Masters Degrees (Information Systems and Technology)

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The attitudes and self-reported competencies of educators in rural schools of KwaZulu-Natal regarding the use of information communication technology to delivery e-education to rural communities.
(2008) Matsemela, Yvonne Nonhlanhla.; Klopper, Rembrandt.
In 2004 the South African Department of Education released a White Paper on e-Education in which it outlined its intention to introduce Information Communication Technology (ICT) to deliver e-Education in South African schools by 2013. The White Paper prompted this study on the attitudes, perceptions and competencies of educators in rural schools of KwaZulu- Natal towards this policy with the aim to establish whether they would be willing to adopt e-Education and whether they would be ready to implement the policy in the classroom. A study of educators' perceptions about e- Education and their willingness to adopt this form of education delivery enables one to establish their level of e-Readiness. The researcher conducted a literature review and formulated e- Readiness as the theoretical framework of the study. This was followed by a quantitative research involving a suitably representative sample of educators in rural schools of KZN. It aimed at establishing educators' use of basic and advanced electronic communication technologies as indicative of e-Readiness. A follow-up survey was conducted which intended to establish educators' use of cell phones as an indication of e-Readiness. Both surveys were conducted by means of structured questionnaires. Data processing and analysis were done using analytical program SPSS 13. The major findings of this study are that educators in rural schools of KwaZulu-Natal are not ready for the rollout of e-Education. Among the factors limiting their e-Readiness are: a lack of exposure to advanced electronic communication technologies emanating from lack of technological infrastructure as well as resources in the majority of schools in the rural areas. Another factor is inadequate computer skills needed for effective teaching in an e- Education setting. Those with computer training have not been able to utilize their skills at the poorly equipped schools where they teach and would therefore require retraining. The study, however, revealed positive attitudes among educators and willingness to adopt and implement the e-Education policy should these problems be addressed. Finally comparison of the results of PC based e-Education survey and the cell phone survey indicate that while educators in rural communities are ill-equipped to use computers, they are sophisticated cell phone users, leading one to surmise that they would readily adopt emerging and converging technologies that are set to make available powerful multi-functional communication-computation devices.
The thinking styles of IT students and practitioners.
(2005) Harypursat, Rikesh.; Lubbe, Samuel Izak.; Klopper, Rembrandt.
IT expenditures and organizational performance have been disconnected in the past due to an economic transition from an era of competitive advantage on information, to one based on knowledge creation. The earlier era was characterized by slow change that could not be interpreted by most formal information systems (Lubbe, 1997). IT managers therefore need to develop a greater appreciation of their intangible human assets such as knowledge and inquiring styles. In other words, an investigation into knowledge creation rather than Knowledge Management needs to be undertaken (Lundin et a/., 2000). According to IT managers, attention should be paid to the human aspects of knowledge creation in current formulations of IT enabled knowledge management (Lundin eta/., 2000). This research therefore provides guidelines in overcoming the challenges of miscommunication and misunderstanding of IT people in knowledge creation and management. This research is structured in such a way that students and professionals as well as marketers and IT personnel can use it. This study has been conducted at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (Westville Campus), in the School of Information Systems and Technology. The population included all students studying Information Systems and Technology. The population for the Information Systems and Technology practitioners has been selected from the University of KwaZulu- Natal's School of Information Systems and Technology department.
A framework for developing a strategy for a small information technology company.
(2001) Cele, Martin Sikhumbuzo.; Petkov, Doncho.
Much has been documented about the importance of effective strategic planning as a basis for an organisation to gain a sustainable competitive advantage. Inadequate strategic planning is also widely recognised to be one of the major factors that contribute to the failure of most small organisations. At the same time, developing a strategy for an information technology organisation is increasingly becoming a complex exercise, considering the rate at which the field is growing and the need for organisations in this field to respond quickly to changing market demands. For large organisations, it may be a matter of ensuring that existing, tried and tested strategies are frequently updated. For small organisations on the other hand, this may be a nightmare of an exercise. In this research, the author explores a number of strategic planning approaches with the aim of identifying elements in them that could assist the strategy development process of a small information technology company. After a detailed analysis of conventional approaches to strategic management, it suggests a framework which uses the Core Competence Approach to strategy development as a basis. It is supplemented by selected techniques of Strategic Choice as a toolset for systematic decision-making within the strategy development process of a small information technology company. Also included, is a case study on the application and evaluation of the suggested framework for an initial strategy-development process at a typical small information technology company.
