Electronic Theses and Dissertations (Masters/MBA)
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Item The Perceived Business Value of a Business Intelligence System in the South African Energy Sector(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Kgasago, Kgoramele Joseph; Oba, PiusThe use of the BI System is assumed to be beneficial to organisations based on several conceptual and empirical studies which were undertaken to establish the business value of this information system. The current era of the fourth industrial revolution is characterised by innovative solutions such as Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data Analytics (BD), which have furthermore elevated the significance of BI System. The adoption of these technologies creates voluminous amounts of data and information, which need BI System to integrate and manage these data and generate relevant insight to enhance decision-making. However, the literature about how the adoption and use of BI Systems add business value to organisations is still limited. Most studies on the impact of the adoption and use of BI Systems to establish its business value have adopted quantitative empirical studies. Furthermore, the extant literature on BI System is still very limited when it comes the impact and business value that the BI System has on the South African energy sector. This study adopted a modified version of the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) as a theoretical framework that underpinned its investigation on how the use of BI System adds value in the South African energy sector. A qualitative research methodology was assumed to explore this phenomenon about perceived business value of BI Systems in the energy sector. Six professionals working in the South African energy sector’s oil and gas segment were sampled thorough purposive sampling technique and interviewed collect qualitative data about the BI System is perceived to impact this sector. Thematic analysis strategy was used to analyse the data from the opinion, views, values, and perspectives of participants to identify themes, concepts, and ideas that adequately explains this phenomenon. The findings of the study revealed that, BI System impacts organisations indirectly by providing actionable insight that supports the decision-making process in key business areas. As such, the BI System impacts organisations' performance through financial control, customer relationship management, revenue and sale increase, Internal controls and governance management, business process and enhanced asset performance. Consequently, the adoption and use of the BI System is deemed as a strategic initiative which must be embraced to enable organisations to respond to global business dynamics promptly and sustainablyItem Exploring The Impact Of Remuneration On Employee Turnover In The South African Diamond Mining Industry(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Kedige, Thabang; Appiah, ErasmusIt is argued that well-structured compensation packages not only fulfil employees' basic needs, but also promote a sense of belonging and recognition, thereby reducing turnover intentions. In the context of the South African diamond mining industry, this research study explored the intricate correlation between employee remuneration and turnover, emphasising the central role that work satisfaction and motivation held. It examined how various aspects of remuneration, including perceptions of fairness, appropriateness and the implementation of performance-related incentives directly influenced employees' decisions to either stay, or resign from their companies. By incorporating a comprehensive discussion regarding relevant theories such as Equity theory, Expectancy theory and Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, this research study provides a nuanced understanding of the motivational dynamics involved in this issue. A qualitative methodology was adopted for this research study in order to explore the experiences and perceptions of employees in this sector. In addition to this, the aim of utilising this method of research was also to provide empirical evidence concerning the effectiveness of different compensation strategies in order to increase job contentment and employee retention. It is expected that the results of this study should provide valuable insight for human resource managers and policy makers in the mining industry. Furthermore, the results are also expected to offer guidance on how to design appropriate compensation systems that will align employee aspirations with the goals of their organisation. In essence, these proposed systems should ultimately lead to lower turnover rates and a more stable workforceItem Gamification in production of a manufacturing firm in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Jooste, Stephanie MargaretGamification although an old concept, is only recently being adopted into various industries which have shown tremendous positive outcomes from the adoption of the concept. However, the manufacturing industry in South Africa lacks diversity and has failed to adopt the new concept. Therefore, it is critical to explore the potential of gamification in this sector. The extant body of literature on gamification highlights the concept's beneficial consequences; yet, as no research has been done to document gamification's long-term effects, caution is advised. Leaving adopters uncertain about the duration of time they can enjoy the advantages of higher output and staff engagement. The concept of gamification was investigated in the manufacturing industry todetermine if adoption is a viable option. This research provided insights on the complexity of the workforce and the resistance towards change. The industry is hungry for a disturbance to drive productivity and employee engagement to the next level. A qualitative methodology was employed, with 4 participants from one manufacturing firm supplying information on how gamification might be implemented in the manufacturing sector and the potential impact. The research findings provide insight into the difficulties the company would face if gamification was implemented. While highlighting the anticipated benefits, participants voiced concern about the workforce's divergent viewpoints. The overall viewpoint of the participants was that gamification can have a positive impact on productivity levels in the firm if introduced in a slow cautious manner. One of the main recommendations was to implement gamification in the company in conjunction with a motivational theory as a means of assisting the employees in adapting to the shift. It was recommended that the change must happen slowly and purposeful, it is imperative that the workforce understands the change and what is to be expected from itItem Bridging Big Data Analytics skills gap in the financial services sector(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Johnson, Reece; Godspower-Akpomiemie, EuphemiaAs the significance of big data analytics continues to escalate within the banking industry, there is a parallel surge in demand for adept professionals in this domain. Notably, one of the foremost challenges in the era of data is the scarcity of individuals possessing the requisite skill set to transform raw data into actionable insights that generate business value. Addressing this pressing concern, this study sets out to ascertain the technical and business-oriented data analytics skills crucial in the banking sector, pinpointing the most pivotal skills required both presently and in the forthcoming years. This qualitative research used collected data from banking institutions in South Africa and an academic institution via semi-structured interviews. A purposive sampling method was applied to select fourteen participants including executives and senior managers who have decision-making authority. A thematic data analysis was used as a lens to determine the critical skills required to effectively execute Big data and analytics in the banking industry. The findings revealed that critical technical, business, and interpersonal skills are in short supply among graduates and professionals in the South African banking industry. The study concludes and recommends that institutions of higher learning must enhance their curricula. This includes the incorporation of simulations and experiential learning, which are deemed particularly paramountItem The role of personalisation in digital advertising on consumer decision making in the South African context.(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Jansen, Bareile; Ndlela, ThubelihleThe surge in digital advertising has redefined the consumer landscape, profoundly impacting decision-making processes related to brand and product choices, which has ultimately led to digital brand saturation (Agrawani, 2022). Digital brand saturation could potentially lead to consumer decision making frustration, unnecessary marketing to the wrong audience, costly expenses related to that, and an increase in the need for personalisation (Agrawani, 2022). Despite extensive research on digital advertising's impact on consumer decisions, there is a lack of studies focusing on the effects of personalisation on consumer behaviour in South Africa. This study employs a qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews analysed via thematic analysis, with convenience sampling to select the 20 participants for this study (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). This method was practical for gathering data efficiently within the study’s constraints. The findings of the study highlight the critical role of relevant advertising in engaging consumers and underscore the importance of ethical data practices to build consumer trust Drawing upon foundational literature in consumer behaviour, marketing ethics, and cross-cultural studies, this study seeked to inform decision-making and promote ethical practices in personalised advertising. The conclusions emphasise the critical importance of relevance, transparency, and consumer autonomy in developing effective advertising strategies and building trust in brand-consumer relationships. By integrating these elements, the study underscores the need for aligning advertising practices with ethical standards to foster meaningful and trustworthy interactions between brands and consumers.Item The importance of corporate governance in the financial sector: a comparative analysis between Botswana and South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Isaacs, Pulafela FloydCorporate Governance is key to the integrity of financial markets and by extension the attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI) flows. It is a result of the split between owners and managers of businesses due to clashes in the interests of the parties. This is called the ‘agency’ problem. Problems and mechanisms of governance are different across countries, with governance issues in more developed countries finding their expression in wide shareholder bases while developing economies have smaller and more concentrated structures. Corporates have collapsed in the past due to poor Corporate Governance practices. Examples include Enron, WorldCom, Steinhoff and African Bank Investments Limited (ABIL). The study was motivated by recent reports of corporate governance scandals in Botswana including in relation to board composition, the integrity of financial information and related party transactions. The study is qualitative and seeks to compare corporate governance practices between financial services companies listed on the Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE) and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), as well as the level of compliance