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Item A comparative analysis of transformation between local and global media and advertising agencies in South Africa(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Ndinguri, KevinPoverty, unemployment and inequality among black people have been identified as key consequences of apartheid. To redress these, the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act was enacted. In the Media and Advertising industry in South Africa, the B-BBEE Act is translated through the Media and Communications Charter (MAC) which describes five elements, namely; management inclusion, skills development, responsible advertising, preferential procurement and socio-economic development. Most of the media industry studies on the compliance to the MAC charter focus on descriptions of how companies have applied the B-BBEE Act. This study’s specific objectives were to describe the nature of transformation in local media and advertising agencies, describe the nature of transformation in global media and advertising agencies and describe the effect of B-BBEE codes on local and global media and advertising agencies in South Africa. The study used a qualitative approach and an exploratory-descriptive design. The data collection tool was semi-structured interviews and data was collected through in-depth interviews. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis and presented in narrative format.The study found four themes that compare the transformation of local and global media and advertising agencies. The first theme is that transformation has taken place in local media agencies, the second is that few transformation initiatives have taken place in global media companies. The third theme is that B-BBEE codes have enabled local media companies to secure clients and the fourth theme is that B-BBEE codes have obligated global media agencies to transform the way they manage their businesses. In conclusion, global media and advertising agencies have been affected by transformation through increased diversity and change in the way they managed their businesses. Recommendations for future research should use a quantitative approach to enable the generalisation of findingsItem A Digital Platform Car Wash Business(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Ndlovu, CeboThe Car Wash Digital Platform (App) is a new business venture that addresses the problem of customers needing a convenient car wash service. This study was aimed at evaluating the viability of this new business venture. A customer discovery was conducted using an online survey to test if potential customers would be interested in such a service. The customer discovery was only made on the end user customer who would request the car wash service. The customer discovery for the service providers was not completed due to time limitations. This project's competitive advantages include the convenience it will provide to its clients in addition to fuel and mileage saved by not having to drive to a particular car wash facility. The time saved from driving to and from the car wash service provider is another competitive advantage of this business venture. The New Business Venture adopted the Lean Business Canvas as its business strategy model. The data from the online survey contributed to mapping the Lean Business Canvas. The marketing strategy was developed by using the marketing mix of customer segmentation, the 4 Ps of marketing, and Porter’s five forces model. The financial analyses indicated that the new business venture could break even in its first year of operation and generate an estimated Net Profit Margin of 40% by the fourth yearItem A framework for Mobile Application integrated with Biometric Authentication to Improve Youth participation in Elections(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Botsime, Kealeboga Obed; Pellissier, Prof RenéThe purpose of this research study is to apply the technology acceptance framework to assess the prospect of using mobile application integrated with biometric authentication that might improve the South African’s youth participation in elections. The main objectives of this research are to measure the extent to which youth voters have trust in internet and the ability for the national government to conduct online elections, evaluate the youth voters ICT accessibility and skills and to determine the attitudes, perceptions as well as intention to participate in online elections using framework for mobile application. A quantitative research approach was adopted for this research. An onlinequestionnaire on formplus platform is used to collect data from Gauteng youth (18-35 years); 209 participants had valid responses. A conceptual framework is proposed using constructs and theories from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The constructs were adopted from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), and it was also extended with trust constructs. The findings of this research are youth respondents have indicated that they agree (eighty-four percent) and have intention to use the mobile application to participate in online voting if it becomes available and they have the willingness to learn how to use it. The intention of youth to use mobile phones for online voting as an important contributing factor to improve youth participation in elections.Item Adoption of embedded subscriber identity module (ESIM) technology services by South African smartphone users for international roaming(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Singh, SharonThe objective of this study was to investigate the factors that influence the intention to adopt ESIM (embedded SIM) technology for international roaming services by South African smartphone users. Currently, the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) is a physical hardware with an integrated chipset that is inserted into mobile handsets. Physical SIM cards allow a single profile to be provisioned for users. The next evolution in SIM card technology, ESIM, have the capability to support multiple user profiles. The development of services and new business models enabled through ESIM technology is dependent on the willingness of users to adopt these services. A theoretical model was developed using TAM as a basis with the additional constructs of trust and risk to test the intention to adopt international roaming services. A cross-sectional, quantitative study using an online survey instrument was employed. A sample size of 142 was collected. The sampling method used was a non-probability, convenience sampling technique and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was performed to examine the reliability and validity of the measures and the main conceptual model was tested using structural equation modelling (SEM). Perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness were identified as the most significant factors that influence the intention to adopt ESIM roaming services. Perceived usefulness was identified as significant mediating variable between perceived ease of use and intention to adopt. Perceived risk presented as statistically significant, direct influences on intention to adopt. The trust factor had an insignificant influence of the intention to adopt. The study’s findings form a basis for future research on ESIM enabled services. These findings are relevant to mobile operators, technology platform owners and developers of services for ESIM enabled devices (smartphones, wearables and internet of things devices) with the intent to understand factors that drive users’ intention to adopt serviceItem The adoption of intelligent robot automation by auditors within South Africa(2021) Naidoo, EvaashanTo 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 studyItem An assessment of the intention to adopt blockchain technology (BCT) in SMEs: A South African Analysis(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Anderson, BrainThis study examines the factors influencing the intention to adopt blockchain technology (BCT) among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa. Despite the potential benefits of BCT, such as increased transparency, security, and efficiency, its adoption among businesses, especially SMEs in South Africa, is still relatively low. To address this gap, the study proposes a conceptual framework that extends the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) by including both internal and external variables. The study hypothesizes that these variables influence SMEs' perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of BCT, which, in turn, influences their intention to adopt the technology. The internal variables in the framework include innovativeness, self-efficacy, and perceived system complexity, while the external variables include strategic orientation and social influence. To test the hypotheses, the study collects data from a survey of SMEs in South Africa, using a structured questionnaire. The survey includes questions on the SMEs' familiarity with BCT, their perceptions of its benefits and drawbacks, and their intentions to adopt the technology. The data is analysed using structural equation modelling to test the relationships between the variables. The findings of the study suggest that SMEs' intentions to adopt BCT are influenced by their perceptions of the technology's usefulness and ease of use, as well as their innovativeness, self-efficacy, and perceptions of system complexity. The study also finds that external factors, such as strategic orientation and social influence, play a significant role in influencing SMEs' intentions to adopt BCT. Overall, the study contributes to the literature on BCT adoption by extending the TAM with internal and external variables that are specific to the South African context. The study's findings have practical implications for SMEs in South Africa that are considering adopting BCT, as it can help them understand the factors that influence their intentions to adopt the technology. The study also provides recommendations for researchers who are interested in promoting the adoption of BCT among SMEs in South Africa.Item Assessing the impact of digital transformation on business performance in South Africa’s banking industry(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Melamane, SiphokaziBackground: The Fourth Industrial Revolution and the recent outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic have created a strong interest in digital transformation. Organisations have been focused on advancing their technological capabilities, thus increasing their IT investment capabilities. In the banking sector, the implementation of digital technologies has introduced the existence of digital banks and other non-financial organizations that have tapped into the financial services, such as fintech and retailer organisations. This has been gradually leading to a diluted market share, which was previously dominated by South Africa’s traditional banks. Digitising has therefore become an important aspect of organisations’ growth strategy. Purpose: This research study aims to investigate the impact of digital transformation on the financial performance of the traditional South African banks. Methodology: This study uses the quantitative research method where financial performance, is measured by return on assets (ROA) and digital technology (data analytics, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things). The data was collected using secondary data accessed from the traditional South African banks, namely; ABSA, Standard Bank, FNB, and Nedbank’s annual reports and full-year consolidated financial statements, from the year 2014-2021. Findings: Findings from this research study indicate that there is a strong relationship between digital technology and business performance, meaning that digital transformation does have an impact on the business performance of the traditional South African banks. Further, the relationship between the variables, digital technology and business performance is negative. This has been found by previous literature to be due to the initial costs of investment in digital technology. Research limitations/implications: Digital transformation is an important concept that continues to be explored by researchers and organisations. Therefore this research is relevant to many industries in the market, which presents an opportunity for it to be expanded to other industries. The impact of digital transformation on other performance factors such as operational performance can be studieSItem Challenges and Opportunities for Innovation in the South African Mining