Electronic Theses and Dissertations (Masters/MBA)

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A combined assurance model to promote integrated reporting in Limpopo provincial treasury
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Manabalala, Matshidiso; Gobind, Jenika
Organisations expand, and business operations evolve & become more multifaceted; the growth leads to the board and ARC requiring more assurance providers’ functions to oversee achievements of objectives. The multiple uses of assurance providers’ activities in isolation cause the board and audit committees to suffer from effort duplication, leading to assurance fatigue. The purpose of the study is to explore challenges associated with the implementation of the combined assurance model by Limpopo Provincial Treasury (LPT) and develop possible solutions in the form of recommendations for LPT to improve. The study follows the qualitative research method to achieve the research objectives. This research uses unstructured and semi-structured individual interviews to collect primary data from LPT assurance providers, Auditor General South Africa (AGSA) and Departments and Public Entities Chief Financial Officer as LPT’s stakeholders. Interview questions have been developed for use during the primary data collection to interview individual participants. Permission has been requested from the HOD of LPT to interview the research participants. Findings - The challenges for LPT implementation of combined assurance are caused by Ineffective communication, working in silos and lack of collaboration results in duplication of efforts, assurance fatigue, and contradicting reports. Conclusion- Change in organisation culture and promotion of integrated thinking will lead to successfully implementing the combined assurance model.
A comparative analysis of the extent of investment banking In Africa versus other emerging markets
(2020) Mphakathi, Solomon
This comparative study examines and explains investment banking levels in African emerging markets to the Asia Pacific counterparts. It examines how investment banking activities, especially the raising of capital, influence financial development. There is a paucity of studies conducted in these emerging markets to identify and contrast why their financial development levels are significantly different. African emerging markets appear to be lagging while the Asia Pacific emerging market economies are among the fastest-growing in the world. Finance theory underpins the framing of the study that demonstrates plausible relationship between financial development and economic growth. The methodological procedures followed a quantitative deductive approach through desktop and secondary data analysis to draw conclusions and make inferences. A multiple regression model was used to quantify the effects and extent to which investment banking contributes to financial development. GDP per capita and human development level relate positively to African countries' financial development level. The literature review also revealed some interesting and relevant facts about African economies and the challenges they face. Despite some marked growth in some African economies vis-a-vis others, important structural adjustments appear necessary prerequisites for enhancing Africa's financial and economic development more sustainably. Surprisingly, the empirical analysis identified no evidence of statistically significant relationship between the measure of level of investment banking (in this study) and financial development.
A comparative study of housing affordability in South Africa using the adjusted Debt-Service Ratio and Price-Income Approach
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Mmesi, Lesotla; Alovokpinhou, Sedjro Aaron
This study compares the adjusted Debt-Service Ratio (DSR) model and the widely used Price-Income Ratio (PIR) in the South African context to establish which of the measuring approaches give better and reliable results over time. In South Africa, housing unaffordability remains a challenge and accurately quantifying the extent of the problem is of key importance. The adjusted DSR model was seen as an appealing housing affordability measure to be explored as it corrects for household income changes and net financing cost of the mortgage loan thereof giving a refined calculation for housing affordability. The research also explores the relationship of both the adjusted DSR and PIR to key macroeconomic variables, that is, economic growth (EG), mortgage rate (MR), unemployment rate (MR) and house price (HPI). The findings show that the PIR is the better measure of housing affordability than the adjusted DSR. The PIR accurately parallels other banking sector data regarding housing affordability, whereas the adjusted DSR tends to underestimate housing affordability in the South Africa context. Another key finding is that, on average, the housing prices are too high for an economy like South Africa, which is still battling with, low GDP growth rate, high unemployment rate, inequality and poverty
A comparison of investor attractiveness of oil and gas exploration and production regulatory environments and fiscal regimes in South Africa and Mozambique
(2022) Sigedle, Anelisa
The petroleum industry plays an important role both in South Africa (SA) and Mozambique’s economies. It is one of the most important sources of energy and the largest single commodity in international trade. This study aimed to explore and compare the fiscal policies of Mozambique and SA in respect of the attractiveness of the fiscal regime used to attract investment to South Africa as opposed to Mozambique. The study explored the evolution of policies in both countries. This was done by comparing the fiscal regimes using a hypothetical case model for both countries, which applied different tax rates and state participation in an oil field project. Net present value (NPV) and internal rate of return (IRR) were used to evaluate the project success and how much the government or the contractor stands to make from the different fiscal regimes. The results showed that the project NPV is highest for the investor when the proposed Mineral Petroleum Resource Bill is applied than the current Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA) and the Petroleum Law in Mozambique. The results also showed that the proposed fiscal regime in SA will decrease the NPV for the investor, which makes it less attractive. The study showed that increased state participation has a greater impact on changing the contractor’s NPV. If these two governments want to encourage investors to continue exploration in their countries, there should be a balance between the profit that companies make and the revenue that the governments can collect. Thus, the policy recommendation for SA includes having negotiable royalties that promote investment in exploration and increase resources in oil and gas.
