppliers should be comprehensive. The research concurred that the offerings of two major worldwide automation suppliers were sufficiently all-inclusive. The second part of the research investigated whether strategic partnering is sound business practice. The customer to supplier relationship is examined. The advantage to both parties of pursuing a closer relationship is explored. The literature reported benefit and an increase in closer supplier partnering in other industries. The research confirmed that there was indeed benefit in a closer customer supplier relationship in the automation industry. The results of the literature study and the research conducted conclude that a single-vendor plant control network is feasible. Moreover entering a strategic partnership with a single automation supplier is best business practice.
- Full Text: