Onderwyservaring van die insluitende onderwysbeleid: 'n ondersoek in 'n gespesialiseerde skool.
- Authors: Van Eck, Zetta
- Date: 2009-02-11T08:53:18Z
- Subjects: South Africa , Special education , Inclusive education , In-service training of teachers
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8131 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2106
- Description: M.Ed. , Changes specifically taking place in specialised education due to the inclusive education policy have resulted in stress and higher anxiety levels in educators. The purpose of this research is to investigate the perceptions of educators teaching at one specialised school, specifically the perceptions of their responsibilities, of the expectations they have as well as the training and support they receive in this educational environment. The literature study describes the changes brought about by the implementation of the inclusive education policy and the effect it has on the educators. A questionnaire was designed to ascertain what the educators perceive. The instrument was tested for reliability and validity. The recommendations were as follows: All educators should become knowledgeable regarding the content of the inclusive education policy in education. The education department is responsible for a training and implementation programme that will empower educators to successfully implement the tasks and responsibilities as required by the policy of inclusive education. If this training and support is not provided, it cannot be expected of educators to be able to successfully handle the implementation of the inclusive education policy or to be positively orientated towards the implementation of this policy. The education department and district offices should play a bigger role in providing the training and necessary support in order for the implementation of inclusion to be successful. The training of all educators and training centres will have to include the accommodation/management of diverse needs of learners in order to meet the requirement of this policy. As all educators will be exposed to more diverse learning needs, the training provided at the training centres will have to emphasise the accommodation/management of diverse learning according to the inclusive education policy. The educators that have specialised training at ‘specialised schools’ can be utilised as consultants to provide support to educators at other schools by working together co-operatively with these educators. The district offices ought to provide a co-ordinator to assist this support group. The perceptions of educators at the specific specialised school with regards to inclusive education are influenced by their own experiences and interpretations of inclusive values and practice. The manner in which educators experience inclusive education will have an influence on the quality of their performance of tasks and their responsibilities towards inclusive education. Therefore, how educators are introduced to and supported in inclusive practices may play a significant part in terms of establishing environments for inclusive education. The role of the education department and district offices are clearly emphasised in this investigation. Knowledge regarding the policy of inclusion, as well as support and training are essential elements to the successful implementation of this policy.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van Eck, Zetta
- Date: 2009-02-11T08:53:18Z
- Subjects: South Africa , Special education , Inclusive education , In-service training of teachers
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8131 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/2106
- Description: M.Ed. , Changes specifically taking place in specialised education due to the inclusive education policy have resulted in stress and higher anxiety levels in educators. The purpose of this research is to investigate the perceptions of educators teaching at one specialised school, specifically the perceptions of their responsibilities, of the expectations they have as well as the training and support they receive in this educational environment. The literature study describes the changes brought about by the implementation of the inclusive education policy and the effect it has on the educators. A questionnaire was designed to ascertain what the educators perceive. The instrument was tested for reliability and validity. The recommendations were as follows: All educators should become knowledgeable regarding the content of the inclusive education policy in education. The education department is responsible for a training and implementation programme that will empower educators to successfully implement the tasks and responsibilities as required by the policy of inclusive education. If this training and support is not provided, it cannot be expected of educators to be able to successfully handle the implementation of the inclusive education policy or to be positively orientated towards the implementation of this policy. The education department and district offices should play a bigger role in providing the training and necessary support in order for the implementation of inclusion to be successful. The training of all educators and training centres will have to include the accommodation/management of diverse needs of learners in order to meet the requirement of this policy. As all educators will be exposed to more diverse learning needs, the training provided at the training centres will have to emphasise the accommodation/management of diverse learning according to the inclusive education policy. The educators that have specialised training at ‘specialised schools’ can be utilised as consultants to provide support to educators at other schools by working together co-operatively with these educators. The district offices ought to provide a co-ordinator to assist this support group. The perceptions of educators at the specific specialised school with regards to inclusive education are influenced by their own experiences and interpretations of inclusive values and practice. The manner in which educators experience inclusive education will have an influence on the quality of their performance of tasks and their responsibilities towards inclusive education. Therefore, how educators are introduced to and supported in inclusive practices may play a significant part in terms of establishing environments for inclusive education. The role of the education department and district offices are clearly emphasised in this investigation. Knowledge regarding the policy of inclusion, as well as support and training are essential elements to the successful implementation of this policy.
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The roles of agency and structure in facilitating the successful transition out of care and into independent living
- Authors: Van Breda, Adrian D., Prof.
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Youth transitions , Youth studies , Resilience , Care-leaving , South Africa , Micro-macro
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/93553 , uj:20361 , Citation: Van Breda, A.D., Prof. 2016. The roles of agency and structure in facilitating the successful transition out of care and into independent living.
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van Breda, Adrian D., Prof.
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Youth transitions , Youth studies , Resilience , Care-leaving , South Africa , Micro-macro
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/93553 , uj:20361 , Citation: Van Breda, A.D., Prof. 2016. The roles of agency and structure in facilitating the successful transition out of care and into independent living.
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract
- Full Text:
Thematic analysis of challenges faced by small and medium construction companies in accessing credit in South Africa
- Balogun, O.A., Agumba, J.N., Ansary, N.
- Authors: Balogun, O.A. , Agumba, J.N. , Ansary, N.
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Small and medium construction company , South Africa , Credit facilities
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/17452 , uj:15885 , Citation: Balogun, A.O., Agumba, J.A. & Ansary, N. 2015. Thematic analysis of challenges faced by small and medium construction companies in accessing credit in South Africa. In Laryea, S. and Leiringer, R. (Eds) Procs 6th West Africa Built Environment Research (WABER) Conference, 10-12 August 2015, Accra, Ghana, p. 1103-1116. ISBN: 9780620662475.
- Description: Introduction: The objective of this paper is to thematically analyse and present the constraints of accessing credit by the construction small and medium construction enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa. A survey conducted by Financial Service Board (FSB 2012) reported, that 36.2 % of the construction SMEs in South Africa reported that their business closed down due to shortage of working capital. Despite the fact that some of the construction SMEs had operated for some years. Furthermore, the survey also established a meagre, i.e. 5.8 % of the construction SMEs applied for credit. This suggests that construction SMEs are stif! led in accessing bank credit. This gap poses a problem and triggers the need to conduct a review on the challenges of construction SMEs in South Africa in accessing credit. A literature review was administered. The review established the challenges affecting the construction SME accessing credit to be; creditworthiness of the borrower, collateral requirement by the banks, risk default and lack of business plan.
- Full Text: false
- Authors: Balogun, O.A. , Agumba, J.N. , Ansary, N.
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Small and medium construction company , South Africa , Credit facilities
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/17452 , uj:15885 , Citation: Balogun, A.O., Agumba, J.A. & Ansary, N. 2015. Thematic analysis of challenges faced by small and medium construction companies in accessing credit in South Africa. In Laryea, S. and Leiringer, R. (Eds) Procs 6th West Africa Built Environment Research (WABER) Conference, 10-12 August 2015, Accra, Ghana, p. 1103-1116. ISBN: 9780620662475.
- Description: Introduction: The objective of this paper is to thematically analyse and present the constraints of accessing credit by the construction small and medium construction enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa. A survey conducted by Financial Service Board (FSB 2012) reported, that 36.2 % of the construction SMEs in South Africa reported that their business closed down due to shortage of working capital. Despite the fact that some of the construction SMEs had operated for some years. Furthermore, the survey also established a meagre, i.e. 5.8 % of the construction SMEs applied for credit. This suggests that construction SMEs are stif! led in accessing bank credit. This gap poses a problem and triggers the need to conduct a review on the challenges of construction SMEs in South Africa in accessing credit. A literature review was administered. The review established the challenges affecting the construction SME accessing credit to be; creditworthiness of the borrower, collateral requirement by the banks, risk default and lack of business plan.
- Full Text: false
Value proposition as a tool to increase customer loyalty
- Rakosa, Kenosi, Mara, Cashandra
- Authors: Rakosa, Kenosi , Mara, Cashandra
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Value proposition , South Africa , Banking
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/402484 , uj:33683 , Citation: Rakosa, K. & Mara, C. 2019. Value proposition as a tool to increase customer loyalty.
- Description: Abstract: The mature, yet sound banking industry in South Africa is being disrupted by the information age, demanding and informed millennials, sluggish economic growth and new entrants rivalling traditional norms. To attract and retain bank clients, value proposition as a strategic tool can be applied to meet customer’s changing banking demands but also to meet the bank’s strategy for higher and sustainable profits. Value proposition provides a platform where customers’ needs can be addressed through a holistic relationship with their bank and ideally banks are able to establish an all-inclusive view of the customer. The study reveals that the bank under study is employing value proposition as a high-level strategy, and not only as a marketing strategy to optimize profits and advance customer relations. However, the realistic conditions and challenges that the bank faces in the implementation of value proposition strategy are not as simplistic as its strategy, and this research depicts such findings. Therefore, instead of applying a marketing lens to value proposition, this study presents a unique demonstration of value proposition as a business strategy. Using an interpretivist approach, qualitative research was employed to interview fifteen relationship managers in one mature South African bank. Key findings revealed that the bank was considered reactive and banking customers were price-sensitive. While the bank is attempting to embrace technological change, service levels are declining. Findings were grouped into four themes and it was uncovered that the bank’s attempts at value proposition, are still bank centric, and not customer centric. Recommendations are based on strategic literature and findings so as to meet the identified challenges. Recommendations are to enhance the bank’s information systems and relook current value proposition strategies to improve the bank’s position in the market. This research contributes theoretically by adding to the body of knowledge on value proposition as a strategic business tool. The practical contribution is that relationship managers as implementers of strategy become aware of the critical role they play in understanding the perceptions of value proposition from the customer’s points of view.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Rakosa, Kenosi , Mara, Cashandra
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Value proposition , South Africa , Banking
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/402484 , uj:33683 , Citation: Rakosa, K. & Mara, C. 2019. Value proposition as a tool to increase customer loyalty.
- Description: Abstract: The mature, yet sound banking industry in South Africa is being disrupted by the information age, demanding and informed millennials, sluggish economic growth and new entrants rivalling traditional norms. To attract and retain bank clients, value proposition as a strategic tool can be applied to meet customer’s changing banking demands but also to meet the bank’s strategy for higher and sustainable profits. Value proposition provides a platform where customers’ needs can be addressed through a holistic relationship with their bank and ideally banks are able to establish an all-inclusive view of the customer. The study reveals that the bank under study is employing value proposition as a high-level strategy, and not only as a marketing strategy to optimize profits and advance customer relations. However, the realistic conditions and challenges that the bank faces in the implementation of value proposition strategy are not as simplistic as its strategy, and this research depicts such findings. Therefore, instead of applying a marketing lens to value proposition, this study presents a unique demonstration of value proposition as a business strategy. Using an interpretivist approach, qualitative research was employed to interview fifteen relationship managers in one mature South African bank. Key findings revealed that the bank was considered reactive and banking customers were price-sensitive. While the bank is attempting to embrace technological change, service levels are declining. Findings were grouped into four themes and it was uncovered that the bank’s attempts at value proposition, are still bank centric, and not customer centric. Recommendations are based on strategic literature and findings so as to meet the identified challenges. Recommendations are to enhance the bank’s information systems and relook current value proposition strategies to improve the bank’s position in the market. This research contributes theoretically by adding to the body of knowledge on value proposition as a strategic business tool. The practical contribution is that relationship managers as implementers of strategy become aware of the critical role they play in understanding the perceptions of value proposition from the customer’s points of view.
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The rise of the social enterprise – an entrepreneurial gender perspective
- Teles, Daniella, Schachtebeck, Chris
- Authors: Teles, Daniella , Schachtebeck, Chris
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Entrepreneurial orientation , South Africa , Social enterprises
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/402611 , uj:33699 , Citation: Teles, D. & Schachtebeck, C. 2019. The rise of the social enterprise – an entrepreneurial gender perspective.
- Description: Abstract: South Africa’s socio-economic landscape is plagued by persistently high rates of unemployment, poverty, joblessness and sluggish economic growth. These economic conditions have resulted in a reduction in government expenditure, as well as a struggle for survival. The social enterprise sector is absorbing much of this burden by attempting to alleviate social ills. Yet, the failure rates and lack of entrepreneurial spirit in social enterprises is concerning. Additionally, little insight exists whether social enterprises are entrepreneurial, as well as whether gender plays a role in this regard. The purpose of this study is to therefore determine whether gender differences exist in entrepreneurial orientation (EO) of South African social enterprises. This study was quantitative in nature, making use of an adapted measuring instrument based on prominent EO instruments. The study was conducted in social enterprises across South Africa, with 342 responses being received. Data was analysed by means of an exploratory factor analysis, reliability analysis (through the Cronbach Alpha coefficient), as well as t-tests. Results indicated that only two dimensions of EO showed statistically significant differences between genders, namely proactiveness and competitive aggressiveness, with the risk-taking, innovativeness and autonomy dimensions showing no differences. The study is of value to social enterprises in South Africa as little research in EO has been conducted in this sector, thereby providing preliminary insights into gender specific differences in EO.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Teles, Daniella , Schachtebeck, Chris
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Entrepreneurial orientation , South Africa , Social enterprises
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/402611 , uj:33699 , Citation: Teles, D. & Schachtebeck, C. 2019. The rise of the social enterprise – an entrepreneurial gender perspective.
- Description: Abstract: South Africa’s socio-economic landscape is plagued by persistently high rates of unemployment, poverty, joblessness and sluggish economic growth. These economic conditions have resulted in a reduction in government expenditure, as well as a struggle for survival. The social enterprise sector is absorbing much of this burden by attempting to alleviate social ills. Yet, the failure rates and lack of entrepreneurial spirit in social enterprises is concerning. Additionally, little insight exists whether social enterprises are entrepreneurial, as well as whether gender plays a role in this regard. The purpose of this study is to therefore determine whether gender differences exist in entrepreneurial orientation (EO) of South African social enterprises. This study was quantitative in nature, making use of an adapted measuring instrument based on prominent EO instruments. The study was conducted in social enterprises across South Africa, with 342 responses being received. Data was analysed by means of an exploratory factor analysis, reliability analysis (through the Cronbach Alpha coefficient), as well as t-tests. Results indicated that only two dimensions of EO showed statistically significant differences between genders, namely proactiveness and competitive aggressiveness, with the risk-taking, innovativeness and autonomy dimensions showing no differences. The study is of value to social enterprises in South Africa as little research in EO has been conducted in this sector, thereby providing preliminary insights into gender specific differences in EO.
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Exploring parental and driver knowledge, use and beliefs of child restraints such as infant car seats, toddler seats and booster seats in South Africa
- Smit, E., Roberts-Lombard, M., Goldman, G.
- Authors: Smit, E. , Roberts-Lombard, M. , Goldman, G.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South Africa , Child restraints , Parents
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/402127 , uj:33638 , Citation: Smit, E., Roberts-Lombard, M. & Goldman, G. 2019. Exploring parental and driver knowledge, use and beliefs of child restraints such as infant car seats, toddler seats and booster seats in South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to determine parents’ and drivers’ knowledge, use and beliefs of child restraints amongst lower middle-class groups in South Africa. The study was qualitative in nature, and data was collected from parents or drivers of children aged birth - 11 with a motor vehicle in Gauteng. Through the application of the convenience sampling technique, a total of 14 parents and drivers with children at selected pre-schools and primary schools, who are in the lower middleclass groups and who reside in the cities of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni, were selected. The Morse and Field Approach was used to analyse the data because the steps of this data analysis method are clear, easy to follow and comprehensible. There is a lack of knowledge and usage of child restraints among lower middle-class parents and drivers within Gauteng. The results also indicate that there are variables that are predictive of age-appropriate restraint use and knowledge, and that parents hold specific beliefs around child restraints. Lastly, the results indicated that the parents and drivers have rarely seen any advertisements on child restraints in South Africa. By exploring the topic of usage, knowledge, beliefs and the social marketing of child restraints, strategies have been identified on how to overcome the major challenge of child injuries in motor vehicle accidents in South Africa. This study promotes child restraint usage on South African roads and assists organisations in South Africa to better understand that social marketing is necessary to change the behaviour of parents with regard to child restraints usage.
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- Authors: Smit, E. , Roberts-Lombard, M. , Goldman, G.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South Africa , Child restraints , Parents
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/402127 , uj:33638 , Citation: Smit, E., Roberts-Lombard, M. & Goldman, G. 2019. Exploring parental and driver knowledge, use and beliefs of child restraints such as infant car seats, toddler seats and booster seats in South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to determine parents’ and drivers’ knowledge, use and beliefs of child restraints amongst lower middle-class groups in South Africa. The study was qualitative in nature, and data was collected from parents or drivers of children aged birth - 11 with a motor vehicle in Gauteng. Through the application of the convenience sampling technique, a total of 14 parents and drivers with children at selected pre-schools and primary schools, who are in the lower middleclass groups and who reside in the cities of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni, were selected. The Morse and Field Approach was used to analyse the data because the steps of this data analysis method are clear, easy to follow and comprehensible. There is a lack of knowledge and usage of child restraints among lower middle-class parents and drivers within Gauteng. The results also indicate that there are variables that are predictive of age-appropriate restraint use and knowledge, and that parents hold specific beliefs around child restraints. Lastly, the results indicated that the parents and drivers have rarely seen any advertisements on child restraints in South Africa. By exploring the topic of usage, knowledge, beliefs and the social marketing of child restraints, strategies have been identified on how to overcome the major challenge of child injuries in motor vehicle accidents in South Africa. This study promotes child restraint usage on South African roads and assists organisations in South Africa to better understand that social marketing is necessary to change the behaviour of parents with regard to child restraints usage.
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An assessment of transformation strategies in South Africa: A multi-case study of the accounting, financial services, government, and construction sectors
- Musonda, Innocent, Gumbo, Trynos, Okoro, Chioma
- Authors: Musonda, Innocent , Gumbo, Trynos , Okoro, Chioma
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Built environment , Socio-economic , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/405000 , uj:33989 , Citation: Musonda, I., Gumbo, T., Okoro, C. 2019 : An assessment of transformation strategies in South Africa: A multi-case study of the accounting, financial services, government, and construction sectors.
- Description: Abstract : Globally, transformation is etched in all sectors of the economy. In the South African context, transformation is viewed as the catalyst to address the country’s socio-economic problems and their associated impact on different sectors and the economy at large. However, progress on transformation within the built environment has been slow in comparison with other sectors of the economy. As a result, this has led to a need to examine the transformation processes in the country. This article aims to analyse transformation strategies as conceptualised and implemented by various sectors. The article is based on a multi-case study of identified sectors and organisations that have developed and implemented transformation strategies. The materials used to conduct the study include sector transformation strategies, charters, journal articles, articles published in reputable South African newspapers, organisation reports, information publicly available on the internet, and interviews conducted with sector representatives. The findings show that, for all sectors, transformation strategies are driven through skills development of human resources, with a view to redressing historical imbalances and providing equal opportunities. The process of strategy development involves sector- wide participation and having a champion for the strategy. In order to ensure that strategies are implemented, specific structured training and education programmes from the grassroots to professional level, as well as monitoring of progress are emphasised. Recommendations are made in line with the findings in order to guide the Council for the Built Environment in the development of a strategy for the built environment.
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- Authors: Musonda, Innocent , Gumbo, Trynos , Okoro, Chioma
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Built environment , Socio-economic , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/405000 , uj:33989 , Citation: Musonda, I., Gumbo, T., Okoro, C. 2019 : An assessment of transformation strategies in South Africa: A multi-case study of the accounting, financial services, government, and construction sectors.
- Description: Abstract : Globally, transformation is etched in all sectors of the economy. In the South African context, transformation is viewed as the catalyst to address the country’s socio-economic problems and their associated impact on different sectors and the economy at large. However, progress on transformation within the built environment has been slow in comparison with other sectors of the economy. As a result, this has led to a need to examine the transformation processes in the country. This article aims to analyse transformation strategies as conceptualised and implemented by various sectors. The article is based on a multi-case study of identified sectors and organisations that have developed and implemented transformation strategies. The materials used to conduct the study include sector transformation strategies, charters, journal articles, articles published in reputable South African newspapers, organisation reports, information publicly available on the internet, and interviews conducted with sector representatives. The findings show that, for all sectors, transformation strategies are driven through skills development of human resources, with a view to redressing historical imbalances and providing equal opportunities. The process of strategy development involves sector- wide participation and having a champion for the strategy. In order to ensure that strategies are implemented, specific structured training and education programmes from the grassroots to professional level, as well as monitoring of progress are emphasised. Recommendations are made in line with the findings in order to guide the Council for the Built Environment in the development of a strategy for the built environment.
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Dimensions of perceived risk of mobile banking apps: an empirical investigation of South African retail banking customers
- Thusi, Philile, Maduku, Daniel K.
- Authors: Thusi, Philile , Maduku, Daniel K.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South Africa , Perceived risk , Mobile banking apps
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/405025 , uj:33992 , Citation: Thusi, P., Maduku, D.K., 2019 : Dimensions of perceived risk of mobile banking apps: an empirical investigation of South African retail banking customers.
- Description: Abstract : Banking transactions carried out in the uncertain conditions of mobile commerce involve high levels of perceived risk and require substantial levels of trust. Therefore, gaining customer trust and reducing the influence of risk is imperative to developing and nurturing long-lasting and strong relationship between customers and retail banks. However, limited research is currently investigating the effects of overall perceived risk and trust on retail banking customers use of mobile commerce, particularly from the perspective of emerging African economies. This study investigates the effects of perceived risk and institution-based trust on the use of mobile banking apps among South African retail bank customers. The model was tested using responses obtained from 352 users of the mobile banking services of the five major retail banks (ABSA, Capitec, FNB, Nedbank, and Standard Bank) in South Africa. The findings of this study suggest that institution-based trust has a significant positive influence on use behaviour of mobile banking apps. Furthermore, perceived risk has a significant negative influence on use behaviour; and, lastly, institution-based trust is found to have a significant negative influence on perceived risk.
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- Authors: Thusi, Philile , Maduku, Daniel K.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South Africa , Perceived risk , Mobile banking apps
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/405025 , uj:33992 , Citation: Thusi, P., Maduku, D.K., 2019 : Dimensions of perceived risk of mobile banking apps: an empirical investigation of South African retail banking customers.
- Description: Abstract : Banking transactions carried out in the uncertain conditions of mobile commerce involve high levels of perceived risk and require substantial levels of trust. Therefore, gaining customer trust and reducing the influence of risk is imperative to developing and nurturing long-lasting and strong relationship between customers and retail banks. However, limited research is currently investigating the effects of overall perceived risk and trust on retail banking customers use of mobile commerce, particularly from the perspective of emerging African economies. This study investigates the effects of perceived risk and institution-based trust on the use of mobile banking apps among South African retail bank customers. The model was tested using responses obtained from 352 users of the mobile banking services of the five major retail banks (ABSA, Capitec, FNB, Nedbank, and Standard Bank) in South Africa. The findings of this study suggest that institution-based trust has a significant positive influence on use behaviour of mobile banking apps. Furthermore, perceived risk has a significant negative influence on use behaviour; and, lastly, institution-based trust is found to have a significant negative influence on perceived risk.
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A prehospital randomised controlled trial in South Africa : challenges and lessons learnt
- Stassen, Willem, Wallis, Lee, Castren, Maaret, Vincent-Lambert, Craig, Kurland, Lisa
- Authors: Stassen, Willem , Wallis, Lee , Castren, Maaret , Vincent-Lambert, Craig , Kurland, Lisa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: ST-elevation myocardial infarction , South Africa , Telemedicine
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/405554 , uj:34060 , Citation: Stassen, W. et al. 2019. A prehospital randomised controlled trial in South Africa : challenges and lessons learnt. African Journal of Emergency Medicine 9 (2019) 145–149 , DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.afjem.2019.02.002
- Description: Abstract: The incidence of cardiovascular disease and STEMI is on the rise in sub-Saharan Africa. Timely treatment is essential to reduce mortality. Internationally, prehospital 12 lead ECG telemetry has been proposed to reduce time to reperfusion. Its value in South Africa has not been established. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of prehospital 12 lead ECG telemetry on the PCI-times of STEMI patients in South Africa. A multicentre randomised controlled trial was attempted among adult patients with prehospital 12 lead ECG evidence of STEMI. Due to poor enrolment and small sample sizes, meaningful analyses could not be made. The challenges and lessons learnt from this attempt at Africa's first prehospital RCT are discussed. Challenges associated with conducting this RCT related to the healthcare landscape, resources, training of paramedics, rollout and randomisation, technology, consent and research culture. High quality evidence to guide prehospital emergency care practice is lacking both in Africa and the rest of the world. This is likely due to the difficulties with performing prehospital clinical trials. Every trial will be unique to the test intervention and setting of each study, but by considering some of the challenges and lessons learnt in the attempt at this trial, future studies might experience less difficulty. This may lead to a stronger evidence-base for prehospital emergency care.
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- Authors: Stassen, Willem , Wallis, Lee , Castren, Maaret , Vincent-Lambert, Craig , Kurland, Lisa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: ST-elevation myocardial infarction , South Africa , Telemedicine
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/405554 , uj:34060 , Citation: Stassen, W. et al. 2019. A prehospital randomised controlled trial in South Africa : challenges and lessons learnt. African Journal of Emergency Medicine 9 (2019) 145–149 , DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.afjem.2019.02.002
- Description: Abstract: The incidence of cardiovascular disease and STEMI is on the rise in sub-Saharan Africa. Timely treatment is essential to reduce mortality. Internationally, prehospital 12 lead ECG telemetry has been proposed to reduce time to reperfusion. Its value in South Africa has not been established. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of prehospital 12 lead ECG telemetry on the PCI-times of STEMI patients in South Africa. A multicentre randomised controlled trial was attempted among adult patients with prehospital 12 lead ECG evidence of STEMI. Due to poor enrolment and small sample sizes, meaningful analyses could not be made. The challenges and lessons learnt from this attempt at Africa's first prehospital RCT are discussed. Challenges associated with conducting this RCT related to the healthcare landscape, resources, training of paramedics, rollout and randomisation, technology, consent and research culture. High quality evidence to guide prehospital emergency care practice is lacking both in Africa and the rest of the world. This is likely due to the difficulties with performing prehospital clinical trials. Every trial will be unique to the test intervention and setting of each study, but by considering some of the challenges and lessons learnt in the attempt at this trial, future studies might experience less difficulty. This may lead to a stronger evidence-base for prehospital emergency care.
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Factors contributing to high growth in SMMEs in Gauteng
- Authors: Metz, Thaddeus
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Small , Micro and medium-sized enterprises , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/404804 , uj:33964 , Citation: Metz, T. 2019. Factors contributing to high growth in SMMEs in Gauteng.
- Description: Abstract: South Africa is in desperate need to grow the population of high growth SMMEs, as these businesses are key to job creation, innovation efforts, poverty alleviation, promoting economic growth and contributing meaningfully to the South African tax base. This study aims to identify the factors contributing to the high growth of SMMEs in the Gauteng province in South Africa. The study further aimed to determine how the high-growth SMME sector could be nurtured, from the perspective of existing high-growth SMME owners who have experienced more than 20% growth in the past three years. The study was qualitative in nature and made use of semi-structured interviews with sixteen SMME owners based at Incubation Hubs in Gauteng. Data were analysed by means of thematic content analysis. This study concludes that this particular sector plays a significant role within South Africa’s economy. However, for this sector to continue growing, SMMEs need to equip themselves with managerial and industry skills, have a good financing model in place and be provided with government support through policies and development finance. The study is of value to existing SMMEs struggling who can use the identified factors to promote growth internally, as well as to policymakers to structure interventions to promote high growth in existing SMMEs.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Metz, Thaddeus
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Small , Micro and medium-sized enterprises , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/404804 , uj:33964 , Citation: Metz, T. 2019. Factors contributing to high growth in SMMEs in Gauteng.
- Description: Abstract: South Africa is in desperate need to grow the population of high growth SMMEs, as these businesses are key to job creation, innovation efforts, poverty alleviation, promoting economic growth and contributing meaningfully to the South African tax base. This study aims to identify the factors contributing to the high growth of SMMEs in the Gauteng province in South Africa. The study further aimed to determine how the high-growth SMME sector could be nurtured, from the perspective of existing high-growth SMME owners who have experienced more than 20% growth in the past three years. The study was qualitative in nature and made use of semi-structured interviews with sixteen SMME owners based at Incubation Hubs in Gauteng. Data were analysed by means of thematic content analysis. This study concludes that this particular sector plays a significant role within South Africa’s economy. However, for this sector to continue growing, SMMEs need to equip themselves with managerial and industry skills, have a good financing model in place and be provided with government support through policies and development finance. The study is of value to existing SMMEs struggling who can use the identified factors to promote growth internally, as well as to policymakers to structure interventions to promote high growth in existing SMMEs.
- Full Text:
A factor analysis of transportation infrastructure feasibility study factors : a study among built environment professionals in South Africa
- Okoro, Chioma Sylvia, Musonda, Innocent, Agumba, Justus Ngala
- Authors: Okoro, Chioma Sylvia , Musonda, Innocent , Agumba, Justus Ngala
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Feasibility studies , Infrastructure , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/404244 , uj:33893 , Citation: Okoro, C.S., Musonda, I. & Agumba, J.N. 2019. A factor analysis of transportation infrastructure feasibility study factors : a study among built environment professionals in South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Okoro, Chioma Sylvia , Musonda, Innocent , Agumba, Justus Ngala
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Feasibility studies , Infrastructure , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/404244 , uj:33893 , Citation: Okoro, C.S., Musonda, I. & Agumba, J.N. 2019. A factor analysis of transportation infrastructure feasibility study factors : a study among built environment professionals in South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract.
- Full Text:
Historicising perceptions and the national management framework for invasive alien plants in South Africa
- Bennett, Brett M., Van Sittert, Lance
- Authors: Bennett, Brett M. , Van Sittert, Lance
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Culture-nature , Invasive alien plant , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/403799 , uj:33851 , Citation: Bennett, B.M. & Van Sittert, L. 2019. Historicising perceptions and the national management framework for invasive alien plants in South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: This article offers a historical framework for understanding changes to human perceptions and efforts to manage invasive alien plants and weeds in South Africa from the mid-nineteenth century until the present. The article argues that South African legislation and policy for managing invasive alien plants and weeds has historically been limited because people have held contradictory values about plants, many private land owners have lacked resources and have not been compelled to follow government legislation, and because policy has reflected the interests of a small group of farmers or scientific experts who have had limited influence on most private land owners and traditional land users. Successful control efforts often relied on technical expertise that was applied controversially or could be implemented on government land without extensive public consultation or social conflict. The creation of a national framework for invasive alien plants through the Working for Water Programme in 1995 and National Environmental Management of Biodiversity Act (no. 10) of 2004 (NEMBA) has increased public awareness, but the Programme and NEMBA remain limited by many of the same institutional and social constraints that experts and institutions faced in the past. In conclusion, the article draws on history to provide insights to contemporary challenges.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bennett, Brett M. , Van Sittert, Lance
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Culture-nature , Invasive alien plant , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/403799 , uj:33851 , Citation: Bennett, B.M. & Van Sittert, L. 2019. Historicising perceptions and the national management framework for invasive alien plants in South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: This article offers a historical framework for understanding changes to human perceptions and efforts to manage invasive alien plants and weeds in South Africa from the mid-nineteenth century until the present. The article argues that South African legislation and policy for managing invasive alien plants and weeds has historically been limited because people have held contradictory values about plants, many private land owners have lacked resources and have not been compelled to follow government legislation, and because policy has reflected the interests of a small group of farmers or scientific experts who have had limited influence on most private land owners and traditional land users. Successful control efforts often relied on technical expertise that was applied controversially or could be implemented on government land without extensive public consultation or social conflict. The creation of a national framework for invasive alien plants through the Working for Water Programme in 1995 and National Environmental Management of Biodiversity Act (no. 10) of 2004 (NEMBA) has increased public awareness, but the Programme and NEMBA remain limited by many of the same institutional and social constraints that experts and institutions faced in the past. In conclusion, the article draws on history to provide insights to contemporary challenges.
- Full Text:
Where is the queer critique of same-sex marriage in South Africa?
- Authors: McCormick, T.L.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Queer critique , Same-sex marriage , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/403458 , uj:33811 , Citation: McCormick, T.L. 2019. Where is the queer critique of same-sex marriage in South Africa?.
- Description: Abstract: This article argues for the necessity of a queer anti-homophobic critique of samesex marriage in the South African context. The literature on same-sex marriage in South Africa before and after the passing of the Civil Union Act 2006, while acknowledging queer critique, resolves such critique in favour of the ‘right’ to marry. From a queer point of view, same-sex marriage is problematic because it renews the distinctions between moral and immoral, it is antithetical to the politics of the gay and lesbian movement, it ‘undoes’ a long history of feminist research where it is argued that marriage is patriarchal and oppressive and finally, it cannot transform the exclusionary nature of marriage. I use Jane Bennett’s ‘“Solemnis(ing) beginnings”: Theories of same-sex marriage in the USA and South Africa’ (2015) as evidence of the most recent example of this point of view. In the course of my critique of Bennett’s article, I will also refer to all of the published literature on the same-sex marriage debate in South Africa. I argue that the opportunity to incorporate queer critiques of same-sex marriage might have been lost 12 years ago but there is no reason why we cannot have these conversations now. The aim of this article is to ignite such a conversation.
- Full Text:
- Authors: McCormick, T.L.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Queer critique , Same-sex marriage , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/403458 , uj:33811 , Citation: McCormick, T.L. 2019. Where is the queer critique of same-sex marriage in South Africa?.
- Description: Abstract: This article argues for the necessity of a queer anti-homophobic critique of samesex marriage in the South African context. The literature on same-sex marriage in South Africa before and after the passing of the Civil Union Act 2006, while acknowledging queer critique, resolves such critique in favour of the ‘right’ to marry. From a queer point of view, same-sex marriage is problematic because it renews the distinctions between moral and immoral, it is antithetical to the politics of the gay and lesbian movement, it ‘undoes’ a long history of feminist research where it is argued that marriage is patriarchal and oppressive and finally, it cannot transform the exclusionary nature of marriage. I use Jane Bennett’s ‘“Solemnis(ing) beginnings”: Theories of same-sex marriage in the USA and South Africa’ (2015) as evidence of the most recent example of this point of view. In the course of my critique of Bennett’s article, I will also refer to all of the published literature on the same-sex marriage debate in South Africa. I argue that the opportunity to incorporate queer critiques of same-sex marriage might have been lost 12 years ago but there is no reason why we cannot have these conversations now. The aim of this article is to ignite such a conversation.
- Full Text:
Validity and reliability of a transportation infrastructure sustainable performance framework : a study of transport projects in South Africa
- Okoro, Chioma Sylvia, Musonda, Innocent, Agumba, Justus Ngala
- Authors: Okoro, Chioma Sylvia , Musonda, Innocent , Agumba, Justus Ngala
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Infrastructure , South Africa , Sustainability
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/406475 , uj:34176 , Citation: Okoro, C.S., Musonda, I., Agumba, J.N. 2019. Validity and reliability of a transportation infrastructure sustainable performance framework: a study of transport projects in South Africa. Construction Economics and Building, 19:2, 126-143. https://doi. org/10.5130/AJCEB.v19i2.6730 , ISSN: 2204-9029
- Description: Abstract: Transportation infrastructure contributes to the development of an economy. However, the performance of such infrastructure is hampered if sustainability elements are not considered at the initiation/conception and operation stages of the projects. The study aimed to validate a structure of transportation project sustainability measures to evaluate projects and ensure continual delivery of intended benefits in the long run. Empirical data were collected using a field questionnaire survey developed from the literature review and a preliminary qualitative inquiry. A total of 132 built environment professionals were included based on purposeful and snowball sampling techniques. A model-generating confirmatory factor analysis was undertaken to validate underlying structures of sustainability measures established from a...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Okoro, Chioma Sylvia , Musonda, Innocent , Agumba, Justus Ngala
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Infrastructure , South Africa , Sustainability
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/406475 , uj:34176 , Citation: Okoro, C.S., Musonda, I., Agumba, J.N. 2019. Validity and reliability of a transportation infrastructure sustainable performance framework: a study of transport projects in South Africa. Construction Economics and Building, 19:2, 126-143. https://doi. org/10.5130/AJCEB.v19i2.6730 , ISSN: 2204-9029
- Description: Abstract: Transportation infrastructure contributes to the development of an economy. However, the performance of such infrastructure is hampered if sustainability elements are not considered at the initiation/conception and operation stages of the projects. The study aimed to validate a structure of transportation project sustainability measures to evaluate projects and ensure continual delivery of intended benefits in the long run. Empirical data were collected using a field questionnaire survey developed from the literature review and a preliminary qualitative inquiry. A total of 132 built environment professionals were included based on purposeful and snowball sampling techniques. A model-generating confirmatory factor analysis was undertaken to validate underlying structures of sustainability measures established from a...
- Full Text:
Evaluating the experience of students as actors in a people intensive service delivery system
- Stiehler-Mulder, Beate, Wait, Marius
- Authors: Stiehler-Mulder, Beate , Wait, Marius
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Students , South Africa , Service design
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/406636 , uj:34196 , Citation: Stiehler-Mulder, B., Wait, M. 2019 : Evaluating the experience of students as actors in a people intensive service delivery system.
- Description: Abstract : South Africa’s higher education landscape has gone through some turbulent waters of late. Students play a fundamental role in this intensive university service delivery system. This study’s aim was to evaluate students’ needs, frustrations, challenges, experiences and emotions as actors within a people intensive higher education service delivery system. It places the student as the center of the service design approach and highlights several areas of exploration wherein students are actors within the system. The study adopted a qualitative approach. Several group interviews were conducted with students. The collected data was analysed using an inductive content analysis approach. The main results indicated that overall the students’ experience and emotions are positive, albeit a few areas of improvement is needed. Students need extra attention during their first year of study and some of the service departments need improvement. The contributions of this study are on the practical implementation of an improved service design and eliminating these service gaps.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Stiehler-Mulder, Beate , Wait, Marius
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Students , South Africa , Service design
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/406636 , uj:34196 , Citation: Stiehler-Mulder, B., Wait, M. 2019 : Evaluating the experience of students as actors in a people intensive service delivery system.
- Description: Abstract : South Africa’s higher education landscape has gone through some turbulent waters of late. Students play a fundamental role in this intensive university service delivery system. This study’s aim was to evaluate students’ needs, frustrations, challenges, experiences and emotions as actors within a people intensive higher education service delivery system. It places the student as the center of the service design approach and highlights several areas of exploration wherein students are actors within the system. The study adopted a qualitative approach. Several group interviews were conducted with students. The collected data was analysed using an inductive content analysis approach. The main results indicated that overall the students’ experience and emotions are positive, albeit a few areas of improvement is needed. Students need extra attention during their first year of study and some of the service departments need improvement. The contributions of this study are on the practical implementation of an improved service design and eliminating these service gaps.
- Full Text:
Globalisation, internationalisation and export opportunities for South Africa
- Bronkhorst, Seugnet, Nieuwenhuizen, Cecile
- Authors: Bronkhorst, Seugnet , Nieuwenhuizen, Cecile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Globalisation , Internationalisation , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/406750 , uj:34211 , Citation: Bronkhorst, S. & Nieuwenhuizen, C. 2019. Globalisation, internationalisation and export opportunities for South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: The economic resources of capital, technology, and data as well as the exchange of goods and funds and the agriculture supply sector all become part of the ‘border-less world’. The Government and private organisations are arduously demanding factors to stimulate growth in the South African economy through various strategies and comprehend export development as a priority. The Department of Trade and Industry grow the export base and increase exports from South Africa as well as develop an approach to export expansion supported by strategic export promotion in line with global best practice resulting in the Integrated National Export Strategy (INES) or ‘Export 2030’. Within the demand for wood, South Africa has the opportunity to increase its wood supply into world markets in the future to various countries and indications are of countries and regions which might be future potential markets with this research main aim towards entering the European Union market. South Africa may enter the EU markets without any tariff barriers because it falls under the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP). However, South African produce still have to meet certain requirements to enter the EU market, for example, they have to provide evidence of origin to EU customs in the form of a Certificate of Origin and the wood or articles therefore must be transported directly to the EU from the country of origin. There are a number of non-tariff measures (NTMs) for wood products, being more complex than tariffs and more difficult to gauge their impact with an even greater trade-restricting effect than tariffs. One of these measure is the use of import quotas for forest products is declining, resulting in difficulties. However, the use of export restrictions, particularly on logs, has been increasing, and had a major impact on trade in forest products.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bronkhorst, Seugnet , Nieuwenhuizen, Cecile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Globalisation , Internationalisation , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/406750 , uj:34211 , Citation: Bronkhorst, S. & Nieuwenhuizen, C. 2019. Globalisation, internationalisation and export opportunities for South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: The economic resources of capital, technology, and data as well as the exchange of goods and funds and the agriculture supply sector all become part of the ‘border-less world’. The Government and private organisations are arduously demanding factors to stimulate growth in the South African economy through various strategies and comprehend export development as a priority. The Department of Trade and Industry grow the export base and increase exports from South Africa as well as develop an approach to export expansion supported by strategic export promotion in line with global best practice resulting in the Integrated National Export Strategy (INES) or ‘Export 2030’. Within the demand for wood, South Africa has the opportunity to increase its wood supply into world markets in the future to various countries and indications are of countries and regions which might be future potential markets with this research main aim towards entering the European Union market. South Africa may enter the EU markets without any tariff barriers because it falls under the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP). However, South African produce still have to meet certain requirements to enter the EU market, for example, they have to provide evidence of origin to EU customs in the form of a Certificate of Origin and the wood or articles therefore must be transported directly to the EU from the country of origin. There are a number of non-tariff measures (NTMs) for wood products, being more complex than tariffs and more difficult to gauge their impact with an even greater trade-restricting effect than tariffs. One of these measure is the use of import quotas for forest products is declining, resulting in difficulties. However, the use of export restrictions, particularly on logs, has been increasing, and had a major impact on trade in forest products.
- Full Text:
Value proposition as a tool to increase customer loyalty
- Rakosa, Kenosi, Mara, Cashandra
- Authors: Rakosa, Kenosi , Mara, Cashandra
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Value proposition , South Africa , Banking
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/407472 , uj:34300 , Citation: Rakosa, K., Mara, C. 2019: Value proposition as a tool to increase customer loyalty.
- Description: Abstract: The mature, yet sound banking industry in South Africa is being disrupted by the information age, demanding and informed millennials, sluggish economic growth and new entrants rivalling traditional norms. To attract and retain bank clients, value proposition as a strategic tool can be applied to meet customer’s changing banking demands but also to meet the bank’s strategy for higher and sustainable profits. Value proposition provides a platform where customers’ needs can be addressed through a holistic relationship with their bank and ideally banks are able to establish an all-inclusive view of the customer. The study reveals that the bank under study is employing value proposition as a high-level strategy, and not only as a marketing strategy to optimize profits and advance customer relations. However, the realistic conditions and challenges that the bank faces in the implementation of value proposition strategy are not as simplistic as its strategy, and this research depicts such findings. Therefore, instead of applying a marketing lens to value proposition, this study presents a unique demonstration of value proposition as a business strategy. Using an interpretivist approach, qualitative research was employed to interview fifteen relationship managers in one mature South African bank. Key findings revealed that the bank was considered reactive and banking customers were price-sensitive. While the bank is attempting to embrace technological change, service levels are declining. Findings were grouped into four themes and it was uncovered that the bank’s attempts at value proposition, are still bank centric, and not customer centric. Recommendations are based on strategic literature and findings so as to meet the identified challenges. Recommendations are to enhance the bank’s information systems and relook current value proposition strategies to improve the bank’s position in the market. This research contributes theoretically by adding to the body of knowledge on value proposition as a strategic business tool. The practical contribution is that relationship managers as implementers of strategy become aware of the critical role they play in understanding the perceptions of value proposition from the customer’s points of view.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Rakosa, Kenosi , Mara, Cashandra
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Value proposition , South Africa , Banking
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/407472 , uj:34300 , Citation: Rakosa, K., Mara, C. 2019: Value proposition as a tool to increase customer loyalty.
- Description: Abstract: The mature, yet sound banking industry in South Africa is being disrupted by the information age, demanding and informed millennials, sluggish economic growth and new entrants rivalling traditional norms. To attract and retain bank clients, value proposition as a strategic tool can be applied to meet customer’s changing banking demands but also to meet the bank’s strategy for higher and sustainable profits. Value proposition provides a platform where customers’ needs can be addressed through a holistic relationship with their bank and ideally banks are able to establish an all-inclusive view of the customer. The study reveals that the bank under study is employing value proposition as a high-level strategy, and not only as a marketing strategy to optimize profits and advance customer relations. However, the realistic conditions and challenges that the bank faces in the implementation of value proposition strategy are not as simplistic as its strategy, and this research depicts such findings. Therefore, instead of applying a marketing lens to value proposition, this study presents a unique demonstration of value proposition as a business strategy. Using an interpretivist approach, qualitative research was employed to interview fifteen relationship managers in one mature South African bank. Key findings revealed that the bank was considered reactive and banking customers were price-sensitive. While the bank is attempting to embrace technological change, service levels are declining. Findings were grouped into four themes and it was uncovered that the bank’s attempts at value proposition, are still bank centric, and not customer centric. Recommendations are based on strategic literature and findings so as to meet the identified challenges. Recommendations are to enhance the bank’s information systems and relook current value proposition strategies to improve the bank’s position in the market. This research contributes theoretically by adding to the body of knowledge on value proposition as a strategic business tool. The practical contribution is that relationship managers as implementers of strategy become aware of the critical role they play in understanding the perceptions of value proposition from the customer’s points of view.
- Full Text:
Factors contributing to high growth in SMMEs in Gauteng
- Ndweni, Ennie, Mocwaledi, Morongwa, Mahlangu, Sibusiso, Schachtebeck, Chris
- Authors: Ndweni, Ennie , Mocwaledi, Morongwa , Mahlangu, Sibusiso , Schachtebeck, Chris
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Small , Micro and medium-sized enterprises , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/407585 , uj:34314 , Citation: Ndweni, E. et al. 2019: Factors contributing to high growth in SMMEs in Gauteng.
- Description: Abstract: South Africa is in desperate need to grow the population of high growth SMMEs, as these businesses are key to job creation, innovation efforts, poverty alleviation, promoting economic growth and contributing meaningfully to the South African tax base. This study aims to identify the factors contributing to the high growth of SMMEs in the Gauteng province in South Africa. The study further aimed to determine how the high-growth SMME sector could be nurtured, from the perspective of existing high-growth SMME owners who have experienced more than 20% growth in the past three years. The study was qualitative in nature and made use of semi-structured interviews with sixteen SMME owners based at Incubation Hubs in Gauteng. Data were analysed by means of thematic content analysis. This study concludes that this particular sector plays a significant role within South Africa’s economy. However, for this sector to continue growing, SMMEs need to equip themselves with managerial and industry skills, have a good financing model in place and be provided with government support through policies and development finance. The study is of value to existing SMMEs struggling who can use the identified factors to promote growth internally, as well as to policymakers to structure interventions to promote high growth in existing SMMEs.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ndweni, Ennie , Mocwaledi, Morongwa , Mahlangu, Sibusiso , Schachtebeck, Chris
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Small , Micro and medium-sized enterprises , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/407585 , uj:34314 , Citation: Ndweni, E. et al. 2019: Factors contributing to high growth in SMMEs in Gauteng.
- Description: Abstract: South Africa is in desperate need to grow the population of high growth SMMEs, as these businesses are key to job creation, innovation efforts, poverty alleviation, promoting economic growth and contributing meaningfully to the South African tax base. This study aims to identify the factors contributing to the high growth of SMMEs in the Gauteng province in South Africa. The study further aimed to determine how the high-growth SMME sector could be nurtured, from the perspective of existing high-growth SMME owners who have experienced more than 20% growth in the past three years. The study was qualitative in nature and made use of semi-structured interviews with sixteen SMME owners based at Incubation Hubs in Gauteng. Data were analysed by means of thematic content analysis. This study concludes that this particular sector plays a significant role within South Africa’s economy. However, for this sector to continue growing, SMMEs need to equip themselves with managerial and industry skills, have a good financing model in place and be provided with government support through policies and development finance. The study is of value to existing SMMEs struggling who can use the identified factors to promote growth internally, as well as to policymakers to structure interventions to promote high growth in existing SMMEs.
- Full Text:
Validating a framework of transportation infrastructure project sustainability measures
- Okoro, Chioma Sylvia, Musonda, Innocent, Agumba, Justus Ngala
- Authors: Okoro, Chioma Sylvia , Musonda, Innocent , Agumba, Justus Ngala
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Confirmatory factor analysis , Infrastructure , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/407489 , uj:34302 , Citation: Okoro, C.S., Musonda, I., Agumba, J.N. 2019: Validating a framework of transportation infrastructure project sustainability measures.
- Description: Abstract: t Purpose of this paper Transportation infrastructure contributes significantly to any economy. However, the long-lasting nature of such projects is threatened if sustainability elements are not taken cognizance of during the planning and operation stages of the projects. The objective of the current study is to validate a structure of transportation project sustainability measures to evaluate projects and ensure continual delivery of intended benefits in the long run. Design Empirical data were collected using a field questionnaire survey developed from literature review and a preliminary qualitative inquiry. A total of 132 built environment professionals were included based on purposeful and snowball sampling techniques. A model-generating confirmatory factor analysis was undertaken to validate underlying structures of sustainability measures. Findings The findings validated that a four-factor structure, with eleven variables, could adequately measure transportation infrastructure project sustainability (PS). The CFA structure achieved construct, convergent and discriminant validity, with fewer variables than theorised and established in the exploratory factor analysis. Value The validated four-factor structure is envisaged to be beneficial to transportation infrastructure project stakeholders in better decision-making with regard to selecting worthwhile projects as well as monitor operational projects with the aim of delivering long-term benefits to generations of users.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Okoro, Chioma Sylvia , Musonda, Innocent , Agumba, Justus Ngala
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Confirmatory factor analysis , Infrastructure , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/407489 , uj:34302 , Citation: Okoro, C.S., Musonda, I., Agumba, J.N. 2019: Validating a framework of transportation infrastructure project sustainability measures.
- Description: Abstract: t Purpose of this paper Transportation infrastructure contributes significantly to any economy. However, the long-lasting nature of such projects is threatened if sustainability elements are not taken cognizance of during the planning and operation stages of the projects. The objective of the current study is to validate a structure of transportation project sustainability measures to evaluate projects and ensure continual delivery of intended benefits in the long run. Design Empirical data were collected using a field questionnaire survey developed from literature review and a preliminary qualitative inquiry. A total of 132 built environment professionals were included based on purposeful and snowball sampling techniques. A model-generating confirmatory factor analysis was undertaken to validate underlying structures of sustainability measures. Findings The findings validated that a four-factor structure, with eleven variables, could adequately measure transportation infrastructure project sustainability (PS). The CFA structure achieved construct, convergent and discriminant validity, with fewer variables than theorised and established in the exploratory factor analysis. Value The validated four-factor structure is envisaged to be beneficial to transportation infrastructure project stakeholders in better decision-making with regard to selecting worthwhile projects as well as monitor operational projects with the aim of delivering long-term benefits to generations of users.
- Full Text:
With great access comes great responsibility : framework for Cybersecurity implementation in South Africa
- Jansen van Vuuren, Joey, Jansen van Vuuren, Anna-Marie
- Authors: Jansen van Vuuren, Joey , Jansen van Vuuren, Anna-Marie
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South Africa , Connectivity , Cybercrime
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/409587 , uj:34341 , Citation: Jansen van Vuuren, J. & Jansen van Vuuren, A.M. 2019. With great access comes great responsibility : framework for Cybersecurity implementation in South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: South Africa is one of the African nations with the highest internet access rate. Despite this high connectivity, South African scholars have argued that the rapid spread of mobile phones and interactivity caught up with the government before it had a chance to put a definite cyber strategy in place. With more South Africans gaining access to the internet, the risks of citizens’ exposure to cyber threats are rising. The Institute of Risk Management South Africa has ranked cyberattacks amongst the ten highest risks threatening the country. The large number of South African citizens growing up without regular or sustained exposure to technological devices and broadband internet access makes them vulnerable to online exploitation. This may in turn lead to the country itself being more exposed to security breaches and potential international cyberattacks. Whilst taking cognisance of the country’s unique African context, the authors begin the paper by explaining how international strategies and frameworks could be applied to the country. Thereafter they measure the performance of South Africa’s cybersecurity implementation according to this framework. Emphasis is given to the importance of adequate training in cybersecurity and cybersecurity awareness for South African and African citizens, in order to protect themselves against current and future online threats.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Jansen van Vuuren, Joey , Jansen van Vuuren, Anna-Marie
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South Africa , Connectivity , Cybercrime
- Language: English
- Type: Conference proceedings
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/409587 , uj:34341 , Citation: Jansen van Vuuren, J. & Jansen van Vuuren, A.M. 2019. With great access comes great responsibility : framework for Cybersecurity implementation in South Africa.
- Description: Abstract: South Africa is one of the African nations with the highest internet access rate. Despite this high connectivity, South African scholars have argued that the rapid spread of mobile phones and interactivity caught up with the government before it had a chance to put a definite cyber strategy in place. With more South Africans gaining access to the internet, the risks of citizens’ exposure to cyber threats are rising. The Institute of Risk Management South Africa has ranked cyberattacks amongst the ten highest risks threatening the country. The large number of South African citizens growing up without regular or sustained exposure to technological devices and broadband internet access makes them vulnerable to online exploitation. This may in turn lead to the country itself being more exposed to security breaches and potential international cyberattacks. Whilst taking cognisance of the country’s unique African context, the authors begin the paper by explaining how international strategies and frameworks could be applied to the country. Thereafter they measure the performance of South Africa’s cybersecurity implementation according to this framework. Emphasis is given to the importance of adequate training in cybersecurity and cybersecurity awareness for South African and African citizens, in order to protect themselves against current and future online threats.
- Full Text: