Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)

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    Perceptions and experiences of informal street traders on Covid-19 and its effect on sales and revenue in Pretoria
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Maphutha, Thakgalo Magauwane; Khumalo, John
    The Covid-19 restrictions and strategies imposed in order to reduce the spread of the virus had dire consequences on the sales and livelihood of both the formal and informal sectors. The lockdown made it challenging for small and big businesses to operate as per normal, which included informal street traders. This study intended to find out the perceptions and views of informal street traders with the focus on their sales and revenue during Covid-19 lockdown. The research was designed as a phenomenological study as it was concerned with understanding the effects of Covid- 19 through the in-depth experiences of informal street traders. The study adopted a qualitative research design, with face-to-face interviews as the primary data collection method. In addition, previously published studies were reviewed as part of the secondary literature review. This study had a sample of 30 informal street traders from Pretoria working along Church Street. A key discovery in this study is that like many sectors, informal street traders were hit very hard by the pandemic, more especially during the lockdowns. The sales and revenue of informal street traders decreased drastically, leaving the participants with challenges that will take years to overcome. Most informal street traders participate in the sector as their primary source of income due to a lack of opportunities in the country and are the main breadwinners. To many, Covid-19 added to the already existing day-to-day challenges. Regardless of the significance of informal street trading, the government failed to provide them with any assistance to curb the negative impact of the pandemic on their livelihood
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    Digital Transformation Initiatives in Gauteng Provincial Government
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Makhubele, Nomsa Tintswalo; Genga, Cheryl
    Digital transformation is a crucial aspect of modernising the public sector in South Africa. The Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) has been leading the implementation of various digital technologies to improve efficiency and citizen engagement. One of the digital transformation initiatives implemented in Gauteng is e-recruitment, which aims to streamline the hiring process. This qualitative study used a purposive sampling of HR personnel to investigate the acceptance of e-recruitment in the Gauteng Provincial Government, which has fourteen provincial departments. The study was conducted using focus group interviews to understand the general experience that the HR officials have with the e-recruitment system, its impact and effectiveness, and how these relate to digital transformation. A study sample of ten (10) HR personnel participated in the study. The study's findings indicated that while e-recruitment is perceived as user- friendly and advantageous, its benefits were outweighed by several drawbacks. Inadequate IT infrastructure, a deficiency in customer engagement tools, and a lack of core process and workforce enablement were identified as factors that diminished the perceived benefits of the system. These drawbacks can influence an organisation's digital transformation journey. It is recommended that Gauteng address its Digital Application and Impact dimensional elements urgently. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensuring that Gauteng maximizes the return on its investment and fast-tracks its digital transformation. The study confirmed that in the enterprise context, such as public service, where adoption is mandatory, a lack of perceived benefits does not necessarily lead to system abandonment, but it can affect its digital transformation. System adoption can be sustained if one of the two factors of TAM is in place, as was the case with the ease of use sustaining the use of the system alongside the departmental strategy of digital transformation and modernisation
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    The potential of Speech-to-text technology in enhancing efficiency in the aviation sector in South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mainganya, Kagiso C.; Magida, Ayanda
    This research report evaluates the potential of speech-to-text technology to enhance efficiency in the aviation sector in South Africa. It examines how this technology could improve operational and flight efficiency, impact customer service, and address potential implementation barriers. Key focus areas include - the accuracy of speech- to-text conversion, especially in noisy environments like cockpits and air traffic control towers as well as, the technology's ability to adapt to various accents and aviation- specific jargon. The report also highlights the urgency of cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive flight data. A thematic analysis was conducted with a focus on dynamic capabilities and the General Systems Theory framework
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    Strategies to mitigate ransomware related cyber-attacks in South African financial institutions
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Mahlangu, Nqobile; Pillay, Kiru
    Digital transformation has become topical amongst many organisations and industries alike. Inherent to the adoption of technology to optimise business processes and operations, cyber-attacks have become a growing concern, with ransomware becoming a top concern for organisations. South African banks have not been immune to the associated ransomware risks, as threat actors continue to find motivation to attempt infiltrating SA banks, compromising their confidentiality, integrity, and availability thereafter and demanding a ransom. Cyber-resilience is positioned as an attractive strategy to prevent and mitigate ransomware attacks. This study investigates the effectiveness of employing a cyber-resilience strategy in mitigating ransomware attacks within South African financial institutions, in particular SA banks. The study explores various best practices and factors that influence cyber-resiliency, the role that management plays in ensuring cyber-resiliency, and finally, various methods that can be employed to assess the effectiveness of cyber-resilience as a strategy. The study employs a qualitative research approach, using semi-structured interviews to collect data. With the permission granted by participants, all interviews were recorded, transcribed, and then analysed using thematic analysis. The research questions, which delve into the outlined research objectives, serve as a guide for the discussions of the findings. Literature and findings from the study show that ransomware is considered a top concern for SA banks, with an agreement that “it is not a matter of if ransomware attacks will happen, but rather a matter of when.” In response to this, findings show that the organisations covered in the scope of the study have employed a cyber-resilience strategy for prevention and mitigation of ransomware attacks, as it is noted as an effective strategy in preventing and mitigating ransomware attacks
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    The adoption of multi-sided market platforms within the South African creative economy
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Magwebu, Yoyisani Gcisa; Chalomba, Nakuze
    This study aimed to explore the adoption of multisided marketplace platforms (MSMPs) within the South African creative economy, given the limited evidence of their adoption, explicitly focusing on the visual art domain participants. By applying a phenomenological design, the study aimed to understand how the phenomenon of marketplace platform adoption can create value for all stakeholders within the visual art ecosystem and develop a conceptual framework which addresses the unique needs of the visual art sector whilst providing valuable insights for future researchers to expand. A qualitative research approach was used to gather data from semi-structured interviews with ten visual art value chain members. Participants included actors representing the primary market, secondary market, support services and reception of the visual art ecosystem. The interview data were examined using thematic analysis, including inductive and deductive analysis. The study findings highlight the potential MSMPs have in creating value for all ecosystem actors within the South African visual art value chain. The research suggests that implementing appropriate platform policies and governance and positive experiences through platform features, functionality, design, layout, and social influence can increase adoption and retention with ecosystem members. Furthermore, the study suggests that co-creation impacts the adoption and sustained usage of MSMPs
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    Mapping the socio-economic contribution of Zimbabwean migrants in Diepsloot, City of Johannesburg
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Magwaza, Nokubonga; Pophiwa, N.
    This study examines the socio-economic contribution of Zimbabwean migrants in Diepsloot, a suburb in the City of Johannesburg. It examines the lived experiences of both Diepsloot residents and immigrants in the area, focusing on their socio-relations. The study examines the determinants that led Zimbabwean immigrants to settle in Diepsloot, while also observing the characteristics of their living situations after their arrival in the area. The objective is to gain an in-depth understanding of the beneficial contribution that the current Zimbabwean migrants in Diepsloot are making, instead of focusing on the notions that they are competing for access to free government services, job prospects, and contributing to crime in the region. The study employed a qualitative research methodology. The utilization of qualitative research allows the researcher to get rich information from a small number of individuals in the Diepsloot area, enabling an in-depth understanding of the participants' actual experiences pertaining to the topic under investigation. The selection of qualitative research was based on its emphasis on the quality, nature, and essence of the phenomena under investigation. The sample consisted of South African nationals aged 18 and above, along with Zimbabwean individuals, comprising both documented and undocumented immigrants. The study's findings indicated that immigrants with social networks could integrate, establish themselves, and secure career opportunities in Diepsloot. Several participants noted that immigrants tend to accept lower wages and mostly engage in domestic jobs within nearby suburbs. It concludes with providing recommendations for local government and national government policymakers on ways to encourage peaceful coexistence among the hosts and immigrants in Diepsloot
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    The adoption of digital technologies in public schools in South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mafikeng, Regomoditse Joey; Magida, Ayanda
    Adopting digital technology in public schools is an important part of modern education systems. This is especially true in South Africa, where access to technology can greatly affect learning outcomes and chances. This qualitative study examines how digital tools are used in South African public schools. Its goal is to find out how complicated this process is and what effects it has on how teachers and students learn. The study looks at key themes like digital infrastructure availability, training and support mechanisms, educational implications, and contextual factors affecting adoption. It does this by using thematic analysis of interviews with School Principals. The results show a complex picture with chances and problems, such as problems with bad infrastructure and insufficient resources. The study shows how important it is to fix systemic problems and create a helpful environment so South African public schools can adopt technology successfully. In the end, South African public schools can better prepare students for the digital age's needs and ensure that everyone has equal access to a good education by using digital tools well
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    To investigate the role of the 3R’s (review, rating and recommendation systems) in shaping overall online customer experience
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Louw, Claudette; Budree, Adheesh
    This study aimed to explore the role of review, rating, and recommendation systems (3Rs) in shaping the overall online customer shopping experience within the South African Business-to-Consumer (B2C) online shopping landscape. The theoretical framework of the study was based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) framework and the Valence Framework, grounded in the context of the dynamic and evolving nature of e- commerce. The study aimed to understand the multifaceted dimensions of online customer experience, including social presence, habit formation, and performance expectancy. Data collection involved using a quantitative research method to survey individuals who considered themselves to regularly use online shopping channels in South Africa. An online questionnaire was distributed using a convenience sampling approach, which resulted in a sample size of 268 online shoppers. The key findings of the study indicated that review, rating, and recommendation systems do play a pivotal role in enhancing the online customer shopping experience. Specifically, these systems were identified as contributing factors in cultivating social presence, molding habit formation, and positively impacting performance expectancy. Holistically, these systems either as independent or combined capabilities, influence the online shopping experience of customers. This study highlighted that review, rating, and recommendation systems present opportunities for businesses to strategically enhance the online customer shopping experience. Businesses that concede to the influence of user- generated content on social presence, habit formation, and performance expectancy, can customize their strategies to meet the evolving expectations of online shoppers. The findings presented in the study could enable businesses, researchers, and policymakers to navigate the complexities of e-commerce and iii social commerce, ultimately enhancing the overall online customer shopping experience
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    The implication of AI-generated music on the industry's business model
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Lothe, Nkosinathi
    This research report explores how AI-generated music is changing the traditional music industry model. The study uses qualitative research to examine how AI technology affects music creation, distribution, and consumption. It uncovers the challenges and opportunities AI-generated music brings to different music industry players. The research gives insights into how music production is evolving in the digital age by analysing user views, legal frameworks, and economic impacts. Stakeholders can adapt to the changing industry landscape by understanding how AI impacts music. The study shows how AI reshapes music creation and distribution, offering new possibilities for artists and businesses. As technology continues to influence the music industry, grasping the implications of AI- generated music is crucial for staying relevant and innovative in this dynamic environment
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    Customer experience, satisfaction and loyalty at South African hair salons and spas
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Lemena, Boitumelo; Penman, Neale
    In today's highly competitive marketing landscape, the importance of customer experience has become increasingly pressing for businesses globally. To succeed in the service industry, companies must strategically manage the factors that impact customer experience. Hair salon and spa owners face the challenge of understanding the effects of customer experience, satisfaction, and loyalty and how these concepts affect their business growth. Previous research has identified discrepancies in the relationship between customer experience, satisfaction, and loyalty. Management of these elements gives businesses a competitive edge, differentiation, and overall success. A paucity of research analyses the influence of customer experience on satisfaction and loyalty within the beauty industry from a customer standpoint. This research endeavours to appraise the significance of customer experience on satisfaction and loyalty in South African hair salons and spas as customers perceive. The present study used a quantitative methodology, employing a survey strategy to gather data from individuals aged between 18 and 45 years residing in the Gauteng province. 347 responses were collected using an online questionnaire and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and AMOS software to draw conclusive results. The data indicates that a strong and positive correlation exists between customer experience and satisfaction, and that satisfaction positively impacts loyalty. No significant variations in perception of experience, satisfaction, and loyalty were found among customers based on gender or years of experience. Hair salon and spa owners can significantly impact customer perception by recruiting skilled beauticians, effectively managing time, and upholding the necessary standards for the servicescape to deliver the required services. The manipulation of elements that influence the customer experience can lead to increased satisfaction, which in turn can foster loyalty to hair salons and spas