Adult user perceptions of library services provided by the Bessie Head Library in Pietermaritzburg, Msunduzi, KwaZulu-Natal.
(2010) Bhim, Shanitha.; Leach, Athol Brian.; Bell, Fiona Ruth.
This study examined the quality of service provided by the Bessie Head Library from the perspective of the adult users of the library. The study assessed the adult users’ perceptions of the quality of service and determined the level of user satisfaction at the Bessie Head Library. The purpose of the study was to identify gaps in the library services and to measure the users’ perceptions of the quality of the collections, staff services and library facilities. The study population consisted of 200 registered adult library users. Of the 200 adults under study, 197 responded to the questionnaire, yielding a response rate of 98.5% chosen by means of a convenience sample. The LibQUAL+TM survey instrument that was used in this study was modified and adapted for use in a public library, as the majority of research using the LibQUAL instrument was undertaken in academic libraries. The instrument consisted of both open-ended and closed questions. The three dimensions of service quality, that is, access to information, staff services and library facilities, formed the core of the instrument. An interview schedule was used to elicit background information from the Library Manager and Principal Librarian, on issues of library services, collection development policy, funding and general library issues. The results from the questionnaires were analyzed using SPSS to determine the frequency of responses. These were presented in the form of tables and graphs. The interview results were analyzed qualitatively, using thematic content analysis. The results from this study indicate that there is a gap between users’ expectations and perceptions of service quality at the Bessie Head Library. The extent of the gap varies depending on the individual services. The users’ expectations were not in keeping with the actual experiences at the library, especially with regard to access to information, as users experienced problems with Internet access and the reference collection. The level of satisfaction varied among the different user categories and the findings revealed that the majority of adult users rated the overall quality of services as good and that the library is, to a large extent, excelling in service provision. Based on the findings, recommendations were made to address problems presented in this study.
From promise to practice : information systems implementation : why the gap? : a study of organisational learning at the University of Natal, Durban campus, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
(2000) Garvey, Ric.; Taylor, Robert Gordon.
The following study has taken a systems approach to investigate organisational learning within the University of Natal, Durban (UND), The research used the Banner system implementation project as the case study for the investigation. In 1993, the University of Natal made a decision to purchase the Banner Student Information System. The system was implemented over an eighteen-month period resulting in the Banner system going "live" for registration of students in 1995. A decision was taken in 1997/8 to discontinue implementing upgrade packages for the Banner system, indicating a move away from the system within two to three years of implementation. This document begins with a review of current literature with regard to systems thinking, organisational learning and change management. This review serves to underpin the research methodology implemented within the research process. The research methodology, known as learning histories, is explained, and a description of the research process is provided. The core of the research process involved open-ended reflective interviews aimed at incorporating the different perspectives of the majority of stakeholders involved in the system implementation. In addition to this, an analysis was conducted on a selection of Banner-related documents. The scope of the research was limited and would best be described as a pilot study. Those interviewed included members of the university executive committee, Banner office personnel, faculty officers, deans, administrative personnel, management information personnel and the project manager for the implementation. The major findings of the research process were: 1. The decision to purchase the Banner student information system was problematic. 2. The wider system that was created to maintain Banner was complex and generated a large degree of dependency on the Banner office. 3. The Banner office was a powerful gatekeeper of information within the system whose identity was wrapped up in a product and not a function. 4. The training system implemented was flawed and did not equip key users with a global understanding of the functionality of the system. 5. The university was unclear about what information it wanted out of the system and who was to have access to this information. 6. The university used Banner almost entirely as a student administration system and management information was not well developed within the Banner system. The following areas were highlighted as important for the university with regards to organisational learning and the case study: 1. Decision support systems. 2. The role of technology within the university. 3. A systems approach to understanding the context of the university. 4. The learning systems operating within the university. 5. Managing change. The limited scope of the research presents its own problems for drawing any firm conclusions. The research process has rather highlighted new areas for research. These include: 1. The relationship between workplace procedures and new technology. 2. The role of information technology and information systems in decision support and management support. 3. Change management processes within larger project-based implementations. 4. Decision making within higher education institutions.