A conceptual framework for the South African fintech ecosystem
(2021) Masangwana, Vuyelwa
The term ‘ecosystem’ is synonymous with multi-company dynamic teamwork and a new way of organised economic activities. It is thus important to understand the modes of interaction among the heterogeneous actors in the ecosystem. Financial Technology (FinTech) became prominent after the financial crisis when the financial industry's role in economic growth became a global concern. Many FinTech companies were established by bankers who found themselves unemployed after the financial crisis and found creative ways to use their skills in financial services. The purpose of FinTech companies in the economy became pre-eminent due to their ability to reduce economic risks and costs through innovation. It also became clear that FinTech would benefit the financial system due to its efficiency in addressing transaction costs, information asymmetry and in addressing issues of taxation. No market player can afford to operate in a silo in the digital age, as collaboration and partnerships are more critical than ever. According to the IMF website (2020), South Africa is a dual economy and has one of the highest inequality levels worldwide. According to a Business Technology article published in 2019, there is still an untapped consumer opportunity, as there are nearly 1.2 billion people globally who do not have bank accounts. South Africa has a large unbanked or underbanked population, estimated to be about 11 million people. A healthy FinTech ecosystem will develop in South Africa if there is an improvement on barriers to entry and a better understanding of the consumer. The study aimed to establish whether the existing FinTech ecosystem models are suitable for the South African context and identify any discrepancies and similarities between developed and developing world FinTech ecosystem models. Qualitative research in the form of semi-structured interviews was conducted. The sample included 12 executives from South Africa who represented entrepreneurs and start-ups, policymakers and financial institutions. The sampling technique was purposive in nature, and it was chosen because of its convenience. The study found that an additional function of funding must be explicitly specified as a government role in the South African context. In addition, the study revealed that in the South African sense, customers must be segmented further to include the unbanked and underbanked market. There is no existing FinTech ecosystem model for South Africa, and this study has developed a model that suits developing countries, specifically South Africa. Finally, the study ii uncovered that incubation and mentorship are essential components of the FinTech ecosystem in South Africa. The study will assist policymakers and other FinTech ecosystem players to gain a better understanding of their roles and how they can contribute and collaborate to make the FinTech ecosystem a success. The study will also aid policymakers and FinTech companies to focus on consumers and help policymakers consider some of the frustrations that participants have raised about policies. It will further assist them in FinTech policy formulation and amendment of the existing or the creation of new policies and legislation.
A creative business venture to promote youth development in townships
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Ngidi, Tebogo Lorna; Venter, Robert
From the apartheid era up until the current state, unemployment has been a challenge in South Africa, especially amongst the young people in underprivileged townships (Hodge, 2009). To try and redress this, profit and non-profit sectors have undertaken a mixture of commercialised and social tasks to respond to changes that occur within the economic and social contexts (Social Enterprise Alliance , 2021). Such tasks include start-up businesses, interactive technologies and constantly evolving demographics that try to reach different aspects of life (Social Enterprise Alliance , 2021). It is through such convergences that social entrepreneurships were established. This social entrepreneurship project investigates whether a more creative business venture can assist with regards to promoting youth development in townships. According to Venter and Urban (2015), government support on its own is not enough to meet societal demands. This is more especially with regards to wicked problems that tend to be more complex to tackle due to its interlocked nature with other issues. Even though social entrepreneurship operates in diverse realms within the community, for the context of this research paper, this project investigates the introduction of newer and more creative business ventures within the Southwest Townships (SOWETO), a township that accommodates close to half of the Gauteng population. The report draws on the findings from reviewed literature and interviews with various stakeholders; entrepreneurs (both new and established), community support institutions and the local government.
A customer communication application for organisations
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Netangaheni, Shumani; Horvey, Sylvester Senyo
The aim of this study was to investigate the need for an integrated communication application dedicated to service communication for organizations as well as to determine factors that users consider important for the adoption of a new communication mobile application system. This study is important to the building of an application where resources are constrained and need to be traded off. The growth of social media has seen a rise in the need for consumers to instantly want access to information that is of importance to them. It is for this reason that communication has become a commodity that organizations invest in to build stronger relationships with their customers. However, it is not always easy for organizations to get it right as the communication methods they rely on may not be efficient or cost effective. It is for this reason that theoretical work was consulted to determine a need for a central communication application which various organizations can plug into to publish messages when they have service failure or recovery. The literature advised of a need but for a different problem. Primary data was collected from respondents using a survey where respondents were asked if they would use an integrated mobile application dedicated to communication when their service providers have service failure and when the service has recovered
A digital earthmoving equipment service platform to enhance customer aftermarket experience
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Molele, Nnanna Reshoketswe; Horne, Renee
The absorption of technology solutions has become more and more prevalent in the mining and construction industries. Mining and construction companies worldwide are implementing technology solutions as they seek to improve the safety, productivity, and profitability of their earthmoving operations. One of the most critical and capital intensive assets that these operations own and operate is their earthmoving equipment. The maintenance and repair of the equipment also contributes heavily to the operational expenditure of such operations (19% for large operations). It is critical for these operations for their equipment maintenance to be done in a timely manner, at the lowest possible cost, and with the highest possible level of quality so as to manage operational costs and reduce the impact of machine downtime on productivity. This business venture is based on a South African company that supplies earthmoving equipment to mining and construction companies in the Southern Africa market. The company not only supplies equipment, but also aftermarket solutions (parts and maintenance & repair services). In the past five financial years, the company has seen a decline in revenue from its service business where it sells technician labour to the mining and construction markets for equipment maintenance and repairs. Its customer net loyalty score is also sitting at an average of 32% in the same period. Customer loyalty has been negatively impacted by customer dissatisfaction with the organisation’s service quality, turnaround time, and communication, to name a few. The service business profitability has also been on a downward trend (14% in 2018 to 9% in 2022). Given the size of the organisation and the number of countries it operates in, this paper only focuses on the Zambia market where the company’s service business is currently seeing negative profitability trends and the lowest customer net loyalty score of 18%. In response to this business challenge, this paper focuses on using technology and third party equipment service providers (labour for maintenance and repairs) to propose a business model that will create shared stakeholder value. The business model seeks to address current customer challenges while improving the business profitability and making it more feasible for third partner service providers to partner with the organisation instead of operating as its competitors
A new business venture proposal for student accommodation in KwaZulu Natal
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Nxumalo, Malibongwe A.; Konar, Len
Scarcity of on-campus student housing has given birth to a niche market for private companies to close the gap as requested by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) in South Africa. RasRach Student Living Company (RSLC) is a student accommodation company specialising in affordable, quality and secure studend living in Pietermaritzburg, Kwa-Zulu Natal province. Leveraging off its technological capabilities, RSLC will invest in renewable energy and the circular economy to efficiently manage operational costs and the impact of loadshedding on students, thus disrupting the sector. The Scotsville precinct within Pietermaritzburg has been identified as a hot spot to provide the service as it houses three tertiaty institutions within a five kilometre radius, making an ideal location for the RSLC housing project. This suburb provides a great opportunity for RSLC to access properties at a cheaper price and develop them to meet the housing demand. A qualitative data method was utilised to collect secondary desktop data accessible from government departments, libraries, verified journal articles, university publications and company websites. An unprecedented increase in the domestic population and the youth who require tertiary education cannot be ignored as higher education institutions are struggling to meet the demands for the provisioning of both academic and student accommodation. This serious challenge leads to the students‟ poor performance, with a drastic increase in the drop-out rates. A strong correlation exists that indicates that quality student accommodation not only impacts the students‟ performance academically but also impacts their social interactions and participation within the university programmes. RasRach Student Living Company will purchase properties near different institutions around Scotsville, Pietermaritzburg. These properties will be redeveloped to meet the requirements of the Policy on Minimum Norms and Standards for Student Housing at Pubic Universities issued by DHET. RSLC growth strategy is organic in the short-medium term and will franchise in five years to implement the strategy of the company thus advancing its business mode
A private education business model for township students in Gauteng schools
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Matli, Mmasechaba; Venter, Robert
South Africa’s (RSA) public education system is in a crisis with many of the public schools offering poor quality of education. The study developed an inclusive private education business model for township students. Previous work has focused on school choice, impact of regulations on Low Fee Private Schools (LFPS) and Public–Private Partnership (PPP) Schools, academic performance. There is little known about PPP schools in South Africa and LFPS in townships areas in South Africa. Quality education increases employment opportunities, reduces poverty levels, and increases opportunities to skills development. If not received, the inverse is true. The study presented a review of literature comprising an analysis of the research problem with a focus on symptoms, root causes, and consequences of poor-quality education in public schools. A qualitative research strategy is chosen and a case study research design. The study used semi-structured interviews and a questionnaire. A purposive sampling strategy was selected. A total of twenty-one people participated in the study. The study used content analysis to analyse data, including theme identification and code labels. The evidence of the study suggests that parents living in the township are open and willing to send their children to a township private school on condition that it is affordable. Partnerships are central to deliver quality education, it is important for schools in general to partner with various stakeholders including corporate, government, financial institutions, parents and other. Township schools need to have a deep understanding of the community needs, the complex social issues and therefore tailor services accordingly. One of the key service offerings for township schools suggested by research is social support services and remedial. Social support includes counselling, career planning and other. The proposed solution must be inclusive, affordable, holistic, and equitable. There is, however, a considerable number of parents who are happy with the quality of education in the public schools. The research findings suggest that there is a demand for quality education in the townships
A proposed internal audit tool to improve internal audit effectiveness in South African national departments
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Seitei, Zondre Launchya; Wotela, Kambidima; Plant, Kato
Increasing governance related issues are plaguing the South African government, which have in recent times seen many state institutions facing serious financial and operational related challenges to the point where the National Treasury had to bail out public institutions. Internal audit is a vital component of governance structures within organisations, as internal audit functions (IAF) provides support to the its governing bodies through the provision of assurance and consulting services on the effectiveness of risk management, controls and governance processes. The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) has made the development and implementation of a quality assurance and improvement programme (QAIP) mandatory in term of standard 1300 of the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (The Standards). This augments the importance of measuring the quality delivered by internal auditors to their key stakeholders. Literature revealed that the quality or effectiveness of IAFs’ management support, independence and its competence are factors that can be positively correlated to internal audit effectiveness (IAE). However, the existence of a quality assurance self-assessment preparation (QASP) tool appears to be limited. Therefore, the aim of his study was to propose such a tool to aid IAFs in South African government national departments in conducting their own self-assessments. This could capacitate IAFs in the public sector to assess their effectiveness. This study found that there is a need for quality assurance self-assessment preparation (QASP) tool to help IAFs assess their effectiveness. Four key themes emerged from the findings, namely, IAE, internal assessments, a measurement tool and external audit reliance culminating into a proposed QASP tool. It is therefore recommended that IAFs of national departments in the South African public sector take cognisance of the proposed tool to improve internal audit quality and ultimately governance and service delivery
A strategic management approach Education for the new world of work in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Manuel, Zelda; James, Goerge; Wotela, Kambidima
This research investigates the readiness of the South African education system for the new world of work. The future of work will be different, driven by automation, which place employment at risk. It therefore requires educational outcomes that can prepare individuals with the correct skillset (PWC, 2019). It will demonstrate that the traditional definition of jobs is shifting , a new breed of jobs that require multiple and diverse skills will replace role specification (March & McLennan, 2017). The study used a quantitative research strategy; the data was collected from participants using a questionnaire as a data collection instrument. Descriptive statistics was used to perform the data analysis. It found that although much work was done in the tertiary education sector to prepare learners for the new world of work, respondents confirmed that they still need to continue their learning journey to remain employable in the future. An individual’s employability is dependent on effective career planning and life-long learning (M Watson, M McMahon, 2009). The research highlights that career management aim to provide a holistic approach where learners choose careers that they are passionate about and not only for employability (Maree J. G., 2009).Career counselling allows for social and economic inclusion and the absence thereof have negative impact for families and the economy (Maree J. G., 2009). Organizations need to rethink their strategies and embrace new ways of work (Magwentshu "et al", 2019).They have the responsibility to up skill and reskill their workforce in order to adapt in the future and remain profitable (PWC, 2019). South Africa has high levels of unemployment, 29% (Stats, SA, 2020) and is faced with the challenge to accelerate economic growth. A further key challenge is the pace at which local companies are prepared to compete and grow in a digital world (Magwentshu "et al", 2019). This research will assist academic institutions to prepare learners for the new world of work by identifying skills required for the 21st century workplace that will equip learners for the future. It will aid learners to research future roles prior to registration as future careers are changing and from the research results, it is clear that employability is a key factor in selecting academic courses (Chikoti, 2018)
A theoretical analysis of how the enhancement of social media utilization can improve customer experience in South African retail banks
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2020) Rapitsi, Lebohang
Purpose: The banking industry has seen a rapid shift with the emergence of digital banks and non-direct competitors, as a result banks have responded with increased focus on the use of technology in efforts to defend market share. There is currently a lack of empirical evidence which relates to how the enhancement of social media usage by South African retail banks can improve customer experience. The purpose of this study is to examine empirical evidence to support the predictor effects of customer perception, service quality, customer satisfaction, with the aim of enhancing customer experience in retail banks by utilizing social media platforms. Design/Methodology/ Approach: The empirical study was of a quantitative nature, whereby factors pertaining to customer perceptions, service quality, customer satisfaction and customer experience were assessed accordingly. The sample consisted of 62 respondents from the various retail banks in South African. Various statistical tests were initiated in order to understand the relationships between the abovementioned variables. Findings: The results from the study indicate a positive relationship between customer satisfaction as a predictor of customer experience on social media platforms. The findings also suggest although there may be associations between service quality and customer perceptions with customer experience, they are however not significant. Implications: It is critical for retail banks to continue to seek innovative ways to improve customer experience. The benefit of utilizing social media platforms is that it allows for banks to establish valuable interactions with customers whilst leveraging information in order to understand the needs of their customers
Access to finance by black-owned small and medium enterprises operating in the South African agro- processing sector
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Tjabadi, Jazzino; Mazonde, Nomusa
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) make a meaningful contribution to economic growth, job creation and poverty alleviation. Despite this, there is a low creation and high failure rate of new small businesses in South Africa. Access to finance is considered the main contributing factor, particularly amongst black-owned SMEs. South Africa has identified agro-processing industry as a sector with high potential to spur growth and create jobs because of strong linkage with primary agriculture. Against this background, this study sought to investigate the factors that hinder access to finance by black-owned SMEs operating in the agro-processing sector in South Africa and explore other key factors that threaten their long-term survival. This research contributes to solutions aimed at addressing the root causes attributable to SMEs’ inability to access funding from the formal financial institutions and government agencies. Using qualitative research method, data was collected from black SME entrepreneurs through semi-structured, in-depth interviews and analysed using content analysis. Purposeful sampling was used to identify and select the participants. The insights gained from the research highlights that black-owned SMEs are severely impacted by funding and market access issues, amongst others. The findings revealed that black SME entrepreneurs prefer to use own capital and/or funds from family and friends to start and grow their businesses. Complex processes, unsuitable financial products, high interest rates, unfavourable repayment terms and favouritism in government schemes were found to be amongst the key factors that discourage SMEs from applying for formal institutional finance. Other factors such as limited access to information about available funding sources and access to market opportunities significantly influence the long-term success of black- owned SMEs. To develop a sustainable, long-term financing model for SMEs, it is recommended that government, in partnership with the private financial institutions, establish a small business financing institution for SMEs in the agro-processing industry. To avoid the major deficiencies plaguing the existing government schemes, this should be a private, stand-alone entity funded by the government and private financial sector. The new institution should introduce new, innovative financing solutions that are tailored for start-up and early-stage SMEs.
Accountability for audit findings in the Department of Social Development
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2020) Chetty, Kylan; Cairns, M.
This research aims to examine the effect and importance of accountability of audit findings and their recommendations in the South African Department of Social Development. The research utilizes qualitative data using interview data by a sample of 16 individuals relevant to audits and accountability within the department. In “Chapter 1-2,” the introduction and the literature review of auditing theories, repetitive findings, and accountability are presented. After that, a conceptual framework was formed, which led to a significant link between accountability and repetitive findings regarding the effect a lack of accountability has on organizational development and the repercussions. “Chapter 3-4” demonstrates a well-constructed research methodology, which provides an indication of the Interpretivist approach the research would take through the evaluation of audit reports, literature, and interviews. Thus, the research design formed a basis for collecting valuable data that followed a process of analysis to determine the significant findings of the study. “Chapter 5” The final portion of this research aims to conclude on the study's findings based on the core elements of accountability and the significant impact this has on the DSD effectiveness in implementing audit recommendations. The study highlights a strong existence of a lack of accountability by the DSD and the need to implement an audit policy practice that mitigates non-compliance by Senior Management in the implementation ofaudit recommendations. Overall, the results demonstrated a strong existence of a lack of accountability in the department and an ineffective understanding of addressing key findings. A significant notion of the data revealed that senior managers were unable to resolve audit findings and their root causes, resulting in repetitive findings and therefore the creation of repetitive tasks resulting in a condition known as Audit Fatigue
The activation of individual customer intimacy towards a financial organisation through personalised marketing in South Africa
(2021) Visagie, Marné
South African financial organisations face challenges to emotionally connect with a diverse, financially vulnerable consumer market. It is well-researched that building customer value drives growth and profitability. This study explores the concept of customer intimacy – a value discipline presented by Treacy and Wiersema (1993) – as a marketing strategy focused on perceptions of value to create, communicate and deliver emotional experiences. It investigates personalisation as the leveraged customer information and one-to-one customer relationship to individually target and activate a customer’s feelings of intimacy during digital interactions. In this context, when a customer feels understood and appreciated, they experience intimacy, a warm feeling, or a sense of belonging. Social connections might draw attention, motivate engagement, and positively influence attitudes and behaviours to build emotional connections. A neuromarketing experiment observed the personalised experience and intimacy effect to predict an emotional connection. Adapting to remote research during the Covid-19 pandemic required three instruments: facial coding, an interview, and a survey. Two groups were selected; existing clients (emotionally connected) and non-clients (not connected). They joined an online video meeting to interact with two different email communications. Recorded emotional responses were analysed with facial expression software, themes, and statistics. Results reveal a positive relationship: personalisation as an intimate experience is significant in predicting the customer’s attitude towards the organisation. The two critical intimacy influencers are the accuracy of the organisation’s customer knowledge and the quality of the financial adviser relationship. Two surprising findings were extracted; the emotionally connected responded insignificantly, while non-clients reacted significantly. Also, the customer knowledge an adviser holds might have an adverse effect on the experience. Findings suggest that personalisation and multiple intimate interactions support the activation of an emotional connection. Implementing and activating individual customer intimacy requires individual targeting, close relationships, and personalised marketing campaigns
The adoption of intelligent robot automation by auditors within South Africa
(2021) Naidoo, Evaashan
To automate, or not to automate, that is the question? The use of disruptive technologies has changed, and in many instances, has replaced traditional business operations and models. The auditing profession has been burdened with high costs and reputational damage as a result of false results due to a high dependency on manual tasks that are susceptible to errors or manipulation. The use of robots to help minimise these errors, achieve efficiencies and reduce costs, provides a convincing theoretical case to automate. The objective of this research is to apply the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model to understand the views of audit professionals determine the factors that would influence organisations to use robot technology for performing audits in South Africa. The study adopted a quantitative approach, where a survey questionnaire consisting of 39 questions, aligned with the UTAUT model, was used to gather data. The sample comprised 59 auditors and 26 non-auditors who were involved in audits performed in South Africa. The non-auditors comprised of a Chief Information Officer, Finance Managers, Heads of Product, and various Senior Risk Management Professionals. A purposive sampling technique was used to select individuals who had an understanding of the capabilities of robots, and the potential use of robots to support business operations. The results of the study highlighted that performance