with recommended practices. A review of literature was carried out in the study where theoretical frameworks including the agency, stakeholder, stewardship, and resource dependence theories were explored. The study examined empirical frameworks, discussing Corporate Governance developments in Botswana (local), South Africa (regional) and the United Kingdom (global). Secondary data sources were used to collect data, specifically integrated reports. After analysing the data collected, recommendations were made based on the findings. These include improvements in solvency disclosures, material matters disclosure, materiality determination process disclosure, approval of integrated reports by the board, and disclosure requirements around succession planning. A further recommendation is to institutionalise Corporate Governance and make it part of the listing requirementsItem The Impact of digitalisation on job security at selected Financial Services’ organizations in the Capricorn District of Limpopo(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Nhlongwana, Nhlamazi; Appiah, ErasmusThis abstract summarizes a research study on the impact of digitalization on job security within chosen financial organizations in the Capricorn District of Limpopo. The study explores the effects of digital transformation on employees' sense of job security, examining communication channels, awareness of strategies, and the prioritization of job security. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey approach, the research gathers quantitative data on employees' perceptions and experiences. Findings highlight varying perceptions regarding the impact of digitalization on job roles and organizational responses. Recommendations are provided for financial organizations to address skill gaps and balance profitability with employee well-being. The abstract underscores the importance of proactive measures and transparent communication in navigating digital disruptions effectively while fostering resilience in the digital eraItem Development programmes to address green economy skills gaps in the South African petrochemical industry(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Haywood, Rudi; Ndaba, ZaneleSouth Africa's petrochemical industry faces a significant skills shortage, limiting its ability to effectively address the emerging challenges of the green economy. This slows the entity's growth and maturation over time. This study looks at Skills Development Programmes (SDPs) in this context and aims to identify the specific flaws in these programmes that limit their effectiveness in addressing critical skill gaps. This study uses qualitative methods, such as in-depth interviews and document analysis, to gain comprehensive insights from experienced professionals in the field. From this perspective, the study investigates current proficiency levels, the effectiveness of existing SDPs, and the actual contribution of these programmes to fostering a sustainable and environmentally friendly business environment. The study found a significant disparity between the practical application of SDPs and the needs of the green economy. This gap is exacerbated by issues of accessibility and a lack of alignment with strategic goals. Surprisingly, 85% of respondents said that SDPs lacked practical components, while roughly 80% said they were not effectively aligned with the organization's or sector's objectives. This demonstrates the importance of having programmes that are applicable in real-world situations and place a strong emphasis on long-term goals. This study uses Human Capital Theory to demonstrate the importance of education and training in promoting economic growth. This is consistent with the perspectives of Schultz, Becker, and Mincer on the importance of investing in human capital. The study advocates for a shift in the current approach to make skill development programmes more effective, accessible, and aligned with strategic goals. Collaboration with the private sector is an important recommendation to help individuals gain practical experience and apply their environmentally friendly knowledge in real-world settings. Furthermore, it is recommended that ongoing research be conducted to identify and address emerging skill gaps. These proposed changes aim to address current issues while also facilitating the transition of South Africa's petrochemical industry to a more environmentally friendly and sustainable future, which benefits all stakeholdersItem The impact of culture and leadership on the financial performance and productivity of Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) firms in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Harkison, VikashThe Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry produces non-durable products that are sold fast at inexpensive prices with low profit margins but constitute more than half of a consumer's expenditure (Chen, 2022). These goods have a brief shelf life and are quickly consumed. As of March 2019, the manufacturing sector was the fourth largest in South Africa, reflecting a 1.4% decline over the preceding ten years (Paltu & Brouwers, 2020). The organizational culture, financial performance, leadership style, and key performance indicators of a South African FMCG conglomerate were the main subjects of this study. The purpose of this research study was to address the following two research questions: How does toxic leadership affect the productivity of the South African FMCG industry? and How does organizational culture affect the industry's financial performance? The research questions were employed to correlate the impact of organisational culture on the financial performance of the chosen company and the impact of leadership on the productivity of the FMCG industry. The inquiry into organizational culture made considerable use of the Competing Values Framework; the financial analysis of the study was conducted using the Activity Based Costing model; and the Toxic Triangle was utilized to determine the nature of the leadership within the company. Data was collected via a questionnaire, productivity assessments and financial records from three different manufacturing units of one parent FMCG company for a period of four financial years. The questionnaire sample size consisted of 232 participants with 86, 86 and 60 responses received from Factories 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The findings indicate that Market Culture predominates in FMCG enterprises; yet, due to the adverse correlation of ROI and inverse ROA, it was determined that organizational factors have no bearing on the financial success of the FMCG industry in South Africa. It was established that toxic leaders had an effect on an FMCG conglomerate's workplace culture, employee loyalty, job satisfaction, and staff retention. Although, toxic leaders had less of an influence on the productivity within an establishment as compared to the type of working environment. A lack of empirical evidence deemed the effect of leadership on revenue and capital generation inconclusive. It is recommended that such an investigation be conducted on more than one FMCG enterprise. FMCG establishments are encouraged to evaluate parameters such as employee turnover, productivity metricssuch as Mean Time Before Failure (MTBF) / Mean Time To Repair (MTTR) and conductcustomer satisfaction surveys to allow the establishment to create a productive, safe and healthy workplaceItem Investigation into the South African steel market’s preparedness for decarbonization and the purchase of green steel(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Govender, Prebashni; Tabane, LehlohonoloThe study discusses a South African steel company’s effort to integrate sustainability into its business model and strategic planning in response to the Paris Agreement and the global steel industry’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This objective may be attained by: pursuing circular economy and enhancing steel recycling activities via an electric arc furnace coupled with renewable energy sources; retrofitting existing blast furnaces followed with the deployment of carbon capture and usage (CCU) technologies, and the expansion of hydrogen-based direct reduced iron (DRI) production alongside the utilization of renewable energy sources. However, there are risks that could hinder these goals, such as the continuous load shedding crisis, unfair trade policies and application of economic instruments, supply chain disruptions, and inadequate support for renewable energy. The industry faces financial and environmental pressures, and there is a need for government intervention through fair policies and incentives. Concerns are raised about the government's capabilities and priorities in implementing decarbonization policies and navigating the energy transition. Collaboration and funding opportunities are crucial for sustainability. The integration of carbon capture usage and storage technology is seen as risky by some experts, and more research and development is needed. This is concerning considering the net-zero timeline. Currently, there is little demand from industries to purchase green steel, emphasizing the need for product differentiation, improved marketing strategies and consumer awareness. Policymakers should reform policies to align with the net-zero emissions target to prevent the fall of the steel industry and the impact on the South African economyItem Machine learning in marketing strategy: A socio-technical approach in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Govender, Aleasha; Quaye, EmmanuelThe purpose of this research study was to determine whether the existing market segmentation, targeting and positioning (STP) approaches are optimal for marketing strategy in South Africa, and to what extent AI and machine learning are being used to improve marketing strategy in South Africa. The methods used have drawn on qualitative data research and document analysis. There were 10 participants in the study, the industries include Banking, Telecommunication and Medical Insurance. The methods used have drawn on qualitative data research and document analysis. The key results of the research have determined that Machine Learning is in its inception phase in terms of being used in marketing strategy in corporate South Africa. The research further finds that there are factors that are slowing the development in this field that are aligned with both hard and soft capabilities, for example, along with infrastructural capabilities like software integration, strategic capabilities like interdepartmental alignment are required for effective deployment of these technologies. Further, the research finds that the current segmentation, targeting and positioning methods used in isolation are not optimally contributing to marketing strategy, rather a blended approach including insights from customer data will provide a more accurate STP strategy. This research supports marketeers, technologists, business structures, researchers in South Africa, as well as strategists who deal with mass consumer bases, because market segmentation, targeting and positioning underpin how marketing strategy is rolled out throughout corporate South Africa and AI and Machine Learning are emerging technologies that are highly topical and are only at the inception phase of optimal utilisationItem Psychological contract and trust – implications for organisational performance in the clearing and forwarding sector(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Gasa, Sifiso; Gobind, JenikaA psychological contract contravention is a common occurrence in organisations, often resulting in a breakdown in trust between employer and the employee. This occurrence