School of Management, IT and Governance

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A conceptual framework for private higher educational institutions to respond to disruptions in South Africa.
(2024) Maota, Tshepo Religion.; Naidoo, Vannie.
During the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, global societies experienced widespread disruption and uncertainty, significantly affecting higher education. This "black swan" event tested the resilience of higher education institutions, necessitating an involuntary shift in instructional practices. This study explores the impact of pandemic disruptions on student and staff experiences in local PHEIs, with a focus on their operational flexibility and capacity to navigate turbulent circumstances. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, involving a sample size of 381 students and 316 staff members from various demographic backgrounds. We administered the survey using reliable measures to ensure high response rates. The findings indicate that lower-level students, such as undergraduates, faced greater difficulties in adapting to online learning compared to higher-level students, such as master's and doctoral candidates. The challenges included limited access to technology and resources, as well as difficulties maintaining engagement and motivation. In contrast, staff members initially reported high levels of support adequacy, but these ratings decreased with increased years of experience, possibly due to burnout and evolving expectations. Leaders within PHEIs highlighted the need for enhanced training and preparedness to manage disruptions effectively. They identified specific challenges, such as political and economic factors, system changes, and the absence of specialised tools for disruption management. Insights from leaders included the importance of scenario planning, robust communication strategies, and fostering a culture of adaptability and resilience. We developed a comprehensive framework for disruption management as a guiding beacon for navigating disruptive encounters. We created a machine-learning-based predictive model using a binary classification tree to predict disruption risks within this framework. The model was trained on variables such as potential impact, probability of occurrence, warning index, and relevance to the education sector, achieving high accuracy in classifying disruption risks. Despite limitations like region-specific focus and challenges of data collection during a pandemic, this study provides valuable insights into proactive strategies, support significance, effective leadership, and predictive models for disruption management in higher education. This research contributes to the understanding of disruption management in PHEIs and provides practical tools for enhancing institutional resilience.
Acceptance of LinkedIn for human resources management: a case study in the construction sector in Nigeria.
(2020) Omigade, Mariah Oluwaseun.; Ajayi, Nurudeen Abimbola.
Many organisations have accepted social media as an important platform for keeping up with global technological developmental trends. LinkedIn emerged as a social media platform that is used by human resources (HR) professionals across the world. It is renowned for its ability to facilitate communication between HR professionals. The main aim of the study is to understand the perceptions of HR employees in the construction sector on the acceptance of LinkedIn software in performing HR functions of the organisation in Nigeria. The objectives of the study are to understand its acceptance based on the perceived usefulness, and ease-of-use as described by Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The study also explored the challenges associated with the acceptance of LinkedIn in performing HR functions in a construction company. An exploratory research approach was adopted using the qualitative method to get in-depth knowledge of the identified phenomenon. A case study approach was adopted for the study, and a construction company in Lagos, Nigeria, was selected. Primary data was collected from HR officers. Semistructured interviews were conducted by the researcher where ten (N=10) HR department officers of the construction firm in Lagos Nigeria, were interviewed. The empirical results indicate that LinkedIn is not widely accepted in facilitating HR functions in the HR department. The results also show that the perceptions of the HR employees on the acceptance of LinkedIn are based on how it assists them in performing HR functions. The results also indicated that the use of LinkedIn is not only limited by security concerns, but by the lack of information, financial resources, required skills, and management buy-in. Furthermore, the results also show that the acceptance and use of LinkedIn for HR functions requires adequate buy-in from the executives of the organisation. HR employees must also be appropriately trained on the use of LinkedIn to perform HR functions and to mitigate LinkedIn security-related challenges.
Acceptance of mobile money technology by retailers in Accra, Ghana.
(2022) Cato, Valentine Nii Lante.; Marimuthu, Mudaray.
Mobile Money technologies have become part and parcel of people's daily lives in developing countries, especially Africa. Much effort has been made in making Mobile Money technologies available, safe, reliable, and effective amongst people in Africa. One area where the technology seems to be gradually diffusing into is the business world. More and more businesses seem to be adopting the technology. However, little is known about the dynamics involved in retailers' acceptance and usage of Mobile Money. Hence, this study sought to explore the acceptance of Mobile Money in the retail business sector while also finding out factors that influence the acceptance. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) was selected as a theoretical framework for this study. Using a quantitative survey approach, retailers in the business area of Accra, Ghana, were sampled using convenience sampling. Findings revealed that all retail businesses were aware of Mobile Money supporting businesses. Most retail businesses are using Mobile Money in different ways to support their business. Basic transactions such as receiving payments from customers and payment payments or remittances were common. Factors such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy, price value, hedonic motivation, and habit were seen to impact the use of Mobile Money by retailers. Therefore, designers of Mobile Money services must consider these factors when developing these applications by ensuring it has functionality that is useful and easy to use. Furthermore, telecommunication companies that make Mobile Money services available to retailers and the government need to work together to decrease commission and transaction costs. These measures will results in increased acceptance of Mobile Money by retailers.
Access to information for community participation to enhance service delivery in uMshwathi Local Municipality.
(2021) Khanyile, Ralph Mafezwe.; Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian.; Mthuli, Syanda Alpheous.
In South Africa, access to information, and community participation in local government matters during the Apartheid era, was reserved for the White minority, with all other races excluded. This was owing to the Apartheid laws that only catered for the White minority, while denying most inhabitants of the country, including Indians, Coloureds, and Blacks, their political rights and participation in their own governance. At the end of Apartheid in the 90s, the newly elected democratic government implemented policies whose purpose was to redress the imbalances of the past, with community access to public information amongst the new policies. Even with the new policies which are meant to ensure that communities have access to information, there are still wide gaps that have resulted in endless service-delivery complaints. Such complaints sometimes lead to service-delivery protests, especially at local government level. On closer inspection, these protests and complaints are seen to be a result of lack of information, caused either by insufficient information being provided to members of the public regarding public services, or not being provided at all, and or lack of community participation in decision-making by the municipality regarding public services. This study explores the complexities of access to information that ensure communities within uMshwathi Local Municipality can express their views on the municipal services they receive. The study adopted a qualitative research design. Through this research design, data was collected per interviews and focus group discussions, evaluating the data to achieve a thematic analysis. This study found that technology is key to providing information, while community structures for providing information are weak. There are politics in providing/sharing information about public services; and attention to community concerns is lacking. The cascading of information to the public is politicised, while it is also delayed and outdated. The interaction between ward committees, community members, the elected councillors, and municipal officials is complex, while being challenged by finger-pointing and playing the ‘blame game’. The blame game is mostly about who is responsible for ensuring that members of the community have access to municipal information apropos of public services. Finally, the complaints-management system is egregious, and there is a need for training of ward committees, such being lacking.
Access to justice : the role of community-based paralegals in community restorative justice in rural KwaZulu-Natal.
(2014) Martins, Busiwana Winnie.; Ruffin, Fayth Anese.
Access to justice in rural KwaZulu-Natal is wholly inadequate, particularly where domestic violence is concerned. Despite the enactment of post-1994 criminal justice statutory frameworks, the majority of women living in rural areas experience barriers to justice. Yet the fight against injustice cannot be left solely to the police, lawyers and courts. Rather, there is a need to involve other stakeholders, such as ordinary people, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and traditional authorities. This research study investigates whether and how community-based paralegals (CBPs) facilitate access to justice. It explores the role of paralegals in community restorative justice through four rural community-based advice offices under the umbrella of the Centre for Community Justice and Development (CCJD), an NGO in Pietermaritzburg. The four community advice offices under study in rural KwaZulu-Natal are Bulwer, Ixopo, Madadeni and New Hanover. The study examines the interrelationship between restorative justice, community-based paralegals and domestic violence with specific reference to the Domestic Violence Act (No. 116 of 1998). Underlying the domestic violence lens adopted to explore the role of CBPs in community restorative justice are philosophical worldviews of pragmatism to determine what works under the circumstances and advocacyparticipation to give voice to the study participants. The study employs a socio-legal, qualitative research design supported by statistical case intake and outcome data. A meta-conceptual framework allowed a multiple-case study strategy that applies several units of analysis and draws upon multiple sources of evidence. The research findings reveal the connection between the engagement of paralegals by rural community members and the role of paralegals in handling domestic violence cases in an environment of legal pluralism. Furthermore, findings show that while paralegals straddle criminal, traditional and informal justice systems to address the legal needs of rural women, contrary to mainstream literature, domestic violence cases can be resolved through community restorative justice. Findings demonstrate that the Domestic Violence Act fails to meet the needs of victims of domestic violence who seek family sustainability. The community restorative justice practices of CBPs directed toward domestic violence fill a justice gap created by contradictions between rule of law orthodoxy and customary law. Based upon the role of CBPs in advancing access to justice through community restorative justice, the study concludes with process theory-building for forum shopping and communication pragmatism and suggests a private-based conceptual model for community-based paralegals addressing domestic violence cases through community restorative justice. Practical implications for law and policy and a way forward for community restorative justice in rural areas are also presented along with visions of future research.
Access to municipal markets by agro-smallholder producers in eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality: a public administration perspective.
(2020) Nyawo, Jabulani Christopher.; Mubangizi, Betty Claire.
The government's inability in South Africa to ensure that both local and national markets adequately accommodate smallholder producers is hindering the sector’s ability to grow and develop. Minimal research has focused on how local government interacts with other spheres of government to improve and ensure accessibility to municipal markets for agro-smallholder producers, and limited studies have been conducted that explore the influence of municipal markets on agro-smallholder producers. Therefore, this study aimed to critically examine municipal markets' influence on agro-smallholder growth within a decentralised state. This study employed a qualitative exploratory research methodology using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The researcher utilised a non-probability, purposive sampling method—the sample comprised participants from government departments and agrosmallholder producers falling under the eThekwini Municipality’s jurisdiction. The researcher conducted seven individual face-to-face interviews with government officials and 15 focus group discussions with agro-smallholder producers. The data collected were analysed using the thematic analysis technique. The study results show that the municipal markets and the extension services do not provide substantial support to agro-smallholder producers who are seeking access to markets. Furthermore, the study found that there is no integration or relationship between the eThekwini Municipality and the KZN Agriculture and Rural Development on the issues related to the promotion and development of agro-smallholder producers. Through the application of administrative theory, the study recommends that the government institutions incorporate stakeholders’ insights, lay a policy foundation for a whole-of-government approach to planning, and set the direction for agrosmallholder's planned future. The creation of a coherent planning and coordination system could assist government institutions in ensuring that better outcomes are achieved to deliver support services to agro-smallholder producers. Furthermore, the government institutions will be more effective if they have sufficient human resources who are qualified and able to ensure their departments' effective management and smooth functioning.
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.
The accommodation of people with disabilities within Transnet's workforce in KwaZulu- Natal.
(2018) Cebisa, Zwelakhe Erick.; McArthur, Brian Walter.
This research describes the factors influencing the inclusion of people with disabilities within the port environment in South Africa; hence the study was conducted at one of Transnet’s major divisions, the Transnet National Port Authority. The inclusion of people with disabilities has been on the country’s transformation agenda for some time. The literature review attests to the fact that historically, people with disabilities have been excluded and this phenomenon has translated itself into the labour market. It is for this reason that the inclusion of people with disabilities within organisations became a human rights issue as stated in the South African Employment Equity Act of 2000, the Act critically foregrounds the fact that the corporate world has not to date successfully included people with disabilities in the workplace. This research has used the model of organisational inclusion to describe factors which influence the inclusion of people with disabilities. The model consists of two components, namely the personal dimension and the organisational environment dimension. Personal dimension constructs have been used to describe the influence of both personal norms and values on the inclusion of people with disabilities, while the organisation environment dimensions have been used to describe the influence of policies, procedures and organisational rewards on the inclusion of people with disabilities. A probability sample of 361 employees was drawn from an estimated population of 6000 of the Transnet National Port Authority employees in KwaZulu-Natal, using stratified random sampling. The sample comprised employees with disabilities, employees without disabilities, members of management and human resources managers. Self-administered questionnaires with embedded checklists and interviews were used to collect the data. Qualitative data was collected by means of interviews. Only the human resources managers were interviewed because they generally had an in-depth understanding of organisational policies that affect the employment of people with disabilities. The survey revealed that Transnet was committed to employing people with disabilities. However, beliefs, myths, stereotyping and misconceptions surrounding those with disabilities also act as an impediment to the successful inclusion of people with disabilities within Transnet. Furthermore, the research revealed that the perceived cost of inclusion is a factor most likely to present more challenges. Furthermore, the results from qualitative analysis indicate that apart from perceived cost, the inclusion of people with disabilities at Transnet has genuine cost implications. It transpired that Transnet procures assets from global Original Equipment Manufacturers, so customisation to cater for people with disabilities can add to the costs of assets that are already expensive. The literature review acknowledges the important role that policies play in the organisation, as the development of policies is triggered by the gap in the inclusion of people with disabilities. The survey revealed that policies affecting the employment of people with disabilities are not effective in terms of their implementation, as most South African organisations are not on a par with the recommended target of 2%. Both the survey and the qualitative results recognise the significance of organisational procedures. However, organisational procedures cannot assist in achieving a successful inclusion where policies are not effectively implemented. Another issue is the rewards construct, which reveals that organisational rewards are more important to people with disabilities compared to those without. This could be due to the fact that people with disabilities have special needs and the exclusion experienced by this group has been extended to include organisational rewards. The research findings also endorse the notion that disability issues are not taken seriously by the Government and the corporate sector, as the employment of people with disabilities is being viewed as an onerous liability rather than a priority. Both the survey and qualitative results have revealed that the type of work to be performed also perpetuates exclusion. It emerged that most people with disabilities are not overly involved in Transnet’s core areas of business, such as the Crane and Pilot operation. They are mostly found in administrative departments such as human resources and finance. Apart from other divisions, the Transnet Freight Rail division was identified as the division that was unable to include people with disabilities; this exclusion is based on the tasks performed by this division. It also emerged that there is still non-compliance on the part of the company.
Adherence to performance management system framework by the Solid Waste Management Division within the Umdoni Municipality.
(2018) Mkhize, Sibusiso Wycliff.; Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian.
Municipalities are obliged by the Constitution to provide services in an efficient, effective and accountable manner. However, Local Government in South Africa has been characterised by inefficiency and marred by public service delivery protests. This study argues that Performance Management System (PMS) is one practice of management which significantly improves service delivery in public organisations. The study explored the origin and evolution of management and the models of Public Administration. It is guided by four theories namely: the Scientific Management Theory, Systems Theory, Institutional Theory and the Rational Choice theory. The concept of Adherence was critical to the study, thus the researcher constructed the Adherence Model, illustrating the activities and organisational practices which lead to adherence. The main aim of the study was to assess the adherence of PMS at the Solid Waste Management Division at Umdoni Municipality. This was achieved by examining the perceptions of the management and operational staff of the Solid Waste Management Division at Umdoni Municipality. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, a questionnaire was employed to determine the degree of adherence of PMS by assessing the extent to which the Umdoni Municipality applied the principles of PMS. Rooted from the quantitative research design, closed-ended survey questionnaires were distributed to 115 participants. The results of the study indicated that there was a lack of comprehensiveness in the implementation of the PMS principles in the Umdoni Municipality. The findings also showed that the adherence of PMS was appropriately practised by the middle and top management staff, while the PMS principles were inconsistently imposed on the lower hierarchical staff, such as the Umdoni Solid Waste Management Division Staff.
The administration and management of local child welfare agencies.
(1995) Kooblal, Moonilall.; Sing, Deoram.; Moonilal, R.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the administration and management of local Child Welfare Agencies. Appropriate and relevant knowledge and skills in administration and management processes are essential to ensure that Child Welfare Agencies function within the normative foundations of public administration. The Board ofManagement of the Agencies are voluntary in nature. The smaller and embryo agencies depend on untrained volunteers to provide both administrative and management leadership. Basic democratically determined administrative and management processes are necessary to make welfare services more economical, efficient and effective. The major objectives of this study were: - to examine the existing administrative and management structures and processes and their functions. - to determine the role of the Board of Management Committee structures and senior personnel in administration and management. - to determine the foundation principles of administration and management that guide the functioning of Child Welfare Agencies. This Study provided an opportunity for agencies to express their views on the existing situation and what the future ought to be like. The study viewed Public administration as a vast field of activity which can be classified into four (4) main groups viz: a. generic administrative and managerial, b. auxiliary, c. instrumental, and d. functional also referred to as line functions. Although this study focused separately on administrative and management functions, it should be noted that both dimensions ofgeneric administrative functions are performed along with the functional, auxiliary and instrumental activities. (v) In a Child Welfare Agency the Board of Management together with the middle and upper management of staff will determine the administrative and management processes of policy making, organising, staffing, financing, determining work methods and procedures and control. The aim of public administration is community welfare, therefore the administrative and management processes must be founded on normative foundations of public administration. The findings ofthis research will not only contribute to the established agencies but will be of great help to the embryo and developing agencies.
The administration of metropolitan police services in South Africa: a case study of eThekwini Municipality.
(2020) Naidoo, Rubandra Deenadaya.; Reddy, Purshottama Sivanarain.
Section 206 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa makes provision for the establishment of a municipal police force. The Police headquarters houses the Chief of Police as well as the 2 Deputy Heads (Operations and Logistics). The purpose of the municipal police is to enforce bylaws, traffic control and crime prevention within the municipal jurisdiction. As the population is growing, there are more vehicles on public roads, with an increase in motor vehicle accidents. Crime rates are increasing continuously, and bylaw infringements are occurring daily. The onus lies with the municipality to ensure that law and order is always maintained. This includes the enforcement of municipal bylaws. This research was conducted to examine the management of the Durban Metropolitan Police Services due to the constant negative publicity and lack of service delivery highlighted in the media. This negative publicity has consequently demoralised staff and policemen have become less interested in serving the community. This research used a qualitative narrative design and open-ended questions to get in-depth information from the respondents, who work in the operations and management of the Durban Metropolitan Police Service. Data was collected in the form of interviews, with 6 Senior managers including the head and deputy head, as well as 2 focus groups consisting of 15 inspectors and captains. Findings showed that political interference in daily operations and as an influence in promotions, led to low staff morale, which in turn led to a decline in service delivery. Political interference has created high levels of discord amongst police officers, and this has also affected the private lives of the police officers as this has increased their levels of stress. The research concluded by recommending a framework to improve service delivery and staff morale. It recommended that key vacancies be filled with competent people who are passionate about service delivery. This will alleviate a lot of the problems that the Durban Metropolitan Police Service is facing i.e. the shortage of uniformed police officers. The appointment of additional staff will alleviate the pressure on the current workforce. The research also found that political inference in the administration of the Municipality has created divisions amongst the staff who lose focus on their primary function and this also leads to a decline in service delivery. Nepotism is also prevalent in the police force. It was recommended that more stringent checks be done prior to recruitment. The research showed that the current policies are not followed stringently when employing or promoting individuals.
Administration of municipal bus transport with specific reference to the Durban City Council.
(1991) Moodley, Dayalan.; Reddy, Purshottama Sivanarain.
No abstract available.
Administration of social pensions and grants for Indians in the Phoenix regional area.
(1988) Govender, Devageeranee.; Coetzee, W. A. J.
No abstract available.
Administration of the valuation of property at the local government level with special reference to the Durban Municipality.
(1987) Garbharran, Hari Lall.; Coetzee, W. A. J.; Reddy, Purshottama Sivanarain.