Industry(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Ntlhoiseng, Tshepo Mmeko Phistos; MurimbikaRising costs, diminishing ore grades, labour conflicts, and low-profit margins are all problems facing South Africa's mining industry. Along with external factors, such as global pressures, domestic factors have hindered the mining industry's economic recovery, leading to the loss of jobs, the closure of mines and the departure of certain international mining corporations. Throughout the country's history, the mining industry in South Africa has been recognised as a critical driver of economic development and job creation. The need to innovate for increased productivity is especially pressing in this sector, as it continues to be a significant source of employment in South Africa. The study set out to look into the challenges and opportunities for innovation in the South African mining sector. Exploratory, qualitative research was chosen to learn about the mining industry and its innovation potential. This study aimed to examine the gold and platinum mining industry specifically. Eleven interviews with top mining industry executives were undertaken. Thematic analysis was used to delve deeper into the industry's challenges and opportunities for innovation. The study revealed that organisational issues such as change management, stakeholder engagement, and the availability of finances, among others, hinder innovation. External elements, such as mining regulations, inhibit or enable innovations in the mining sector. Moreover, there are four areas where operational efficiency can be enhanced. According to the findings of this research, energy, transportation, big data, communication, and explosives have been highlighted as areas where innovation opportunities exist. Change management and stakeholder involvement were also identified as crucial areas requiring new solutions for effective operations to foster innovation.Item Coaching executive leaders using digital platforms: a South Africa perspective(2022) Manual, CindyIn-person face-to-face coaching is slowly fading into the background as digital technology becomes more prominent in the way business is conducted. The advancement of digital technology was hastened by the Covid pandemic, forcing most business to adapt to a virtual space. As early as 2018, digital coaching was listed as the thirteenth trend in the coaching industry and by 2020, this had moved up to the second place. In a space of two years, its prominence in the industry moved 11 places, which likely was accelerated by the pandemic. Given this context, the main problem is understanding digital technology’s role in coaching executive leaders. The objective of this research paper was to explore coaches’ adaptation to the digital world and the influence the use of digital technology was having on the overall competency requirements of the coach. Cognitive Behavioural Coaching and Constructive Learning Theory forms the foundation of this research paper, and as the researcher was interested in the lived experiences of the research participants, an Interpretative phenomenological analysis approach was adopted. A total of eleven coaches were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the results of the transcribed interviews, resulting in several pertinent themes. The findings highlighted the speedy transition of experienced South African coaches from predominately in-person face-to-face coaching to a more hybrid coaching model with a heavier reliance on digital coaching and a preference to remain in the digital space. It also highlighted a need to revisit the competency requirements of coaches to include a digital component. The study gives insight into the change agility of more experience coaches and their ability to adapt to digital technology in a space dominated by in-person face-to-face methodology. It adds to the body of knowledge of how these coaches have transitioned during this time and also the rapid learning they had to adapt.Item Corporate governance of robotic process automation by South African firms(2023) Nortje, AnriTraditional corporate governance policies and principles do not make provision for the implications of new technologies, like robotic process automation, on digital business. Without the appropriate governance of technologically-enabled advancements, firms are exposed to new threats and face increased vulnerabilities. Using constructivism, this study aimed to understand which governance principles firms in South Africa should have in place for the use of robotic process automation. The study finds that the governance of robotic process automation depends on (i) digital governance and risk management, (ii) cybersecurity and data protection, and (iii) digital business ethics considerations that firms need to address when they deploy robotic process automation software. Based on the findings and the data analysis, the study formulates a model for the governance of robotic process automation called “an expanded model for RPA governance in South African digital business”. From this model, the study concludes with seven governance principles, proposed by the researcher, to assist South African firms with the governance of robotic process automation.Item Digital Global Business Services: A diversification prospect for South African telecoms operators owning submarine cables(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Ntseuoa, PontsoWith the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and digital transformation, telecommunications operators core business has become gradually commoditised with most of their revenues being cannibalised by “edge-players” who render innovative digital services, piggyback on telecoms operators’ connectivity infrastructure, whilst easily bypassing them to reach the industry’s lucrative client base. This poses a problem as the diminishing revenues of the telecoms operators mean they may not be sustainable in the future and might eventually collapse. This qualitative research explored a potential business case for South African telecoms operators owning submarine cables on how they can possibly diversify into digital Global Business Services (GBS), servicing new international markets, in a quest to expand their revenue generation prospects. Convenient sampling method was employed with the initial data collection, then followed by purposive and snowballing sampling approaches to reach 10 interview participants who are executives in the GBS and telecoms industries. Data was collected using semi-structured in-depth interviews and analysed using theoretical thematic analysis, based on 4 predetermined themes of vendor configurations and strategies, prerequisite strategic resources, prerequisite capabilities, and prerequisite core competencies premised by the study’s conceptual framework. The study found that SA telecoms operators with ownership in submarine cables, do have the potential to successfully diversify into the digital GBS industry servicing new international markets. The study determined that entering the digital GBS industry requires comprehensive market research, understanding of target markets and countries, collaborations, investment in talent, and leveraging of unique assets. The study also recommended that SA telcos should focus on their existing strengths and adapt to evolving digital technologies and global work environments in order to successfully enter into this competitive digital Global Business Services industryItem Digital marketers’ perspectives of the future of cookieless online advertising(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Hlonyana, Vivian Masadi; Pamacheche, RukudzoOver the years, digital advertisers have utilized the third-party cookie phenomenon to gain insights into online user behavior with the aim of generating targeted advertising. However, with the growing emphasis on user privacy, new privacy regulations have emerged, leading to the banning or impending ban of third-party cookies by major web browsers such a Google Chrome. This transformation is anticipated to have a significant impact on digital advertising operations, as the marketing strategies of these advertisers are dependent on the utilization of such cookies. The aim of this study is to examine the impact of the elimination of third-party cookies on digital marketers, both in terms of their current situation and anticipated future developments. To achieve this goal, a qualitative investigation was conducted, involving interviews with digital marketing experts, which were analyzed in conjunction with the relevant literature on third-party cookies, personalized advertising, and organizational change strategy theories. The findings indicate that most digital marketers are being affected by the removal of third-party cookies and are not fully prepared for the changes. However, the majority are engaged in researching, industry discussions, and attempting to adapt to the new environment. A variety of strategies and alternatives to third- party cookies are being introduced and considered, such as server-side tracking, leveraging first- party data, contextual advertising, email marketing, SEO, and content marketing. In conclusion, the study suggests that the end of third-party cookies does not imply the termination of personalized marketingItem Digital payments adoption of informal small and medium enterprises in South Africa’s township economy(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Mabaso, Nompilo; Magida, AyandaThe use of cash for making and receiving payments in South Africa’s townships continues to grow, despite the proliferation of alternative payment methods. Merchants operating informal businesses are reluctant to accept payments digitally, which further contributes to the socio-economic burdens experienced in townships. This study investigated merchants’ intention to use digital payment acceptance methods, specifically in the informal sector. The UTAUT2 was employed, extended with the Perceived Risk Theory. The study adopted a quantitative research approach. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 120 respondents online and face-to-face. The questionnaire was based on previously researched and theorised literature. Factor analysis, particularly Principal Components Analysis, was used to analyse the results. Correlation analysis was conducted to test the hypothesis, followed by multiple regression. The findings revealed that the independent variables Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Price Value and Perceived Trust all positively influenced the behavioural intention of informal merchants to use digital payment acceptance methods. Performance Expectancy had the strongest influence, whilst Perceived Risk was not found to have a negative influence on the behavioural intention of informal merchants to adoptItem Digital transformation in the South African retail sector: A case for self-service technologies(niversity of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Tshivhase, TakusaniThe retail landscape is evolving and transforming at a rapid pace. The same can be said about self-service technology (SST) and its various implementation and roles in retail in South Africa, which was explored in this study. This qualitative study conducted 14 semi-structured interviews with practitioners responsible for digital transformation from different retail organisations. Thematic analysis yielded 17 subthemes and five themes: essentials for adoption, business efficiency and customer experience, strategy and socioeconomic issues, infrastructure stability and reliability and partnership, collaboration and development. Various industries have utilised SSTs for a number of years, with varying results. SSTs enable businesses to increase efficiency and reduce expenses when approved and implemented effectively. However, even though consumer approval and use of SSTS is on the rise, it is important to remember that its implementation requires significant investments, the reallocation of employees’ job functions, the risk of robbery, and, ultimately, the possibility of a lack of customer and union acceptance. Technological recommendations include taking cognisance of the required critical capabilities, taking steps to co-create with customers and the importance of conducting pilot projects. Organisational recommendations included reskilling/upskilling existing employees, designing worker-centric systems, aiming for digital culture and maturity, thorough consideration of the deployment sites, incentivising customers to make the change and meaningful engagement with unions. Environmental recommendations included industry-specific considerations, market dynamics and the acknowledgement of the digital divide in RSA.Item Digital transformation of the interior design industry: selected case studies from South Africa, China and Canada(2021) Xiao, Jun ZhouIn the context of the fourth Industrial Revolution, a series of digital technologies were derived. The emergence of these digital technologies has greatly promoted the industry's reform and innovation, among which the interior design industry is one. This paper mainly discusses the digital transformation of the interior design industry and studies the influence of digital technology on the operation of interior design enterprises, core design process, interior design products and users during the transformation process. This study is based on the feedback of interior design companies, designers and users in South Africa, Canada and China. By selecting different research objects of different digital infrastructure level, this study explores the role and effectiveness of digital technology in the process of the digital transformation of the interior design industry. By comparing the comprehensive data of different countries, this paper makes a comprehensive analysis of the interior design industry from the perspective of the digital transformation of interior design enterprises, core digital design process and interior design products and services to explore the importance and inevitability of digital transformationItem Digital Transformation Opportunities and Challenges in the South African Mining Sector(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Mthimkhulu, Ntokozo; Magida, AyandaThe sustainability of the South African mining sector is under threat due to multiple factors affecting the sector, these include high production, and labour costs, the decline in global commodities prices, aging infrastructure, plant and equipment, and strict health, safety, and environmental regulations. Most South African mining companies are operating old mines that are reaching their end of life. Therefore, South African mining companies are looking for innovative ways to remain sustainable and competitive. The purpose of this research was to understand the potential Digital Technologies and Solutions that the South African mining sector can adopt, in addition to explore some of the Drivers and perceived Barriers to their adoption in their mining and operationsprocesses. A qualitative, exploratory research method was used to conduct the study, and thematic approach analysis was employed to explore the study objective. Nine participants were interviewed from different South African mining companies operating different commodities, and only participants in senior, middle, and junior management roles were selected for this study. Participants’ interview responses were recorded, and transcribed, and data analysis using a thematic approach was applied. Six themes emerged from the data analysis; these themes were composed of twenty-five categories. These categories were identified as drivers and barriers for South African mining companies to adopt potential digital technology and solutions in their mining and operations. The barriers due to the South African mining sector’s complex environment were identified as the reasons for the slow adoption of digital technologies and solutions by the mining sector. The mining sector must adopt digital technologies and solutions that are suitable for their environmentItem Digitisation of Patient Care: An Analysis of the Implementation of Electronic Health Records in Gauteng, South Africa(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Essof, Dr Erasmus Kofi; Appiah, Dr Erasmus KofiBackground: The global trend of centralised Electronic Health Records (EHR) aligns with the digitisation megatrends of the fourth industrial revolution. Developed countries show success, while developing nations, facing economic complexities, are lagging. In South Africa, low EHR maturity and adoption, coupled with the National Health Insurance (NHI) development, highlight the need for successful implementation. Problem Statement: EHR offers various benefits, yet slow implementation and adoption persist in the South African public healthcare sector due to numerous challenges. Objective: The study sought critical success factors for EHR implementation in Gauteng informed by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Information and Technology, Processes and Objectives, Skills and Management, and Other Factors (ITPOSMO) with an emphasis on user perspectives and the literature- reality gap. Method: The study used an exploratory cross-sectional approach, conducting interviews with six individuals, including end users and leadership from Gauteng's three largest municipalities. Findings and Conclusion: Benefits and challenges from literature, categorised by ITPOSMO and ranked by commonality, revealed a fundamental relationship with factors crucial for EHR implementation. To realise benefits and overcome challenges, critical success factors must be prioritised. These include user input, training, infrastructure development, change management, system maintenance, data quality, interoperability, standardized evaluation, and funding control. Emphasising these factors is crucial for successful EHR implementation, ultimately enhancing patient care and quality outcomes in the Gauteng Province.Item Disruptive innovation and the long run impact of mobile lending on bank sustainability in Zambia and Kenya(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Nonyane, Kgahliso Bridget; Omotoso, PelayoThe emergence of financial technology companies (fintechs) in the past decade has provided new twists on financial models, allowing customers more influence on their financial outcomes. As financial innovations disrupt financial services across the globe, many banks face the risk of reduced competitive advantage. In response, banks are exploring strategic alliances with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and fintechs to maintain their competitive advantage and enter new markets. One such innovation is the use of mobile phones to conduct financial transactions and tap into new markets. Mobile banking adoption studies predominantly focus on financial inclusion and its critical role in economic development and less on the potential transcendental impact that adoption of other mobile banking functions, such as mobile lending, might have on the banks’ affluent customer segment. More specifically, knowledge on whether mobile lending is a complementary or disruptive innovation for banks in the long term remains unclear. Firms that have managed to successfully develop or leverage on disruptive innovations were only able to determine the disruptiveness of the innovation ex post and scholars that have attempted to identify disruptive innovations ex ante, found it challenging. This research took a pre-emptive look at the long run impact of mobile lending on banks in Africa. Specifically, the case for mobile lending in Zambia and Kenya was assessed one of the four large multinational African banks in Zambia and Kenya. The literature review evaluated the theory of disruptive innovation as well as the Base of the Pyramid (BoP) theory as they were relevant to the establishment of mobile lending as a complementary or disruptive innovation for banks. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was adopted. A quantitative analysis of the secondary data for Zambia and Kenya for 2017 - 2019 was analysed, which was followed by in-depth, semi-structured interviews with ten participants from various business units (and various levels) within the bank. This allowed for the exploration of the main reasons for the quantitative analysis findings as well as provided additional insightsItem Effects of Digital Activism on Brand Awareness and Image(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Malambo, Nachanza; Anning, Thomas DorsonThe purpose of this research paper is to explore the impact that digital activism has on brands in South Africa. Digital activism, commonly known by social media users as cancel culture, has gained momentum with social media audiences; using the network effects of popular platforms such as Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram to discipline users, brands and celebrities that may have erred or offended users. As brands observe the increase of hours spent on social media, they are likely to increase their presence on the platforms of choice either for digital advertising and marketing communication purposes or to connect with potential audiences. They may be caught up in incidents of digital activism as has been seen with brands such as H&M, Dove, Tresemme and Clicks in recent years in South Africa. This paper begins by unearthing the roots of digital activism in political sciences disciplines and explores how the brand management theories of brand image and brand awareness are affected by this activity. The research problem explores the fact that traditional marketers have concentrated on the positive brand building elements of brand equity, with attention given to the awareness and image that brands are able to conjure in the minds of consumers; without much focus on the negative elements of brand avoidance, hate, and aversion, which can be outcome of digital activism. The research objectives were firstly to investigate the impact that social media activity has on brands as it has been shown that an increase of social media usage among individuals would increase the interaction that brands have with their intended target audience and members of the community. Secondly, the study sought to investigate the impact that digital activism has on brand awareness as one of the gaps to be studied is on the negative impact that digital activism or cancel culture may have on brand awareness. Thirdly, the researchers examined the impact of digital activism on brand avoidance, as a deliberate effort to avoid the brand either online or physically. Lastly, the study seeks to investigate the impact that digital activism has on a brands image, on whether this is reduced or increased in the light of increased mentions, trends, or appearances on popular social media platformsItem Emerging technologies and technological catch-up in the pharmaceuticals sector in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Singh, Vyasha; Hilli, ThembelaThis study investigates the establishment and evolution of innovation capabilities in synthetic biology, an emerging technology used as a mechanism for technological catch-up in latecomer countries, for application in the South African pharmaceuticals sector which aims to make innovative health treatments more accessible to patients, especially those in developing countries. There is a crucial need for developing countries to obtain endogenous technological and innovation capabilities as these are vital for achieving progress with regards to a countries desire to catch-up to leading nations. The qualitative research design used a longitudinal case study approach to determine how the development of capabilities in synthetic biology has evolved in South Africa since its inception at a dedicated research centre established in 2007 by The South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). Two innovation capability frameworks were applied to assess these capabilities to determine the current level of innovation capability in relation to its technology development, operations, management, and transactions capabilities which ultimately inform its innovation performance. The study utilized data from interviews with individuals directly involved with the centre’s research and management activities; a categorical questionnaire seeking data on technology development activities; as well as data extracted from organizational operational reports and strategic plans. The key findings showed that South Africa has a shortage of skilled human capital in synthetic biology coupled with insufficient financial resources to enable the area to realise its full potential. Therefore the innovation capability ranking of the centre has stagnated at an incremental/ intermediate level. The resulting effect is that, despite the national goals it has set out to achieve, the area has yet to create real impact for the pharmaceutical sector. The recommendations provided at the end of the study will advise the centre on possible pathways it could take to improve its overall innovation capability. At this present level, technological catch-up by means of leapfrogging, remains out of reach, and will hinder the countries progress in closing the gap between itself and leading countries in terms of the rates of technical change with respect to synthetic biology