Electronic Theses and Dissertations (Masters/MBA)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10539/37942

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    Exploring the digital divide in underserved communities in rural Mpumalanga, South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Shandukani, Linda; Magida, Ayanda
    This research report explored the digital divide in underserved communities in rural Mpumalanga, South Africa, focusing on how owning a smartphone can help bridge the gap. Despite the widespread use of digital technology, financial constraints and limited digital literacy continue to create disparities, especially among marginalised populations. The study employed a qualitative research design, primarily through eight in- depth interviews, to explore how smartphones can impact digital inclusion and overall quality of life in these communities. The findings reveal a digital divide, particularly among young Black individuals, due to barriers in smartphone and internet accessibility. While ease of access to technology can enhance social and economic capital, challenges such as pricing and infrastructure limitations exacerbate disparities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and marginalisation.
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    The impact of the use of e-Commerce on customer experience for retail in South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Naidoo, Jaroshen; Mudau, Thanyani Norman
    e-Commerce systems are rapidly changing how individuals shop, and they have provided many retail stores in South Africa with a new sales channel to service customers. With many organisations heavily investing in e-Commerce systems, the need to have end users adopting e-Commerce is vital for the success of the future of e-Commerce. Two areas that need to be examined include how customers currently use e-commerce systems and how e-Commerce use impacts customer experience. To understand the challenges, factors influencing e-commerce usage and its impact on customer experience were investigated. This study distinguished between basic and advanced utilisation of e-commerce systems. To understand the research objectives identified, an extended version of the Delone and Mclean IS Success model has been adapted to the study, which has been modelled as an e-Commerce IS success model. The factors influencing the advanced use of e-Commerce systems include information, system, and service quality. With e-Commerce being split into basic and advanced use, advanced use was focused on understanding how it affects customer experience. This data was collected through a survey distributed to end users of e-Commerce over LinkedIn. 159 respondents(n=159) provided insights into the factors, which included Information quality, system quality, service quality, basic use, advanced use, user satisfaction, customer experience and data quality. However, data quality was a factor that dropped during the Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), which was done through SPSS and AMOS. The research showed strong relationships between information quality and advanced use, system quality and advanced use, and service quality and advanced use. This confirmed the first objective of understanding the factors that impact the advanced use of e-Commerce systems in retail in South Africa. The next major result showed that advanced use had a higher coefficient to the basic viii uses relationship towards customer experience, and this translated to end users wanting to make use of the advanced features of e-Commerce systems to make decision-making and Key Performance Indicators (KPI) easier to achieve. In the findings, numerous contributions have been made, which include the factors that impact the basic and advanced use of e-Commerce systems. The effects of the basic and advanced use on customer experience and user satisfaction, which did not previously exist within the e-Commerce space, are also contributions identified in this study. Overall, this study helps organisations understand what end users and customers would want to use when using e- Commerce platforms in terms of features and how customer experience can be influenced by new technologies and features introduced into the e-Commerce system for retail in South Africa.
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    The influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on personalised learning in the workplace
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Msimang, Siphamandla; Alagbaoso, Manessah
    This study investigates the influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on personalised learning in the workplace, set within the rapidly evolving landscape of digital technology integration in organisational learning strategies and environments. Addressing the gap in literature regarding AI's role in enhancing workplace learning experiences, this research utilises the Technology- Organisation-Environment (TOE) framework and Senge's Learning Organisation theory as its conceptual underpinnings. Through a quantitative methodology, data was collected from 391 participants across various industries via an AI-powered chatbot survey interface, focusing on employees' engagement in self-directed learning activities, perceptions of AI-enhanced personalised learning, and the factors influencing their engagement in workplace learning. The study reveals that employees perceive AI as an enhancer of personalised learning experiences in the workplace, with its adoption being significantly influenced by factors such as technological compatibility, organisational support, and a conducive regulatory environment. The findings offer an understanding of the multifaceted nature of AI in enhancing personalised learning experiences in the workplace, providing insights for future strategies and implementations in this evolving field. The conclusion draws attention to the transformative potential of AI in enhancing personalised learning within the workplace, advocating for its strategic integration to fully leverage its benefits. By aligning AI-driven learning tools with organisational cultures that prioritize continuous learning, organisations can significantly improve employee engagement, skills development, and ultimately, their competitive advantage in the digital era.
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    Perceptions on the adoption or use of waste to energy (WtE) technologies among waste managers in Gauteng
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mokgolobotho, Ingrid Konkong; Ngubevana, Lwazi
    The Gauteng Province, increase in population growth, urbanisation, industrialisation and economic activity has resulted in increased amounts of generated municipal solid waste (MSW). There are concerns about landfill airspace depletion, energy poverty, environmental concerns that create greenhouse gases, air pollution and water contamination. The province also requires electricity to keep its economic activity functional, while providing its citizens with electricity. The research is a qualitative study, with the purpose of understanding how waste managers in the waste industry perceive the adoption or use of waste to energy (WtE) technologies in Gauteng. Semi-qualitative interviews were held, face-to-face and on Microsoft Teams. The sample chosen were waste managers who were knowledgeable on the research topic. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data from the semi-qualitative interviews. Data triangulation was used to establish the credibility/validity of the interview findings. The findings in the study from the semi-qualitative interviews and literature review were aligned with regards to the role waste managers’ play in procuring waste to energy technologies as well as the benefits on the uptake of WtE technologies, which are improved waste management practices, less environmental challenges and the introduction of new revenue streams. Waste managers are also viewed as researchers, collaborators and educators. The study found that some of the factors that influence the perceived ease of use as well as perceived usefulness of WtE technologies include the feasibility and affordability of these technologies, access to finance, the availability of technical, training and skills transfer, potential employment opportunities and the need to diversify the energy supply iii The challenges observed by the participants were the lack of stakeholder engagement and sufficient education, lack of adequate legislature and poor governance as well as lack of access to capital. The enablers were noted as equipment tax returns, introduce landfill tax, high landfill entry gates, energy sales, carbon credits as well as educating and involving all waste generators and recyclers. To attract investors, participants noted that there should be transparency and simplified contracts, having relevant collaborations, the need for grants and assurance on return on investment
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    Social Media Influencers And Purchase Intention For Motor Vehicles In South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mlimi, Evans Muzi; Saini, Y.K.
    The effect of social media influencers on purchase intention for motor vehicles in South Africa. The motor-vehicle industry is one of the largest sectors in South Africa and the most dominant in the manufacturing industry. In 2022, the sector’s contribution accounted for 4.9% to the gross domestic product (GDP) making it a very consistent player in manufacturing. This industry is dominated by familiar and legacy brands such as Toyota, Volkswagen, BMW, Ford, Suzuki, and Renault to mention a few. The sector has recently seen new entrants namely Chinese and Korean brands enter the market and challenging the traditional players. This has prompted marketing practitioners to employ new innovative strategies such as using Social Media Influencers to shape consumer perception about their brands. Social Media Influencers are individuals who position themselves as experts in a particular field and they share their product knowledge with their online audience on social media channels. Therefore, the research study investigated the effects of Social Media Influencers particularly their expertise, credibility, trustworthiness, popularity, likability, and attractiveness on purchase intention for motor-vehicles in South Africa. The researcher followed a descriptive research design, where a research survey was randomly distributed to over 1000 post graduate students and working professionals. The findings revealed that a Social Media Influencer’s expertise, trustworthiness, and likability significantly affect consumer purchase intention when shopping for motor vehicles. Three of the six proposed hypotheses were supported by the research results. The study makes a significant contribution to academic literature as it shows the important role played by Social Media Influencers and how Motor-vehicle companies can partner with them to promote the brands and improve loyalty.
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    Investors’ Perceptions of the South African National Brand
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mhlungu, Nondumiso Marcia
    The problem of understanding investors' perceptions of the South African national brand, shaped by historical, political, and economic dynamics, is crucial for enhancing investment attraction in emerging markets like South Africa. This study aimed to explore investors' perceptions of the national brand of South Africa, focusing on understanding how these perceptions influence investment decisions. The research aimed to understand how investors perceive the South African National Brand and its impact on their investment decisions. The research problem addressed the gap in understanding how investors perceive the South African national brand. Utilising a purposive sampling technique, 15 participants were selected based on their expertise and involvement in investment activities within South Africa. Data collection involved in-depth interviews, allowing for an exploration of participants' perceptions. The study found a diverse range of perceptions among investors regarding the South African national brand. While some participants expressed confidence in the country's potential for economic growth and investment opportunities, others highlighted concerns related to political stability, infrastructure challenges, and socio-economic disparities. Despite positive attributes such as natural resources and cultural diversity, concerns about crime rates, corruption, and regulatory uncertainty were identified as significant deterrents to investment. The study concluded that while the South African National Brand possesses intrinsic strengths, addressing governance, security, and regulatory framework challenges is imperative for enhancing investor confidence and attracting sustainable investments. Based on the research findings, it is recommended that South African authorities and stakeholders engage in targeted efforts to improve and promote the national brand, emphasising its strengths and addressing areas of weakness. This could involve diplomatic efforts to enhance the country's international image, economic reforms to improve stability and attractiveness to investors, and strategic communication campaigns to showcase South Africa's potential as an investment destination. Additionally, ongoing research and monitoring of investors' perceptions should be conducted to adapt strategies effectively.
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    Exploring evidence use mechanisms in the North West Provincial Secretariat for Police Service
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mazula, Andile; Pophiwa, Nedson
    This study explores ways and mechanisms which the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management (DCSTM) utilises evidence from the studies conducted to inform it’s planning and decision-making. It further analysed attitudes and inclination of departmental leadership to use evidence-based plans and decisions as a way of improving departmental performance. The study sought to address the research question – What mechanisms can be used to promote evidence use in planning and decision making within the provincial Department of Community Safety and Transport Management? An exploratory qualitative design was employed in answering this research because it allows space and time to interpret and analyse data that was collected. A total of fifteen key informants from the availed themselves for key informant interviews. The results demonstrate that there are recognisable forms of evidence generated within the department, including official crime statistics released by the South African Police Service (SAPS), small-scale commissioned research projects, monitoring data from oversight functions of the department and other ad hoc sources of data. However, the overall picture is there are several challenges with regard to the utilisation of evidence. It also demonstrates how insufficient knowledge, competence, and ability to use evidence limits the effective use of evidence. This includes, among other things, the difficulties with evidence quality and accessibility as well as written procedures that serve as guidelines for methods of using evidence.
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    Household participation in Financial Markets
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mabale, Thato; Godspower-Akpomiemie, Euphemia
    This research investigates the relationship between financial literacy and financial participation among South African households focusing on demographic variables such as age, gender, and education level. The study examines the relationship between financial literacy and financial asset investment using data from the 2019 FinScope Survey. The demographic characteristics of participants, including age, gender, ethnic group, marital status, educational level, household size, and employment status, were examined through statistical analyses (correlation and regression) to determine their influence on financial investment. The findings revealed that higher financial literacy, measured through understanding and behaviour regarding financial assets, significantly correlates with increased investment levels (β = 0.004, p = 0.012). Participants with higher numeracy skills also demonstrated greater financial participation (β = 0.005, p = 0.022). Demographic factors were similarly influential, with older individuals (β = 0.001, p = 0.035) and male participants (β = 0.001, p = 0.049) investing a higher mean percentage of their income in financial assets. Moreover, young adults aged 30–44 were found to be the most active investors, while individuals with tertiary education showed the highest mean investment percentage, showing the important role of education in improving financial engagement (β = 0.007, p < 0.001). This corroborates previous studies which found that participant characteristics affect their financial behaviour and risk tolerance. The study also highlights the influence of household size and composition, with larger households and those with more children investing significantly less due to financial constraints. Overall, these results underscore that a good understanding of financial concepts such as interest rates and inflation, leads to greater financial engagement and investment growth. An important implication of this study is that targeted interventions to enhance financial literacy mostly among women and less-educated groups, could increase financial market participation. Such efforts would promote diversity in South Africa’s financial markets and support economic development for all population groups.
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    The Role of Organisational Culture in Digital Transformation in the South African Retail Sector
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Lehabe, Malebo Lily; Appiah, Erasmus
    The aim of this study is to identify the role of organisational culture in the South African retail sector and determine how it affects digital transformation. The study considers the state of digital transformation in the South African retail sector, the role of organisational culture and the attributes that hinder and propel the success of digital transformation. COVID-19 accelerated disruption in the retail sector, and retailers were compelled to transform digitally. This is a qualitative study that focuses on Fast Moving Consumer Goods in the retail sector. Diverse entities were considered regardless of size or digital maturity. The Westerman Framework was the aspect of digital maturity. It was found that the South African retail sector is in its infancy regarding digital maturity and that retail entities could not provide evidence of the importance of organisational culture. Organisational culture attributes that enable and hinder success and those that currently hinder the success of digital transformation were also considered to understand the impact these attributes have on digital transformation.
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    The Use of Alternative Data by Fintechs to Provide Access to Credit for SMEs in South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Khupe, Mandlenkosi M.; Msimango-Galawe, J.
    In South Africa, access to finance remains one of the major contributors to SME failures. The International Finance Corporation estimates that the credit gap for MSMEs in South Africa is R510bn. Traditional lenders often impose stringent requirements and avoid certain segments due to high information asymmetry costs. This factor has led to the advent of fintechs that seek innovative ways to provide unsecured funding. This study examines the role of fintechs in leveraging alternative data to provide credit access to SMEs. The study adopts a standard qualitative approach, with the primary methodology used to collect data being semi-structured interviews. Thirteen participants with varied exposure to alternative data in the fintech sector were interviewed. The findings of the study reveal the transformative nature of alternative data, as it significantly reduces information asymmetry and enhances credit provision. Furthermore, the study concludes that alternative data should be used to supplement rather than replace traditional data. The research highlights the fact that while fintechs favour hard data over soft data for more objective decision-making, the use of alternative data in South Africa is still emerging. The study further reveals that soft data are less weighted by fintechs compared to hard data which enable fintechs to make objective decisions. The conclusion reached is the need for collaboration among fintechs, regulators, and other stakeholders in the financial ecosystem to foster and promote data sharing practices in the alternative data space. This collaborative approach is essential for addressing the prevailing issues of information asymmetry and for further enhancing SME access to finance.