is in contrast with the organisation’s objective of optimal performance and to increase profits (Morsch & Dijk, 2020). This phenomenon has adverse consequences in the organisation through employees that are disengaged, high employee turnover/attrition, employee performance, skills and knowledge, skill erosion to name but a few. All these have an impact on organisational performance (Whalley, 2021Item An Assessment of Digital Transformation and Maturity in the South African banking sector(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Garane, Achumile Sinazo; Anning, Thomas DorsonThe present study investigates the nuances of digital transformation and maturity in the South African banking sector. In the present study, the prevailing problem is that documented scientific evidence seemingly suggests business customers have to wait a long time for their loan applications to be accepted because banks lack the necessary digital capabilities, business processes and IT competencies to respond to all sales requests promptly. To deal with this pressing empirical and practical gap in the literature, this study collected primary data through a semi-structured interview approach. To do this, two samples were drawn from business executives and retail and business client strata from the banking sector in South Africa. A total of 15 interviews were conducted, comprising 7 business executives and 8 from the retail and business clients group. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings suggest that South Africa's banking industry has a well-advanced digital banking system that integrates business and retail clients with the global financial system and makes it easier for them to plan their cash flow streams using different products offered by digital banking platforms. Nonetheless, despite a relatively advanced banking system, evidence suggests that retail and business banking clients lack the knowledge on how to use digital banking applications. As such, the study recommends that financial institutions should develop user-friendly products, increase knowledge of product usage to clients, and eliminate the probability of cybercrime in digital banking platformsItem Stakeholder Perspective of Value Creation in the Affordable Housing Market in South Arica(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Dyantyis, Nwabisa; Dorson, Thomas AnningAccess to adequate housing is a global crisis and requires a concerted effort by both private and private sector actors in the housing market. South Africa has made great stride but faces challenges in the provision of affordable housing segment due to the multisectoral multidimension complexity of the delivery framework of affordable housing. This study reflects on the body of work by scholars to study the affordable housing delivery framework, which has looked at the mechanic of the affordable housing market and explored the challenges in the tools, frameworks, resource allocations and institutional arrangements, for the delivery of quality affordable housing at scale and in a sustainable manner. The stakeholder theory provides a framework for the exploration of the analysis of the multistakeholder delivery framework of affordable housing. Through the application of the literature, that relates to value creation, enables an exploration of the affordable housing market and the value that is created and allocated by and to stakeholders. For the purpose of the qualitative study interviewing twelve respondents from the three groups of supply side stakeholders in the affordable housing market, namely government, financiers, and developers; using semi-structured interviews, whose perspective was the primary data sources for this study. The interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysis to extract the themes that underpin the perspectives of stakeholders in the affordable housing market in South Africa. This study explores articulates the relationship between institutional stakeholders in the affordable housing supply chain segment to unlock the challenges constraining affordable housing delivery in South Africa. The outcomes of this basic research will contribute to further study of the affordable housing segment is contributing to the knowledge of mechanism of the market and stakeholder arrangements that create value in this housing segment and makes proposals for further study in this housing segmentItem The challenges of implementing cloud computing in the South African financial sector(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Dume, Kudzayi Claris; Magida, AyandaThis study aimed to explore the implementing challenges of cloud computing in the South African financial services sector, the interrelationships of the challenges and additional challenges. The study sought to address three questions which are as follows, (1) What are the challenges of are implementing cloud computing in the financial services sector? (2) What are the interrelationships between cloud computing challenges? (3) What are the other ranked challenges of implementing cloud computing in the financial services sector? To answer these questions, the study explored Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), an agile and lean methodology. The framework is for scaling large organisations, including the financial services sector. According to the conceptual model, the six identified cloud computing implementation challenges were assumed to be affecting SAFe. The conceptual model was tested based on an online survey using Qualtrics. The collected responses were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The data analysed was from seventy-six cloud computing users from South Africa financial services sector. The research findings showed that the challenges of implement cloud computing had an impact on the South African financial services sector. Although the research questions were answered, the identified challenges of implementing cloud computing in the financial services sector were not all aligned with the opinions of the literature review. The details of the study can be used as a guide in implementing cloud computing solution in the financial services sector to reduce failure rate.Item A Business Insurance Product coupled with an Investment Policy Geared to Promote Sustainability of South African SMEs.