Electronic Theses and Dissertations (Masters/MBA)

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

Browse

Search Results

Now showing 1 - 10 of 948

External Factors Influencing the Sustainability of Social Entrepreneurial Ventures in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2020) Govender, Ramona; Murimbika, McEdward
Social entrepreneurship is increasingly seen as a solution in addressing some of the social ills in the world. However, in order for the social enterprises to be more effective there is a need for them to be sustainable, particularly in terms of financial sustainability. Social enterprises that are financially sustainable are usually better able to create social value. The study sought to investigate the contributing factors towards social enterprise (SE) venture sustainability in South Africa using Cape Town as a case study. In doing so, quantitative research was conducted, with data being collected from the sampled social enterprises using an online survey. In this research it was found that, while government assistance was important, it was not significant in determining a social enterprise’s performance. The research also found that high social innovation improves a social enterprise’s access to philanthropic venture capital. In this regard, high social innovation was also seen to have a positive effect on social enterprise performance. The research thus concludes that social innovation is an important contributor to the sustainability of a social enterprise. The study offers updated information and adds to the theory on social enterprises in South Africa which is useful to prospective social entrepreneurs seeking to structure such organizations. In addition to this, the new knowledge and new insights will help government and civil society policy makers to formulate policies that can encourage social entrepreneurship in the country, especially with regards to funding. The study also offers useful insights on social innovation and emphasises its importance within the social enterprise context.
Enablers and barriers to effective strategy implementation in a South African financial institution
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Zikalala, Zanele
Strategy implementation forms part of the broader concept and critical aspect of strategic management which is practiced across many organisations in South Africa. However, it has been found through the abundance of literature that most organisations put more emphasis, focus on strategy formulation, and neglect strategy implementation. The number of existing strategy formulation frameworks supports this view, while scholars have not reached a consensus on the most effective frameworks for strategy implementation. Based on the high failure rate on strategy implementation, ranging between 60% and 90%, this exploratory study will seek to understand factors impacting effective strategy implementation in a South African context for a financial institution. Qualitative research was undertaken to further explore this study, wherein data was collected through an electronic survey from employees within the financial institution who specifically work in the Strategy Enablement Office. The data analysis yielded findings that identified five key factors impacting strategy implementation: leadership and culture, strategy implementation, employee understanding, regular feedback, and organisational performance. Out of these factors, the findings indicated that regular feedback and employee understanding were considered significantly important to strategy implementation. Leadership and culture and organisational performance had a positive impact but were not significant, according to the data collected for a specific financial institution. The study confirmed the importance of strategy implementation and the key factors that lie under it; however, the study also revealed that the organisation will need to put more effort into senior leadership involvement and provide regular feedback to employees during strategy implementation. Therefore, some recommendations put forward are to ensure senior leadership’s greater involvement during strategy implementation and to be provided with training interventions in this regard to mitigate the risk of nonchalant behaviour by senior management during the implementation phase. The study contributes to helping teams working in strategy enablement across the organisation, to gain insights on which factors to focus on and which ones are potential blind spots during strategy implementation to improve organisational performance.
Expanding and Enhancing Medical Testing Laboratories in rural areas of South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Tshavhungwe, Tshifhiwa; Murimbika, McEdward
This venture aims to establish medical laboratories in underserved rural areas of Vhembe district in Limpopo, South Africa in order to address the critical need for enhanced healthcare services in rural areas of South Africa. With a population of 1,653,077, Vhembe has about eight private labs in semi-urban areas, along with public hospital laboratories. The venture proposal is driven by the recognition of significant challenges faced by rural communities, including limited access to diagnostic testing facilities and prolonged turnaround times for test results. Limited access to laboratories impacts healthcare outcomes significantly (CDC, 2018). Healthcare laboratories aim to address this gap by providing advanced diagnostic services. The proximity of our labs to rural communities improves Turnaround Time (TAT) significantly, a crucial performance indicator for laboratories (Cassim et al., 2020). Local laboratories minimise reliance on external facilities, reducing transportation costs and logistical challenges as well as the need for sample referral which in turn improves TAT. This improves healthcare accessibility and streamlines diagnostic services (Coetzee et al., 2022)
The relationship between leadership style within an organisation and employee turnover within the South African banking industry
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Thusago, Kegaugetswe
The research study was performed to determine what the relationship is between the authoritative and servant leadership style and employee turnover and what other factors influence employee turnover within organisations. Similar studies have been conducted on the topic which focused on the relationship between transactional, transformational and Laisse fair leadership style and their connection to employee turnover, however minimal studies have been conducted to understand the relationship between the authoritative and servant leadership style and employee turnover. Furthermore, most studies were performed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and the introduction of the 4th industrial revolution which brought considerable amount of change to the way of work and the type of leadership styles employee would prefer. A qualitative research approach was selected, and a semi structured interview was be used to collect data from participants. A thematic analysis approach was used to analyse the data. The Hertzberg theory of motivation was selected to provide structure in the formulation of ideas about the topic and guidance on the study. Research findings suggest that there is a positive relationship between the authoritative leadership style and employee turnover as the leadership style results in low employee morale and counterproductive behaviour such as stress and frustration within employees whereas there is a negative relationship between the servant leadership style and employee turnover as the leadership style tends to have a positive impact on employees ,encourages iii inclusion in decision making and the growth and development of the employee. The findings further revealed that factors such as employee recognition and remuneration and a toxic work environment are other factors that would result in employee turnover within an organisation.
Feasibility of Operating Rickshaws in Maseru, Lesotho
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Tefo, Tumane; Horne, Renee
Rickshaws continue to flood several countries as a preferred mode of first mile and last mile transportation options, such as India, Kenya, and Nigeria. In Maseru, Lesotho, rickshaws remain a novel mode of transportation. This study aims to assess market demand for rickshaws as a mode of transportation in Maseru Lesotho, with a focus on the socio demographic profiles, travel patterns and current preferred modes of transportation of commuters. The study used a survey to collected primary data from a sample of 123 respondents, through random and purposive sampling techniques within the main Kingsway and pioneer roads in Maseru. Using quantitative data analysis techniques such as cross tabulations, chi-square tests and logistic regression, relationships between the variables such as demographics, travel patterns and current modes of transportation were uncovered and assessed if they could inform a latent need for rickshaws. The study revealed that a majority of the commuters within town are males (55%), and the travel pattern of most commuters is daily (84%), who travel mostly for work purposes but also to visit shopping malls and recreational activities. Through testing various hypothesis, the study showed a high correlation between age and consideration of other alternatives. Satisfaction rates among 4+1 users turned out very low, suggesting a potential latent demand for alternatives such as rickshaws. Through logistic regression tests on pricing and convenience, both variables did not show strong statistical significance, however their combined effect significantly influences transportation choices (p=0.010). The findings substantiate the presence of latent demand for a cheaper and convenient mode of transport in Maseru, suggesting that operating rickshaws could meet this demand in the city. This research contributes to bridging research gaps concerning operation of rickshaws within the unique context of Maseru. By presenting the demographics, travel patterns and commuters’ preferences, the study yields valuable insights, laying the groundwork for informed decision-making regarding the potential establishment of a rickshaw transportation system in Maseru. This research contributes to bridging existing research gaps concerning the relevance and sustainability of operating rickshaws in the unique context of Maseru, Lesotho.
Organisational Development Strategies to Mitigate Strike Action in Mining Companies in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Tanyanyiwa, Olivia Tashinga; Matshabaphala, Manamela; Nixon, Ochara
This study delves into the challenges faced by the mining sector in South Africa due to frequent strike actions and explores various organizational development strategies that can be implemented to mitigate these occurrences. The research highlights the significance of effective communication, employee engagement, conflict resolution mechanisms, and leadership development in fostering a positive work environment and reducing the likelihood of strikes. By drawing on relevant literature, case studies, and expert opinions, the study aims to provide valuable insights for mining companies operating in South Africa to proactively address labor disputes and promote sustainable industrial relations. Through the implementation of strategic organizational development initiatives, mining companies can create a culture of trust, collaboration, and mutual respect among employees and management, ultimately leading to improved productivity and stability within the sector.
Fintech Application for Unbanked Minimum Wage Earners in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Swart, Wynand Petrus Hendrik Nicolaas; Mogotsi, Keratiloe
With the high unemployment rate in South Africa, the greatest proportion of the salary earning population earns minimum wages. This is especially true within the farming and agriculture community, as the agriculture sector constitutes one of the largest contributors to the South African GDP as one of the main employers in the country. The farming sector is required to adhere to the minimum wage regulation determined by the South African government, where farm workers struggle to survive on the income that they receive, which many in this precarious financial circumstance opt to receive in cash. This business venture proposal sought to identify a solution in the form of a mobile fintech application specifically designed for minimum wage earners to use instead of a traditional banking account. The objective of venture is to help minimum wage earners to opt for a cashless method to receive their wages, enabling them to manage their finances without incurring banking fees that diminish the already limited amount on which they survive. The cost of the application is designed to be borne by their employers, the workers themselves, among others, making the product affordable and attractive, and ensuring a heterogenous revenue stream for the owner of the platform. A qualitative research methodology was used to explore the venture to identify areas of interest, as well as factors affecting the viability of such a business venture. Twenty-five interviews and questionnaires were completed through in-depth interviews with farm workers and owners. The findings have shown that there is a definite need for cheaper banking systems in this economic climate. The findings also suggested that what the product was initially intended to do would need to change to suite customer needs better, however, the pivot point created as part of a lean start- up strategy followed by the business team allowed for moving in different directions to create a successful venture. This business venture proposal can benefit from some further research in the areas of technological adoption and implementation.
Leadership styles and the retention of transaction managers in South African investment banks
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Stellenberg, Cheryll; Ndaba, Zanele
This research aims to explore the relationship between transformational leadership and the retention of highly skilled employees, specifically within the context of transaction managers in South African investment banks. While existing studies have established the positive impact of transformational leadership on employee retention, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding its application to highly skilled professionals in the transaction management role within the South African investment banking sector. This study seeks to fill this void by examining the extent to which transformational leadership practices contribute to the retention of these specialised professionals. The study used a qualitative method, conducting semi-structured interviews with transaction managers from several banks. The qualitative Delve tool data analysis programme was employed to conduct an inductive investigation into the truth behind the four pillars of transformational leadership and its impact on the retention of transaction managers in Johannesburg banks' investment banking divisions. The following four pillars were also chosen as higher-order themes: (1) idealised influence, exemplified by a transformational leader serving as a role model; (2) inspirational motivation, reflecting a leader's ability to effectively communicate a compelling vision and motivate followers to align their goals with the company's; (3) intellectual stimulation, denoting a leader engaging followers' minds in challenging activities; and (4) individualised consideration, signifying a leader actively observing and addressing followers' expressed needs. Retention is a top priority for any organisation, with a well-designed plan aiming to reduce personnel turnover rates, resulting in lower expenses and higher revenue and profitability. Simultaneously, such an approach should improve employee morale and productivity. In light of the awareness that individuals often leave due to managers rather than the company itself, there is an increased focus on assessing the level of leadership within organisations. 3 This study seeks to enhance the current knowledge base by offering empirical evidence on how transformational leadership specifically affects the retention of highly skilled transaction managers in South African investment banks. The findings may offer valuable insights for organisational leaders, human resource practitioners, and policymakers in the financial sector, helping them tailor leadership practices to enhance employee retention in this specialised role.
Digital transformation strategies in the South African banking sector
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Sibeko, Simphiwe Annita; Godspower-Akpomiemie, Euphemia
The emergence of digital solutions has created unexpected players in the banking sector as the market slowly grows to defy boundaries. New entrants in the market are challenging the traditional players who have dominated the South African banking sector by introducing digital solutions and low-cost operating models. To compete in this rapidly changing and evolving market, traditional banks should prioritise digital transformation. To drive innovation and long-term solutions, organisations should seek change and transformation. The concept of digitally transforming corporate, operational, and functional strategies of an organisation underpins the focus of this research article. The fundamental objective of this research is to enhance comprehension of the current advancements in the discipline of digital transformation strategies. This study aimed to contribute to not only the assessment of strategy maturity and effectiveness, but to provide context to the South African banking sector. The objectives were achieved through qualitative comparative analysis of audited integrated annual reports and surveys on customer experience to calculate Net Promoter Scores in the industry. Analysis was conducted by applying a conceptual framework constructed by leveraging existing theories in literature, to identify and scrutinise the relationship between digital transformation strategy designs, learning and growth initiatives, and customer experience on the overall performance and market leadership. The framework provided structured analysis and standardised data to test strategy effectiveness between the four sample banks. Overall, the study argues the need of standardised attributes pertaining to digital transformation strategy design and initiatives, which will drive accurate reporting on strategy maturity. Data reported is decentralised as there are not governing frameworks to align reporting. Aligning key attributes will provide decision makers with better insights and equip incumbents to respond less tactically to the evolving world of banking.
Exploring an optimal franchise agreement model for the fuel retail industry in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Sakoane, Motshidisi Mary-Anne
This study explores the complex landscape of fuel retail franchise agreements in South Africa, highlighting the multifaceted challenges and strategic imperatives facing both franchisors and franchisees. The research underscores the importance of sustainable partnership models and adaptive business practices amidst a dynamic market environment. Key findings reveal a complex interplay of regulatory frameworks, market dynamics, and consumer trends, which significantly influence fuel retail franchise agreements. The study emphasises the need for franchise agreements that prioritise flexibility, clarity, and adaptability to ensure mutual benefit and long-term viability. The research contributes to understanding the complexities and challenges within the fuel retail industry, providing valuable guidance for stakeholders. It informs strategic decision-making and offers recommendations for improving franchise agreements, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the market. The study also highlights limitations, including the specificity of the South African context and the dynamic nature of the industry, and suggests areas for future research, such as the impact of emerging technologies and consumer preferences on franchise operations.

Electronic Theses and Dissertations (Masters/MBA)

Browse

Filters

Settings

Sort By

Results per page

Search Results