On the effects of structuring idea generation tasks and supporting consensus building in a Multi-Criteria Group Decision Making Environment.
(1999) Kunene, Kim Niki.; Petkov, Doncho.
Decision making is a process that is characterized by several activities. For a typical semi-structured to unstructured multi-criteria task, decision-makers must go through problem exploration, the so-called intelligence phase, to understand what the task is about. Subsequent, critical activities are design of alternatives, choice generation and building consensus around the generated choices. The best idea will be implemented usually by a group of several stakeholders. Unless care has been taken to build consensus during the decision process, the implementation is unlikely to succeed. That is, the decision is unlikely to become a purposeful action. At the same time, the multiple objective nature of the considered tasks also adds to the group decision-making process. This research explores both creativity or idea generation and supporting consensus building on the basis of the above justification. An investigation or the current status or multi-criteria group decision making is done through literature surveys of the fields of Multi-criteria Decision Making and Group Decision Support Systems. Particular emphasis or the theoretical and practical sides of this research is placed on supporting creativity and supporting consensus building. In the former. the issue or task structuring is considered as a way to better enhance the creativity process, within a laboratory experiment on a problem related to information systems and systems analysis and design. In the support of consensus building, a theoretical framework is examined within a real life study using the multiple criteria group decision-making environment, Team Expert Choice.
Copyright in the digital age with specific reference to technological protection measures and the efficacy of exceptions.
(2005) Govender, Deshnee.; Schembri, Christopher Carmelo.
No abstract available.
The perspectives of technology implementers about informaton communication technology deployment to rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal.
(2011) Jere, Ntabeni.; Klopper, Rembrandt.
The purpose of this study was to explore the deployment of Information Communication Tech-nology to rural communities of KwaZulu-Natal from the perspective of the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), the technology implementers of government. SITA‘s regional of-fice in KwaZulu-Natal is relatively small, with a total of 52 employees who have a direct and indirect role to play with regards to ICT deployment. A quantitative research methodology was utilised in this study. Data was gathered with the aid of a questionnaire. Fifty-two questionnaires were sent out to the targeted employees of SITA and forty-seven responses were received. The response rate was ninety percent. The results of the survey revealed that sixty percent of respondents felt that rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal were not prepared to participate in e-government. When asked to indicate the importance of Information Communication Technology policy and regulatory frameworks that specifically address technology deployment to rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal, sixty per-cent of respondents acknowledged the importance. Over two thirds of respondents indicated that lack of infrastructure was a hindrance to technology deployment while less than one third did not know if this was a hindrance. The study also revealed that the main motivation for ICT de-ployment was social inclusion and to improve digital inclusiveness. Based on the empirical evidence, the researcher recommends that government take these per-spectives of the technology implementers into consideration when formulating Information Communication Technology policies and legislative frameworks that will be used as a basis for technology deployment to these rural communities. It is also recommended that government do more in terms of training and sensitizing technology implementers and end users, and developing support infrastructure, such as the electrification of rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal, in order to create an enabling environment for new ICT initiative deployment and to enable com-munity members to be adequately prepared to participate in ICT initiatives such as e-governance, which was identified as a priority area. Due to the limitations of this study, particu-larly the fact that it is based on one province, KwaZulu-Natal, it is recommended that further research be carried out into deployment of ICT to rural communities.
The application of a participatory evaluation method to the public library : the case of Tholulwazi Library, Besters Camp, Inanda, Durban.
(1997) Wyley, Chantelle Hulda.; Stilwell, Christine.