(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Dube, Siphamandla Mbekekezeli; Quaye, EmmanuelTraditional insurance companies need to develop the ability to create innovative digital products tailored to improving the financial health of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in order to keep up with changing economic and digital trends, adapt to a consumer-driven economy, and stay competitive in an industry that is shifting towards Insurtech (Svahn, 2017). The aim of this business venture is to investigate the feasibility and potential for creating a short-term product that facilitates cash injections into SMEs through an embedded investment policy solution. This paper examines how such a product can be formulated, implemented within an insurance company while remaining compliant with regulatory requirements. The study, conducted through interviews with experienced professionals in the insurance industry, revealed that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) require significant support to grow and sustain their businesses. Commercial insurance is seen as a crucial factor in achieving this goal. However, the current offerings by short-term insurance providers need to be re-evaluated in order to better assist SMEs in dealing with unexpected setbacks such as theft, breakages, fires, floods, and strikes. It is essential for these offerings to provide cash assistance to help with ongoing business operations as well. The existing commercial insurance models have noticeable deficiencies that prevent the development of a comprehensive product that addresses both asset protection and financial assistance. These shortcomings are mainly attributed to regulatory hurdles, a lack of focus on customer value propositions, and revenue models that primarily benefit shareholders. The Delphi technique was employed in order to get expert opinion and consensus on major challenges that arise in administering a dual product being offered for SMEs with the idea of helping them should a ‘rainy day’ occur or for expanding the operations of the business. Additionally, the professional had to outline how they envisage the specific features of this embedded product to look like and what the impact would be within the short-term insurance industryItem Standby power trolleys to mitigate load shedding using a lease or lease-to-buy business model(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Du Toit, Johannes JacobusThe business venture envisions a brighter future for South Africa by providing reliable and affordable power solutions, with a focus on empowering small businesses. Exploratory research, leveraging a qualitative research methodology, was conducted and a public demand for a solution was established. The unique approach involves a power trolley lease and lease-to-buy model, allowing customers to test backup power solutions before committing to a specific solution. To support its vision, the business developed key capabilities such as customer management, product development, distribution, and marketing. An analysis indicates the potential for competitive advantage once the organization is established. In the macro environmental analysis, the business identifies a market opportunity based on persistent power challenges in South Africa and economic constraints, creating a demand for cost-effective backup power solutions. The industry analysis suggests an attractive industry with low buyer power and limited competitive rivalry. The ventures positioning statement emphasizes a comprehensive service experience, offering innovative backup power products (power trolleys) with connected customer support. The venture’s operational plan is driven by a supply chain strategy focused on responsiveness to meet the urgent backup power needs of small businesses, aligning with the connected marketing strategy. The venture plans to focus its marketing and sales strategy on digital channels like Google advertisements and Facebook advertisements, specifically targeting the Gauteng region to minimize costs associated with physical advertising. The business adopts a differentiation pricing strategy, emphasizing quality service, given the lack of direct competitors. The founder plans to bootstrap the venture to retain control and minimize costs. The venture’s preliminary financial forecasts project positive net profit, balance sheet growth, and positive cash flow after the second year of operation. It was concluded through methodical research that a solution to power outages in the South African context would provide a strong basis for a business venture. The business analysis conducted showed the optimal strategy and process to exploit the opportunity identified.Item Mini Glass Ceilings and Queen Bees in Management of South African Organisations(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Du Preez, SamanthaGender equality in the workplace remains a business and Government imperative. Although the South African transformation journey had a positive impact to female careers by way of affirmative action policy, female career advancement remains lethargic. This study delves into the complex challenges hindering female career advancement, focusing on two prominent phenomena: the glass ceiling and queen bee syndrome. The glass ceiling refers to invisible yet formidable barriers that prevent women from ascending to leadership positions within organizations. It encompasses systemic biases, gender stereotyping, and organisational culture discrimination against females, creating a tangible, albeit invisible barrier to women's professional growth. Conversely, the queen bee syndrome describes a phenomenon where senior women have successfully broken through the glass ceiling, but seemingly creates a toxic barrier which inhibit the progress of their junior female counterparts. In combination, these barriers often perpetuate a hostile and toxic work environment underpinned by competition and lack of support. This quantitative study’s aim was to identify and analyse the prevalence of these barriers in South African organisations today. The study’s findings indicate that both these phenomena are found in the organisations respondents are employed by, with an indication of positive organisational cultures within these workplaces. Recommendations are proposed encompassing organisational intervention with suitable and targeted initiatives to create awareness, educate and guide all managers in the managerial hierarchy.Item Environmental, social and corporate governance investment on organizational sustainability: A case of the South African mining sector(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Dlamini, Mlandvo Brian Thembinkosi; Mondi, LumkileMining companies continue to mine and process minerals as the demand for such minerals remains high and will do so into the future for livelihoods to be sustained. However, there are many risks associated with mining and mineral processing activities concerning environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues. For organizations listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), there has been a mandatory call for ESG disclosure by these organizations to disclose what they are doing to eliminate or mitigate against risks associated with ESG. Addressing these risks requires a significant financial investment. The purpose of this research is to provide insight into the costs and benefits of investing in ESG within the context of the South African mining industry, with South Africa being a developing country. ESG matters have not been fully studied in developing countries. The appreciation of what focusing on them requires in as far as investing financially relative to the costs remains a crucial consideration. Managers and leaders have been left asking themselves what it would cost to invest in ESG, along with the reward it is expected to bring. The aim of this work is to review what seven of the JSE listed mining companies have invested towards addressing ESG risks and what benefit it has brought them. Secondary data available from the sustainability reports and annual reports of BHP Group Limited, Glencore plc, Anglo American plc, Gold Fields Limited, Anglo American Platinum, South32 Limited and Anglogold Ashanti, was sourced for this study. The chosen companies were chosen based on their value, being over R100 billion by market capitalization. These are companies for who’s data would be available as they are obligated to disclose their actions concerning ESG. From the results, the stakeholder community is in favour of companies having measures inplace to address issues concerning ESG risks. Disclosure of the actions taken increases awareness for the company and because of this, the reward is brand awareness leading to organizational sustainability. The amount of money invested in ESG is negligible compared to the long-term reward for the company. The study concludes that investing in ESG contributes to organizational sustainability. This research has provided the answers to the questions asked about the benefits of investing in ESG. Those who have done it are greatly rewarded. It isrecommended that mining companies set aside a budget to eliminate or mitigate against issues associated with ESG metrics to enjoy long-term sustainabilityItem Improved infrastructure delivery through effective implementation of IDMS and SCM systems and processes in the Department of Public Works, North West Province(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Diko, Sifiso Isaac; Anning, Thomas DorsonThe Infrastructure Delivery Management System and Supply Chain Management are concepts of strategic importance in service delivery and socioeconomic transformation in the public sector as they guide processes of procurement, planning and implementation of projects in communities. The aim of the study was to improve infrastructure delivery through effective implementation of the Infrastructure Delivery Management System and Supply Chain Management system and processes in the Department of Public Works, North West province. The aim further was to assess the procedures, benefits, challenges and critical success factors of effective implementation of the Infrastructure Delivery Management System and Supply Chain Management system and processes in the Public Works Department. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on 10 purposive random samples. In order to understand the effects of supply chain management and the Infrastructure Delivery Management System in the public sector, the study used a case study design within an explanatory paradigm. The findings of the study were that, application of IDMS reporting gates, approval gates, framework agreement gates by professional and committees in the Department of Public Works to control Infrastructure Delivery Management System and procedures established minimum requirements, and tracking and monitoring. The development of skills, knowledge, technology, and systems, stakeholder involvement, centralization of high-value transactions, compliance, transparency, and governance are essential for the successful adoption of the Infrastructure Delivery Management System. Infrastructure Delivery Management System innovations, technology, processes, rationalization, and efficient training are among the recommendations