In this dissertation, a study is undertaken of the administration of the valuation of property at the local government level with special reference to the Durban Municipality. The establishment of local authorities is a direct result of the Government's policy to provide goods and services for local communities. Consequently, it is significant to locate the place of local authorities in the constellation of public institutions, and to examine their rapidly increasing number of functions. Past legislation, authorising the establishment of local authorities, coupled with a discussion of the Regional Services Councils Act, 1985 (Act 109 of 1985), provide the necessary insight required for the understanding of the property valuation function by local authorities. The principles pertaining to the theory of valuation are explored, with particular emphasis on the impact of supply and demand on the valuation of property. The valuer, who performs numerous functions, is an important cog in the valuation process. Since the valuation of property is a prerequisite to the rating of property, it is also useful to examine the latter aspect to appreciate the interaction between valuation and rating. Legislation pertaining to valuation is voluminous. At the Central Government level, the Department of Public Works and Land Affairs is responsible for the valuation of property. The Expropriation Act, 1975 (Act 63 of 1975), has played a significant role over the judicial influence of property valuation. The valuation profession has taken a significant step forward since 1982, with the promulgation of the Valuers' Act, 1982 (Act 23 of 1982), which emphasizes the necessity of raising the standard of the valuation of immovable property throughout the Republic of South Africa. At the provincial level, separate ordinances, pertaining to property valuation, exist for each province. Finally, local authorities promulgate bylaws to regulate the property industry. There is an abundance of literature on the methods of property valuation. The different methods of valuation are the Direct Sales Comparison Method, the Income Method, the Land Residual Method and the Cost Method. The aforementioned Methods of valuation are particularly suitable to the estimation of the value of vacant land, flats, townships and schools, respectively. The scope of the functions o f the Durban Municipality's Estates Department has grown so vastly since 1914 that there are ten clearly demarcated valuation zones presently. The aforementioned Department's intricate organisational structure, with clearly defined functions delegated to the divisions, sections and subsections, ensure that tasks pertaining to property valuation are concluded efficiently and effectively. The degree of subjectivity in the valuation of residential properties has been drastically reduced with the introduction of the computer at the Estates Department. The work procedures pertaining to the drawing up of the Valuation Roll and the functioning of the Valuation Appeal Board, respectively, ensure efficient and effective control in property valuation. In the light of the aforementioned observations, the following recommendations are made: (i) amend the Valuers' Act, 1982 (Act 23 of 1982), to reserve specific valuation tasks for valuers; (ii) that the valuer should persevere in his studies on property valuation; (iii) that the valuer should adhere rigidly, at all times, to the guidelines of public administration; (iv) the designation of 'building valuer' should be changed; (v) the Durban City Council's rate of investment in property should be accelerated; (vi) the training and orientation of valuers should be an ongoing process. (vii) separate terms of reference should be assigned to the Estates Department; (viii) separate departments should be created for valuations and estates, respectively; (ix) a simply worded and uniform valuation ordinance should be implemented in the Republic of South Africa; (x) a uniform method of valuation, for a particular type of property, should be introduced; (xi) land and buildings should be estimated at market value; (xii) the services of a full-time Senior Legal Adviser are essential; (xiii) the unearned increment of the capital value of land should also be taxed; (xiv) the frequency of valuations should increase during periods of accelerated expansion; (xv) a uniform rating system should be implemented throughout the Republic of South Africa; (xvi) the negotiation process should be used as a cross-check to enhance the validity of valuations; (xvii) the fees paid to the members of the Valuation Appeal Board should be increased; and (xviii) larger pieces of vacant land should be taxed at a higher rate.
Administrative and management functions of welfare officers.
(1995) Dlamini, Sibusiso Moffat.; Sing, Deoram.
The study which is documented in this dissertation was undertaken to portray primarily, the involvement of welfare officers in the performance of administrative and management functions. The period during which the study was conducted, that is, prior to the postapartheid era, was very significant. The significance of the research period was in the sense that welfare officers of the former KwaZulu Government who were interviewed, were already critically evaluating their functions and work situation. The study provided a medium whereby welfare officers expressed the perceptions of their real and present, as well as their ideal and envisaged work situation, in the context of the post-apartheid environment. The study took cogmsance of the welfare officers' performance of their functions as public servants in the field of public administration. In the above context, the study viewed public administration as a vast field of work consisting of a number of main function-groups namely: (i) The generic administrative functions each of which has two dimensions that is: (a) the conceptual (initiatory and innovative) and directive dimension and (b) the managerial dimension. (ii) The auxiliary functions (iii) The line functions - also referred to as functional activities. Although the study focused on administrative and management functions which are reported separately, it should be noted that like in any public institution, both dimensions of generic administrative functions of welfare officers are performed along with the functional, auxiliary and instrumental activities. The ultimate aim of public administration, which is also recognised by this study, is the promotion of the general welfare of the community. The study has realised the fact that welfare officers were significant promoters of the community's welfare. For being promoters of the welfare of the community, welfare officers have the responsibility and the obligation to commit themselves to the observation of normative guidelines to ensure that their service delivery is effective and efficient. In line with the above statement, the welfare officers' observation of current and future normative factors features prominently in this study. Although responses on current and future normative factors are presented separately in this report, this study acknowledges the significance of welfare officers integrated approach to the observation of and commitment to both current and future normative guidelines. Apart from the listed examples of interviewees' involvement in performing their functions, and advantages of observing normative guidelines, detailed accounts of what were perceived as obstacles are also presented. Responses, remarks and ideas expressed by interviewees provided adequate information on which the researcher based his conclusions and recommendations. The apparent merit of this study is in its depiction and revelations of the extent and magnitude of welfare officers' functions, responsibilities, commitments and obligations. Another favourable and notable feature of the study is the fact that it was conveniently timed at an opportune transitional period whereby both the current and future work environments of welfare officers could be critically assessed, evaluated, and possibly amended.
Adoption and usage of mobile marketing practices to promote domestic tourism: a case of Zimbabwe’s hospitality sector.
(2021) Nyatsambo, Maceline.; Phiri, Maxwell Agabu.
The escalated global use of the mobile phone and mobile internet presents endless opportunities for dynamic marketers. Elsewhere, research on the adoption and use of mobile devices to harness marketing opportunities has been growing steadily, while lagging in Zimbabwe. Despite the problem of declining foreign tourist arrivals, the Zimbabwean tourism and hospitality sector has not harnessed mobile marketing (MM) practices to promote its domestic tourism market for sustainability. The main purpose of the study was to establish the readiness of Zimbabwe's hospitality marketing employees to adopt and use mobile marketing practices to promote domestic tourism. Guided by the research objectives, the study analysed extant literature on mobile marketing adoption, acceptance and use, benefits of specific mobile marketing practices and tools, domestic tourism and hospitality marketing, to come up with theoretical constructs of the hypothesized model. A quantitative research methodology approach and cross-sectional design were adopted. Data was collected from 264 respondents in major tourist destinations of Zimbabwe using a self-completion, mainly structured questionnaire in a survey. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Modelling.The findings indicate that Awareness and nowledge; Experience; Social Networking habits and Perceived Usefulness(PU) positively influence behaviour intention (BI) to use mobile marketing (MM) practices amongst hospitality marketing employees in Zimbabwe. Perceived ease of use(PEOU); Management support; Company mobile technology infrastructure and Technology accessibility had no significant influence on BI. There was a significant indirect effect of Awareness Knowledge to Behaviour Intention mediated by PU and PEOU. Lastly, the results confirmed that BI had a significant positive influence on actual usage behaviour (AUB). The study recommends that marketing management in Zimbabwe’s tourism and hospitality sector should implement MM practice by providing marketing employees with mobile communication devices and mobile internet (Wi-Fi). These MM practices include use of mobile social media tactics like live streaming of tourism destinations and hospitality facilities, GPS enabled location-specific messages and targeted mobile messages via WhatsApp and SMS. Collaborations with mobile network operators would allow hospitality companies access to customer databases that can be used to recruit potential domestic tourists. The study contributes new knowledge by integrating constructs from technology acceptance and use theories and making an initial examination of these from the perspectives of marketing employees in the context of Zimbabwe’s domestic tourism and hospitality sector.
The adoption of agile software development methodologies by organisations in South Africa.
(2015) Vanker, Cassim.; Klopper, Rembrandt.; Naidoo, Karunagaran.
The software development life cycle (SDLC) is considered to be the oldest software de-velopment methodology and is often described as a deliberate, methodical and structured approach that is used by development teams to develop information systems. There are two SDLC methodologies, which are currently being utilized by programming practition-ers, namely traditional development and Agile development. The traditional view to software development assumes that the customer does not have a full understanding of their requirements and would thus need a detailed specification de-signed before development begins. Unlike the traditional view, the agilest views software as unpredictable and rely on people and their creativity rather than on processes. Anecdotal evidence suggests various benefits associated with Agile methodologies, these include increased collaboration, the quality of the end product, transparency and produc-tivity. An international Survey conducted, amongst software development companies, shows that 80% of respondents indicated that they had practiced Agile. While international research shows the popularity of Agile methodologies very little is known about Agile in South Africa. This research provides insight into the adoption of Agile, by South African organisations. The results of the study indicate that Agile methods are being used by organisations in South Africa. However, there is no evidence to suggest its being used overwhelming. Furthermore, this study uses the Gartner hype cycle as the underpinning theoretical model and places Agile methods on the Gartner hype cycle as being in the trough of disillusionment.
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.
Adoption of electronic banking distribution channels in South Africa: the Unified Theory of Acceptance and use of technology.
(2020) Nzama, Mbuso Emmanuel.; Mbhele, Thokozani Patmond.
Globally, every industry is on the path of a technological revolution that is radically shaping how people and organisations relate to the world and to one another. The Fourth Industrial Revolution’s (4IR) digital technologies are transforming supply chain management from a linear model to a more integrated model in which information flows in multiple directions. The invention of e-banking has provided customers with a whole new experience of banking services. In South Africa, banks have invested heavily in technological solutions. However, socio-economic complexities and challenges are slowing down the adoption of e-banking channels. This study examines the key determinants of the adoption and acceptance of electronic banking through the theoretical constructs of the extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology model (UTAUT2). The first research objective of the study was to determine the magnitude of acceptance and utilisation of downstream electronic banking distribution channels by generation-based clients. The second objective was to determine the effect of the cultural factor, uncertainty avoidance, on the use of electronic banking distribution channels. The third objective was to establish the downstream supply chain customer experience on the underlying impact of facilitating conditions on electronic banking systems. The penultimate objective was to determine the degree to which the downstream electronic banking simplicity practice influences usage of electronic banking distribution channels. The final objective was to develop the integrated electronic banking model that influences the downstream site generation-based customers. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data in this study where the purposive and simple random samplings were selected. The study applied a quantitative approach to a 307 sample size of students doing post-graduate qualifications from three Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Durban. The collected data were analysed using univariate, bivariate and multivariate methods. The findings revealed that facilitating conditions, effort expectancy, and social influence are key determinants that explain the users’ adoption and use of e-banking channels in South Africa. The study also revealed that uncertainty avoidance influences the use of e-banking channels. The retail banks can use these findings to further improve their electronic channels feature in the future.
Adoption of responsible and sustainable management practices by SMEs in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.
(2019) Khumalo, Ayanda.; Madondo, Mfazo Cliford.
Globally, every organisation is measured by its adoption of responsible and sustainable management practices. However, the adoption of responsible and sustainable management practices by SMEs in South Africa is under-researched. The adoption of these practices enhances organisations’ performance. The research objective of this study was to explore the adoption of responsible and sustainable management practices by SMEs in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, by exploring the perceptions and the challenges confronting SMEs owner-managers in executing these practices. An integrative review of literature was used to explore the SMEs’ adoption of responsible and sustainable management. A mixed methods research approach was adopted utilizing the exploratory sequential mixed methods design. Thus, data were collected using two phases the qualitative and the quantitative phase sequentially from a sample size of ninety-one (91) SMEs owner-managers in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. Data analysis was done in two phases. Firstly, the qualitative data sets were analysed using the thematic analysis technique to that inform the collection and analysis of the quantitative data sets using descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. The research findings show that SMEs in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, are not adopting the responsible and sustainable practices. Therefore, this study concludes that SMEs should adopt and implement these practices in a similar manner as large corporates. This dissertation contributes to the research in the field of SMEs and responsible and sustainable management. It further challenges some SME owners-managers in Pietermaritzburg to adopt and embrace responsible and sustainable management practices.

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