'n Bestuursbenadering vir kombi-taxifasiliteite
- Janse van Rensburg, Hendrik Christiaan
- Authors: Janse van Rensburg, Hendrik Christiaan
- Date: 2015-03-18
- Subjects: Taxicabs - Economic aspects - South Africa , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:13454 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13490
- Description: M.Com. , The study was conducted with the primary purpose of developing, within the framework of business management, with specific reference to strategic management, a management approach for combl-taxi facilities. Currently no formal approach for the efficient management and operation of combi-taxi facilities exists. The management and operation of combi-taxi facilities occurs on an ad hoc basis, is fragmented and restricted to only a few functions that are executed. Existing combi-taxi facilities are, however, a management and financial burden for the owner (traditionally a local authority) and gave reason to the physical deterioration' of the infrastructure and poor or insufficient management and operation thereof. The quality of combi-taxi services are dependent on the standard of combi-taxi facilities and related activities. In this study a systems approach was followed for the development of a holistic approach for the management and operation of combi-taxi facilities. The objectives of this management approach from a business perspective are the creation of self supporting combi-taxi facilities that are efficiently managed and operated, as well as an effective management structure with a healthy income base. Management, as the nucleus of the successful functioning of combi-taxi facilities in the context of this study, is regarded as the planning of and the organizing, leading and control of persons in the business which are responsible for the operation of the combi-taxifacility through the execution of activities and tasks within the relevant business functions, to ensure the optimal utilisation of scarce resources and the achievement of goals.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Janse van Rensburg, Hendrik Christiaan
- Date: 2015-03-18
- Subjects: Taxicabs - Economic aspects - South Africa , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:13454 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13490
- Description: M.Com. , The study was conducted with the primary purpose of developing, within the framework of business management, with specific reference to strategic management, a management approach for combl-taxi facilities. Currently no formal approach for the efficient management and operation of combi-taxi facilities exists. The management and operation of combi-taxi facilities occurs on an ad hoc basis, is fragmented and restricted to only a few functions that are executed. Existing combi-taxi facilities are, however, a management and financial burden for the owner (traditionally a local authority) and gave reason to the physical deterioration' of the infrastructure and poor or insufficient management and operation thereof. The quality of combi-taxi services are dependent on the standard of combi-taxi facilities and related activities. In this study a systems approach was followed for the development of a holistic approach for the management and operation of combi-taxi facilities. The objectives of this management approach from a business perspective are the creation of self supporting combi-taxi facilities that are efficiently managed and operated, as well as an effective management structure with a healthy income base. Management, as the nucleus of the successful functioning of combi-taxi facilities in the context of this study, is regarded as the planning of and the organizing, leading and control of persons in the business which are responsible for the operation of the combi-taxifacility through the execution of activities and tasks within the relevant business functions, to ensure the optimal utilisation of scarce resources and the achievement of goals.
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'n Evaluasie van die gebalanseerde telkaartmetodiek as meetinstrument vir doelwitbereiking binne 'n onderneming in die petrochemiese bedryf
- Van Heerden, Johannes Hendrik Petrus
- Authors: Van Heerden, Johannes Hendrik Petrus
- Date: 2012-08-14
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Organizational effectiveness - Evaluation , Petroleum industry and trade , Organizational change - Management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/382697 , uj:9262 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5708
- Description: M.Comm. , From the literature is it well known that the environment in which companies currently compete, is continuously changing. It is therefore increasingly important for companies to align the energy of all its employees with the strategy of the company. Furthermore it is important that the management team not only receive feedback on whether the company's strategy is implemented, but also on how well it is implemented and executed. Measuring the progress towards the successful execution of the strategy is vital for management in the continuously changing environment. The balanced scorecard methodology enables management to align the energy of the employees to the proper execution of the strategy and measuring the progress towards achieving the strategy. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the balanced scorecard as a measuring tool as implemented in a local petrochemical company.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van Heerden, Johannes Hendrik Petrus
- Date: 2012-08-14
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Organizational effectiveness - Evaluation , Petroleum industry and trade , Organizational change - Management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/382697 , uj:9262 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5708
- Description: M.Comm. , From the literature is it well known that the environment in which companies currently compete, is continuously changing. It is therefore increasingly important for companies to align the energy of all its employees with the strategy of the company. Furthermore it is important that the management team not only receive feedback on whether the company's strategy is implemented, but also on how well it is implemented and executed. Measuring the progress towards the successful execution of the strategy is vital for management in the continuously changing environment. The balanced scorecard methodology enables management to align the energy of the employees to the proper execution of the strategy and measuring the progress towards achieving the strategy. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the balanced scorecard as a measuring tool as implemented in a local petrochemical company.
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'n Ondersoek na die konjunktuurverskynsel met besondere verwysing na die fases van die konjunktuurgolf
- Authors: De Villiers, C.J.
- Date: 2014-05-08
- Subjects: Business cycles - South Africa , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10964 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10537
- Description: M.Com. , In this treatise, research is done into the various theories with regard to the business phenomenon and the various phases of the business cycle according to various economic indicators. A characteristic of the South African economy as well as other capitalistic systems, is that business indicators have a unstable tendency. Times of prosperity are followed by times of recession when unemployment, production, prices, profits and economic welfare, decline. The recession is again followed by times of prosperity which are characterised by increases in job opportunities as well as rising prices, profits and living standards. This wave like movement in economic activity is known as the business phenomenon. There are certain forces which directly affect the business cycle - some of them force it upwards while others force it downwards. The direction of the business cycle depends on the dominant forces. As soon as the forces are exhausted, a turn in the cycle results. The series regarding the business cycle are classified according to specific schools of thought in order to investigate their development as well as the main causes of the wave like motion in economic activities. A simple classification can be made by dividing the theories into those which preceded the publication of J.M. Keynes' General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money in 1936 as the Classical or Pre-Keynesian, and those which form the Keynesian school of thought and which appeared since the thirties as the Post-Keynesian theories. Firstly the Pre-Keynesian business cycle theories are discussed with reference to amongst others the demand theories, supply theories, the monetary theories and. the impulse theories. Thereafter the Post-Keynesian business cycle theories are discussed, that is those of Hicks, Kalecki, Goodwin and Duesenberry. An examination of the different phases of the business cycle implies a study of the movement of economic data in a upward and downward direction. Four phases can be discerned within the business cycle namely: the upward phase, the upper turning point, the downward phase and the lower turning point. The position of the various indicators will determine in which phase a country's economy finds itself. Economic activities are never stagnant, with the result that a period of prosperity may be followed panicking or a pez'Lod of depression. Several economic indicators may indicate this sequence, for instance unemployment, declining output and profit margins, and the resulting loss of income on the national level. As soon as the lower turning point is reached, the economy starts to recover and a period of prosperity again follows. It can thus be argued that the business cycle is a result of interaction between demand and supply. The business cycle has a significant result on the economy as a whole. It influences the prosperity of the country and even that of the undertaking, its manpower position, its capacity occupation and its factors of production. Every individual is effected to the extend that his disposable income is directly determined by the position of the business cycle. The phases of the business cycle and the inclining and declining motion of economic data contains the nucleus of the effect of the external environment on the undertaking.
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- Authors: De Villiers, C.J.
- Date: 2014-05-08
- Subjects: Business cycles - South Africa , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10964 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10537
- Description: M.Com. , In this treatise, research is done into the various theories with regard to the business phenomenon and the various phases of the business cycle according to various economic indicators. A characteristic of the South African economy as well as other capitalistic systems, is that business indicators have a unstable tendency. Times of prosperity are followed by times of recession when unemployment, production, prices, profits and economic welfare, decline. The recession is again followed by times of prosperity which are characterised by increases in job opportunities as well as rising prices, profits and living standards. This wave like movement in economic activity is known as the business phenomenon. There are certain forces which directly affect the business cycle - some of them force it upwards while others force it downwards. The direction of the business cycle depends on the dominant forces. As soon as the forces are exhausted, a turn in the cycle results. The series regarding the business cycle are classified according to specific schools of thought in order to investigate their development as well as the main causes of the wave like motion in economic activities. A simple classification can be made by dividing the theories into those which preceded the publication of J.M. Keynes' General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money in 1936 as the Classical or Pre-Keynesian, and those which form the Keynesian school of thought and which appeared since the thirties as the Post-Keynesian theories. Firstly the Pre-Keynesian business cycle theories are discussed with reference to amongst others the demand theories, supply theories, the monetary theories and. the impulse theories. Thereafter the Post-Keynesian business cycle theories are discussed, that is those of Hicks, Kalecki, Goodwin and Duesenberry. An examination of the different phases of the business cycle implies a study of the movement of economic data in a upward and downward direction. Four phases can be discerned within the business cycle namely: the upward phase, the upper turning point, the downward phase and the lower turning point. The position of the various indicators will determine in which phase a country's economy finds itself. Economic activities are never stagnant, with the result that a period of prosperity may be followed panicking or a pez'Lod of depression. Several economic indicators may indicate this sequence, for instance unemployment, declining output and profit margins, and the resulting loss of income on the national level. As soon as the lower turning point is reached, the economy starts to recover and a period of prosperity again follows. It can thus be argued that the business cycle is a result of interaction between demand and supply. The business cycle has a significant result on the economy as a whole. It influences the prosperity of the country and even that of the undertaking, its manpower position, its capacity occupation and its factors of production. Every individual is effected to the extend that his disposable income is directly determined by the position of the business cycle. The phases of the business cycle and the inclining and declining motion of economic data contains the nucleus of the effect of the external environment on the undertaking.
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'n Ondersoek na die kostedoelmatigheid van Gencor se bestuursinligtingstelsels vir gebruik in strategiese bestuur
- Van Rooyen, Nicolaas Gustavus Appelgryn
- Authors: Van Rooyen, Nicolaas Gustavus Appelgryn
- Date: 2014-11-20
- Subjects: Management , Strategic planning , Management - Information services
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:12988 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/12876
- Description: M.Com. , Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van Rooyen, Nicolaas Gustavus Appelgryn
- Date: 2014-11-20
- Subjects: Management , Strategic planning , Management - Information services
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:12988 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/12876
- Description: M.Com. , Please refer to full text to view abstract
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'n Ontleding van enkele ondernemingskomponente nodig vir strategie-implementering
- Authors: Van Stryp, Gisela Christine
- Date: 2012-08-16
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Leadership , Corporate culture , Organizational change
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9561 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5986
- Description: M.Comm. , The environment in which a South African business operates are distinguished by change. Businesses must on a continuous basis adopt to the demands of change in their environment. This study focus on the unseen or invisible components of a business, such as the structure, culture, leadership and human resource compliment, which enable the business to implement the formalised strategy, which in turn assist the business in adopting to the change in environment. Chapter two contains a short summary of strategy formulation and implementation. As soon as the strategy has been formalised and implementation of strategy must take place, the emphasised is moved to the unseen components of business. From Chapter three to six a iscussion on the resources required to support and manage the implementation of strategy, follows. In these chapters the following is raised: the structure that is required to ensure that strategy objectives are achieved; the required leadership, with emphasis on the role of leaders vs managers in a business; the relationship of strategy and culture; and the optimal composition of the human resource complement to ensure the implementation of the strategy. A summary of the recommendations of the study are the following: develop a suitable structure to support the strategy of business and tend to move to flatter organisational structures; obtain and develop leaders in the business; build and encourage a strong corporate culture; and Top Management must ensure and commit them to obtain the required human resource compliment in the business. In conclusion a recipe to the successful implementation of a strategy "Be customer focused and get the basis right.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van Stryp, Gisela Christine
- Date: 2012-08-16
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Leadership , Corporate culture , Organizational change
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9561 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5986
- Description: M.Comm. , The environment in which a South African business operates are distinguished by change. Businesses must on a continuous basis adopt to the demands of change in their environment. This study focus on the unseen or invisible components of a business, such as the structure, culture, leadership and human resource compliment, which enable the business to implement the formalised strategy, which in turn assist the business in adopting to the change in environment. Chapter two contains a short summary of strategy formulation and implementation. As soon as the strategy has been formalised and implementation of strategy must take place, the emphasised is moved to the unseen components of business. From Chapter three to six a iscussion on the resources required to support and manage the implementation of strategy, follows. In these chapters the following is raised: the structure that is required to ensure that strategy objectives are achieved; the required leadership, with emphasis on the role of leaders vs managers in a business; the relationship of strategy and culture; and the optimal composition of the human resource complement to ensure the implementation of the strategy. A summary of the recommendations of the study are the following: develop a suitable structure to support the strategy of business and tend to move to flatter organisational structures; obtain and develop leaders in the business; build and encourage a strong corporate culture; and Top Management must ensure and commit them to obtain the required human resource compliment in the business. In conclusion a recipe to the successful implementation of a strategy "Be customer focused and get the basis right.
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A business framework for the growth of immigrant-owned micro craft enterprises in Cape Town
- Authors: Asoba, Samson Nambei
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Immigrant business enterprises - South Africa - Cape Town - Growth , Immigrants - South Africa - Economic conditions , Strategic planning , Small business - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/481800 , uj:43668
- Description: Ph.D. (Operational Management) , Abstract: Stated as a brief overview, the study called into question the theoretical and empirical fundamentals for a business framework for the growth of immigrant – owned survivalist and micro craft enterprises in Cape Town. Against a problem of failure to grow of survivalist micro craft enterpirses in Cape Town, the main purpose of the inquiry was to develop a business framework for the growth of immigrant-owned craft enterprises in Cape Town. To achieve the study aim and objectives, a mixed methodology relying on the collection and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data was employed. Four craft markets in Cape Town were identified and three population groups provided data to achieve the research objectives. Firstly, interviews were conducted with eight small and medium sized immigrant-owned craft enterprises; participants were selected utilising the non-probability sampling method of snowballing. Secondly, another snowball sample of five managers of financial development institutions was interviewed to establish the availability of support services among immigrant-owned micro craft enterprises. The last set of data was collected from a purposively-sampled group of 150 owners of micro and survivalist enterprises. In line with study objectives, the key findings were that a business framework for the growth of survivalist and micro entreprses in Cape Town should include the development of critical business-related personal traits of the craft entrepreneur, the acquisition and adoption of appropriate leadership and management skills, the establishment of institutional links and the initiation of collective lobbying through local and regional institutions. In conclusion, the study provides a practical framework that immigrant craft entrepreneurs and policy makers can adopt to ensure growth. In respect of the findings of this study, the South African government, as a key stakeholder, is recommended to create and capacitate strong craft business institutions that to promote growth of the immigrant owned craft enterprises in cape Town. In addition, the study recommends further research on the actual relationship and relative significance of the factor components of the framework provided and the adoption of more rigorous, quantitative analysis of the factor components to ensure completeness of the framework proposed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Asoba, Samson Nambei
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Immigrant business enterprises - South Africa - Cape Town - Growth , Immigrants - South Africa - Economic conditions , Strategic planning , Small business - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/481800 , uj:43668
- Description: Ph.D. (Operational Management) , Abstract: Stated as a brief overview, the study called into question the theoretical and empirical fundamentals for a business framework for the growth of immigrant – owned survivalist and micro craft enterprises in Cape Town. Against a problem of failure to grow of survivalist micro craft enterpirses in Cape Town, the main purpose of the inquiry was to develop a business framework for the growth of immigrant-owned craft enterprises in Cape Town. To achieve the study aim and objectives, a mixed methodology relying on the collection and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data was employed. Four craft markets in Cape Town were identified and three population groups provided data to achieve the research objectives. Firstly, interviews were conducted with eight small and medium sized immigrant-owned craft enterprises; participants were selected utilising the non-probability sampling method of snowballing. Secondly, another snowball sample of five managers of financial development institutions was interviewed to establish the availability of support services among immigrant-owned micro craft enterprises. The last set of data was collected from a purposively-sampled group of 150 owners of micro and survivalist enterprises. In line with study objectives, the key findings were that a business framework for the growth of survivalist and micro entreprses in Cape Town should include the development of critical business-related personal traits of the craft entrepreneur, the acquisition and adoption of appropriate leadership and management skills, the establishment of institutional links and the initiation of collective lobbying through local and regional institutions. In conclusion, the study provides a practical framework that immigrant craft entrepreneurs and policy makers can adopt to ensure growth. In respect of the findings of this study, the South African government, as a key stakeholder, is recommended to create and capacitate strong craft business institutions that to promote growth of the immigrant owned craft enterprises in cape Town. In addition, the study recommends further research on the actual relationship and relative significance of the factor components of the framework provided and the adoption of more rigorous, quantitative analysis of the factor components to ensure completeness of the framework proposed.
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A framework for achieving organisational objectives through integrated performance management
- Authors: Holdt, Jonathan
- Date: 2014-04-10
- Subjects: Management - Planning , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10581 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10105
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Holdt, Jonathan
- Date: 2014-04-10
- Subjects: Management - Planning , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10581 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10105
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management)
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A methodology for developing strategic models for management decision-making
- Authors: Kok, G. S.
- Date: 2012-03-26
- Subjects: Decision-making , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2185 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4565
- Description: M.Comm.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kok, G. S.
- Date: 2012-03-26
- Subjects: Decision-making , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2185 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4565
- Description: M.Comm.
- Full Text:
A proposed integration of process control and strategic management in an industrial organisation
- Authors: Cronje, Jacobus Christiaan
- Date: 2012-08-15
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Process control
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9321 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5761
- Description: M.Comm. , The value of Strategic Management in organisation has been realised all across the world. Strategic Management theory has been proven on all levels of organisation from corporate, through organisational and also functional areas. It is not uncommon for organisation to have well-published and effective functional strategies, such as financial, marketing and human resources. Strategy however in the engineering functions of organisations is often neglected or even non-existent. Process Automation is one of these functional areas, which is extremely seldom strategised. This study aims at addressing these shortcomings, by firstly recognising the change world economy, which illustrate the volatility of the modern economy. The study then attempt to prove that in order to have a competitive advantage, is it necessary to establish and implement a strategic plan. The chapter illustrates that operational effectiveness is a function of strategic planning but not in itself a competitive advantage. The study continues at evaluating different sources of strategic management to supply insight and background into the strategic management area. The second part of the study moves away from commercial items and address the field of process control and automation. It illustrates the scope and importance of process automation for all modern industries. Once strategic management and process automation has been adequately discussed, it is necessary to derive the Process Automation Strategy through combining the two very different fields of study. It is important to consider Process Automation Strategy not as an isolated subject field, but an integrated part of the organisation. For this reason was all influences considered on the organisation. A theoretical guideline to the establishment of a Process Automation Strategy was derived through the Strategic Management procedure discussed earlier in the study.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Cronje, Jacobus Christiaan
- Date: 2012-08-15
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Process control
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9321 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5761
- Description: M.Comm. , The value of Strategic Management in organisation has been realised all across the world. Strategic Management theory has been proven on all levels of organisation from corporate, through organisational and also functional areas. It is not uncommon for organisation to have well-published and effective functional strategies, such as financial, marketing and human resources. Strategy however in the engineering functions of organisations is often neglected or even non-existent. Process Automation is one of these functional areas, which is extremely seldom strategised. This study aims at addressing these shortcomings, by firstly recognising the change world economy, which illustrate the volatility of the modern economy. The study then attempt to prove that in order to have a competitive advantage, is it necessary to establish and implement a strategic plan. The chapter illustrates that operational effectiveness is a function of strategic planning but not in itself a competitive advantage. The study continues at evaluating different sources of strategic management to supply insight and background into the strategic management area. The second part of the study moves away from commercial items and address the field of process control and automation. It illustrates the scope and importance of process automation for all modern industries. Once strategic management and process automation has been adequately discussed, it is necessary to derive the Process Automation Strategy through combining the two very different fields of study. It is important to consider Process Automation Strategy not as an isolated subject field, but an integrated part of the organisation. For this reason was all influences considered on the organisation. A theoretical guideline to the establishment of a Process Automation Strategy was derived through the Strategic Management procedure discussed earlier in the study.
