Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)

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Start date: 2017Subject: search.filters.subject.SDG-9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

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    Factors Affecting Blockchain Technology Adoption by Organizations in the Livestock Supply Chain Industry in Zimbabwe
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Tambudze, Pelagia; Isabirye, Naomi
    Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology that provides the building block for many innovations. The distributed nature of blockchain, its immutability, and anonymity enable trust, transparency, and security among transacting or trading partners. The accelerated unfolding of 4IR due to the COVID- 19 pandemic recently unveiled several critical gaps within global supply chains, including livestock supply chains. The main challenges faced by organizations in the livestock supply industry in the developing world include difficulties for farmers in accessing new markets, no flexibility in production times, and no traceability for the consumer market to trace food component authenticity. In Zimbabwe, livestock is an important sector contributing about 22% of the total GDP. From several studies done by other researchers in different industries, such as health care, banking, mining, education, and agriculture, it is evident that blockchain technology solves most of these issues by decreasing data asymmetries and the cost of transactions to benefit all stakeholders. Blockchain-based solutions have recently been introduced to the livestock sector, and Zimbabwe is one of the early adopters among its African counterparts. However, the adoption rate by organizations within the livestock supply chain has been minimal. Using the lens of the TOE framework, this study investigated the factors that affect the decision by organizations in Zimbabwe's livestock supply chains to adopt blockchain technology. A qualitative approach was applied, interviewing fifteen informants from various levels of the livestock supply chain. Responses were analysed using thematic analysis. The study found that adopting blockchain benefits organizations and the overall livestock supply chain. The study found that technological, organizational, and environmental factors influenced organizations' decision to adopt blockchain technologies within livestock supply chains. These factors included availability of the technology, cost of the technology, skills availability, regulation and policies, competitive pressures, presence of blockchain providers, political and socio- economic factors and market trends.
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    Universal internet access in South African disadvantaged communities: is there adequate regulation?
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Thomas, Khayakazi
    As a result of the advent of the fourth industrial revolution, artificial intelligence, the technology of things and other similar technologies, information communications technologies (ICT) form the basis of our routine lives and sit at the core of both economic and social development. Therefore, the advancement of universal access and service is indispensable for the equal and full enjoyment of all freedoms and rights by all and provides for the improvement of the quality of life for all citizens, and further presents a gateway to freeing each person's potential, as envisaged in the Constitution. This is particularly true for the digitally marginalised situated in informal settlements, townships and remote rural areas (Disadvantaged Communities). Notwithstanding the above, statistics show that to date the digital community in South Africa is still very much skewed towards the affluent urban communities, with only 1% of rural households able to access the internet in their homes. Achieving universal access and service in Disadvantaged Communities is a key policy goal in a democratic society such as ours. It is in light of this that this research report presents a multi-method research approach to holistically conclude on the adequacy of the South African regulatory framework to drive the advancement of universal access and service in Disadvantaged Communities, and recommend law reform. This entails a review of the regulatory framework governing universal access and service (in the South African historical background context under the apartheid regime) compared against international best practices on the regulation of universal access and service in Disadvantaged Communities (using the prevailing socio-economic realities in Disadvantaged Communities as guiding principles). The research report findings, taking into consideration the South African historical background and the prevailing socio-economic realities in Disadvantaged Communities, indicate that the South African regulatory framework is to a great extent on par with international best practices on regulation aimed at the advancement of universal access and service in Disadvantaged Communities, barring its unsuccessful implementation. The research report identifies that the unsuccessful implementation of the regulatory framework is largely owing to its fragmentation (i.e., the regulatory framework relies on vast legislation, policies and regulations and different stakeholders for its implementation). Therefore, the proposed law reform constitute regulatory framework structural measures aimed at redressing the identified fragmentation so as to achieve a regulatory framework that adequately facilitates the implementation of the universal access and service objective in Disadvantaged Communities..
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    Embracing technology to rejuvenate South African mining: a comparative case study analysis of a South African and an Australian mining firm
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Vink, Tarryn; Callaghan, Chris
    It is well recognised that the mining industry is the historic bedrock of the South African economy. However, since 2000 the industry has shown signs of decline that include, inter alia, a slowdown in growth along with productivity issues. Since South Africa (SA) lags behind its global competitors in terms of technological innovation and implementation; many leaders in the mining industry are of the view that the increased use of technology will arrest this decline and restore the mining industry to a stronger position in the South African economy. What is, however, not fully understood is the extent to which technological change is contextually path dependent. This meaning that technological change in an industry is restricted by past events which enhance its resistance to change. This results in a lack of knowledge regarding how best to manage technological change. This would include understanding the most suitable implementation methods for certain contexts. The intention of this dissertation is to explain why firms in the South African mining industry lag behind their global competitors in terms of technological adoption. It aims to understand how differing contextual factors influence mining firms’ behavior, that, in turn, has an industry- level effect. It aims to understand how firms should manage this technology properly to optimise its interaction with its environment. Additionally, it aims to understand which theoretical approach, in relation to technological change, mining firms should follow to properly navigate their technological trajectories in light of contextual imperatives. The unit of analysis in this methodology is at the firm level. It takes specific contextual factors into account to determine which method of implementation is more appropriate for new technological advancements. This was executed by conducting two methodology phases. Phase 1 of the methodology which consisted of a holistic comparative case study analysis of a South African and an Australian mining firm. This study phase analysed archival documents that tracked changes in the responses of these mining firms over time. This was conducted using information from their financial statements and company reports, with the aim of investigating how these matched the government and environmental contexts seen in policy and country related documents. Phase 2 of the methodology comprised a qualitative analysis that used individual interviews in an attempt to develop useful insights that contextualise and support the findings of Phase 1. Various theoretical predictions have been derived in the form of propositions. The theory thus inductively developed has been used to answer some how and iii why questions about the strategic responses of firms to contextual imperatives. The study therefore produced a holistic analysis illustrating how each firm engaged with its respective contexts and how this may have resulted in path dependant relationships regarding technological innovation. The research emphasises that the South African mining industry's lag in technological adoption compared to global competitors could be attributed to an imbalanced innovation focus and a restrictive business context. It suggests that firms should address their technological and contextual needs separately to effectively manage innovation. The findings also stress that incremental improvements alone, are unlikely to enable a catch-up up with global leaders. Instead, radical interventions are necessary to shift the current trajectory toward one that prioritises productivity to achieve social objectives, enabling a plausible catch up.
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    Attitude and acceptance of Artificial Intelligence technologies in the South African financial services. industry
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Wotela, Ruth Rumbidzai; Maier, Christoph
    Despite Artificial Intelligence (AI) being topical, the successful adoption of AI technologies within organisations has been slower than expected. Literature and past research highlights the mixed and contradictory views and findings regarding employees’ attitude and acceptance of AI technologies, which challenge the successful implementation and use of AI technologies. Further, research on employees’ attitude and acceptance of AI technologies in emerging market economies, such as South Africa, and specifically within mandatory settings is limited. The purpose of this research was to investigate and determine factors influencing employees’ attitude and acceptance of AI technologies amongst employees within the financial services industry, where the use of AI technologies is mandatory. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Technology-Organisation-Environment (TOE) framework were integrated and extended. This quantitative research study used a cross-sectional design. An online survey was distributed to employees within financial services organisations. A total of 410 valid responses were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and regression analysis. Textual responses from the open-ended questions were categorised and presented visually in the form of word clouds. The research results indicate that each of the technological, individual, organisational, and environmental factors have a significant positive effect on attitude towards use of AI technologies. Multiple regression and stepwise regression analysis were used to identify the most influential determinants of attitude towards use of AI technologies from all the technological, individual, organisational and environmental factors. The results indicate that employee wellbeing, competitive pressure, perceived usefulness, management support, perceived ease of use, organisational justice and customer pressure are key determinants of attitude towards the use of AI technologies. The attitude-acceptance relationship is confirmed, as attitude towards use of AI technologies positively influences the acceptance of AI technologies. Although employees’ job roles do not moderate the relationship between attitude and acceptance of AI technologies, their experience with using AI technologies does. Based on these findings the ITOE model for implementing AI technologies is developed, and can be used to facilitate the successful implementation and use of AI technologies. The implications of this research, as well as recommendations for organisations and future research are also discussed.
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    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.
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    Corporate culture as a vehicle for change management in the South African Logistics sector
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Perumal, Hagandri; Gobind, Jenika
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    Using 3D Printing Technology for Manufacturing Interior Aesthetic Components for Customisation in the Automotive Industry
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mbambo, Nondumiso
    The research is a business venture proposal focusing on exploring the concept of automobile interior customisation through a 3D printing. The research gap of inclusivity in the current offering of the automobile interior was articulated. Theories of digital transformation, digital maturity, innovation, lean innovation and entrepreneurship were used to inform this study. The conceptual framework was developed using the variables of age, gender, customisation, connectedness and purchasing intent. The qualitative research strategy was adopted for the research and probability sampling was used to sample random respondents. Reliability and validity were determined using CFA and SEM. The findings of the study revealed that the concept of customisation is not dependent on age and gender therefore an inference drawn was that market segmentation ought to be done by needs and preferences as opposed to demographics. The findings further revealed that there is a need for this customisation offering as both customisation and connectedness were found to be drivers of purchasing intent. The business case for Mageza 3D printing was advised by the findings of the study where the target market was identified. The business strategy focused on the market penetration, the staggered approach in the operations rollout to 2035 as well as the marketing plan for the concept of customisation. The business showed profitability of 15% from the first year reaching 26% by the fifth year. The main limitation of the study was in the research methodology adopted whereby the inclusion of a qualitative research strategy would have offered a more holistic understanding of concept buy-in across the value chain. In this regard, future research was recommended to assist in solidifying this business case
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    The Perception of Bookkeepers on the Adoption of robotic process automation in the automotive industry in Gauteng
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Dlamini, Nozipho; Robert, Venter
    Background: The automotive industry in Gauteng, South Africa, stands at the cusp of transformative technological integration, with Robotic Process Automation (RPA) emerging as a key driver of efficiency and innovation. However, the successful adoption of RPA hinges not only on technological prowess but also on the perceptions and attitudes of the Bookkeepers tasked with its implementation and utilization. Objective: This study aims to investigate the effects of Robotic Process Automation on bookkeeping staff in Gauteng's automotive industry. By understanding their perspectives, this study aims to investigate the effects of Robotic Process Automation on bookkeeping staff in Gauteng's automotive industry. Method: In the study, a qualitative method approach was employed to comprehensively capture employee perceptions. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key stakeholders across the finance and controlling domains within an automotive company. Data analysis involved thematic coding of interview transcripts and statistical analysis of survey responses to uncover patterns, themes, and correlations. Results: Preliminary findings suggest a diverse range of attitudes towards RPA adoption among Bookkeepers in the Gauteng automotive industry. While some express enthusiasm for the potential efficiency gains and reduced mundane tasks, others harbor concerns regarding job displacement and skill obsolescence. Additionally, organizational culture, leadership support, and communication emerge as critical factors shaping employee perceptions and readiness for RPA implementation. The synthesis of qualitative data provides a rich understanding of the complex interplay between individual attitudes, organizational dynamics, and technological integration in the automotive sector.
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    Integrating Internet of Things into household waste collection processes in Ekurhuleni
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Monobe, Dikeledi; Robert, Venter
    Numerous South African regions face serious waste management difficulties as a result of urbanization, population increase, and ineffective collection systems. Backlogs and inappropriate garbage disposal techniques have resulted, endangering the environment and public health. Reducing inefficiencies and streamlining waste collection procedures are possible with the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology. The aim of the study was to investigate how adopting IoT can improve household waste collection in Kempton Park, located in the Ekurhuleni municipality of Gauteng province, South Africa. A quantitative research approach was employed utilising a questionnaire to collect primary data from residents. The Technology Acceptance Model is used as the theoretical framework to examine factors influencing IoT adoption. The results provided perceptions on how well-and poorly received IoT-enabled waste management systems are perceived. Difficulties in incorporating IoT into home waste collection mitigate the impact of perceived usefulness and perceived simplicity of use on the variables influencing technology adoption. By addressing hurdles, the study advances our understanding of how IoT might facilitate more effective waste collection. Policymakers and service providers can use the findings as a reference when deciding whether to use smart technologies to solve South Africa's waste management problems
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    The role of digital technologies in enabling subsistence farming in rural KwaZulu Natal
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Zulu, Mamakhethe; Magida, Ayanda
    Food security has grown in importance over the years, ranking among the world’s most pressing issues. High food demand has led to poverty, yet sustainable food production methods have proven effective in reducing it. Because of both macro and micro environmental factors, the adoption of digital technology in agriculture have recently had a significant impact on the global landscape. Digital technologies are assisting in meeting the increasing need for sustainable food production on a worldwide scale. This has been achieved by incorporating several digital technologies such as robotics, automation, sensors, Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics into agricultural processes to maximize crop yields, lower emissions, and optimize farming inputs. By allowing the traceability of goods and processes, this can enable transition from hard human labour to continually automated processes and thus improving agricultural productivity. This study aimed to investigate how digital technologies can enable subsistence farming in KwaZulu Natal. A qualitative approach was adopted for the research, thirteen participants who were subsistence farmers were interviewed using open ended questions. Thematic approach was used to analyse the findings. The findings revealed that adoption of digital technologies was still in its infancy stages, and this was attributed to socio-economic factors such as lack of digital skills, lack of capital to purchase and maintain farming technologies, access to reliable power sources and water. Incorporating technology into farming practices could lead to innovative farming in the rural communities of KZN who still practice conventional farming methods. By applying digital farming technologies, farmers can obtain precise and up-to-date observations on several factors impacting their yield, including plant health, soil quality, meteorological conditions, and the prevalence of pests and diseases. Digital technologies assist agricultural The role of digital technologies in enabling subsistence farming in rural KwaZulu Natal iii producers and academics to make better judgments by analysing the findings. Data obtained can enhance productivity, cut expenses, and oversee resources. Though unevenly, Southern Africa has been rapidly going digital. But the revolution that digitisation promised has not yet materialised in the food and agriculture sectors. Even if these technologies may still be in their infancy in Southern Africa, policymakers must have a forward-thinking mindset to foster an atmosphere that encourages the usage of digital solutions. Encouraging regulations, infrastructure, expertise, and government assistance will be critical in building the foundational elements required to enable DT in agriculture to flourish. It is important not to undervalue the importance of straightforward, useful, and relevant digital tools in African agriculture, particularly when interacting with farmers in rural arears.