A participatory evaluation method used to evaluate development projects is applied to the public library. The Tholulwazi Library, Besters Camp, Inanda - the first library established by the Durban Municipal Library service in an informal settlement - is the case used in the study. The developmental context of public libraries in South Africa in the 1990s provided part of the justification for this approach. This context relates to community demands for libraries along with other development services, as well as claims of developmental and educational benefit used to motivate for public library funding. Diminishing public budgets and calls for efficiency and effectiveness in the public service, suggest the need to evaluate and demonstrate impact and community benefit. In addition a survey of the literature on library evaluation since the 1970s indicates that useful, easily applicable methods of library evaluation are unavailable to the practitioner, hence the justification for considering models developed in other sectors. This thesis surveys the library evaluation literature, and then looks to trends in the evaluation of social service and development projects and programmes. An approach which combines a systematic and objectives-oriented approach, effected by a participatory methodology is selected and applied to the Tholulwazi Library. The evaluation takes place via a questionnaire survey of a group of library users (students), a use register and library counter-based survey; supplemented by existing population data on the Besters area. A work group consisting of library staff and user representatives, facilitated by the author, conducted the evaluation. The evaluation results reflect on the validity of library planning, and quantify and qualify the extent and type of use of students users, and the benefit derived. These results are analysed in relation to library objectives, and the coincidence or deviation commented upon. Recommendations for action in the management of Tholulwazi Library are given, as well as recommendations applicable to the planning and establishment of new libraries in other informal settlements and townships. Suggestions as to further use of this evaluation approach are given, in addition to comments on the relevance and applicability of the methodology. These focus on the strategic and managerial benefit of demonstrating a link between library resources and activities (funded by public moneys), to use and user benefit. The use of a participatory methodology is shown to be technically necessary in demonstrating this link, as well as politically strategic. Valid and appropriate decision-making by management needs input from all levels, hence the value of utilising 'multiple realities' of all groupings involved with delivery at a particular service point, in such an evaluation. The approach used suggests a more conscious approach to management of libraries generally. It points to specific, periodic reflection on and analysis of the role of the library as a social institution and the societal problems addressed. This includes analysis of the library environment, focusing on existing and potential target groups. The analysis applies in relation to conscious planning procedures, as well as ongoing monitoring and periodic evaluation of endeavours.
Forensic computing strategies for ethical academic writing.
(2009) Govender, Sashen.; Klopper, Rembrandt.;
This study resulted in the creation of a conceptual framework for ethical academic writing that can be applied to cases of authorship identification. The framework is the culmination of research into various other forensic frameworks and aspects related to cyber forensics, in order to ensure maximum effectiveness of this newly developed methodology. The research shows how synergies between forensic linguistics and electronic forensics (computer forensics) create the conceptual space for a new, interdisciplinary, cyber forensic linguistics, along with forensic auditing procedures and tools for authorship identification. The research also shows that an individual’s unique word pattern usage can be used to determine document authorship, and that in other instances, authorship can be attributed with a significant degree of probability using the identified process. The importance of this fact cannot be understated, because accusations of plagiarism have to be based on facts that will withstand cross examination in a court of law. Therefore, forensic auditing procedures are required when attributing authorship in cases of suspected plagiarism, which is regarded as one of the most serious problems facing any academic institution. This study identifies and characterises various forms of plagiarism as well the responses that can be implemented to prevent and deter it. A number of online and offline tools for the detection and prevention of plagiarism are identified, over and above the more commonly used popular tools that, in the author’s view, are overrated because they are based on mechanistic identification of word similarities in source and target texts, rather than on proper grammatical and semantic principles. Linguistic analysis is a field not well understood and often underestimated. Yet it is a critical field of inquiry in determining specific cases of authorship. The research identifies the various methods of linguistic analysis that could be applied to help establish authorship identity, as well as how they can be applied within a forensic environment. Various software tools that could be used to identify and analyse source documents that were plagiarised are identified and briefly characterised. Concordance, function word analysis and other methods of corpus analysis are explained, along with some of their related software packages. Corpus analysis that in the past would have taken months to perform manually, could now only take a matter of hours using the correct programs, given the availability of computerised analysis tools. This research integrates the strengths of these tools within a structurally sound forensic auditing framework, the result of which is a conceptual framework that encompasses all the pertinent factors and ensures admissibility in a court of law by adhering to strict rules and features that are characteristic of the legal requirements for a forensic investigation.
A comparison of IT project's team performance of internal versus outsourced employees.
(2010) Chaithram, Surika.; Maharaj, Manoj Sewak.
The performance of an employee is an integral part of a project’s success. In order for companies to realise their project objectives, it is essential that both internal and outsourced employees are performing optimally. This study aims to identify the factors that affect internal and outsourced employees, as well as to determine if there is a difference in employee performance in terms of information technology project deliverables. A sample of 74 employees was used from Derivco, which is based in La Lucia Ridge, Durban. The sample included both outsourced and internal employees. The data was collected by means of a questionnaire which included likert based questions. The data showed that outsourced employees performed better than internal employees as they had a greater probability of meeting the business requirements of a project. The literature review suggested that there were 20 possible variables that could influence employee performance. The results of this study concluded that 17 of the 20 variables identified from the literature review were important. The results of this study will benefit both employees and the organisation. Employees can gain a better awareness of their performance as well as helping the organisation in developing a better program to improve both internal and outsourced employees’ performance. The study extends the work of several models such as the Bennet and Franco et al. (2001) performance model and Develin’s (1989) organisational model. These models created a foundation for understanding teams, employees and the employer characteristics, in order to determine their performance patterns. However, particular attention is given to the Bennett and Franco model (2001) as well as the Sharpley model (2002). The reason for selecting these models is that the factors investigated in these frameworks are similar to those investigated in this research. The research aims to investigate whether South African organisations face similar impacts to the models described. The Bennett and Franco et al. (2001) and Sharpley (2002) models are based on perception, motivation, performance and an individual or internal motivation process. The findings of this research indicate that employees face similar factors to those shown in the Bennett, Franco and Sharpley models.
Can "podcasts" significantly improve first time, first year economics students' results?
(2010) De Lange, Albert Johannes.; Maharaj, Manoj Sewak.
Abstract available from the print copy or the electronic version of the thesis.
The application of information and communication technologies in the management of health information by doctors and nurses in selected government hospitals in Yaounde, Cameroon.
(2003) Asah, Flora Nah.; Leach, Athol Brian.
Doctors and nurses in most developing countries lack access to adequate health information, that is, the lifeblood for the delivery of quality health care services. This problem is further compounded by the fact that correct techniques and equipment are not applied to provide access to reliable health information. Based on previous literature, it is assumed that information should be managed in the same way capital, labour and human resources are managed so that healthcare providers and medical professionals should be able to have relevant information to assist then in their daily activities, to help them to learn, to diagnose and to save lives. Relevance and reliability are paramount in meeting health information needs. A number of studies have shown that the application of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in the management of health information is a prerequisite to wider accessibility and availability of relevant health information. Health information management is the continuum of processes in managing health-related information. It is composed of the use of technologies (computers, hardware, software and telecommunication), personnel (trained information specialists), and the allocation of financial resources to achieve the major goals of the organisation such as a hospital. The aim is to collect, process, store, retrieve and disseminate adequate health information to the right person, in the right form, at the right time. This study investigated the application of ICTs in the management of health information by medical professionals in six selected government hospitals in Yaounde, Cameroon. The basis of the study was that through the effective application of ICTs in the management of health information, relevant and timely information would be made available to medical professionals. It was the researcher's view that unless we understand the importance of information in the development of the health system, and apply the use of ICTs in its management, the delivery of health care services will constantly remain poor. Data was collected from six government hospitals in Yaounde through a self-administered questionnaire given to nurses and medical doctors. The data collected from 141 medical professionals [doctors and nurses] were presented, using descriptive statistics in the form of frequency distribution and percentage. The findings of the study revealed that medical professionals are dissatisfied with the major method of information exchange activities, that is, face-to-face interaction with colleagues. In addition, the study found that health information is captured, processed and stored manually. This is very detrimental to medical professionals, because relevant information is not always available when needed. The study found that the barriers to adequate information exchange activities were lack of information support services, irregular distribution of information and poor co-operation and collaboration among medical professionals. The study also revealed the non-availability of ICTs and Internet resources and lack of basic computer skills. Consequently, there is low utilisation of ICTs by medical professionals and limited information needs are being satisfied. Medical professionals unanimously favoured the application of Internet services or an electronic health information resource to supplement the current method of managing and accessing health information. Lack of training on the use of computers and Internet resources were the main factors that hinder the use of ICTs by medical professionals. The study concluded by calling on directors of hospitals, medical professionals and the Ministry of Health Officials to provide ICTs and Internet resources to medical professionals and provide them with basic computing skills and training. It further called for the recognition of information as an important resource for national development and called for formulation of a national information policy. With an information policy, information needs would be clearly defined and the provision of information services throughout the country would be regulated. In addition, medical professionals must create a free-flow of information and constant communication outlet to exchange and disseminate local health information. The high demand for basic training on the use of ICTs could be provided through in-service training or refresher courses.
