A comparison between the mental models of entrepreneurs involved in successful and unsuccessful entrepreneurial activity
- Authors: Le Roux, Suzette Johanna
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Organizational change , Economic development , Businesspeople , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/374712 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/82617 , uj:18980
- Description: Abstract:Orientation As an entrepreneur/mentor, I am fascinated by the issue of why some start-up businesses flourish and others struggle to survive. In line with this and in order to increase understanding of entrepreneurial success, there is, as Bakker, Curşeu, and Vermeulen (2007) state, a need for empirical research to be conducted into the thought processes of entrepreneurs during strategic decision-making. In this study I endeavoured to discover why so many businesses fail and, subsequently, find a way to improve the success rate of novice entrepreneurs by exploring the mental models that support their decision-making. Research question The research question that guided the study investigated the differences between the mental models of entrepreneurs involved in successful businesses and those involved in unsuccessful entrepreneurial activity. Research aim and objectives The aim of the study was to explore and describe the concrete experiences and mental models of a small group of entrepreneurs, of which I was one. The following key objectives were identified for the study: To identify the critical elements of the mental models of entrepreneurs involved in successful entrepreneurial activity To ascertain the way in which the mental models of entrepreneurs involved in successful entrepreneurial activity differ from those involved in unsuccessful entrepreneurial activity To suggest interventions that would be appropriate for altering the mental models of entrepreneurs involved in unsuccessful activity so that they resemble the mental models of those involved in successful entrepreneurial activity... , D.Phil.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Le Roux, Suzette Johanna
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Organizational change , Economic development , Businesspeople , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/374712 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/82617 , uj:18980
- Description: Abstract:Orientation As an entrepreneur/mentor, I am fascinated by the issue of why some start-up businesses flourish and others struggle to survive. In line with this and in order to increase understanding of entrepreneurial success, there is, as Bakker, Curşeu, and Vermeulen (2007) state, a need for empirical research to be conducted into the thought processes of entrepreneurs during strategic decision-making. In this study I endeavoured to discover why so many businesses fail and, subsequently, find a way to improve the success rate of novice entrepreneurs by exploring the mental models that support their decision-making. Research question The research question that guided the study investigated the differences between the mental models of entrepreneurs involved in successful businesses and those involved in unsuccessful entrepreneurial activity. Research aim and objectives The aim of the study was to explore and describe the concrete experiences and mental models of a small group of entrepreneurs, of which I was one. The following key objectives were identified for the study: To identify the critical elements of the mental models of entrepreneurs involved in successful entrepreneurial activity To ascertain the way in which the mental models of entrepreneurs involved in successful entrepreneurial activity differ from those involved in unsuccessful entrepreneurial activity To suggest interventions that would be appropriate for altering the mental models of entrepreneurs involved in unsuccessful activity so that they resemble the mental models of those involved in successful entrepreneurial activity... , D.Phil.
- Full Text:
A psycho-educational model for the development of inner strength of entrepreneurs in Southern Africa
- Authors: Hattingh, Rene
- Date: 2009-03-31T09:51:48Z
- Subjects: Executives , Success in business
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8291 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2400
- Description: D.Ed. , Entrepreneurs are people who have the ability to see opportunities and create energy when others fail to see possibilities. They are people who help to create positive experiences and thriving communities through their ventures. In the process entrepreneurs would inevitably experience challenging times. In fact, the challenges they may encounter might lead the average man on the street to believe that the venture is not viable. One of the differentiating characteristics of successful entrepreneurs is that they see opportunities and pursue them in situations where most people believe the odds are against any success (Bolton & Thompson, 2004:21; Haskins, 1998:2; Kuratko & Hodgetts, 1989:102). During these challenges, the entrepreneur will find him or herself in a lonely place, as there are few people who would be able to believe in the success of the venture, let alone be able to give support and encouragement. This situation motivated the study into the life stories of the entrepreneur from the perspective of psychology of education. A study that sets out to establish which personal qualities these people draw from; to identify the qualities and characteristics these people have in common and to describe a psychoeducational model for the development of these qualities. The primary research goal of this study is the description of a psychoeducational model for the development of entrepreneurs in Southern Africa. To achieve this goal, the following objectives were pursued, namely: a. To gain an understanding of the life story of a successful entrepreneur. b. To develop a psycho-educational model based on this understanding. c. To describe guidelines for the operationalisation of the model. In an undertaking to meet the above objectives, a theory generative, qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design were executed. The fieldwork was done by having semi-structured phenomenological interviews with successful entrepreneurs. The results obtained from the interviews were analysed and categorised and a literature study was carried out.
- Full Text:
A psycho-educational model for the development of inner strength of entrepreneurs in Southern Africa
- Authors: Hattingh, Rene
- Date: 2009-03-31T09:51:48Z
- Subjects: Executives , Success in business
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8291 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2400
- Description: D.Ed. , Entrepreneurs are people who have the ability to see opportunities and create energy when others fail to see possibilities. They are people who help to create positive experiences and thriving communities through their ventures. In the process entrepreneurs would inevitably experience challenging times. In fact, the challenges they may encounter might lead the average man on the street to believe that the venture is not viable. One of the differentiating characteristics of successful entrepreneurs is that they see opportunities and pursue them in situations where most people believe the odds are against any success (Bolton & Thompson, 2004:21; Haskins, 1998:2; Kuratko & Hodgetts, 1989:102). During these challenges, the entrepreneur will find him or herself in a lonely place, as there are few people who would be able to believe in the success of the venture, let alone be able to give support and encouragement. This situation motivated the study into the life stories of the entrepreneur from the perspective of psychology of education. A study that sets out to establish which personal qualities these people draw from; to identify the qualities and characteristics these people have in common and to describe a psychoeducational model for the development of these qualities. The primary research goal of this study is the description of a psychoeducational model for the development of entrepreneurs in Southern Africa. To achieve this goal, the following objectives were pursued, namely: a. To gain an understanding of the life story of a successful entrepreneur. b. To develop a psycho-educational model based on this understanding. c. To describe guidelines for the operationalisation of the model. In an undertaking to meet the above objectives, a theory generative, qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design were executed. The fieldwork was done by having semi-structured phenomenological interviews with successful entrepreneurs. The results obtained from the interviews were analysed and categorised and a literature study was carried out.