expectancy and facilitating conditions were the key factors that influenced the adoption of robots in audits. Auditors and clients were more likely to use robots if they felt it would improve their performance. The respondents were more likely to use robots if it enabled the quicker completion of tasks, reduced errors, increased the number of tasks that could be completed and delivered better value than manual processes. The study also highlighted that sufficient investment and management support would be provided to ensure that an enabling environment is established for using robots to perform audit tasks. This would include acquiring management support as well as finding hardware, software, and skills to support the robotics development initiatives. The study provides more insight on how leaders and management in the auditing field can use insights attained through this study to successfully influence and support the use of robots to perform audits. Furthermore, the study contributes to an increased used of robotics in auditing which could improve the quality and efficiency of the auditor’s work. The study contributes towards the body of knowledge in the accounting and robot fields of study
Adoption of lean startup principles by product teams in South African Fintechs
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Bohloa, Reeme
Purpose – This study examines the factors influencing the adoption of lean startup principles by product teams in South African Fintechs Design/methodology/approach – Leveraging literature, the research proposes a conceptual framework that suggests six hypotheses. The hypotheses are empirically validated by applying partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) on survey data obtained from a survey that had 52 responses. Findings – The results partially support the hypotheses and supports that Relative advantage has a positive relationship to Usefulness and that the Influence of Industry Peers has a positive relationship to Attitude. Originality/value – The study is contributing towards research in a relatively new but rapidly growing industry in South Africa (Fintech). Keywords - Lean startup, Fintechs, Product teams, Innovation, Build-measure- learn, Partial least squares Paper type – Research paper
Afrocentric leadership coaching among Shona men in Zimbabwe
(2020) Mhlanga, Brian Ndabaningi
This study looks at the need for an African approach to leadership coaching. It aims to contribute towards a leadership coaching model that is Afrocentric or is framed around the African concept of “Ubuntu”. Leadership coaching is a profession that is widely practiced and yet has limited scientific theory. Practitioners on the African continent rely heavily on the Eurocentric philosophical approaches to leadership coaching without taking cognizance of cultural considerations among other things. Using the social identity theory, and a case study of Zimbabwe Shona male executives will be conducted on selected Shona cultural aspects on leadership and how gender, spirituality, socioeconomic and political factors have impacted on leadership coaching. The tools used for data collection included observations and interviews (semi-structured face-to-face). The target population comprised eight Shona male executives and four leadership coaches working in the provinces of Mashonaland East and West, Harare and Midlands, Zimbabwe. Data collected for this study is qualitative and was interpreted using QSRNVIVO in uncovering emerging themes, patterns and insights. The findings of the study reveal that the Shona traditional ways of healing are appropriate and can be integrated into western and modern leadership coaching. The study also established coaching in Zimbabwe among Shona men is perceived to be a western leadership development tool and fails to embrace African spiritual consciousness sufficiently. The study gives an understanding of how Shona men understand and experience leadership mastery revealing the need to accommodate some of the Shona aspects of culture to leadership coaching. Insights from this exploration will contribute towards the formulation of an Ubuntu Leadership Coaching model that could add value to leadership coaching not only in Zimbabwe but potentially across the continent.
Alternative finance: definition, sources and implications for the financial sector
(2020) Chabaya, Bothwell
The research will seek to highlight the sources of alternative finance and in the same vain highlight the structural problems of ‘’tainted intermediation’’ brought about as a result of the rise of Alternative Finance. It seeks to introduce a framework for regulatory thinking and approach in response to the emergence of alternative finance especially given that it is a new and developing phenomenon. The research will assist with further studies in the area of financial inclusion in the emerging economies as a result of alternative finance as well as the role and impact of alternative finance in the democratization of the financial sector. The study seeks to contribute in highlighting the main sources of alternative finances from the different types offered in the financial sector. It goes further to explore whether these sources of alternative finance result in reintermediation or disintermediation 15 answering the questions of who and what the intermediator is because of alternative finance. This exploration would highlight the problem of ‘’tainted intermediary’’, as well as lead to an introduction of how regulators and policymakers should frame their thought process and approach in the development of regulation governing the operations of new and alternative finance. Because alternative finance is a new and developing phenomenon the study will assist in further study of the area by the academic community from insights provided.

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