The effective use of computers and emerging technologies for e-education in public secondary schools in urban and rural communities of KwaZulu-Natal.
(2009) Woldu, Ghebre Embaye.; Klopper, Rembrandt.
This study identifies problems and competencies, with the aim of establishing whether educators would be willing to adopt e-Education; and be ready to implement the policy in the classroom, as well as the acceptance of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in public secondary schools in urban and rural communities of KwaZulu-Natal. The focus of the study is on basic as well as emerging technology that teachers need to use for a range of educational applications. The quantitative research methodology was used to conduct the study, using a questionnaire as data gathering survey instrument. The sample of the population consists of 300 respondents in the rural and urban communities of KwaZulu-Natal. The data was analysed and processed using SPSS and MS Office Excel application software. The study forms part of a coordinated research project in which a group of researchers measured the degree of readiness (e-Readiness) of educators and learners to effectively use Information and Communication Technologies for e-Education, as proposed in the South African Government’s 2003 White Paper on e-Education. The results of the present project indicate that teachers in KwaZulu-Natal are willing to implement e-Education and ready to use emerging technologies for the effective learning and teaching environment, but that their skills at using Information and Communication Technologies need upgrading to advance electronic communications and computer equipment.
The accessibility of websites for blind and visually impaired individuals.
(2010) Jurakhan, Kebashnee.; Padayachee, Indira.
This study investigates the accessibility of web sites for blind and visually impaired individuals. The researcher’s aim in this study is to highlight the different problems these individuals experience when interacting with websites. A case study approach was adopted in order to investigate accessibility problems amongst blind and visually impaired people. This was investigated by conducting a user test, observation with the think aloud technique and interviews. The user test was made up of tasks where the participants had to visit four different types of websites and complete predefined tasks for each of these websites. The researcher also analysed the data by the use of automated web evaluations. This was used to compare the automated web evaluation results with the researcher’s results. Content analysis was used to identify frequencies and intensities with which themes and concepts appear in interviewee responses. In addition, correspondence analysis was used to help corroborate the findings of the content analysis and interpret the data. Results revealed that blind and visually impaired individuals do experience many difficulties when interacting with websites. The findings identified certain technical and conceptual accessibility problems that were experienced by blind and visually impaired individuals. The results also indicate that there is a relationship between website design and accessibility problems experienced. Further, the results indicate that the use of an assistive technology has a positive effect on the performance of web based tasks.
Evaluating the effectiveness of mobile telecommunication services in Durban and Lagos.
(2011) Abatan, Omotayo Kayode.; Maharaj, Manoj Sewak.
Telecommunication includes voice, video and internet communication services. Thus, mobile telecommunication services involve voice communication, video streaming, graphics and television services at high speed. Technology development in mobile telecommunication has enabled users to exchange data using cell phones, laptops and other telecommunication devices. More so, understanding the concept of user experience is very important in the context of provision of mobile telecommunication services. This research will evaluate the effectiveness of mobile telecommunication services in Durban, South Africa and Lagos, Nigeria amongst first-year IT students of the University of KwaZulu-Natal and Lagos State University. The research is focused on the actual experience and perceptions of first-year IT students. The study will examine the factors that influence first-year IT students' judgment of the quality of mobile telecommunication services. It will also access the impact of quality of mobile telecommunication services on the loyalty of first-year IT students towards their network operator. However, Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) is the theory adopted for this research, which explains how attitude of users determine the intention to use technology and the intention eventually influences the overall use of such technology. The objectives of this research highlight opportunities associated with understanding first-year IT students' experiences and perceptions of mobile telecommunication services in UKZN, Durban and LASU, Lagos. Other opportunities include giving an insight into the operations of network providers, determine the quality of mobile telecommunication services and understanding the impact of mobile telecommunication services on students in UKZN and LASU. Another significance of this study allows network providers to understand students' behaviour and to respond to their preferences.
The management of e-waste in KwaZulu-Natal.
(2010) Naidoo, Karunagaran.; Klopper, Rembrandt.
Information Technology is seen as that which makes one's life easier, fun and more comfortable. When a new cellular phone is launched one is eager to see what the new phone has to offer, and often one convinces oneself that the new device is required. This study investigates what happens to redundant or obsolete electronic devices like cellular phones, computers and other electronic devices. Are these devices stored, donated, thrown out with the garbage or are they recycled? Information from academic sources and from all types of media, including television, print and electronic was searched to enhance the survey that was undertaken. Both the informal and formal sectors of recycling were investigated. A questionnaire was used to supplement the information found in different kinds of sources. The collected data was interpreted through the use of SPSS. Descriptive as well as inferential statistics was used to draw conclusions and make inferences. An investigation into legislation controlling the disposal of e-waste is included in this study. International, national, provincial and local government legislation is outlined. The objectives of recycling electronic waste are listed together with the challenges that face the pro-recyclers. The quantitative research methodology approach has been employed for this research. A key technique used in this study is the Research Onion. Data analysis and interpretation are based on the p-value, Pearson's chi-square and Spearman's correlation. The study has really been an eye opener in that it considers the “darker side” of Information Technology. The “darker side” of Information Technology refers to the disposal of obsolete or broken electronic devices in a manner that is harmful to the environment. The cost or lack of profit is the main driving force for incorrect disposal methods. This study has found that the best method of disposal is the take back system, where manufacturers of electronic devices are responsible for the safe disposal of the devices that they manufactured.
Information risk management within supply chains.
(2010) Abimbola, Ajayi Nurudeen.; Maharaj, Manoj Sewak.
A supply chain is an integrated process wherein different organizations combine their efforts in acquiring raw materials, transforming the raw materials into finished products and delivering the finished products to the final consumers. Organizations are continuously searching for means to reduce costs and simultaneously making effort to enhance the quality of their products, and ultimately satisfying customers’ demand. There are three major components essential to achieving these: information flow, cash flow and material flow. In this research, we evaluate modern competitive global market, where it is challenging for any organization to function in isolation of its trading partners, and where organizations need the enhanced flow of information as well as an easier, reliable and faster access to the necessary information; as information has been identified as the foundation upon which decisions regarding the other supply chain process and activities are made, and is the link between all operations in any supply chain. This research considers the supply chain as a concept which is centred on the development of a value chain network. This network consists of entities that are committed to providing information, cash and resources in order to achieve the goals of an effective supply chain. In the global economy, this network is expanding, and this expansion is causing the extent of information flow in the supply chain to increase and hence become complex. The increasing length of information flow in the supply chain and the complexity of the value chain network are presently exposing information within the supply chain to risk. Hence, the objectives of this research are to identify information risks and consider ways in which these risks may be managed within supply chains. This study helps in identifying what information flows and how information flows within the supply chain. It provides an understanding of information vulnerabilities and risks associated with these vulnerabilities. It also helps identify how these information vulnerabilities and risks may be managed.
Adoption of E-commerce by small, medium and micro enterprises in Pietermaritzburg and Durban.
(2012) Ndayizigamiye, Patrick.; McArthur, Brian Walter.
There are a number of benefits associated with e-commerce adoption. E-commerce provides an opportunity for Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) to expand their range of transactions and expansion into foreign markets (OECD, 2000). In South Africa, a study on online retail reveals that South Africans spent two (2) billion rands buying goods online in 2010 (WorldWideWorx, 2011a). The projected growth of online spending was 40% for 2011 (ibid). In addition, at the end of the year 2011, the number of internet users in South Africa was approximately 8.5 million (Goldstuck, 2012). Furthermore, the installation of new undersea telecommunications cables in South Africa that will lead to an increase of the internet bandwidth at a cheaper price, the granting of licenses that allows Internet Service Providers to build their own networks and the growth of cell phone internet are indicators that more South Africans will be able to access the internet in the near future. This suggests that there is a market for internet-enabled businesses in South Africa. It is in this context that this research examines the adoption of e-commerce by South African SMMEs in the Pietermaritzburg and Durban areas. Particularly, this research focuses on four (4) e-commerce options: i) customers payment by credit card through the SMME’s website, ii) customers placing orders through the SMME’s website, iii) providing customer services through the SMME’s website and iv) placing orders with suppliers over the internet. From a clustered sample of 400 SMMEs from Pietermaritzburg and Durban (200 from each area), this research examines the current usage of the 4 e-commerce options, the determinants and inhibitors of e-commerce, e-commerce readiness in terms of e-commerce enablers that are implemented in those areas and the knowledge that SMMEs from these locations have about the benefits of e-commerce. Variables drawn from the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and the Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) theory were tested for their significance as determinants of e-commerce within the context of SMMEs. Data were collected by means of questionnaires hand-delivered to SMME owner/managers. This study reveals that there is a disparity in e-commerce adoption rate by SMMEs between Pietermaritzburg and Durban. Such difference is mainly due to the differences in size of the businesses. In addition, it was found that three UTAUT variables influenced SMMEs’ decisions to adopt e-commerce. These variables are i) performance expectancy, ii) effort expectancy and iii) social influence. The social influence factor was found to be moderated by age. In addition, i) relative advantage, ii) compatibility and iii) complexity are the DOI variables that were found to have exerted some influence in the persuasion phase of the DOI model. The UTAUT and DOI theories were tentatively adapted to reflect the findings emanating from this study. This research also found that the majority of SMMEs that adopted e-commerce had knowledge of the benefits of e-commerce. Importantly, the research found that the majority of e-commerce adopters had an e-commerce strategy in place which is in contradiction with other research findings from the reviewed literature. The research shows that the majority of e-commerce adopters in both locations have i) their own company e-mail, ii) internet access and iii) a website. However, non-adopters in Pietermaritzburg show more readiness to e-commerce adoption compared to non-adopters in Durban as the majority of them already have i) an online presence, and ii) electronic mail. As expected, the majority of e-commerce adopters have a computerised inventory of company’s products and services. There is also evidence that customers’ and suppliers’ databases are built to carry out specific e-commerce activities. Lastly, the research found that whilst low use of e-commerce by customers is the only inhibitor that significantly affects the adoption of e-commerce in Durban, in Pietermaritzburg a number of inhibitors were found to impede e-commerce adoption. These are: i) lack of conviction of the financial and business benefits of e-commerce, ii) limited knowledge of the required technology, iii) low use of e-commerce amongst customers, iv) low use of e-commerce amongst suppliers, v) low level of computerisation within the company, vi) high cost of computers and network technologies, vii) telecommunications services not dependable, viii) concerns about internet security, and ix) concerns about legal issues, contracts and liability. In light of the research findings, it is recommended that government and policy makers be involved actively in promoting e-commerce adoption by SMMEs. In addition, SMME owners are urged to consider e-commerce adoption from an early stage of their business cycles and to take advantage of existing platforms that enable them to engage in e-commerce activities.
An investigation of high school learners using MXIT, and their attitudes towards mobile security.
(2011) Bhoola, Nisha.; Maharaj, Manoj Sewak.
This research encompassed an investigation of high school learners using MXiT, and their attitudes towards mobile security guidelines. The research was conducted across thirteen schools in the Pinetown, ILembe and Umlazi districts of KwaZulu-Natal. The literature review has shown that the majority of security guidelines and their successful use depend on education and awareness of what these security measures are. Secure use of mobile social networking sites such as MXiT are best regulated by parental awareness and monitoring of children‟s online habits. This needs parents to be abreast of technology, its uses and benefits, the associated dangers, as well as how to encourage and monitor usage. The research was conducted by administering questionnaires to grades 8 to 11 inclusive in the three districts of KwaZulu-Natal. Out of the 1300 questionnaires handed out to learners, a total of 856 completed questionnaires (66%) were received and analysed. It was found from the study that 89,5% of under age users that participated in this research are using MXiT. Users are also not fully aware of the security features when using MXiT. It has also been found that African respondents as compared with non- African respondents are less aware of the possible dangers in using MXiT, less aware that criminals can use fake IDs and pretend to be someone they are not, and less aware that people can get addicted to MXiT. Learners are aware of the dangers that can be associated with MXiT; however they are prepared to talk to strangers and meet new people online, thus exposing themselves to these dangers. In conclusion, there is scope to improve the security measures for MXiT users, and there is a need to improve the levels of education around using these security features.

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