- Full Text:
An investigation into the success factors amongst small businesses in Gauteng
- Keil, Maria Clara Mauricio Pereira
- Authors: Keil, Maria Clara Mauricio Pereira
- Date: 2009-03-31T09:19:53Z
- Subjects: Small business , Success in business , Gauteng (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8230 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2342
- Description: M.B.A. , Gauteng, the smallest of the nine South African provinces, but the largest in terms of its contribution to national GDP (33.9%), generates 10% of Africa’s GDP (Gauteng Enterprise Propeller Overview, 2007) and is therefore a very important geo-economical zone. As South Africa latest unemployment rate is 25.5% (StatsSA, 2006), Government is geared towards promoting small businesses in an effort to grow the economy and reduce unemployment. It is therefore very important to the economy that small businesses succeed, grow and provide employment. Due to the fact that at present, very little research into the success factors amongst small businesses in South Africa has been conducted in South Africa, it seems appropriate at this time to investigate the success factors of small businesses in Gauteng. The problem statement in this research is that there is insufficient knowledge relating to the factors contributing to the failure or success of small businesses in South Africa, Gauteng. To conduct this research, a qualitative and exploratory approach was decided upon. A literature survey on the subject was conducted in order to ground the current research in existing theory and research. A questionnaire was sent out by e-mail to 3776 businesses in Gauteng, to which the response rate was 3.15% (119 questionnaires were returned). The questionnaire was divided into sections and covered the definition of success, entrepreneurial personality characteristics of owner/manager, use of management tools, resource availability and the classification of respondents and their businesses. Due to the small size of the sample this research is not able to conclusively achieve the primary research objective of identifying the success factors of small businesses in Gauteng, but it has nevertheless contributed to the body of research on the matter, since it established that there is a correlation between: • Entrepreneurial personality and the success of small businesses • The use of management tools and the success of small businesses • The availability of resources and the success of small businesses. In addition the following can be reported: • The owner/managers surveyed attributed their success to: - persistence and determination - experience - entrepreneurial personality - business knowledge - a great team - education • The existence and or use of the business plan and its relationship to success remains inconclusive • Financial resources do not feature prominently as a success factor, but business skills do seem to correlate with success. Further research is necessary to pinpoint conclusively which traits and behaviours are conducive to success, by comparing successful and unsuccessful business owners. Other recommendations that arose from this research were: • Research should be conducted into the assumption that economic growth is driven by the proliferation of small businesses • Research into the weight of internal factors ((personality, experience, attitude, knowledge) versus that of external factors (start-up capital, business plans, skill availability, economic and legal conditions) would contribute to the body of knowledge and could trigger a shift in approach.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Keil, Maria Clara Mauricio Pereira
- Date: 2009-03-31T09:19:53Z
- Subjects: Small business , Success in business , Gauteng (South Africa)
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8230 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2342
- Description: M.B.A. , Gauteng, the smallest of the nine South African provinces, but the largest in terms of its contribution to national GDP (33.9%), generates 10% of Africa’s GDP (Gauteng Enterprise Propeller Overview, 2007) and is therefore a very important geo-economical zone. As South Africa latest unemployment rate is 25.5% (StatsSA, 2006), Government is geared towards promoting small businesses in an effort to grow the economy and reduce unemployment. It is therefore very important to the economy that small businesses succeed, grow and provide employment. Due to the fact that at present, very little research into the success factors amongst small businesses in South Africa has been conducted in South Africa, it seems appropriate at this time to investigate the success factors of small businesses in Gauteng. The problem statement in this research is that there is insufficient knowledge relating to the factors contributing to the failure or success of small businesses in South Africa, Gauteng. To conduct this research, a qualitative and exploratory approach was decided upon. A literature survey on the subject was conducted in order to ground the current research in existing theory and research. A questionnaire was sent out by e-mail to 3776 businesses in Gauteng, to which the response rate was 3.15% (119 questionnaires were returned). The questionnaire was divided into sections and covered the definition of success, entrepreneurial personality characteristics of owner/manager, use of management tools, resource availability and the classification of respondents and their businesses. Due to the small size of the sample this research is not able to conclusively achieve the primary research objective of identifying the success factors of small businesses in Gauteng, but it has nevertheless contributed to the body of research on the matter, since it established that there is a correlation between: • Entrepreneurial personality and the success of small businesses • The use of management tools and the success of small businesses • The availability of resources and the success of small businesses. In addition the following can be reported: • The owner/managers surveyed attributed their success to: - persistence and determination - experience - entrepreneurial personality - business knowledge - a great team - education • The existence and or use of the business plan and its relationship to success remains inconclusive • Financial resources do not feature prominently as a success factor, but business skills do seem to correlate with success. Further research is necessary to pinpoint conclusively which traits and behaviours are conducive to success, by comparing successful and unsuccessful business owners. Other recommendations that arose from this research were: • Research should be conducted into the assumption that economic growth is driven by the proliferation of small businesses • Research into the weight of internal factors ((personality, experience, attitude, knowledge) versus that of external factors (start-up capital, business plans, skill availability, economic and legal conditions) would contribute to the body of knowledge and could trigger a shift in approach.
- Full Text:
Assessment of the critical success factors of joint ventures in the South African construction industry
- Authors: Manitshana, Buhle
- Date: 2013-05-28
- Subjects: Construction industry - Management , Joint ventures - Management , Success in business , Strategic alliances (Business) - Management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7565 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8427
- Description: M.Tech. (Construction Management) , The aim of the study was to assessment of the critical success factors of joint ventures in the South African construction industry. The study strived to further establish the benefits and sustainability of contractor joint ventures between established contractors and small and medium contractors in the industry. In undertaking the study, primary data relative to contractor joint ventures was obtained by means of an administered questionnaire to one hundred and twelve (112) contractor representatives in the South African construction industry that had partaken or had an involvement in a joint venture project, to both the established and small and medium contractors. The findings indicate that multiple factors lead to the successfulness of contractor joint ventures, among these however, the main factors found to be efficient planning, commitment, trust, communication and comprehension. Other findings included the main benefits of both emerging and established contractor as well as the factors that can be used to measure the success of joint ventures. The research limitations can be said to include the fact that the study focused only on contractors that had previously taken part in a joint ventures project in Gauteng.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Manitshana, Buhle
- Date: 2013-05-28
- Subjects: Construction industry - Management , Joint ventures - Management , Success in business , Strategic alliances (Business) - Management
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7565 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8427
- Description: M.Tech. (Construction Management) , The aim of the study was to assessment of the critical success factors of joint ventures in the South African construction industry. The study strived to further establish the benefits and sustainability of contractor joint ventures between established contractors and small and medium contractors in the industry. In undertaking the study, primary data relative to contractor joint ventures was obtained by means of an administered questionnaire to one hundred and twelve (112) contractor representatives in the South African construction industry that had partaken or had an involvement in a joint venture project, to both the established and small and medium contractors. The findings indicate that multiple factors lead to the successfulness of contractor joint ventures, among these however, the main factors found to be efficient planning, commitment, trust, communication and comprehension. Other findings included the main benefits of both emerging and established contractor as well as the factors that can be used to measure the success of joint ventures. The research limitations can be said to include the fact that the study focused only on contractors that had previously taken part in a joint ventures project in Gauteng.
- Full Text:
Barriers that hinder the success of women entrepreneurs in Gauteng, South Africa
- Authors: Akhalwaya, Ayisha
- Date: 2012-06-05
- Subjects: Women entrepreneurs , Success in business , Failure in business , Businesswomen
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2448 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4906
- Description: M.Tech. , Women in South Africa account for more than half the population, yet traditionally have been excluded from the formal environments of business. Women entrepreneurs in play a critical and important role in the economy and their contribution is limited to more traditional businesses such as crafts, hawking, personal services and the retail sectors. For women entrepreneurs to contribute positively to the South African economy, the environment in which they operate needs to be understood. Women business owners are faced with many challenges iv that hinder their success. The objective of this study is to identify and investigate the success factors and relevant barriers facing women entrepreneurs and to determine to what extent these barriers affect their success to starting, managing and growing their ventures taking into account their bio-graphics.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Akhalwaya, Ayisha
- Date: 2012-06-05
- Subjects: Women entrepreneurs , Success in business , Failure in business , Businesswomen
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2448 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4906
- Description: M.Tech. , Women in South Africa account for more than half the population, yet traditionally have been excluded from the formal environments of business. Women entrepreneurs in play a critical and important role in the economy and their contribution is limited to more traditional businesses such as crafts, hawking, personal services and the retail sectors. For women entrepreneurs to contribute positively to the South African economy, the environment in which they operate needs to be understood. Women business owners are faced with many challenges iv that hinder their success. The objective of this study is to identify and investigate the success factors and relevant barriers facing women entrepreneurs and to determine to what extent these barriers affect their success to starting, managing and growing their ventures taking into account their bio-graphics.
- Full Text:
Building and validating a competency model delivered by a corporate university
- Authors: Brits, David Wilhelmus
- Date: 2013-07-10
- Subjects: Industrial management , Success in business , Competency-based educational tests
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7600 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8466
- Description: D.Phil. (Leadership in Performance & Change) , Over the past four to five years, the role of central banks has grown increasingly important globally in respect of national and international financial and economic stability. The recent financial crises have emphasised the critical role that central banks, in particular their bank supervisors and regulators, could and should play in stabilising the financial sector to curb the potential spread of economic and financial instability internationally. Though many central banks agree on what the core functions of a central bank should be, there is little or no consensus globally about what constitutes a “competent central banker”. It is for this reason that this study was undertaken. More specifically, the study was intended to enable central banks to have a “common language” for describing central banker competencies. A validated central banker competency model could also help to align and create in central banks a common focus on ensuring effective human resources management. Furthermore, there is a need in central banks for an integrated learning and development delivery model which could deliver the critical competencies required by central bankers, in particular the use by central banks of the corporate university model as the principal learning and development delivery mechanism. In this regard, the study discusses the core features that underpin the principles on which most corporate universities are based, namely (a) a learning business driven by and focusing proactively on real-time business needs; (b) the custodian of the intellectual equity of the organisation as expressed in its core organisational competencies and its people’s skills, knowledge and expertise; (c) the seamless merging of learning/teaching and business action into a single, connected process; (d) the adoption of a comprehensive, integrated learning/teaching perspective on the business and its respective role players; and (e) a key enabler to, catalyst of, and institutor of organisation-wide change at the strategic, managerial and operational levels. Against the above background, the two-fold problem statement of the study was, firstly, to develop and validate a central banker competency model for central bankers; and secondly, to identify and assess a suitable learning and development delivery model which could effectively deliver these competencies, and more specifically the suitability of a corporate university in playing this delivery role for central banks.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Brits, David Wilhelmus
- Date: 2013-07-10
- Subjects: Industrial management , Success in business , Competency-based educational tests
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7600 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8466
- Description: D.Phil. (Leadership in Performance & Change) , Over the past four to five years, the role of central banks has grown increasingly important globally in respect of national and international financial and economic stability. The recent financial crises have emphasised the critical role that central banks, in particular their bank supervisors and regulators, could and should play in stabilising the financial sector to curb the potential spread of economic and financial instability internationally. Though many central banks agree on what the core functions of a central bank should be, there is little or no consensus globally about what constitutes a “competent central banker”. It is for this reason that this study was undertaken. More specifically, the study was intended to enable central banks to have a “common language” for describing central banker competencies. A validated central banker competency model could also help to align and create in central banks a common focus on ensuring effective human resources management. Furthermore, there is a need in central banks for an integrated learning and development delivery model which could deliver the critical competencies required by central bankers, in particular the use by central banks of the corporate university model as the principal learning and development delivery mechanism. In this regard, the study discusses the core features that underpin the principles on which most corporate universities are based, namely (a) a learning business driven by and focusing proactively on real-time business needs; (b) the custodian of the intellectual equity of the organisation as expressed in its core organisational competencies and its people’s skills, knowledge and expertise; (c) the seamless merging of learning/teaching and business action into a single, connected process; (d) the adoption of a comprehensive, integrated learning/teaching perspective on the business and its respective role players; and (e) a key enabler to, catalyst of, and institutor of organisation-wide change at the strategic, managerial and operational levels. Against the above background, the two-fold problem statement of the study was, firstly, to develop and validate a central banker competency model for central bankers; and secondly, to identify and assess a suitable learning and development delivery model which could effectively deliver these competencies, and more specifically the suitability of a corporate university in playing this delivery role for central banks.
- Full Text:
Constructions of career progression by women leaders in a corporate context
- Authors: Carvalho, Ana
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Leadership in women , Career development , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/246157 , uj:25511
- Description: Ph.D. (Industrial Psychology) , Abstract: In the context of increased representation of women in the job market and the underrepresentation of women at the most senior positions of executive leaders, an understanding of how women leaders in the corporate sphere construe career progression is particularly germane. The aim of this study was to explore women leaders‘ constructions of career progression in a corporate environment from three traditions embedded within the constructionist tradition: personal constructivism, social constructionism, and constructivism grounded in subjective lived experience. To this end the aim was further sub-divided into three sub-aims: (a) to explore women leaders‘ shared (constructed) mental models of the career progress of others in a corporate environment; (b) to explore women leaders‘ collective (―ours‖) co-construction of career progression in a corporate environment and (c) to generate a constructivist grounded theory of women leaders‘ own career progression based on their subjective experiences. Taken together, the study seeks to offer a holistic and in-depth account of the constructions of career progression by women leaders in a corporate environment. A qualitative research design using a case study research strategy was employed in a large financial institution in South Africa. A purposeful sampling consisting of women leaders in lower, middle and senior management positions was utilised. To address the stated aim and sub-aims of the study the research design was formulated and is presented as three sequential research phases, each consisting of an independent but related study. Given the three-phased nature of the study, more than one data collection technique was applied, with data being analysed through qualitative methods. In Phase I, data were collected by means of the repertory grid technique, the methodological application of personal construct theory, and analysed by means of qualitative content analysis and the core-categorising procedure. In Phase II, data were collected using the Appreciative Inquiry method, which included semi-structured paired interviews, small group discussions, plenary discussions and written activities. Data were analysed using a collaborative data analytic approach. In Phase...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Carvalho, Ana
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Leadership in women , Career development , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/246157 , uj:25511
- Description: Ph.D. (Industrial Psychology) , Abstract: In the context of increased representation of women in the job market and the underrepresentation of women at the most senior positions of executive leaders, an understanding of how women leaders in the corporate sphere construe career progression is particularly germane. The aim of this study was to explore women leaders‘ constructions of career progression in a corporate environment from three traditions embedded within the constructionist tradition: personal constructivism, social constructionism, and constructivism grounded in subjective lived experience. To this end the aim was further sub-divided into three sub-aims: (a) to explore women leaders‘ shared (constructed) mental models of the career progress of others in a corporate environment; (b) to explore women leaders‘ collective (―ours‖) co-construction of career progression in a corporate environment and (c) to generate a constructivist grounded theory of women leaders‘ own career progression based on their subjective experiences. Taken together, the study seeks to offer a holistic and in-depth account of the constructions of career progression by women leaders in a corporate environment. A qualitative research design using a case study research strategy was employed in a large financial institution in South Africa. A purposeful sampling consisting of women leaders in lower, middle and senior management positions was utilised. To address the stated aim and sub-aims of the study the research design was formulated and is presented as three sequential research phases, each consisting of an independent but related study. Given the three-phased nature of the study, more than one data collection technique was applied, with data being analysed through qualitative methods. In Phase I, data were collected by means of the repertory grid technique, the methodological application of personal construct theory, and analysed by means of qualitative content analysis and the core-categorising procedure. In Phase II, data were collected using the Appreciative Inquiry method, which included semi-structured paired interviews, small group discussions, plenary discussions and written activities. Data were analysed using a collaborative data analytic approach. In Phase...
- Full Text:
Critical success factors in information technology projects
- Authors: Pieterse, Martin
- Date: 2012-01-25
- Subjects: Project management , Success in business
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:1967 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4324
- Description: M.Comm. , This study investigates the factors that are critical to success with Information Technology projects. The intention is to identify a set of factors that will increase the probability of an Information Technology project succeeding. To understand Information Technology project success, Information Technology in the business environment is investigated and found to be the various hardware and software used in information systems, including computers and networking equipment. These systems and components that comprise Information Technology can provide the business organisation with significant competitive advantage. Information Technology systems within the business are developed following a process known as the Software Development Lifecycle. The process of developing Information Technology systems is normally managed as a project. This study shows that a project can be defined as a grouping of related tasks and activities that consume some of the limited resources of an organisation for a fixed period of time and that has a measurable objective as its goal. Projects normally follow the same path, from project concept initiation, planning, plan development, execution through to project closeout. Critical success factors in Information Technology projects A project is deemed to be successful if it delivers the objectives stated for the project, is delivered on time, within the cost estimates and to expected quality, if it is profitable for the contractor, and if necessary it is terminated early. Despite the competitive advantage that Information Technology can provide the business and the fact that projects are well defined, more than half of IT projects still fail. There are, however, a number of reasons that can be contributed to IT projects failing, the main factor being lack of management and leadership in projects. Investigation reveals that a number of factors do exist that are critical to IT project success. These factors can be summarised as customer involvement, a positive attitude towards project success, flexible project tools, defined criteria for success and keeping to schedules and budgets.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Pieterse, Martin
- Date: 2012-01-25
- Subjects: Project management , Success in business
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:1967 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4324
- Description: M.Comm. , This study investigates the factors that are critical to success with Information Technology projects. The intention is to identify a set of factors that will increase the probability of an Information Technology project succeeding. To understand Information Technology project success, Information Technology in the business environment is investigated and found to be the various hardware and software used in information systems, including computers and networking equipment. These systems and components that comprise Information Technology can provide the business organisation with significant competitive advantage. Information Technology systems within the business are developed following a process known as the Software Development Lifecycle. The process of developing Information Technology systems is normally managed as a project. This study shows that a project can be defined as a grouping of related tasks and activities that consume some of the limited resources of an organisation for a fixed period of time and that has a measurable objective as its goal. Projects normally follow the same path, from project concept initiation, planning, plan development, execution through to project closeout. Critical success factors in Information Technology projects A project is deemed to be successful if it delivers the objectives stated for the project, is delivered on time, within the cost estimates and to expected quality, if it is profitable for the contractor, and if necessary it is terminated early. Despite the competitive advantage that Information Technology can provide the business and the fact that projects are well defined, more than half of IT projects still fail. There are, however, a number of reasons that can be contributed to IT projects failing, the main factor being lack of management and leadership in projects. Investigation reveals that a number of factors do exist that are critical to IT project success. These factors can be summarised as customer involvement, a positive attitude towards project success, flexible project tools, defined criteria for success and keeping to schedules and budgets.
- Full Text:
Die aard en wese van entrepreneurskap en die belangrikheid daarvan vir sakesukses
- Swanevelder, Suzel Magdalena
- Authors: Swanevelder, Suzel Magdalena
- Date: 2012-08-28
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Success in business
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3291 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6696
- Description: M.Comm. , The purpose of this study is to research certain aspects of entrepreneurship and to highlight the relationships between entrepreneurship and business success. Organisations compete in a highly competitive and constantly changing environment and are becoming increasingly more difficult for them to survive and to succeed. One of the biggest challenges for organisations, if they wish to survive and succeed, is to change constantly and to adapt as quickly as possible to the changing environment. There is ample research which suggests that an entrepreneurial orientation is an important contributor to survival and growth of organisations. Entrepreneurs are seen as heroes of the modern business world. The reason for this is the increase in economic growth and job opportunities which they created. The central role of entrepreneurship is the ongoing need to create something new. Creativity and renewed thinking enable entrepreneurs to survive and to grow. Thus, creativity forms a part of entrepreneurship and without creativity, there can be no successful entrepreneurship. By understanding creativity, one can build the foundation of a very important component for entrepreneurship. Creativity consists of four interdependent components, namely the creative product, the creative person, the creative process and the creative environment. All four of these components are important for development of creativity, but this study will focus on the creative environment. It is important to concentrate on those situations in an organisational climate in which creativity can be stimulated, developed and/or discouraged. Although individuals can be taught to improve their creative abilities, one delivers optimal results in a favourable organisational climate that supports creativity. The organisational climate influences the way individuals communicate, solve problems, make decisions and handle conflict. Further, the organisational climate influences job satisfaction, the motivation of workers, the ability to innovate and the involvement of workers. A creative organisational climate has become a necessity for all organisations to survive and to succeed in the business world.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Swanevelder, Suzel Magdalena
- Date: 2012-08-28
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Success in business
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:3291 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6696
- Description: M.Comm. , The purpose of this study is to research certain aspects of entrepreneurship and to highlight the relationships between entrepreneurship and business success. Organisations compete in a highly competitive and constantly changing environment and are becoming increasingly more difficult for them to survive and to succeed. One of the biggest challenges for organisations, if they wish to survive and succeed, is to change constantly and to adapt as quickly as possible to the changing environment. There is ample research which suggests that an entrepreneurial orientation is an important contributor to survival and growth of organisations. Entrepreneurs are seen as heroes of the modern business world. The reason for this is the increase in economic growth and job opportunities which they created. The central role of entrepreneurship is the ongoing need to create something new. Creativity and renewed thinking enable entrepreneurs to survive and to grow. Thus, creativity forms a part of entrepreneurship and without creativity, there can be no successful entrepreneurship. By understanding creativity, one can build the foundation of a very important component for entrepreneurship. Creativity consists of four interdependent components, namely the creative product, the creative person, the creative process and the creative environment. All four of these components are important for development of creativity, but this study will focus on the creative environment. It is important to concentrate on those situations in an organisational climate in which creativity can be stimulated, developed and/or discouraged. Although individuals can be taught to improve their creative abilities, one delivers optimal results in a favourable organisational climate that supports creativity. The organisational climate influences the way individuals communicate, solve problems, make decisions and handle conflict. Further, the organisational climate influences job satisfaction, the motivation of workers, the ability to innovate and the involvement of workers. A creative organisational climate has become a necessity for all organisations to survive and to succeed in the business world.
- Full Text:
Die formele sakeplan se bydrae tot sakesukses
- Du Plessis, Stephanus Johannes
- Authors: Du Plessis, Stephanus Johannes
- Date: 2012-10-18
- Subjects: Business planning , Success in business
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:10406 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7873
- Description: M.Comm.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Du Plessis, Stephanus Johannes
- Date: 2012-10-18
- Subjects: Business planning , Success in business
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:10406 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7873
- Description: M.Comm.
- Full Text:
Effective use of the business case to enhance the success rate of business / information technology projects
- Authors: Einhorn, Frank
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Information technology projects , Information technology projects - Management , Project management , Business enterprises , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/271762 , uj:28910
- Description: Ph.D. (IT Management) , Abstract: This thesis is about what needs to be in place for the business case to be used effectively in business projects that use information technology (referred to as ITB projects) and hence contribute to their success. Success in this context refers to project success, product success, business success and often also strategic success. The thesis is based largely on a review of representative literature. It outlines the purposes of a business case for individual projects as well as for a portfolio of projects. It shows how sound governance is not only mandated for organisations in South Africa via the King IV provisions, but also contributes to project success. The business case emerges as a key input to such governance. Simply put, the organisation needs to understand the ongoing justification for projects and also to prioritise multiple projects to optimise strategic objectives. The word ‘ongoing’ is important, as literature emphasises that business requirements, which apply to all organisations, including government, are constantly changing. It is found from literature that it is difficult to follow business case processes and that in practice the business case is seldom used effectively throughout the lifetime of the project from inception to benefits realisation. The remainder of the research sought to determine what organisations can do to rectify the situation and enhance their success rate. This was done progressively by getting a better understanding of business case processes and then the information that the processes interact with. The research shows how additional information is needed during planning, execution and benefits realisation. However, knowing the business case processes and the information required is necessary but not sufficient. There are many organisational factors that need to facilitate the effective use of the business case and hence sound governance. Having researched the facilitating factors from literature, a business case effectiveness model is proposed showing how the processes, information and factors combine. The aim of the model is to increase awareness and understanding and hence enable organisations to get value, at acceptable cost, from use of the business case. Field research was then done to assess the presence and importance of the factors and to relate them to the use of business case processes. It was possible to reduce the facilitating factors to eight major factors and to use the major factors to validate the business case effectiveness model.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Einhorn, Frank
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Information technology projects , Information technology projects - Management , Project management , Business enterprises , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/271762 , uj:28910
- Description: Ph.D. (IT Management) , Abstract: This thesis is about what needs to be in place for the business case to be used effectively in business projects that use information technology (referred to as ITB projects) and hence contribute to their success. Success in this context refers to project success, product success, business success and often also strategic success. The thesis is based largely on a review of representative literature. It outlines the purposes of a business case for individual projects as well as for a portfolio of projects. It shows how sound governance is not only mandated for organisations in South Africa via the King IV provisions, but also contributes to project success. The business case emerges as a key input to such governance. Simply put, the organisation needs to understand the ongoing justification for projects and also to prioritise multiple projects to optimise strategic objectives. The word ‘ongoing’ is important, as literature emphasises that business requirements, which apply to all organisations, including government, are constantly changing. It is found from literature that it is difficult to follow business case processes and that in practice the business case is seldom used effectively throughout the lifetime of the project from inception to benefits realisation. The remainder of the research sought to determine what organisations can do to rectify the situation and enhance their success rate. This was done progressively by getting a better understanding of business case processes and then the information that the processes interact with. The research shows how additional information is needed during planning, execution and benefits realisation. However, knowing the business case processes and the information required is necessary but not sufficient. There are many organisational factors that need to facilitate the effective use of the business case and hence sound governance. Having researched the facilitating factors from literature, a business case effectiveness model is proposed showing how the processes, information and factors combine. The aim of the model is to increase awareness and understanding and hence enable organisations to get value, at acceptable cost, from use of the business case. Field research was then done to assess the presence and importance of the factors and to relate them to the use of business case processes. It was possible to reduce the facilitating factors to eight major factors and to use the major factors to validate the business case effectiveness model.
- Full Text:
Entrepreneurial leadership in dynamic markets
- Authors: Davids, John Peter
- Date: 2013-05-01
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Leadership , Success in business , Organizational change
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:7490 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8349
- Description: M.Comm. (Business Management) , Entrepreneurial Leadership has become an important source of sustainable competitive advantage. The generally dynamic nature of the South African business environment, the low entrepreneurial activity and the high failure rate of small and medium-sized businesses in the country suggest that (i) the importance of Entrepreneurial Leadership is not recognised, (ii) Entrepreneurial Leadership capabilities are insufficient, and (iii) perceptions about the business environment are not clear. The purpose of the study is to explore Entrepreneurial Leadership and its importance in small and medium-sized businesses in South Africa. Using the survey methodology, the empirical study was conducted amongst leaders and managers of small and medium-sized businesses operating in the Johannesburg region. The objectives of the study were to answer the following three research questions: 1. Is Entrepreneurial Leadership regarded as important? 2. Are Entrepreneurial Leadership capabilities exhibited? 3. Is the business environment regarded as dynamic? The findings of this study suggest that: (i) Leaders and managers of small and medium-sized businesses operating in the South African business environment perceive Entrepreneurial Leadership as significantly important. (ii) The perceptions of leaders and managers of small and medium-sized businesses operating in South Africa are that they exhibit Entrepreneurial Leadership capabilities. (iii) Leaders and managers of South African small and medium-sized businesses operating in South Africa appear indifferent about market dynamics.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Davids, John Peter
- Date: 2013-05-01
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Leadership , Success in business , Organizational change
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:7490 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/8349
- Description: M.Comm. (Business Management) , Entrepreneurial Leadership has become an important source of sustainable competitive advantage. The generally dynamic nature of the South African business environment, the low entrepreneurial activity and the high failure rate of small and medium-sized businesses in the country suggest that (i) the importance of Entrepreneurial Leadership is not recognised, (ii) Entrepreneurial Leadership capabilities are insufficient, and (iii) perceptions about the business environment are not clear. The purpose of the study is to explore Entrepreneurial Leadership and its importance in small and medium-sized businesses in South Africa. Using the survey methodology, the empirical study was conducted amongst leaders and managers of small and medium-sized businesses operating in the Johannesburg region. The objectives of the study were to answer the following three research questions: 1. Is Entrepreneurial Leadership regarded as important? 2. Are Entrepreneurial Leadership capabilities exhibited? 3. Is the business environment regarded as dynamic? The findings of this study suggest that: (i) Leaders and managers of small and medium-sized businesses operating in the South African business environment perceive Entrepreneurial Leadership as significantly important. (ii) The perceptions of leaders and managers of small and medium-sized businesses operating in South Africa are that they exhibit Entrepreneurial Leadership capabilities. (iii) Leaders and managers of South African small and medium-sized businesses operating in South Africa appear indifferent about market dynamics.
- Full Text:
Factors that will determine and influence organizational success in the year 2000 and beyond : a theoretical view
- Authors: Nel, Marthinus Jakobus
- Date: 2012-09-14
- Subjects: Success in business , Organizational effectiveness
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10376 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7741
- Description: M.Comm. , This study was conducted with the purpose of illustrating the necessity for and complexity of the process identifying the factors that determine and influence organizational success. Organizations are entering a stage in history where change is the only constant. Authors use words like "earthquake", "revolution", "storm", "turbulence", "future shock", "explosion", "frenzy" and "change spiral" in an attempt to begin to describe what lies ahead for organizations of today. There is no escaping change. The cliché saying, "adapt or die", has never been more relevant than it is now. The type and extent of the changes awaiting organizations could mean either tremendous opportunity or tremendous threat. The shaping of an organization's future implies the successful management of the internal change process needed to fit the organization to its changing environments. The factors that will ensure, or at least positively influence, organizational success must be identified and addressed in a proper manner. The factors present themselves in four dimensions, namely the external environment, the internal environment, the people and the management of the organization. The findings of this research confirm the existence of particular factors in these three dimensions which will determine and definitely influence organization success. These factors range from macro economic trends, like the formation of international trading areas, to the micro redesign of individual jobs to liberate the entrepreneurial potential of people. It highlights the importance of the customer as the most important external factor and the employee as the most important internal factor, both of which are human factors without which there is no activity. The management of organizations has always been a key factor. This research employed in this study showed however that there are several new dimensions coming to the fore that managers will have to take cognizance of, since these aspects will increase their chances of being instrumental in attaining success. These include a need for visionary, strategic thinking, not just strategic planning. Leadership skills, rather than management skills, will also be required as well as an ability to rally people behind them. The general management and functional management functions have therefore all changed in their focus and application. Strategic planning must be replaced by a less ritualistic strategic management process that includes all employees. Participative management must be underpinned by co-ownership schemes. Change management and navigation will become core competency requirements. Marketing management must now involve the whole organization. Information technology must be viewed as a means to an end and not an end in itself. Integrated logistic management must be widely introduced. Human resource management must become a professional support function and production management must be integrated with the rest of the business functions and processes.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nel, Marthinus Jakobus
- Date: 2012-09-14
- Subjects: Success in business , Organizational effectiveness
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10376 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/7741
- Description: M.Comm. , This study was conducted with the purpose of illustrating the necessity for and complexity of the process identifying the factors that determine and influence organizational success. Organizations are entering a stage in history where change is the only constant. Authors use words like "earthquake", "revolution", "storm", "turbulence", "future shock", "explosion", "frenzy" and "change spiral" in an attempt to begin to describe what lies ahead for organizations of today. There is no escaping change. The cliché saying, "adapt or die", has never been more relevant than it is now. The type and extent of the changes awaiting organizations could mean either tremendous opportunity or tremendous threat. The shaping of an organization's future implies the successful management of the internal change process needed to fit the organization to its changing environments. The factors that will ensure, or at least positively influence, organizational success must be identified and addressed in a proper manner. The factors present themselves in four dimensions, namely the external environment, the internal environment, the people and the management of the organization. The findings of this research confirm the existence of particular factors in these three dimensions which will determine and definitely influence organization success. These factors range from macro economic trends, like the formation of international trading areas, to the micro redesign of individual jobs to liberate the entrepreneurial potential of people. It highlights the importance of the customer as the most important external factor and the employee as the most important internal factor, both of which are human factors without which there is no activity. The management of organizations has always been a key factor. This research employed in this study showed however that there are several new dimensions coming to the fore that managers will have to take cognizance of, since these aspects will increase their chances of being instrumental in attaining success. These include a need for visionary, strategic thinking, not just strategic planning. Leadership skills, rather than management skills, will also be required as well as an ability to rally people behind them. The general management and functional management functions have therefore all changed in their focus and application. Strategic planning must be replaced by a less ritualistic strategic management process that includes all employees. Participative management must be underpinned by co-ownership schemes. Change management and navigation will become core competency requirements. Marketing management must now involve the whole organization. Information technology must be viewed as a means to an end and not an end in itself. Integrated logistic management must be widely introduced. Human resource management must become a professional support function and production management must be integrated with the rest of the business functions and processes.
- Full Text:
Gaining and sustaining a competitive advantage in an optometric practice
- Authors: Alberts, Nicolaas Francois
- Date: 2010-11-09T07:22:11Z
- Subjects: Optometric practice , Competition , Success in business
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:6982 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3489
- Description: M.Comm. , Kotler (1997:53) defines competitive advantage as " ...acompany's ability to perform in one or more ways that competitors cannot or will not match". Companies strive to build sustainable competitive advantages. Those that succeed deliver high customer value and satisfaction, which lead to high repeat purchases and therefore high company profitability. Competitive positioning is important and crucial in the rapid changing environment wherein organisations find themselves. Differentiation of service or product is ofutmost importance to satisfy current clientele and to draw new business. Any organisation unable to differentiate to offer something unique finds itself part of a vast majority of "middle-of-the-road" organisations on the road to nowhere, even ifgeneral quality ofservice and productis acceptable. The study is aimed at developing a model by which a competitive advantage can be gained and sustained in an optometric practice. Different ways of gaining and sustaining competitive advantage is explored through current literature review in order to establish and develop the suggested model. Quantitative research was done in the greater Gauteng region by means of a mail survey to a random sample of optometrists. Two hundred and fifty questionnaires were sent out with a 19,2% response rate. The highest conformity amongst respondents is given to the Employee dimension with the least conformity given towards the Market dimension. Respondents thus value the Employee dimension as the most important factor in gaining competitive advantage. It is suggested that Porter's Value Chain be altered to have Human Resource Management forming the foundation ofthe value adding activities. Human Resource Management thus plays the most important role in adding value as it is utilised as medium through which value is passed on to clients. This view is in contrast with Porter's where Human Resource Management only served as a supporting function.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Alberts, Nicolaas Francois
- Date: 2010-11-09T07:22:11Z
- Subjects: Optometric practice , Competition , Success in business
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:6982 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3489
- Description: M.Comm. , Kotler (1997:53) defines competitive advantage as " ...acompany's ability to perform in one or more ways that competitors cannot or will not match". Companies strive to build sustainable competitive advantages. Those that succeed deliver high customer value and satisfaction, which lead to high repeat purchases and therefore high company profitability. Competitive positioning is important and crucial in the rapid changing environment wherein organisations find themselves. Differentiation of service or product is ofutmost importance to satisfy current clientele and to draw new business. Any organisation unable to differentiate to offer something unique finds itself part of a vast majority of "middle-of-the-road" organisations on the road to nowhere, even ifgeneral quality ofservice and productis acceptable. The study is aimed at developing a model by which a competitive advantage can be gained and sustained in an optometric practice. Different ways of gaining and sustaining competitive advantage is explored through current literature review in order to establish and develop the suggested model. Quantitative research was done in the greater Gauteng region by means of a mail survey to a random sample of optometrists. Two hundred and fifty questionnaires were sent out with a 19,2% response rate. The highest conformity amongst respondents is given to the Employee dimension with the least conformity given towards the Market dimension. Respondents thus value the Employee dimension as the most important factor in gaining competitive advantage. It is suggested that Porter's Value Chain be altered to have Human Resource Management forming the foundation ofthe value adding activities. Human Resource Management thus plays the most important role in adding value as it is utilised as medium through which value is passed on to clients. This view is in contrast with Porter's where Human Resource Management only served as a supporting function.
- Full Text:
Guest houses success: the experience of five small enterprises in a turbulent environment
- Authors: De Winter, Tina
- Date: 2010-11-09T06:17:53Z
- Subjects: Success in business , Boarding houses , Small business
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6949 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3459
- Description: M.Comm. , The study was concerned with the problem of the long-term survival and success of SMEs in the tourism industry in a turbulent global operating environment, as well as in hostile conditions, such as unexpected changes, or disaster in the operating environments of the small businesses. The study was prompted by the high failure rate of SMEs worldwide and in SA. The tourism industry has a predominance of small business and was identified by SA as the industry of choice to support for the achievement of macroeconomic goals that include economic stability, poverty alleviation and employment creation. The overall objective of the study was to explore and examine factors located within the three operating environments (macro, industry and micro), that contribute to the survival and long-term success of tourism SMEs (five guest houses on the Dolphin Coast), operating in a turbulent global environment and hostile conditions such as disaster and unexpected events. The study explored and explained factors from four interrelated perspectives, namely a macro, meso, micro and chrono contexts; to examine the way in which the guest houses engaged with their environments; to determine the role of networks and clusters in the process; and to determine the impact of industry-specific and sector-specific factors on success. The study used an embedded case study methodology to assess five tourism SMEs, guest houses, located on the east coast of SA in a region known as the Dolphin Coast. The area was studied over a three year period from 2005 to 2007, a period of favourable economic and industry conditions globally and nationally (SA). Slowing economic conditions, severe coastal storms, rates increases and changes in the external environment provided conditions of turbulence and hostility in which to assess the responses of the guest houses, compared to activity and perceptions in the prior stable conditions. Porter’s (1980; 1990; 1996; 2000) theoretical frameworks, including the Diamond Model, the Five Forces Model and augmentations to these models were used to guide the research and interpretation of results. The study concluded that various sets of interlinked factors located in the macro, industry and internal (micro) operating environment of the firm, contributed to the success and constraints experienced by the guest houses. The presence of elements in the environments does not facilitate or ensure success, but success is dependent on the actions and choices of leaders and managers. These actions and choices are, in turn, guided by the values and culture present in the environment and are affected by human agency and efficacy.
- Full Text:
- Authors: De Winter, Tina
- Date: 2010-11-09T06:17:53Z
- Subjects: Success in business , Boarding houses , Small business
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6949 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3459
- Description: M.Comm. , The study was concerned with the problem of the long-term survival and success of SMEs in the tourism industry in a turbulent global operating environment, as well as in hostile conditions, such as unexpected changes, or disaster in the operating environments of the small businesses. The study was prompted by the high failure rate of SMEs worldwide and in SA. The tourism industry has a predominance of small business and was identified by SA as the industry of choice to support for the achievement of macroeconomic goals that include economic stability, poverty alleviation and employment creation. The overall objective of the study was to explore and examine factors located within the three operating environments (macro, industry and micro), that contribute to the survival and long-term success of tourism SMEs (five guest houses on the Dolphin Coast), operating in a turbulent global environment and hostile conditions such as disaster and unexpected events. The study explored and explained factors from four interrelated perspectives, namely a macro, meso, micro and chrono contexts; to examine the way in which the guest houses engaged with their environments; to determine the role of networks and clusters in the process; and to determine the impact of industry-specific and sector-specific factors on success. The study used an embedded case study methodology to assess five tourism SMEs, guest houses, located on the east coast of SA in a region known as the Dolphin Coast. The area was studied over a three year period from 2005 to 2007, a period of favourable economic and industry conditions globally and nationally (SA). Slowing economic conditions, severe coastal storms, rates increases and changes in the external environment provided conditions of turbulence and hostility in which to assess the responses of the guest houses, compared to activity and perceptions in the prior stable conditions. Porter’s (1980; 1990; 1996; 2000) theoretical frameworks, including the Diamond Model, the Five Forces Model and augmentations to these models were used to guide the research and interpretation of results. The study concluded that various sets of interlinked factors located in the macro, industry and internal (micro) operating environment of the firm, contributed to the success and constraints experienced by the guest houses. The presence of elements in the environments does not facilitate or ensure success, but success is dependent on the actions and choices of leaders and managers. These actions and choices are, in turn, guided by the values and culture present in the environment and are affected by human agency and efficacy.
- Full Text:
Identity rebuilding for a woman living in an expatriate situation : an auto-ethnographic study
- Authors: Odendaal, Hiltje
- Date: 2012-08-14
- Subjects: Leadership in women , Leadership - Psychological aspects , Success in business , Self-actualization (Psychology) , Women - Identity
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9235 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5683
- Description: M.Phil. , The purpose of this research was to answer the following question: Can PPL (personal and professional leadership) in any way provides an explanation for what happens in the life of an expatriate woman and can it contribute to the reconstruction of the life of a woman living in an expatriate situation? In order to answer the research question, the research was divided into two distinguishable parts. In the first part an examination of the loss of identity the expatriate woman experiences was discussed within the context of the PPL (personal and professional leadership) leadership model. The conclusion reached was that the expatriate woman is left vulnerable and disorientated because of the absence of essential and familiar leadership levels, and her own culture and country. Familiar roles and own identity need to be reshaped. In the second part of the research the rebuilding of a new identity was discussed within the context of the PPL (personal- and professional leadership) dimensional model. This model was explored for its potential in assisting the expatriate woman to understand fundamental dimensions in need of being developed in order to find a sense of purpose, meaning and hope in this time of change. The conclusion was that the PPL dimensional model can be successfully utilised in rebuilding the identity. The importance of this model lies in its fundamental belief that human beings are primarily spiritual beings and that this dimension is the source of the need to serve others, to contribute, to "matter", to make a difference and to have a sense of meaning and purpose. This research was concluding to introduce a PPL leadership model within the context of country and culture with a final conclusion that PPL can both assist in understanding what happened to the expatriate woman and in providing a tool for assisting and planning the identity rebuilding process. This was an auto-ethnographic study.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Odendaal, Hiltje
- Date: 2012-08-14
- Subjects: Leadership in women , Leadership - Psychological aspects , Success in business , Self-actualization (Psychology) , Women - Identity
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:9235 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5683
- Description: M.Phil. , The purpose of this research was to answer the following question: Can PPL (personal and professional leadership) in any way provides an explanation for what happens in the life of an expatriate woman and can it contribute to the reconstruction of the life of a woman living in an expatriate situation? In order to answer the research question, the research was divided into two distinguishable parts. In the first part an examination of the loss of identity the expatriate woman experiences was discussed within the context of the PPL (personal and professional leadership) leadership model. The conclusion reached was that the expatriate woman is left vulnerable and disorientated because of the absence of essential and familiar leadership levels, and her own culture and country. Familiar roles and own identity need to be reshaped. In the second part of the research the rebuilding of a new identity was discussed within the context of the PPL (personal- and professional leadership) dimensional model. This model was explored for its potential in assisting the expatriate woman to understand fundamental dimensions in need of being developed in order to find a sense of purpose, meaning and hope in this time of change. The conclusion was that the PPL dimensional model can be successfully utilised in rebuilding the identity. The importance of this model lies in its fundamental belief that human beings are primarily spiritual beings and that this dimension is the source of the need to serve others, to contribute, to "matter", to make a difference and to have a sense of meaning and purpose. This research was concluding to introduce a PPL leadership model within the context of country and culture with a final conclusion that PPL can both assist in understanding what happened to the expatriate woman and in providing a tool for assisting and planning the identity rebuilding process. This was an auto-ethnographic study.
- Full Text:
Interrelations between business and technology : a case study
- Authors: Tshamano, Tshifhiwa Joshua
- Date: 2014-04-23
- Subjects: Jobs, Steve, 1955-2011 , Strategic planning , Success in business , Apple Computer, Inc.
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10815 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10322
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , The current research investigated the inter-relationship between Steve Jobs and Apple Company. The study looked at Steve if he launched Apple with business orientation. The researcher used Yin’s (1994) single case, holistic design research method and looked at the data gathered from thirty-seven authors. Steve Jobs’ business orientation was measured using Snaddon (2008) business measures. Symbols were used to indicate whether the evidence found from different sources is direct, indirect, negative or if there was no evidence at all. A score that ranged from -1 for negative evidence to +2 for direct evidence was assigned to evidence from each author; then the total score that represented evidence from all thirty- seven authors on each business measure was presented in the results column (see table 4). Based on the total score of each measure, the strength of the relationship was established. The results showed that there was an inter-relationship between Steve Jobs’ business strategy and the Snaddon (2008) business measures. The evidence gathered did not support the hypothesis that Steve Jobs had little business orientation and the conclusion drawn was that Steve was business oriented when he (and his partners) launched Apple Company.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tshamano, Tshifhiwa Joshua
- Date: 2014-04-23
- Subjects: Jobs, Steve, 1955-2011 , Strategic planning , Success in business , Apple Computer, Inc.
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10815 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10322
- Description: M.Ing. (Engineering Management) , The current research investigated the inter-relationship between Steve Jobs and Apple Company. The study looked at Steve if he launched Apple with business orientation. The researcher used Yin’s (1994) single case, holistic design research method and looked at the data gathered from thirty-seven authors. Steve Jobs’ business orientation was measured using Snaddon (2008) business measures. Symbols were used to indicate whether the evidence found from different sources is direct, indirect, negative or if there was no evidence at all. A score that ranged from -1 for negative evidence to +2 for direct evidence was assigned to evidence from each author; then the total score that represented evidence from all thirty- seven authors on each business measure was presented in the results column (see table 4). Based on the total score of each measure, the strength of the relationship was established. The results showed that there was an inter-relationship between Steve Jobs’ business strategy and the Snaddon (2008) business measures. The evidence gathered did not support the hypothesis that Steve Jobs had little business orientation and the conclusion drawn was that Steve was business oriented when he (and his partners) launched Apple Company.
- Full Text:
Neuro-linguistic programming as a communication tool for management
- Authors: Maisenbacher, Oscar Massimo
- Date: 2014-05-05
- Subjects: Neurolinguistic programming , Communication in management , Success in business
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10914 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10488
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , The outcome of the study was to explore the use of neuro linguistic programming as a communication tool that enhances communication in the workplace, and the results revealed that NLP business communications differ from the usual workplace communications. They involve communications that identify explicit and achievable outcomes, use sensory awareness to notice responses and flexibly alter behaviour to achieve outcomes. Participants were noticing and discovering new awarenesses to their communications, which they didn't realise, were available to them. Participants revealed their learnings about communication, their realities and experiences. The study discusses NLP as a communicative toolbox for business where different tools are used, depending on the context and outcome desired. It is a toolbox that brings flexibility and adaptability to solving problems and enhances our current communicative faculties. NLP as a communication tool for management is unpacked through the four primary functions of management. Communication is seen at the core. The literature reveals how the NLP tools and models can be applied across these communicative contexts: Planning: delivering strategic value with NLP; Organising: building a dynamic organisation with NLP; Leading: mobilising people with NLP; and Controlling: Dealing with change. The study highlights interpersonal and intrapersonal communications. The external communication takes place where managers, employees and the other various business stakeholders communicate with each other (interpersonal), and the internal communication (intrapersonal), within the environment even more important than the external, the manager’s mind. Internal communication plays an important role in the quality of our communications.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Maisenbacher, Oscar Massimo
- Date: 2014-05-05
- Subjects: Neurolinguistic programming , Communication in management , Success in business
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10914 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/10488
- Description: M.Com. (Business Management) , The outcome of the study was to explore the use of neuro linguistic programming as a communication tool that enhances communication in the workplace, and the results revealed that NLP business communications differ from the usual workplace communications. They involve communications that identify explicit and achievable outcomes, use sensory awareness to notice responses and flexibly alter behaviour to achieve outcomes. Participants were noticing and discovering new awarenesses to their communications, which they didn't realise, were available to them. Participants revealed their learnings about communication, their realities and experiences. The study discusses NLP as a communicative toolbox for business where different tools are used, depending on the context and outcome desired. It is a toolbox that brings flexibility and adaptability to solving problems and enhances our current communicative faculties. NLP as a communication tool for management is unpacked through the four primary functions of management. Communication is seen at the core. The literature reveals how the NLP tools and models can be applied across these communicative contexts: Planning: delivering strategic value with NLP; Organising: building a dynamic organisation with NLP; Leading: mobilising people with NLP; and Controlling: Dealing with change. The study highlights interpersonal and intrapersonal communications. The external communication takes place where managers, employees and the other various business stakeholders communicate with each other (interpersonal), and the internal communication (intrapersonal), within the environment even more important than the external, the manager’s mind. Internal communication plays an important role in the quality of our communications.
- Full Text:
Organisational culture as a driver of business success
- Authors: Naidoo, Shamla
- Date: 2011-10-03T07:27:49Z
- Subjects: Success in business , Corporate culture
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7221 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3859
- Description: D.Comm. , Organisations are becoming increasingly aware of the pervasive impact that culture has on its success. Corporate cultures exhibit certain characteristics that are collectively created through years of interaction, and which unconsciously direct the activities of its employees. Research indicates that culture plays a pivotal role in an organisation, and has the ability, either to make a positive contribution to the organisation‘s success, or to be a liability. Culture is also crucial in fundamental change efforts. In current times, social, cultural, political and technological forces constantly challenge organisations to reassess and redefine their strategies. In order to counter these challenges, the focus of many local companies has been on improving their capabilities and growing skills, as they are expected to compete and survive in a dynamic business world. One of the ways to achieve this is to obtain leverage from culture, a driving force in the organisation. To this end, this study seeks to explore the role of culture in driving business success. It is anticipated that the knowledge generated from this inquiry will afford new insights, and inform higher corporate practice. The research employed a qualitative case-study methodology. Participants of this study included a purposefully selected group of eight employees who occupied various managerial roles in the organisation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and thematic analysis was employed in analysing the resultant data. The key findings highlighted the role of culture in driving the organisations past success. However, these cultural traits proved to be questionable for continued success. In order to remain competitive, the changing environment and global challenges compelled the company to redefine its strategies, and introduce innovative measures to achieve its objectives. Strategy compelled the company to move forward to adapt to the ever-increasing environmental changes, but culture posed a constraint on learning and change. Further findings are also presented, and recommendations are made for future research and business practices.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Naidoo, Shamla
- Date: 2011-10-03T07:27:49Z
- Subjects: Success in business , Corporate culture
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7221 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3859
- Description: D.Comm. , Organisations are becoming increasingly aware of the pervasive impact that culture has on its success. Corporate cultures exhibit certain characteristics that are collectively created through years of interaction, and which unconsciously direct the activities of its employees. Research indicates that culture plays a pivotal role in an organisation, and has the ability, either to make a positive contribution to the organisation‘s success, or to be a liability. Culture is also crucial in fundamental change efforts. In current times, social, cultural, political and technological forces constantly challenge organisations to reassess and redefine their strategies. In order to counter these challenges, the focus of many local companies has been on improving their capabilities and growing skills, as they are expected to compete and survive in a dynamic business world. One of the ways to achieve this is to obtain leverage from culture, a driving force in the organisation. To this end, this study seeks to explore the role of culture in driving business success. It is anticipated that the knowledge generated from this inquiry will afford new insights, and inform higher corporate practice. The research employed a qualitative case-study methodology. Participants of this study included a purposefully selected group of eight employees who occupied various managerial roles in the organisation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and thematic analysis was employed in analysing the resultant data. The key findings highlighted the role of culture in driving the organisations past success. However, these cultural traits proved to be questionable for continued success. In order to remain competitive, the changing environment and global challenges compelled the company to redefine its strategies, and introduce innovative measures to achieve its objectives. Strategy compelled the company to move forward to adapt to the ever-increasing environmental changes, but culture posed a constraint on learning and change. Further findings are also presented, and recommendations are made for future research and business practices.
- Full Text:
Rising trend in social media usage by women entrepreneurs across the globe to unlock their potentials for business success
- Ukpere, Wilfred I., Slabbert, Andre D, Ukpere, Celestine Lugaye
- Authors: Ukpere, Wilfred I. , Slabbert, Andre D , Ukpere, Celestine Lugaye
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Women entrepreneurs , Social media , Success in business
- Type: Journal
- Identifier: uj:5460 , ISSN 2039-2117 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13436
- Description: Dwindling circulation of traditional media such as television, radio, newspapers and magazines has resulted from the growth of adapting digital technology and tools that involve the internet. The practice of surfing the web 2.0 to obtain real time information instantly, has led to the rise of an ever more connected infrastructure atmosphere globally. Digital marketing and online trading through e-commerce and m-commerce platforms is applied in these interconnected environment; it involves wide variety of approaches, whose success depends on the user-centric and interrelated approach to technology. A new type of media has been enabled with the use of the Internet and the World Wide Web. Marketers are realising the power of the Internet, as a communication platform and a way of following conversation since the past two decades. In marketing, strategy starts on the outside, considering the needs and expectations of the consumer and moving inwards to the root of the brand’s identity, to see where the business can gain advantage and add value. The study of Social Media Platforms and their impact in unlocking the financial success of the women entrepreneurs globally has been widely observed and quite vital to the new generation of gender based ventures that are digitally driven through the use of technology. This type of development through which women adapt and utilise Social Media platforms promotes the creation of a new revolution of modern digital entrepreneurial culture, by changing the female society from a technologically challenged to a technologically savvy one that changes their mind-set from the job seeking culture to embrace a job creating one, through opportunities that are made available by the use of Social Media Platforms and the Internet. Both formal and informal women owned ventures have been observed to adopt social media platforms to grow their communities as a medium for keeping in touch and getting current and ground feedback on products or services from existing and prospective clients.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ukpere, Wilfred I. , Slabbert, Andre D , Ukpere, Celestine Lugaye
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Women entrepreneurs , Social media , Success in business
- Type: Journal
- Identifier: uj:5460 , ISSN 2039-2117 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13436
- Description: Dwindling circulation of traditional media such as television, radio, newspapers and magazines has resulted from the growth of adapting digital technology and tools that involve the internet. The practice of surfing the web 2.0 to obtain real time information instantly, has led to the rise of an ever more connected infrastructure atmosphere globally. Digital marketing and online trading through e-commerce and m-commerce platforms is applied in these interconnected environment; it involves wide variety of approaches, whose success depends on the user-centric and interrelated approach to technology. A new type of media has been enabled with the use of the Internet and the World Wide Web. Marketers are realising the power of the Internet, as a communication platform and a way of following conversation since the past two decades. In marketing, strategy starts on the outside, considering the needs and expectations of the consumer and moving inwards to the root of the brand’s identity, to see where the business can gain advantage and add value. The study of Social Media Platforms and their impact in unlocking the financial success of the women entrepreneurs globally has been widely observed and quite vital to the new generation of gender based ventures that are digitally driven through the use of technology. This type of development through which women adapt and utilise Social Media platforms promotes the creation of a new revolution of modern digital entrepreneurial culture, by changing the female society from a technologically challenged to a technologically savvy one that changes their mind-set from the job seeking culture to embrace a job creating one, through opportunities that are made available by the use of Social Media Platforms and the Internet. Both formal and informal women owned ventures have been observed to adopt social media platforms to grow their communities as a medium for keeping in touch and getting current and ground feedback on products or services from existing and prospective clients.
- Full Text: