Electronic Theses and Dissertations (Masters/MBA)
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10539/37942
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Item Employees’ Perceptions of Procedural Fairness of Employment Equity in a Multinational Pharmaceutical Company in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Maitisa, Norah; Appiah, ErasmusIntroduction: All employment procedures need to be fair and free of discrimination for all employees. Perceptions of fairness of EE is associated with high staff morale, high performance, and overall satisfaction with the company. When employees have negative perceptions of fairness of EE procedures, this may be disruptive for the organisation and impact on employees’ job satisfaction, morale, and create a racial division among employees. This can only be harmful to organisations trying to achieve an equitable environment for all. Understanding of such perceptions by organisations allow for implementation of programmes that will allow dialogue and corrective actions and implementing appropriate programmes. Perceptions on EE fairness needs to be heard from both designated groups and previously advantaged groups. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess the state of employees’ perceptions of EE procedural fairness, and to determine the impact of employees’ perception of EE procedural fairness of management & leadership practices (HR practices, performance appraisal and conflict management) on employees’ general satisfaction with the workplace. Methodology & Results: A survey questionnaire was used to collect data from employees in one company. Of the 104 electronic surveys shared with employees, 63 respondents returned the questionnaire and only data for 62 employees analysed. The study showed overall positive employees’ perceptions of EE procedural fairness. The study showed that positive perceptions of HR practices and conflict management increased overall satisfaction of employees with the workplace. Race, gender, and age had no influence on employees’ fairness perceptions in this study. Conclusion: When companies apply fair and consistent processes in HR, including conflict management, general employees’ satisfaction with the workplace increases. Positiveperceptions of procedural fairness will have a positive impact on companies, as employees are satisfied. Companies need ensure that all EE procedures are free from discrimination and are applied in a consistent manner across the organisation.Item 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 Integration of cooperative business model in the South African taxi industry: A case study of Johannesburg municipality(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Yende, Valela John; Appiah, ErasmusThe objective of this business venture is to establish a cooperative minibus transportation organization structured around shared ownership. Members of this cooperative will be drawn from the DORLJOTA and FARADAY Taxi Associations, both active in the Johannesburg metro area. This cooperative will operate independently from traditional taxi associations, with its own operational protocols, policies, and governance structures. This venture aims to provide taxi owners with opportunities to explore new markets and business segments. By participating in the cooperative, members will not only diversify their revenue streams but also access skills development programs for themselves and their drivers. Additionally, they will gain valuable business insights and achieve economies of scale through efficient fleet management. The primary goal of the proposed cooperative is not to disrupt the current operations of minibus taxis serving predominantly low-income communities. Instead, it seeks to introduce a specialized taxi service catering to the urban middle class. This service will offer competitive pricing comparable to e-hailing services, adhere to stringent policies, and provide the urban middle class with a reliable public transport option. By doing so, this initiative offers two-fold benefits: cooperative members expand their income sources while the urban middle class gains access to a more affordable alternative to costly e-hailing services and private vehicle ownership. The growing challenges faced by urban vehicle owners, including high ownership costs, rising fuel prices, and traffic congestion, highlight the need for such initiatives. This cooperative venture will selectively recruit taxi owners with well-maintained vehicles, positioning them as both shareholders and clients. The vehicles provided by owners and associations constitute the primary assets enabling the business to serve middle-class commuters. Recognizing the greater spending power of the urban middle class, the business will price its services, accordingly, setting itself apart from traditional taxi services.Item Operational challenges and financial sustainability of delivering dialysis services in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Avanasigan, Thareshni; Appiah, ErasmusThe provision of dialysis services in South Africa presents a multifaceted landscape which is characterised by both operational challenges and financial sustainability concerns. This study explores the intricate dynamics and impediments faced within the healthcare system and focuses on the delivery of dialysis services. The reviewed literature examined the operational complexities which encompass limited access to resources, inadequate infrastructure, shortage of skilled personnel, and geographic disparities that impede the delivery of services. Moreover, the financial sustainability of dialysis services is a critical issue, and is compounded by the high costs for equipment, consumables, and maintenance, coupled with limited funding and reimbursement mechanisms. This study aims to shed light on the complexity surrounding the provision of dialysis services in South Africa. The challenges are synthesised and methods to enhance operational efficiency and acquire financial sustainability within the healthcare system is recommendedItem 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 The Impact of employment benefits on employee performance and productivity in the South African mining industry(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Shiluvana, Theron Fana; Appiah, ErasmusThis research study considers themes such as housing allowances, health care benefits, retirement plans and other non-cash incentives, to learn more about how employees feel about their benefits and how these perceptions affect their work performance and productivity.It is anticipated that the findings of this research will contribute valuable insights to both academia and industry practitioners by shedding light on the intricate dynamics between employment benefits, employee motivation and organisational productivity in the South African mining context. Moreover, the study aims to offer actionable recommendations that mining companies can implement to optimize their benefit packages in order to enhance employees’ satisfaction, engagement and, ultimately,performance and productivity