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A study of a shared vision at a travel agency
- Authors: Botha, Phyllis Stephne
- Date: 2008-05-22T07:35:26Z
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Mission statements , Flight Centre Limited (Firm: South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2094 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/443
- Description: The importance of vision and mission statements is well documented. An increasing number of authors argue that strategies in an organisation have a major impact on its performance relative to its peers (Hill & Jones, 2001:4; Thompson & Strickland, 1996:2). Raric and Vitton found that organisations with a formalised mission statement have double the average return on shareholders’ equity than those organisations without formalised mission statements. However, the extent of manager and employee involvement in developing vision and mission statements can make a difference in business success (David, 2001:57). Most organisations develop both a mission and a vision statement. There is a subtle difference between the two that should not be confused, this will be qualified in this study. The purpose of such statements is, among others, to give the customer and other stakeholders an overview of the identity of the organisation in terms of who they are, what they do and where they are headed (Thompson & Strickland, 1996:22). It implies a formal commitment by the organisation to its stakeholders, sending out the message that its strategies will be formulated with the claims of its stakeholders in mind (Hill & Jones, 2001:45). It is often found that these expectations are not realised. The customer is frequently left with the perception that employees are unaware of the key values and the overall direction the organisation is taking. This study will focus on Flight Centre Limited (South Africa) to determine the extent of commitment of employees to the strategic vision of the organisation. , Mr. T.F.J. Oosthuizen
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- Authors: Botha, Phyllis Stephne
- Date: 2008-05-22T07:35:26Z
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Mission statements , Flight Centre Limited (Firm: South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2094 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/443
- Description: The importance of vision and mission statements is well documented. An increasing number of authors argue that strategies in an organisation have a major impact on its performance relative to its peers (Hill & Jones, 2001:4; Thompson & Strickland, 1996:2). Raric and Vitton found that organisations with a formalised mission statement have double the average return on shareholders’ equity than those organisations without formalised mission statements. However, the extent of manager and employee involvement in developing vision and mission statements can make a difference in business success (David, 2001:57). Most organisations develop both a mission and a vision statement. There is a subtle difference between the two that should not be confused, this will be qualified in this study. The purpose of such statements is, among others, to give the customer and other stakeholders an overview of the identity of the organisation in terms of who they are, what they do and where they are headed (Thompson & Strickland, 1996:22). It implies a formal commitment by the organisation to its stakeholders, sending out the message that its strategies will be formulated with the claims of its stakeholders in mind (Hill & Jones, 2001:45). It is often found that these expectations are not realised. The customer is frequently left with the perception that employees are unaware of the key values and the overall direction the organisation is taking. This study will focus on Flight Centre Limited (South Africa) to determine the extent of commitment of employees to the strategic vision of the organisation. , Mr. T.F.J. Oosthuizen
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Adapting information technology management for effective information technology strategy leadership
- Authors: Langa, Mthandeni
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Information technology - Management , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/237644 , uj:24352
- Description: M.Com. , Abstract: In this dissertation, it is argued that the lack of consistent information technology (IT) and organisational strategies heightens the proclivity to cancel IT initiatives in a given industry sector. Organisational strategy loosely conveys a compounded perspective pertaining to business and organisational strategies. In theory business, IT and organisational strategies are reasoned to hinge on efficient enterprise IT integration concepts that contextualise conceptual links between business, IT and organisational architectures to best address contextual business and socioeconomic needs. However, an effective socioeconomy demands contextual awareness of strategic management of IT, leadership and management, geopolitical and other factors affecting the evolutionary nature of the IT industry, enterprise architecture, enterprise risk optimisation and principles of governance and management. Business and IT leadership’s contextual awareness is necessitated by the concept of levels of abstraction inherent in the principles of separation of concerns. Hence the strategic use of the concept in ‘opinion’ formulation within the paradigm of a sociotechnical system design, development and management. Thus, optimal business performance demands that business and IT leadership and management develop mechanisms to establish symbiosis between governance and management principles, glued together by an adaptive enterprise-wide standard architecture. There is therefore a contended need to integrate IT, processes and strategies. This demands that business and IT professionals possess an interdisciplinary and a multidisciplinary set of competencies. The perceived set of competencies supposedly help professionals to effectively navigate the interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary nature of the concept of information technology management (ITM). Thus the resulting entangled sociotechnical system constituents, responsible for the overall perspective of the ITM concept, are constructs representing the challenge imposed by the journey to purposefully adapt ITM for effective IT strategy leadership for a globally competitive economic system. The research balances deontological and teleological philosophical theories, embracing an advanced mixed research methodology and embedding limited quantitative methods in a predominantly qualitative study. These theories underline systemic and deliberate practice aimed at optimising similarly credible research findings as well as provide a realistic perspective. Consequently, analysis employs a systematic approach based on four contextual themes, viz. administrative, investment management, management and technology practices and a closing perspective, in deliberate efforts to optimise triangulation. The outcome is an adaptive ITM process model facilitating discovery, construction, governance and management of a purposeful sociotechnical system in any given geopolitical context. Thus the adaptive ITM process model can benefit both academics and practitioners in their respective quests to contextualise philosophies and concretise processes sustaining purposeful sociotechnical system design, development and management. In principle, the research introduces a general theory of collaboration theoretically thriving on ITM as the art, philosophy and science of orchestrating strategic management principles to enliven the value of IT in pursuit of an optimum strategic intent in a continuum.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Langa, Mthandeni
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Information technology - Management , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/237644 , uj:24352
- Description: M.Com. , Abstract: In this dissertation, it is argued that the lack of consistent information technology (IT) and organisational strategies heightens the proclivity to cancel IT initiatives in a given industry sector. Organisational strategy loosely conveys a compounded perspective pertaining to business and organisational strategies. In theory business, IT and organisational strategies are reasoned to hinge on efficient enterprise IT integration concepts that contextualise conceptual links between business, IT and organisational architectures to best address contextual business and socioeconomic needs. However, an effective socioeconomy demands contextual awareness of strategic management of IT, leadership and management, geopolitical and other factors affecting the evolutionary nature of the IT industry, enterprise architecture, enterprise risk optimisation and principles of governance and management. Business and IT leadership’s contextual awareness is necessitated by the concept of levels of abstraction inherent in the principles of separation of concerns. Hence the strategic use of the concept in ‘opinion’ formulation within the paradigm of a sociotechnical system design, development and management. Thus, optimal business performance demands that business and IT leadership and management develop mechanisms to establish symbiosis between governance and management principles, glued together by an adaptive enterprise-wide standard architecture. There is therefore a contended need to integrate IT, processes and strategies. This demands that business and IT professionals possess an interdisciplinary and a multidisciplinary set of competencies. The perceived set of competencies supposedly help professionals to effectively navigate the interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary nature of the concept of information technology management (ITM). Thus the resulting entangled sociotechnical system constituents, responsible for the overall perspective of the ITM concept, are constructs representing the challenge imposed by the journey to purposefully adapt ITM for effective IT strategy leadership for a globally competitive economic system. The research balances deontological and teleological philosophical theories, embracing an advanced mixed research methodology and embedding limited quantitative methods in a predominantly qualitative study. These theories underline systemic and deliberate practice aimed at optimising similarly credible research findings as well as provide a realistic perspective. Consequently, analysis employs a systematic approach based on four contextual themes, viz. administrative, investment management, management and technology practices and a closing perspective, in deliberate efforts to optimise triangulation. The outcome is an adaptive ITM process model facilitating discovery, construction, governance and management of a purposeful sociotechnical system in any given geopolitical context. Thus the adaptive ITM process model can benefit both academics and practitioners in their respective quests to contextualise philosophies and concretise processes sustaining purposeful sociotechnical system design, development and management. In principle, the research introduces a general theory of collaboration theoretically thriving on ITM as the art, philosophy and science of orchestrating strategic management principles to enliven the value of IT in pursuit of an optimum strategic intent in a continuum.
- Full Text:
Adapting IT management for effective IT strategy leadership
- Langa, Mthandeni, Marnewick, Carl
- Authors: Langa, Mthandeni , Marnewick, Carl
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Information technology - Management , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/373894 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/231957 , uj:23644 , Citation: Langa, M. & Marnewick, C. 2017. Adapting IT management for effective IT strategy leadership. International Association for Management of Technology IAMOT 2017 Conference Proceedings.
- Description: Abstract: This article argues that the lack of consistent information technology (IT) and organisational strategies heightens the proclivity to cancel IT initiatives. Organisational strategy loosely conveys a compounded perspective pertaining to business and organisational strategies. The combination of these strategies logically hinge on efficient enterprise IT integration concepts contextualising conceptual links between their respective architectures to best suit prevailing business and socioeconomic needs. However, an effective socioeconomy demands contextual strategic management of IT, aligned with geopolitical and other factors affecting the nature of IT, to optimise the applied context of principles of governance and management. Strategic management of IT is alleviated by the concept of levels of abstraction inherent in the principle of separation of concerns. Hence the strategic use of the concept in ‘opinion’ formulation within the paradigm of a sociotechnical system design, development and management. Accordingly, optimal business performance demands that business and IT leadership and management develop mechanisms to establish symbiosis between governance and management principles, glued together by an adaptive enterprise‐wide standard architecture. There is therefore a contended need to integrate IT, processes and strategies. This demands that business and IT professionals possess an interdisciplinary and a multidisciplinary set of competencies. The perceived set of competencies supposedly help professionals to effectively navigate the interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary nature of information technology management (ITM). Thus the ensuing sociotechnical system constructs represent the challenge imposed by the journey to purposefully adapt ITM for effective IT strategy leadership for a competitive economic system. The research used an advanced mixed research methodology embedding quantitative methods in a qualitative study...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Langa, Mthandeni , Marnewick, Carl
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Information technology - Management , Strategic planning
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/373894 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/231957 , uj:23644 , Citation: Langa, M. & Marnewick, C. 2017. Adapting IT management for effective IT strategy leadership. International Association for Management of Technology IAMOT 2017 Conference Proceedings.
- Description: Abstract: This article argues that the lack of consistent information technology (IT) and organisational strategies heightens the proclivity to cancel IT initiatives. Organisational strategy loosely conveys a compounded perspective pertaining to business and organisational strategies. The combination of these strategies logically hinge on efficient enterprise IT integration concepts contextualising conceptual links between their respective architectures to best suit prevailing business and socioeconomic needs. However, an effective socioeconomy demands contextual strategic management of IT, aligned with geopolitical and other factors affecting the nature of IT, to optimise the applied context of principles of governance and management. Strategic management of IT is alleviated by the concept of levels of abstraction inherent in the principle of separation of concerns. Hence the strategic use of the concept in ‘opinion’ formulation within the paradigm of a sociotechnical system design, development and management. Accordingly, optimal business performance demands that business and IT leadership and management develop mechanisms to establish symbiosis between governance and management principles, glued together by an adaptive enterprise‐wide standard architecture. There is therefore a contended need to integrate IT, processes and strategies. This demands that business and IT professionals possess an interdisciplinary and a multidisciplinary set of competencies. The perceived set of competencies supposedly help professionals to effectively navigate the interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary nature of information technology management (ITM). Thus the ensuing sociotechnical system constructs represent the challenge imposed by the journey to purposefully adapt ITM for effective IT strategy leadership for a competitive economic system. The research used an advanced mixed research methodology embedding quantitative methods in a qualitative study...
- Full Text:
Aligning business processes to the strategic goals of the organisation
- Authors: Thobela, Mondlane
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Business planning , Performance - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/417879 , uj:35407
- Description: Abstract: The aim of this study is to understand the role that business process engineering domain plays in aligning business processes to the strategic goals of the organization. Business processes are characterised by the receipt of input, conversion, and a specific output as required by the need that triggered the process. As a result, the execution of a business process is subject to numerous inefficiencies that prohibit the successful implementation of strategic goals that an organisation is intending to achieve. These inefficiencies could be eliminated by considering best practices that are applied to improve business processes. This study was seeking to understand the relationship between inefficiencies, business process redesign best practices, and process performance indicators. A great deal of work has been developed by various authors in understanding the effects of inefficiencies, and also a great deal of work has been done in studying best practices within business processes. There is also a lot of work done by various authors within different sectors regarding strategic alignment. There are probably few studies that have examined this relationship between inefficiencies, business process redesign best practices, and strategic goals. This study outlined a conceptual research model which consisted of the following factors: Identification of inefficiencies, Classification of inefficiencies, Business process redesign best practices, and Business process outcome. The model basically considers that identification of inefficiencies will lead to proper classification of inefficiencies, and classification of inefficiencies will result in applying an appropriate business process redesign best practice, which will influence the performance indicators that are normally associated with any business process leading to an aligned business process. A survey was conducted at the South African Post Office by distributing a questionnaire where respondents were allowed to rank each question in order to test the proposed research model. The results obtained were then analysed by applying statistical tools and the model was further analysed through the use of partial least square structural equation modelling. The research confirmed that the classification of inefficiencies is an important factor for the selection of an appropriate business process redesign best practice. The research also confirmed that business process redesign best practices that impact flexibility, time, and quality factors are more important in influencing the business process outcome factor leading to an aligned business process. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Thobela, Mondlane
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Business planning , Performance - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/417879 , uj:35407
- Description: Abstract: The aim of this study is to understand the role that business process engineering domain plays in aligning business processes to the strategic goals of the organization. Business processes are characterised by the receipt of input, conversion, and a specific output as required by the need that triggered the process. As a result, the execution of a business process is subject to numerous inefficiencies that prohibit the successful implementation of strategic goals that an organisation is intending to achieve. These inefficiencies could be eliminated by considering best practices that are applied to improve business processes. This study was seeking to understand the relationship between inefficiencies, business process redesign best practices, and process performance indicators. A great deal of work has been developed by various authors in understanding the effects of inefficiencies, and also a great deal of work has been done in studying best practices within business processes. There is also a lot of work done by various authors within different sectors regarding strategic alignment. There are probably few studies that have examined this relationship between inefficiencies, business process redesign best practices, and strategic goals. This study outlined a conceptual research model which consisted of the following factors: Identification of inefficiencies, Classification of inefficiencies, Business process redesign best practices, and Business process outcome. The model basically considers that identification of inefficiencies will lead to proper classification of inefficiencies, and classification of inefficiencies will result in applying an appropriate business process redesign best practice, which will influence the performance indicators that are normally associated with any business process leading to an aligned business process. A survey was conducted at the South African Post Office by distributing a questionnaire where respondents were allowed to rank each question in order to test the proposed research model. The results obtained were then analysed by applying statistical tools and the model was further analysed through the use of partial least square structural equation modelling. The research confirmed that the classification of inefficiencies is an important factor for the selection of an appropriate business process redesign best practice. The research also confirmed that business process redesign best practices that impact flexibility, time, and quality factors are more important in influencing the business process outcome factor leading to an aligned business process. , M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
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An actionable approach to designing a risk management methodology
- Authors: Hamman, Claudius
- Date: 2012-10-30
- Subjects: Risk management , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10487 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7984
- Description: M.Comm. (Strategic Management) , Due to dramatic changes in the organisational landscape, organisations have had to review and amend risk management frameworks, processes and principles more regularly. Consequently, organisations now require an approach to risk management that enables the achievement of strategy, objectives and business activities. Risk management has to be implemented with the consideration of both the internal and external business environment on an enterprise-wide basis. The latter should result in a competitive advantage that drives organisational performance and reduces the total cost of risk. A pro-active approach to managing the effects of uncertainty on objectives has become a necessity for remaining competitive in constantly changing business environment. This study investigates the context and ideology through which risk management can be implemented. The purpose of the research was to identify, customize and recommend a sound methodology which can be incorporated in order to implement risk management as a business enabler. By adopting an exploratory approach, the researcher conducted qualitative research, in the form of an in-depth case study, on a multinational financial services organisation. Structured interviews were held with senior individuals in order to gather data regarding the risk management practices of the organisation.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Hamman, Claudius
- Date: 2012-10-30
- Subjects: Risk management , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10487 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7984
- Description: M.Comm. (Strategic Management) , Due to dramatic changes in the organisational landscape, organisations have had to review and amend risk management frameworks, processes and principles more regularly. Consequently, organisations now require an approach to risk management that enables the achievement of strategy, objectives and business activities. Risk management has to be implemented with the consideration of both the internal and external business environment on an enterprise-wide basis. The latter should result in a competitive advantage that drives organisational performance and reduces the total cost of risk. A pro-active approach to managing the effects of uncertainty on objectives has become a necessity for remaining competitive in constantly changing business environment. This study investigates the context and ideology through which risk management can be implemented. The purpose of the research was to identify, customize and recommend a sound methodology which can be incorporated in order to implement risk management as a business enabler. By adopting an exploratory approach, the researcher conducted qualitative research, in the form of an in-depth case study, on a multinational financial services organisation. Structured interviews were held with senior individuals in order to gather data regarding the risk management practices of the organisation.
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An integrated process framework for engineering endeavours
- Authors: Erasmus, Jonnro
- Date: 2013-05-27
- Subjects: Engineering firms - Management , Project management , Strategic planning , Risk management
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:7549 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8407
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , With the exponential increase in the complexity of modern products, the enterprise which creates the product also increases in complexity. Projects to realise engineering products are often fraught with delays, budget overruns and unsatisfied clients. Such failures are often caused by any of the following factors: Lack of understanding and definition of the responsibilities of the parties involved; Lack of understanding of the challenges and planning to deal with those challenges; Lack of control of the input and output requirements, information and risks; Poor communication in the project team due to ambiguous and undefined technical terms; and Lack of work integration due to poor understanding of the different domains involved in the project. This dissertation sets about exploring the domains of systems engineering, project management and quality management, by extensively referencing industry standards and international good practice in the quest of unravelling conflicts and uncertainties. Selected concepts and business processes of each domain are studied to arrive at an understanding of the objectives and scopes of those processes. This understanding enables the integration of these business processes and concepts by utilising the widely-used plan-do-check-act (PDCA) cycle. The business processes of each domain are divided into the four PDCA quadrants and integrated models of those quadrants are presented. The four quadrants are synthesised into a single framework which shows the project management, quality management and systems engineering processes performed during a single project phase. This Engineering Management Framework may be tailored for the design and realisation of any complex product, given adequate planning, understanding of the challenges and knowledge of the subject matter.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Erasmus, Jonnro
- Date: 2013-05-27
- Subjects: Engineering firms - Management , Project management , Strategic planning , Risk management
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:7549 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8407
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , With the exponential increase in the complexity of modern products, the enterprise which creates the product also increases in complexity. Projects to realise engineering products are often fraught with delays, budget overruns and unsatisfied clients. Such failures are often caused by any of the following factors: Lack of understanding and definition of the responsibilities of the parties involved; Lack of understanding of the challenges and planning to deal with those challenges; Lack of control of the input and output requirements, information and risks; Poor communication in the project team due to ambiguous and undefined technical terms; and Lack of work integration due to poor understanding of the different domains involved in the project. This dissertation sets about exploring the domains of systems engineering, project management and quality management, by extensively referencing industry standards and international good practice in the quest of unravelling conflicts and uncertainties. Selected concepts and business processes of each domain are studied to arrive at an understanding of the objectives and scopes of those processes. This understanding enables the integration of these business processes and concepts by utilising the widely-used plan-do-check-act (PDCA) cycle. The business processes of each domain are divided into the four PDCA quadrants and integrated models of those quadrants are presented. The four quadrants are synthesised into a single framework which shows the project management, quality management and systems engineering processes performed during a single project phase. This Engineering Management Framework may be tailored for the design and realisation of any complex product, given adequate planning, understanding of the challenges and knowledge of the subject matter.
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An investigation of strategic management process in a local government
- Authors: Nxangani, Nhuyani Edward
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Local government - South Africa - Ekurhuleni , Local government - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/452327 , uj:39891
- Description: Abstract: Is it ironic that after twenty-five years of democracy in South Africa, municipalities are still plagued by serious service delivery problems? The protests in the country are violent and seem to be too much for municipalities to handle. The reason among others is that many municipalities design strategies that are not implemented and communicated to staff. This then results in poor service delivery leading to also the protests. Strategy is the game plan of managers to deal with all manners of situations facing organisations to ensure achievement of pre-determined results. It is an expectation of stakeholders that managers should be able to solve organisational problems or at least be able to tell what it will take to resolve them. The purpose of this study is the investigation of strategic management process in local government using Ekurhuleni municipality as a case study. The qualitative method was used where purposive sampling method was applied. The content and thematic analysis was used to analyse data. The study found that the city does not communicate strategy with employees and the formulation of strategy is not inclusive of all stakeholders. The study conclude that the city needs to align corporate strategy with IDP and recommend focused communication and further studies on the topic using mixed method and larger sample. , M.Com. (Business Management)
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- Authors: Nxangani, Nhuyani Edward
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Local government - South Africa - Ekurhuleni , Local government - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/452327 , uj:39891
- Description: Abstract: Is it ironic that after twenty-five years of democracy in South Africa, municipalities are still plagued by serious service delivery problems? The protests in the country are violent and seem to be too much for municipalities to handle. The reason among others is that many municipalities design strategies that are not implemented and communicated to staff. This then results in poor service delivery leading to also the protests. Strategy is the game plan of managers to deal with all manners of situations facing organisations to ensure achievement of pre-determined results. It is an expectation of stakeholders that managers should be able to solve organisational problems or at least be able to tell what it will take to resolve them. The purpose of this study is the investigation of strategic management process in local government using Ekurhuleni municipality as a case study. The qualitative method was used where purposive sampling method was applied. The content and thematic analysis was used to analyse data. The study found that the city does not communicate strategy with employees and the formulation of strategy is not inclusive of all stakeholders. The study conclude that the city needs to align corporate strategy with IDP and recommend focused communication and further studies on the topic using mixed method and larger sample. , M.Com. (Business Management)
- Full Text:
An optimised portfolio management model, incorporating best practices
- Authors: Naidoo, Yogan
- Date: 2015-06-29
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness , Portfolio management , Strategic planning , Rate of return , Engineering - Management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:13646 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13830
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Driving sustainability, optimising return on investments and cultivating a competitive market advantage, are imperative for organisational success and growth. In order to achieve the business objectives and value proposition, effective management strategies must be efficiently implemented, monitored and controlled. Failure to do so ultimately result in; financial loss due to increased capital and operational expenditure, schedule slippages, substandard delivery on quality and depreciation of market share. This research paper investigates and discusses management strategies with the focus on integration of effective portfolio management, efficient system development life cycles and optimal project control to ultimately drive organisational sustainability and growth. With the aid of this research, optimal decisions on project/organisational venture selection can be made. Furthermore, integrating portfolio management strategies with system development life cycles and optimal project control strategies, will optimise an organisational portfolio and enhance the probability of project and organisational success.
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- Authors: Naidoo, Yogan
- Date: 2015-06-29
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness , Portfolio management , Strategic planning , Rate of return , Engineering - Management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:13646 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13830
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , Driving sustainability, optimising return on investments and cultivating a competitive market advantage, are imperative for organisational success and growth. In order to achieve the business objectives and value proposition, effective management strategies must be efficiently implemented, monitored and controlled. Failure to do so ultimately result in; financial loss due to increased capital and operational expenditure, schedule slippages, substandard delivery on quality and depreciation of market share. This research paper investigates and discusses management strategies with the focus on integration of effective portfolio management, efficient system development life cycles and optimal project control to ultimately drive organisational sustainability and growth. With the aid of this research, optimal decisions on project/organisational venture selection can be made. Furthermore, integrating portfolio management strategies with system development life cycles and optimal project control strategies, will optimise an organisational portfolio and enhance the probability of project and organisational success.
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Approach that will assist in reducing project failures in complex organisation
- Authors: Ndlovu, Esso
- Date: 2014-06-04
- Subjects: Agile software development , Strategic planning , Project management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:11394 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/11032
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , The Bull survey of 1998 [1]; conducted by Spike Cavell in the UK was used to identify major causes of IT project failures. The survey showed that failures due to missed deadlines accounted for 75% and the inability to meet project requirements accounted for 37% of the failures. The failures were mainly due to requirement changes during the project. Project requirements are laid out during scope planning phase of project management life cycle and all risks are assumed to be known during the planning phase of the project [2], [3], [13]. The project management process involves a finite number of key life cycle management phases from initiation to closure [2]. The project management body of knowledge (PMBoK) states that every project is managed by the project management triangle the relationship between scope, time and cost [43]. Changes in the project management triangle may cause failure to the project [15]. Projects are considered to be unique endeavours [43]; and using a “one size fits all” approach to find a solution to solve project failure will be impossible [39]. This presents a significant challenge; developing a framework to limit project failures which will widely be applicable to projects. The research study will apply a well-developed concept of agile project management to an organisation that is experiencing high project failure rates to determine if agile principles may be used to reduce project failures. The research will also look at the factors affecting the adoption of agile principles in large organisations. Specifically the research will look at the effects of the environment that the organisation operates in and the effects of the organisational structure. Action research is chosen as the research methodology in order to understand and improve the inefficiencies within the organisation. This gives a practical account for any organisation and adds to the project management body of knowledge.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ndlovu, Esso
- Date: 2014-06-04
- Subjects: Agile software development , Strategic planning , Project management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:11394 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/11032
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , The Bull survey of 1998 [1]; conducted by Spike Cavell in the UK was used to identify major causes of IT project failures. The survey showed that failures due to missed deadlines accounted for 75% and the inability to meet project requirements accounted for 37% of the failures. The failures were mainly due to requirement changes during the project. Project requirements are laid out during scope planning phase of project management life cycle and all risks are assumed to be known during the planning phase of the project [2], [3], [13]. The project management process involves a finite number of key life cycle management phases from initiation to closure [2]. The project management body of knowledge (PMBoK) states that every project is managed by the project management triangle the relationship between scope, time and cost [43]. Changes in the project management triangle may cause failure to the project [15]. Projects are considered to be unique endeavours [43]; and using a “one size fits all” approach to find a solution to solve project failure will be impossible [39]. This presents a significant challenge; developing a framework to limit project failures which will widely be applicable to projects. The research study will apply a well-developed concept of agile project management to an organisation that is experiencing high project failure rates to determine if agile principles may be used to reduce project failures. The research will also look at the factors affecting the adoption of agile principles in large organisations. Specifically the research will look at the effects of the environment that the organisation operates in and the effects of the organisational structure. Action research is chosen as the research methodology in order to understand and improve the inefficiencies within the organisation. This gives a practical account for any organisation and adds to the project management body of knowledge.
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Aspects of management in a research and development organization
- Authors: El-Hesnawi, Mohamed Rahoma
- Date: 2009-02-26T12:18:37Z
- Subjects: Industrial research management , Organizational change , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8155 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2161
- Description: M.Phil. , The important role that research and development (R&D) plays in the economic well being of a nation, and by implication the profitability of a business enterprise, has long been recognized. In this era, in which the world live in turbulent times, technology advances at an ever-increasing pace and customers needs are constantly changing. Global competition has reached unprecedented levels. Globalisation brings new economic powers and opportunities constantly. The global marketplace has emerged as a battlefield of the world, were many competitors are fighting for a share. These factors urge the need more than ever for new products, processes and services to be able to enter this battlefield and emerge as a victorious. The way to these new products, processes and services is the adaptation of an effective program of R&D. It is therefore important to appreciate the many aspects of the R&D function, which is the subject of this work. This research stresses the benefits that R&D brings to the nation and what measures that nation can adopt to promote R&D programs. The work also stresses the importance of R&D to private firms, and how the performance of such firms is linked to their use of technology and to the intensity of their R&D programs. Firms sustain economic growth and secure a competitive position by creating new products and new services, and these are the natural results of the R&D process. In the course of executing their R&D programs, firms are faced with many barriers and constraints that impede successful R&D activities. Many barriers have been identified and classified into different categories. Firms function in different environments, have different sizes, and different affiliations, hence it is difficult to suggest that there is a fixed set of R&D management practices that will fit all kinds of firms. In this research many general R&D management practices are recommended, which if implemented may lead to a successful R&D results. R&D is one of the important functions of the business; hence its strategy should be a natural extension of the business and should support this strategy. The concept of business strategy and why firms need to develop business strategy are discussed. Also elements needed to develop a best R&D strategy are recommended.
- Full Text:
- Authors: El-Hesnawi, Mohamed Rahoma
- Date: 2009-02-26T12:18:37Z
- Subjects: Industrial research management , Organizational change , Strategic planning
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8155 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2161
- Description: M.Phil. , The important role that research and development (R&D) plays in the economic well being of a nation, and by implication the profitability of a business enterprise, has long been recognized. In this era, in which the world live in turbulent times, technology advances at an ever-increasing pace and customers needs are constantly changing. Global competition has reached unprecedented levels. Globalisation brings new economic powers and opportunities constantly. The global marketplace has emerged as a battlefield of the world, were many competitors are fighting for a share. These factors urge the need more than ever for new products, processes and services to be able to enter this battlefield and emerge as a victorious. The way to these new products, processes and services is the adaptation of an effective program of R&D. It is therefore important to appreciate the many aspects of the R&D function, which is the subject of this work. This research stresses the benefits that R&D brings to the nation and what measures that nation can adopt to promote R&D programs. The work also stresses the importance of R&D to private firms, and how the performance of such firms is linked to their use of technology and to the intensity of their R&D programs. Firms sustain economic growth and secure a competitive position by creating new products and new services, and these are the natural results of the R&D process. In the course of executing their R&D programs, firms are faced with many barriers and constraints that impede successful R&D activities. Many barriers have been identified and classified into different categories. Firms function in different environments, have different sizes, and different affiliations, hence it is difficult to suggest that there is a fixed set of R&D management practices that will fit all kinds of firms. In this research many general R&D management practices are recommended, which if implemented may lead to a successful R&D results. R&D is one of the important functions of the business; hence its strategy should be a natural extension of the business and should support this strategy. The concept of business strategy and why firms need to develop business strategy are discussed. Also elements needed to develop a best R&D strategy are recommended.
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Bestuursimulasie vir strategiese bestuur by plaaslike owerhede
- Vermeulen, Stephanus Jacobus Daniël
- Authors: Vermeulen, Stephanus Jacobus Daniël
- Date: 2014-02-20
- Subjects: Management - Simulation methods , Strategic planning , Local government - South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:4182 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9529
- Description: M.Comm. (Strategic Management) , The turbulent and swiftly changing business environment assigns very big requirements and challenges to managers of all enterprises. Because of the current political and constitutional process of reform, local authorities find themselves on the verge of dramatical structural change. Traditionally local authorities operated in a relatively predictable and inert environment. The turbulent and swiftly changing environment, together with the expected structural changes, assign unprecedented demands and challenges to the managers of local government. To enable managers to handle these requirements and challenges to the optimal benefit of their residents and businessmen, the advancement of strategic management is of utmost importance. This study is directed at the distinguishing of potential requirements and challenges that could be assigned to managers in local government and to local government's pressing need of strategic management. A discussion of the use of computerbased management simulation as support to strategic mana~ment training in local government is included in the study. The central purpose of the study is to distinguish different applications of management simulation as an aid to the promotion of strategic management in local government and to indicate the value thereof. Management simulation can successfully be used to provide managers in local authority with simulated experience of the practical application of strategic management theory. Managers get the opportunity of strategically directing a simulated local authority and in this way they can make decisions without the need to fear for the consequences of erroneous decisions. There is no doubt that management simulation can make a worthwhile contribution to the advancement of strategic management in local government.
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- Authors: Vermeulen, Stephanus Jacobus Daniël
- Date: 2014-02-20
- Subjects: Management - Simulation methods , Strategic planning , Local government - South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:4182 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9529
- Description: M.Comm. (Strategic Management) , The turbulent and swiftly changing business environment assigns very big requirements and challenges to managers of all enterprises. Because of the current political and constitutional process of reform, local authorities find themselves on the verge of dramatical structural change. Traditionally local authorities operated in a relatively predictable and inert environment. The turbulent and swiftly changing environment, together with the expected structural changes, assign unprecedented demands and challenges to the managers of local government. To enable managers to handle these requirements and challenges to the optimal benefit of their residents and businessmen, the advancement of strategic management is of utmost importance. This study is directed at the distinguishing of potential requirements and challenges that could be assigned to managers in local government and to local government's pressing need of strategic management. A discussion of the use of computerbased management simulation as support to strategic mana~ment training in local government is included in the study. The central purpose of the study is to distinguish different applications of management simulation as an aid to the promotion of strategic management in local government and to indicate the value thereof. Management simulation can successfully be used to provide managers in local authority with simulated experience of the practical application of strategic management theory. Managers get the opportunity of strategically directing a simulated local authority and in this way they can make decisions without the need to fear for the consequences of erroneous decisions. There is no doubt that management simulation can make a worthwhile contribution to the advancement of strategic management in local government.
- Full Text: