Electronic Theses and Dissertations (Masters)
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10539/37972
Browse
Search Results
Item Supply Chain Risk Management in Manufacturing Small and Medium Enterprises: A Systematic Literature Review(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Pungula, Vusumuzi; Sunjka, B.Background: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are becoming major actors in the manufacturing sector due to the rising complexity of global supply chains. However, they still face enormous risks from supply chain disruptions and market dynamics, which can have costly effects. SMEs sometimes lack the means and expertise to execute comprehensive risk management plans intended for larger businesses, despite their significance. Research on Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is noticeably lacking, especially in the manufacturing sector. Purpose: The aim of the study was to systematically review how SCRM has been developing in manufacturing SMEs globally over the past two decades, and provide insights for policymakers, industry associations, and SMEs themselves. Method: A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conducted by utilizing a qualitative research approach. Seven key phrases were formulated to guide the search for relevant articles published between 2000 and 2023. A thorough screening process was employed to select 38 articles that met inclusion criteria, and data analysis was performed using NVivo software on these articles. Following this, thematic analysis and textual narrative synthesis methods were employed for data analysis and synthesis. The discussion of the identified themes provides comprehensive insights to policymakers, industry associations, and SMEs into the current status of SCRM research in manufacturing SMEs globally. It highlights the importance of effectively addressing risk variables, developing tailored SCRM approaches, and striking a balance between risk reduction efforts and strategic opportunities within supply chains to enhance resilience and ensure operational continuity. Results: The review revealed a significant increase in SCRM research pertaining to manufacturing SMEs over the past decade. Trends analysis indicated a growing emphasis on SCRM in various disciplines, highlighting its increasing significance. Thematic analysis identified eight key themes, including the current status of SCRM research and factors influencing SCRM strategies in manufacturing SMEs. Conclusion: Based on the comprehensive review of literature, several key conclusions can be drawn. There is prevalent recognition of the importance of SCRM within SMEs, emphasizing the need for proactive risk mitigation strategies tailored to the SME context. While formal risk management approaches are increasingly adopted, the context-specific nature of risk management practices highlights the importance of tailored approaches. Technological advancements play a significant role in enhancing SCRM strategies, alongside the integration of green supply chain management practices.Item The assessment of exploration processes in the Upstream Industry to increase exploration efficiency and promote accelerated drilling decisions.(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Tshikovhi, Rilwele Mikovhe Muditambi; Botha, A.During petroleum exploration, petroleum companies (operators) require efficient hydrocarbon detection and delineation methods to locate petroleum prospects and promote drilling (Selley, 1998). The two pre-drill surveys under investigation in this study are seismic surveys and controlled source electro-magnetic (CSEM) surveys which are used to study the subsurface during offshore petroleum exploration. Drilling dry holes is inevitable, however, a proper and thorough prospect evaluation can significantly increase the chance of success of a prospect (Milkov & Samis, 2020). The purpose of the research is to evaluate seismic and CSEM surveys as secondary hydrocarbon detection tools used to recommend drilling, and to also determine if any of these methods can encourage accelerated drilling decisions and significantly reduce exploration risk. A total of 49 seismic-based samples and 41 CSEM-based samples were used in the study. Survey anomalies were assessed against drilling results to determine the predictive strength of each survey. The Chi-test confirmed that there is a significant association between survey anomalies and attributes such as well results, predictive strength, fluid type and trap style. The researcher analysed the two datasets to determine the probability of an anomaly in each survey and the chance of success if each well is drill based on these surveys. The presence of an anomaly was defined as a positive anomaly (PA) and the absence of an anomaly was defined as a negative anomaly (NA). Fluid type and trap style were used to analyse the predictive ability of the survey anomalies. Seismic and CSEM surveys have indicated a high probability of discovering charged reservoirs in a structural trap as compared to stratigraphic traps, however, CSEM is slightly better than seismic surveys in defining these reservoirs. Both surveys have a low probability of predicting a charged stratigraphic reservoir, although seismic surveys have indicated higher chance of success as compared to CSEM. Positive anomalies observed in both surveys proved to be good indicators of gas-bearing reservoirs as compared to other hydrocarbon fluid. CSEM has a slightly higher chance of predicting oil than seismic surveys. A simplified process mapping for the current offshore exploration processes was conducted. A decision tree was used to analyse seismic and CSEM surveys as secondary tools with emphasis given to their hydrocarbon detection capabilities. Bayesian Theorem was used to calculate the posterior probabilities given that a well is drilled on a positive iii anomaly. The same was applied for wells drilled on negative anomalies. The results have indicated that CSEM has a higher probability of detecting hydrocarbon accumulations as compared to seismic surveys.Item An analysis of factors leading to the production of defective wagons in Transnet Engineering(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Nemakhavhani, Pfananani Thelma; Dewa, Mncedisi TrinityRail manufacturing industries play a crucial role in many countries by developing cost-effective transportation solutions to move freight more efficiently. To date, the industry has seen the implementation of traditional quality management practices that are critical in driving efficiencies and better-managed operations to improve the quality of their freight wagons. Despite the conventional quality management techniques, the rail industry continues to manufacture defective rolling stock due to design changes, errors and omissions, and inadequate skills. Over the past few decades, industry and academia have identified various factors contributing to rolling stock manufacturing defects. Nevertheless, which factors were predominantly responsible for the defective wagon production at the Transnet Engineering (TE) Bloemfontein factory remained unclear. Identifying the most prevalent causes of defects is essential in addressing the organisation's quality issues. The primary purpose of this study was to gain insights into the root causes of the defects and recommend strategies to minimise them. The study used an interpretive methodology to identify the root cause of defective wagons produced at TE. Data was collected using purposive sampling. Ten experienced TE employees actively engaged in freight wagon manufacturing were selected for face-to-face interviews. During the research study, the interviews were conducted with the employees using a semi-structured format that allowed for open-ended questions. Investigative techniques, such as cause-and-effect diagrams and the Five "Whys" root cause analysis tool, were used to investigate defects' root causes on the customer complaints register. Additionally, thematic analysis was applied to thoroughly analyse the interviews conducted with the employees, which allowed for a deeper understanding of the issues at hand. The findings showed that inadequate skills, human errors and omissions, a lack of quality culture, time constraints, management's failure to enforce accountability, and poor workshop maintenance/machinery all contribute to defective wagon production. The research provided recommendations, including adopting innovative technology and skills transfer programs to enhance the company's quality management practices.Item The Enhancement of the SDLC Methodology utilised in the Delivery of Digital Healthcare Products(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Asamoah-Bekoe, Michael; Sunjka, BernadetteThe digital healthcare industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, resulting in increased competition among companies operating in this market. Company X, a competitor in this industry, utilises a mixed set of methodologies across their teams, where some methodologies may be outdated. With the emergence of new software development lifecycle methodologies (SDLC), it is crucial for Company X to adapt their current approach to remain competitive. As part of a research study, 24 participants from various teams in Company X were interviewed to gain insights into the industry, the current methodology being used, and how management could ensure a smooth transition to a new SDLC methodology. According to the study results, 21% of participants from Team A-D were unwilling to change their current methodology, while 37% were willing to make a switch. The remaining 42% were indifferent, with their decision depending on the reason for the transition. Based on the literature review and the findings from the study, a conceptual framework was developed to guide the process of transitioning to a new SDLC methodology.Item The development of cannabis in emerging markets- Evaluating the prospective value chain, market accessibility, and commercialisation(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Rapetsoa, Maisaaya Hellen; Emwanu, B.In recent years, the significance of small businesses in the growth of developing economies has been acknowledged, along with their ability to foster social development, create employment opportunities, advance innovations, and contribute to economic growth. The agricultural sector serves as a catalyst in building a strong economy by increasing income and employment opportunities for the poor while nurturing natural resources. This is evidenced by the vision stated in the Government’s National Development Plan (NDP), which proposes to create close to 1 million jobs by 2030 within the agricultural sector. This study aimed to determine the “strategic interventions required to ensure that South Africa is aligned with the regulatory, social, economic, and knowledge base needed for the effective commercialisation of the cannabis market”. In doing so, knowledge experts were consulted through open-ended interviews to ascertain their views on the growth and trajectory of cannabis as an economic driver. This qualitative study adopted the Wengraf pyramid model to relate the “progression from the Central Research Questions (CRQ) differentiated into several Theory Questions (TQ) and the particular Interview Questions (IQ) and the non-verbal Interview Interventions (II)” (Wengraf, 2001). The selected qualitative method was best suited for this research as it assisted in breaking ground on themes that have limited literature, such as the current research. The data was collected from subject matter experts through open-ended interviews, allowing the participants to freely express and share their knowledge, views, and experiences. An ‘inductive content analysis’ method was used to analyze the data by transcribing and coding the information to identify common themes, links, and categories and gain more understanding of the data received. The study claimed that cannabis has the potential to uplift the economy and alleviate poverty through its commercialisation and that the legal frameworks or lack thereof pose a barrier to the growth and development of this market. The research revealed that there is a greater gap in the market where the knowledge, expertise, and financial instruments are being underutilized therefore rendering South Africa a laggard with considerable ramifications for our global competitiveness. With much at stake and our staggering economy, the common theme was that erratic and deliberate action is required especially in a market where other countries that have legalized cannabis appear to be well under control and thriving. Cannabis has become one of the biggest disruptors of mainstream industries over the last decade, impacting sectors from pharmaceutical, food, and wellness to cosmetics. The subject experts collectively agreed that South Africa is missing out on a multibillion-dollar opportunity.Item Financial Evaluation of Implementing In-Pit Crushing and Conveying Systems for Waste on Open Pit Mines(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Serepa, Ikaneng; Emwanu, B.The South African mining industry has faced mounting challenges, especially rising expenses that threaten profitability. These escalating costs, driven by various factors including operational expenses such as mining costs, are critical. The distribution of mining costs across activities within the production cycle is crucial, with hauling operations in open pit mines representing a significant portion, as noted by Paricheh et al (2017) at 49%. Due to the substantial economic impact of hauling expenses on mining expenditures, there's a strong incentive to streamline these operations to lower overall costs effectively. Current research highlights a noticeable transition in the mining sector towards embracing in-pit crushing and conveying (IPCC) systems in open pit mines, acclaimed as a cost-effective substitute for conventional truck and shovel (CTS) systems (Awuah-Offei et al, 2009). This research assessed both the integration and financial viability of implementing a waste IPCC system in the loading and hauling operations of an open pit mine. A mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from production records and costs with qualitative insights from expert interviews was used. The findings of this research indicate that while the IPCC system can be integrated, there remains a degree of reliance on the CTS system for material transportation from the pit to the IPCC system. For the CTS system, 55 rigid dump trucks (RDTs) are required, constituting 57% of the initial capital expenditure of R1.27 billion. Conversely, the IPCC system requires only 31 RDTs, accounting for 29% of the initial capital costs of R1.37 billion. However, despite the substantial reduction in RDTs, the IPCC system requires significant investment in a crusher and conveyor belt system for waste management, which constitutes 32% of its capital costs. Examination of the operating costs over the life of the mine indicates that there are no cost advantages associated with operating an IPCC system compared to the CTS system. Operating expenses for the IPCC system exceed those of the CTS system by 58%, predominantly driven by the operational costs of the crusher and belt system, contributing to 67% of the IPCC system's costs. The financial assessment results show a positive and acceptable net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), and payback period for both systems. Nevertheless, the CTS system exhibits superior financial performance, with a NPV of R7.45 billion, an IRR of 83.1%, and a shorter payback period of 1.2 years, and is recommended as a viable option for the mine.Item Systems approach to improve utilisation of autonomous drilling at an open pit mine in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Talane, Tabotabo; Botha, AndriesMining companies have opportunities to feed the continuously growing global economy. However, these opportunities come with challenges. Technologies like drilling automation can help combat these challenges while improving operational efficiency. Although the importance of investing in technology is well appreciated, mining houses still struggle with the sustainable and effective use of introduced technologies. This study looks at the challenges faced by one of the open pit mines in South Africa. The case study mine has introduced ADS (autonomous drilling system) to aid in improving both health and safety, and operational efficiency, but utilisation of the system remains low. The aim of this study is to investigate potential causes of the problem and to come up with an actionable solution to tackle the challenges faced and improve the use of ADS. Six semi-structured interviews were conducted where experts in the field of autonomous drilling shared their insights into factors affecting the adoption of ADS. The interview data were recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic content analysis. The analysis of the interview data yields seven themes: stakeholder engagement and buy-in; management support and trust; process management and KPIs (key performance indicators); ownership, accountability and influence; site capability; culture and attitude shift; and implementation approach. Using the systems approach and soft systems methodologies (SSM), the study found that effective stakeholder engagement and communication with workers early in the project can lead to a positive attitude towards the introduced system, improving its adoption. Further, management support becomes vital to build trust and team resilience, especially during challenging times. Additionally, the way of managing processes must evolve and adapt to accommodate the technology system introduced, and this requires a mindset shift from a leadership perspective. Operating standards and procedures of the entire drilling process, from planning to execution, also need to evolve with the introduction of technology to ensure that upstream processes become enablers of the effective use of the technology. Like standards and procedures, key performance indicators are those metrics that managers track, and they also need to be updated to allow accountability and ownership around the use of technologies like ADS. With commitment and drive from operational leaders, technology implementation can succeed. The correct implementation approach will increase the chances of success. The approach must be guided by an effective stakeholder engagement and requirements analysis. A proper approach in tandem with both management support and team commitment can result in the sustainable adoption of new technologies, including ADS.