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An assessment of factors influencing collaboration and impacts on organisational performance : a review

- Sepuru, Mercy, Musonda, Innocent, Okoro, Chioma Sylvia

An exploratory factor analysis of transportation project sustainability indicators : a case of projects in South Africa

- Okoro, Chioma, Musonda, Innocent, Agumba, Justus Ngala

  • Authors: Okoro, Chioma , Musonda, Innocent , Agumba, Justus Ngala
  • Date: 2019
  • Subjects: Infrastructure , Performance , South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/396810 , uj:32956 , Citation: Okoro, C., Musonda, I. & Agumba, J.N. 2019. An exploratory factor analysis of transportation project sustainability indicators: a case of projects in South Africa.
  • Description: Abstract: Sustainable transportation is vital since its impact traverses generations. The concept of sustainable transportation is known to account for incorporation of various elements including environmental, economic, social and institutional factors. The current study employed exploratory factor analytic technique using maximum likelihood factoring to identify critical indicators for assessing transportation infrastructure projects in South Africa. Using purposive and snowball sampling, a questionnaire was distributed via email, google forms and by hand, to project managers, directors, construction managers, planners and feasibility study consultants involved in transportation projects at different stages, in the nine provinces of South Africa. Empirical data amassed from 132 responses, were analysed using SPSS version 25 software.s Descriptive analyses were used for preliminary analyses. Inferential statistics was conducted using exploratory factor analysis, to output common factors and the minimum number of variables that were related to each construct. Findings revealed that a four-factor structure including infrastructure condition and impacts, user acceptability, financial management and safety and security, can adequately measure transportation infrastructure project sustainability. By establishing critical indicators for assessing transportation projects, the study provides relevant evidence to develop strategies to ensure that such investments bring lasting and desirable impacts in the long run. The study was conducted in South Africa and may not be generalisable to other geographical regions, which may have differing priorities with regard to sustainable performance of transport infrastructure. Further studies are on-going to validate the four-factor structure using confirmatory factor analytical techniques.
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Assessing the performance of Trichardt wastewater treatment plant (South Africa)

- Negwamba, Thulani, Dinka, Megersa Olumana

  • Authors: Negwamba, Thulani , Dinka, Megersa Olumana
  • Date: 2019
  • Subjects: Wastewater treatment , Performance , Quality standard
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/404679 , uj:33949 , Citation: Negwamba, T. & Dinka, M.O. 2019. Assessing the performance of Trichardt wastewater treatment plant (South Africa).
  • Description: Abstract: The main task in treating the wastewater in South Africa is to reduce the pollutants (solids, organic matter, nutrients, and micro-organisms) to meet the standard requirements from Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS). That means the discharged effluent should be without polluting the environment and posing safety risks. The objective of this study was to investigate the performance of the Trichardt Wastewater Treatment Plant (South Africa) and come up with recommendations for the improvement of the wastewater treatment plant. The performance of the plant was evaluated for its compliance with the standard set by the DWS. The water quality parameters tested include: Ammonia (NH3), Nitrate (NO3-), Phosphate (PO4-3), Chemical Oxygen Demands (COD), Turbidity (T) and Total Suspended Solids (TSS). The result indicates that the concentration of most of the considered parameters (TSS, NH4, COD, PO4-3) are above the permissible limit set by DWS throughout the year, except Nitrate. The operating flowrate is below the design capacity (1.8 m3/s) throughout the year, except September. Overall, the final effluent discharged to the stream do not comply with the standard set by DWS. Thus, measures for the improvement of the treatment plants’ performance are highly recommended. The increase of the hydraulic loading capacity and the use appropriate methods of treatment process such as biological nitrification-denitrification processes are suggested. The increase of retention time to 3 hrs and decrease of the screen openings to 12 mm are also highly recommended.
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Analysis of sports science perceptions and research needs among South African coaches

- Kubayi, A., Coopoo, Y., Toriola, A.

Is the Entrepreneurial Intention (EI) of University Students dependant on gender?

- Dhliwayo, Shepherd

The development of a conceptual meta-leader development model

- Wort, Albert, Hewitt, Magda

  • Authors: Wort, Albert , Hewitt, Magda
  • Date: 2018
  • Subjects: Leader development , Organisational context , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/288292 , uj:31244 , Citation: Wort, A. & Hewitt, M. 2018. The development of a conceptual meta-leader development model.
  • Description: Abstract: Organisations strive to satisfy their need for effective leaders. Their efforts are focused on improved leader performance, aligned with what the organisation wants to achieve and their sustainability depends on the selection and development of their leaders. Large amounts of money is spend on leader development, however, most leader development programs fail to deliver and the reasons are that the focus of leader development is wrong because the focus is on the enhancement and introduction of skills, competencies and techniques. This paper, reports on the findings of a larger study. Two competency models and Bersin’s Leadership Maturity Developmental Model are used as parent theories to derive to a new conceptual Meta-Leadership Development Model relevant and applicable to a specific organisational context. Four core constructs emerged, character; caring; competence; and commitment. These constructs were operationalised and are presented in a holistic Meta-Leader Development Model. It formed the first phase of a larger study and it is argued, that it has the potential to create greater leader commitment with increased performance results that are measurable for the leader, the team and the organisation.
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A desk study of road infrastructure performance measurement criteria

- Okoro, Chioma, Musonda, Innocent, Agumba, Justus

  • Authors: Okoro, Chioma , Musonda, Innocent , Agumba, Justus
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Performance , Performance measurement , Roads
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/244823 , uj:25321 , Citation: Okoro, C., Musonda, I. & Agumba, J. 2017. A desk study of road infrastructure performance measurement criteria.
  • Description: Abstract: Transport infrastructure meets the demands for people and cargo delivery by providing access to working, shopping and travelling and improving the quality of life of citizens. Road infrastructure needs to be sustained for eons after its development. However, there is no consensus on the criteria upon which the operational performance of road infrastructure projects is assessed. This paper aims to identify all potential criteria for assessing road projects in operation. A desk study was conducted using relevant journal and conference papers obtained from databases including ASCE Library, Science Direct and Ebscohost. Thematic analysis was used to identify emerging themes from extant literature. The themes were tabulated and ranked based on their frequency of occurrence to determine the most important criteria for measuring the performance of road projects in operation. Findings indicate that institutional productivity and effectiveness, operational efficiency, health and safety, mobility, environmental element, public acceptability, asset value, legal and technical factors can be used to assess the performance of road projects. The study provides vital information which would be beneficial to project managers, and indeed investors, in assessing and projecting sustainable performance of road projects in operation.
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Comparative evaluation of the performance of a bi-fuel vehicle on biogas and natural gas

- Kukoyi, T. O., Muzenda, E., Mbohwa, Charles

Employee engagement in the trade union federation(s) versus management saga in the South African mineral exploration industry

- Makhubedu, Lucky Boy Tebogo, Nwobodo-Anyadiegwu, Eveth Nkeiruka, Mbohwa, Charles

Exploring the applicability of deming’s concept of “continuous improvement” in the contemporary public sector organisations

- Okanga, Boniface, Sambumbu, Antony Matemba

  • Authors: Okanga, Boniface , Sambumbu, Antony Matemba
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: A cyclical framework , Continuous improvement , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/254623 , uj:26660 , Citation: Okanga, B. & Sambumbu, A.M. 2017. Exploring the applicability of deming’s concept of “continuous improvement” in the contemporary public sector organisations. Public Policy and Administration Research Vol.7, No.5, 2017.
  • Description: Abstract: Continuous improvement is a prerequisite for effective performance of the contemporary public sector organisations. This research explores the applicability of Deming’s concept of “continuous improvement” in the contemporary South African public sector organisations. The motive of the study was to identify the major paradoxes and the remedial improvement strategies that can be suggested. Using conceptual analysis as a qualitative research technique, a meta-synthesis of continuous improvement theories was undertaken and triangulated with the results of empirical studies conducted on continuous improvement in the South African public sector organisations. In contrast to the articulation in the continuous improvement theory of Plan-Do- Check-Act, the concept of continuous improvement was found to be overshadowed by over-emphasis of monitoring and evaluation which are also in turn largely saddled by unsupportive cultural practices, ineffective implementation of improvement measures and lack of easily discernible plans. In the context of such paradoxes, the study enriches the existing theories by suggesting a five steps’ (Analyse-Plan- Improve-Measure- Improve) cyclical framework that the public sector managers can emulate as a moderator for undertaking effective continuous improvement in the increasingly contemporary complex and demanding public sector organisations.
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Feasibility study considerations for transport infrastructure performance : a desk study

- Okoro, Chioma Sylvia, Musonda, Innocent, Agumba, Justus Ngala

Integrated strategies for creating citizen-centric public sector organisations

- Okanga, Boniface, Sambumbu, A.M.

  • Authors: Okanga, Boniface , Sambumbu, A.M.
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Citizen-centric , Performance , Public sector organisations
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/254591 , uj:26657 , Citation: Okanga, B. & Sambumbu, A.M. 2017. Integrated strategies for creating citizen-centric public sector organisations.
  • Description: Abstract: The establishment of an effective citizen-centric public service system is an iterative process that requires investment in the appropriate e-government technologies and cultural change and transformation. This research evaluates effectiveness of the process for the establishment of a citizen-centric public service in South Africa. Conceptual analysis as a qualitative research technique was used to critically synthesize and triangulate theories for a citizen-centric public service system with the findings of the empirical studies on the implementation of a citizencentric public service in South Africa. Findings indicated South Africa to have made significant strides by adopting relevant policies, legislations and technological frameworks to enhance the use of models such as one-stop-shop and walk-in centres. However, further analysis highlighted the initiatives to establish an effective citizen-centric public service is still inhibited by ineffective seamless integration and synchronisation of activities in government departments and units in different geographical regions. Other challenges were found to be linked to internet connectivity and affordability of telecommunication costs in the rural areas, and lack of change and transformation of the organisational cultural practices. In the light of these challenges, the study postulates a strategic framework emphasizing among others investment in the appropriate e-government technologies and change and transformation of the organisational cultural practices as part of the critical strategies for enhancing the successful establishment of a citizen-centric public service.
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Structural measures and competencies for effective performance of the Municipal oversight committees

- Sambumbu, Antony Matemba, Okanga, Boniface

  • Authors: Sambumbu, Antony Matemba , Okanga, Boniface
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Competencies , Municipal oversight committees , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/254577 , uj:26654 , Citation: Sambumbu, A.M. & Okanga, B. 2017. Structural measures and competencies for effective performance of the Municipal oversight committees. Public Policy and Administration Research Vol.7, No.5, 2017 , ISSN: 2224-5731(Paper)
  • Description: Abstract: Municipal oversight committees are trajectories for effective performance of the contemporary municipalities. This research evaluates structural measures and competencies critical for effective performance of the municipal oversight committees. A conceptual analysis as a qualitative research technique was used to critically analyse theories on the predictors for effective performance of the municipal oversight committees. Theoretical findings were triangulated with the findings of the studies conducted on the effectiveness of the municipal oversight committees in South Africa. Findings indicated the effectiveness of municipal oversight committees is determined by the extent to which the existing relevant legislations and policies create structures and working relationships that permit greater level of accountability, participation and transparency. However, practices in most of the municipalities signify effective accountability, participation and transparency are undermined by the exclusionary interpretation of section 20 (3) of the Municipal Systems Act by the municipal executive mayoral committees. Such exclusionary interpretations cause the exclusion of the municipal councils and Section 79 committees from certain meetings and information. Since councilors are directly elected from the larger society irrespective of the level of education and expertise, the other challenges were also found to be latent in the skills and competencies of councilors to effectively accomplish technically complex activities of the municipal oversight committees. The study concludes with the postulation of a grid of critical structural measures and competencies that can be suggested for improving the performance of councilors and municipal oversight committees.
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The relationship between leadership and work engagement

- Bisnath, Roma

  • Authors: Bisnath, Roma
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Transformational leadership , Employee retention , Organizational behavior , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Masters (Thesis)
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225653 , uj:22795
  • Description: Abstract: Work engagement is a topic that has gained momentum in recent research. Many organisations believe it has an impact on the retention and performance of employees as well as bottom line earnings (Bakker, Albrecht & Leiter, 2011; (Tims, Bakker, & Xanthopoulou, 2011) Many factors influence the level of work engagement in an organisation. One specific factor, namely, transformational leadership has been identified as such a factor (Lockwood, 2007). The purpose of this study was to determine what impact transformational leadership has on work engagement. A quantitative research approach was selected and primary data was obtained through the distribution of two structured self-administered questionnaires. The Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ), used to measure transformational leadership, and the Benchmark of Engagement Quotient (BEQ) were used to measure work engagement. The structured self-administered questionnaires were distributed to employees at a financial services firm in South Africa. A sample size of n = 265 responses was obtained. These responses were summarised and subjected to various statistical analyses using SPSS (Version 17). The data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. The results aimed to understand the relationship between transformational leadership style and work engagement better. The results of the study provided empirical support for theories postulating that transformational leadership can result in higher engagement levels. Key terms: work engagement, transformational leadership, leader-member exchange theory, benchmark of engagement quotient, multifactor leadership questionnaire. , M.Phil.
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Evaluating and aligning facilities management operations in a South African higher education institution : a case study

- Ogbeifun, Edoghogho

  • Authors: Ogbeifun, Edoghogho
  • Date: 2016
  • Subjects: University of Johannesburg , Facility management , Education, Higher - Facilities - Planning , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/225370 , uj:22762
  • Description: Abstract: The quality of the support facilities and facilities services available in the learning environments of a Higher Education institution influences the performance of the core functions of teaching, learning and research, whether in the physical or virtual space. It further affects the level of customer satisfaction in the workplace interface and the competitive advantages of the institution in the community of similar institutions. It is imperative, therefore to continuously evaluate and align the operations of the organ responsible for the development and operation of the support facilities towards achieving the objectives of the institution, using the instrument of performance management. The case study method of qualitative research was adopted. The data collection involved using the combination of in-depth interviews, evaluation of periodic reports, and observation of evacuation drill exercises as well as coordinating the mutual development of the performance measuring standards, using the Delphi technique. The research reveals that the Facilities Management unit in the University of Johannesburg is recognised for its strategic importance; the unit has a suitable organisational structure and operational system. However, the unit has not been able to manage the relationship between it and the customer effectively, due to unsatisfactory service delivery in capital development, operation and maintenance projects as well low quality of periodic reports as tools for effective communication. The academics and Facilities Management unit mutually developed the performance measuring standards. Further analysis helped in identifying the source and magnitude of variances contributed by the customer and the service provider. If the service provider will apply due diligence and use the developed performance measurement tool, after addressing the observed variances, the application will facilitate improved relationship between the customer and service provider. Furthermore, the performance measurement tool provide for continuous evaluation and alignment of the operation of the service provider towards achieving the objectives of the institution. The research is situated in single case study; therefore care should be taken to contextualise the result before applying same to other context. , D.Ing. (Engineering Management)
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Performance of construction projects in South Africa: perceptions of consultants and contractors

- Aigbavboa, Clinton, Oke, Ayodeji, Mohapeloa, Khosi

  • Authors: Aigbavboa, Clinton , Oke, Ayodeji , Mohapeloa, Khosi
  • Date: 2016
  • Subjects: Construction , Key performance indicators (KPis) , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/122802 , uj:20706 , Citation: Aigbavboa, C., Oke, A., & Mohapeloa, K. 2016. Performance of construction projects in South Africa: perceptions of consultants and contractors.
  • Description: Abstract: Performance of construction projects is an issue of concern, not only to contractors and professionals, but other stakeholders including clients, project sponsors and end-users. This is due to complexity of construction process, innovation in the use of raw materials and machinery, new construction management techniques and more importantly, variation in requirement from clients. Thus, this research evaluates factors affecting performance of construction projects from the perspective of consultants and contractors, in order to enhance the quest of the construction industry in contributing positively to the growth of economies. Using quantitative approach, data were collected through close-ended questionnaires administered on a group of learned and experienced consultants and contractors who are based within the study area. From the analysed data, there is a significant difference in the perceptions of consultants and contractors regarding factors affecting performance of construction projects. To consultants, general time factors and conformance to specification are the most important performance indicator for project success while from contractors' view, cost factors including delay in payment from owner to contractor is a major critical success factor. The two groups unilaterally agreed that bringing about the best planning and scheduling technique before and during construction would assist in improving performance of construction projects in the country.
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A theoretical assessment of the performance of Small and Medium Sized Enterprise through lmowledge management in the South Africa construction industry

- Mametja, W., Aigbavboa, C.O.

An assessment of performance of construction projects in South Africa

  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Construction projects , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/372034 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/73789 , uj:18459
  • Description: Abstract: The South African construction industry, like most construction industries worldwide, is facing several problems and challenges that directly affect the performance of construction projects undertaken in the country. Project performance can be measured and evaluated using a large number of performance indicators that could be related to various dimensions (groups) such as time cost, quality, client satisfaction, client changes, business performance, health and safety. However the abovementioned factors are not the only factors that affect the performance of construction projects; therefore this paper aims to establish the most critical factors affecting the performance of construction projects in South Africa, a case study of the Gauteng Province. The data for this paper was collected from both primary and secondary sources. The primary data was acquired through the administration of structured questionnaires. The questionnaire was distributed to construction professionals. The questionnaire was designed based on information emanating from an extant review of literature. Out of the 160 distributed questionnaires, 131 were received back which represented 82% response rate. Findings from the questionnaire analysis revealed that the key factors affecting the performance of construction projects in Gauteng are: cash flow, dispute management (Client and professionals), leadership skills of project manager, speedy and reliability of service to client, dispute management (labour and supervisor), learning from best practice and experience of others, review of failures and solving them and Availability of personnel with high experience and qualification. The study contributes to the body of knowledge on the subject of factors affecting the performance of construction projects in Gauteng, South Africa.
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Common illness that affect the peformance of students in halls Of residence : a case from South Africa

- Thwala, Wellington Didibhuku, Eke, C.C., Aigbavboa, C.O.

Measures to improve the performance of construction projects in South Africa

- Sibiya, Mandisa, Aigbavboa, Clinton, Thwala, Wellington Didibhuku

  • Authors: Sibiya, Mandisa , Aigbavboa, Clinton , Thwala, Wellington Didibhuku
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Construction projects , Improvement , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/72313 , uj:18263 , Citation: Sibiya, M., Aigbavboa, C. & Thwala, W. 2015. Measures to improve the performance of construction projects in South Africa.
  • Description: Abstract: Construction projects are complex, risky and time-consuming undertakings that are usually commissioned by governments and delivered by national and international participants with a variety of cultural differences, backgrounds, political systems, and languages. The South African construction industry operates in a uniquely projectspecific and complex environment, combining different investors, clients, contractual arrangements and consulting professions. It impacts directly on communities and the South African public at large, and its improved efficiency and effectiveness will enhance quality, productivity, health, safety, environmental outcomes and value for money. Therefore, this paper will investigate measure that can be used to improve the performance of construction projects in the South Africa construction industry. Data for this paper were obtained from both primary and secondary sources. For the primary data; a structured questionnaire was distributed to construction professionals both from the contracting companies, consultant offices & public owners sectors. Findings from the questionnaire surveys revealed that the measures to be taken for the improvement of the performance of construction projects in Gauteng, South Africa, include: proper project planning and scheduling, use of effective project management techniques, clear information and communication channels, adherence to construction drawings and specifications, proper material procurement, adequate planning, effective strategic planning, proper project implementation and management, frequent coordination between the construction team, use of appropriate construction methods, site management and supervision amongst others. The study contributes to the body of knowledge on the subject of measures to improve the performance of construction projects in the South Africa construction industry.
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