Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)

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Factors that determine South African Millennials Willingness to Purchase local luxury fashion
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Nailenge, Elizabeth Ndafapawa; Ndlela, Thubelihle
This research aims to investigate the factors that determine South African millennials' willingness to purchase local luxury fashion. Given the significant growth of the luxury fashion industry in South Africa and the limited context-specific research, this study addresses a crucial gap in understanding willingness to purchase in this emerging market. By examining the unique characteristics and preferences of South African millennials, this research contributes valuable insights into the drivers of local luxury fashion consumption and informs strategies for local brands to better engage with this key demographic. Using descriptive and inferential statistics, an analysis from a closed ended, 5 Likert scale questionnaire was done on 150 millennials, alumni of the Witswatersrand Business school (WBS), Johannesburg, South Africa. The results showed that influencers are the only factor who have an impact on millennials when it comes to purchasing luxury brands. According to the findings, only one factor, influencer impact, has an influence on South African millennials' willingness to purchase local luxury fashion. This in turn means influencer impact is interconnected with the overall decision-making process.
Sustainability Reporting: Examining the Proposed Changes Included in Stakeholder Commentary Letters Submitted to the ISSB Regarding IFRS S1
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Joala, Hlatsi; Cerbone, Dannielle
This research report examines whether various stakeholders participating in the standard- setting process of IFRS S1, exert influence on the ISSB’s decision of which proposed changes to accept and discuss. The research employs quantitative content analysis to examine a sample of 120 IFRS S1 comment letters, categorizing stakeholder amendments by type (outcome-related vs theory-related) and degree (minor, moderate, or major) to assess their impact on the final publication (see, for example, Bamber & McMeeking, 2016; De Freitas et al., 2023). The comment letters were spread across each of the eight stakeholder groups identified by the ISSB. The findings suggest that the ISSB responded to minor and moderate proposals at significantly different rates than it did for major proposals. Evidence indicates that there is a proclivity towards specific stakeholder groups for themes encompassed within sustainability reporting, however, this only applies at a thematic level and not at the overall- level analysis. This could be because the processes that the ISSB follows are based on IFRS standard-setting protocols which also preserve credibility, where major changes are addressed on a more stringent yet consistent basis than the other degrees. While the research focuses entirely on IFRS S1, it contributes to research focused on stakeholder management and standard setting, particularly in sustainability reporting.
Sustainability assurance: Insights into assured sustainability-related information of the Top 100 companies listed on the ASX and JPX
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Nkosi, Nompumelelo Lizette; Cerbone, Dannielle
There is a lack of consensus and ambiguity on the currently adopted standards on sustainability and the assurance thereof which has led to variations in the subject matter assured, criteria used, and the type of assurance provided. This study aims to broaden the extant body of literature related to the assurance of sustainability-related information and provide new insights that can guide future research. The study aims to investigate the sustainability-related assurance practices and reports for the top 100 companies listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) and the Japan Stock Exchange (JPX). Data was collected for 113 companies (52 companies for ASX and 61 companies for JPX). A content analysis of the audit report and the sustainability-related information reports was used to collect data based on a disclosure checklist. The data was analysed and reported on using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Based on the results from the statistics performed, it was noted that there is a difference in the number of subject matter items assured in a category however there is congruence in the subject matter items. This provides evidence of mimetic isomorphism and highlights how companies are using specific subject matter items as an important signal to the market to indicate the credibility of the sustainability reports. Albeit the majority of the assurance provided are limited assurance engagements, some subject matter characteristics should preclude assurance. This finding supports prior research that non- financial assurance engagements do not provide sufficient value to the stakeholders. In addition, it was found that there is variability in the assurance providers based on jurisdiction with financial auditors (traditional auditors) found to be dominate in the ASX and sustainability auditors gaining ground in the JPX. Sustainability auditors could add to the complexity and confusion of the assurance process due to being less likely to have professional training on assurance which allows the engagement of financial auditors by companies to be a signal for stakeholders.
Policy challenges affecting the electric vehicle manufacturing sector in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mateko, Freeman Munisi
The evolution of technology has brought many changes to the automotive sector on a global scale. Different economies in the Global South and Global North are making strides to adopt modern technology, such as electric vehicles, which are more efficient than internal combustion engine vehicles. Electric vehicles have zero emission levels and this is crucial for supporting climate change action. Economies that have adopted electric vehicles succeeded due to robust policies and financial incentives for car manufacturers, among other factors. The aim of this research was to explore the extent to which the policy environment facilitates for increased adoption and manufacturing of electric vehicles (EVs) in South Africa. This research is in line with various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It supports SDG 7 by encouraging the use of electric vehicles for cleaner energy, as well as SDG 9 by advocating for automotive sector innovation and infrastructural development. Furthermore, the emphasis on lowering emissions coincides with SDGs 11 and 13 by promoting sustainable urban environments and climate action. In terms of the research methodology, the study was based on qualitative research techniques. Interviews and literature review were used for data collection. Six policy documents were analyzed in this study. The target population for the study were the stakeholders in the South African car manufacturing sector. Purposive sampling was used to select a total of ten participants for the study. Data was analyzed through content and thematic analysis techniques. The results of primary study demonstrated how ambiguous South Africa's current electric vehicle policy environment is. Additionally, it was determined that some factors must be considered to guarantee a seamless switch to electromobility. Developing and executing electric vehicle policies, maintaining a steady supply of energy, lowering import taxes on EV parts, skill development, providing purchase subsidies, and providing production and technological incentives are a few of these elements. In terms of policy recommendations, it was suggested that there is need for timeous implementation of electric vehicles policy, producing battery electric vehicles, promoting research and development on electric vehicles and there is need for increased government support towards car manufacturers in South Africa.
Navigating Governance Processes in IT Startups: A Case Study within an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Rantho, Malekgene; Sylvester, Horvey
This qualitative study explores the intricate aspects of governance procedures within agile software development teams in IT startups in Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) environment in South Africa. The research aimed to gain a comprehensive understanding of how elements such as leadership styles, organizational culture, decision-making processes, team climate, and emotional aspects of leadership influence the navigation and effectiveness of governance in agile agile software development teams. A case study of an IT startup within an OEM was used to explore the research question. To answer this question, an investigation was conducted through interviews of a qualitative nature with 20 members of agile teams in the organization selected for the case study seeking to: (i) To examine the current governance practices employed by agile teams of software development organizations within an OEM environment in South Africa; (ii) To identify the key challenges and opportunities faced by software development organizations in implementing effective governance practices; and (iii) To recommend best practices and strategies for enhancing governance practices in software development organizations, based on the findings of the case studies and an analysis of industry trends and standards. The results indicate the necessity of adaptive leadership that balances transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire styles to effectively manage governance of agile software development teams; the importance of aligning governance frameworks with organizational cultures, fostering continuous improvement, and promoting effective communication; the challenges in role clarity and the impacts of missing team members on workload, job satisfaction, and project outcomes; and that culturally sensitive governance practices, supported by regular knowledge-sharing sessions and a culture of measured risk-taking, enhance team performance and innovation. Thus the recommendations include implementing adaptive leadership training, fostering a culture of continuous feedback, and enhancing risk management practices to ensure project stability and quality. This study contributes to understanding how governance processes can be tailored to support agile methodologies in complex organizational settings.
Designing an AI-based Predictive Maintenance Framework to Improve OEE for an Automotive Manufacturer in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Phenyane, Siphamandla Sifiso; Sony, Michael
This study presents a comprehensive approach to enhancing Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) in an automotive manufacturing setting by integrating artificial intelligence and Internet of Things technologies with people and processes. The research applies the Design Science Research (DSR) methodology to develop, deploy, and evaluate an AI-driven predictive maintenance framework. The first phase involves a detailed exploratory data analysis to understand the current state of OEE and identify critical bottlenecks within the production line, particularly operating below OEE industry standards. The second phase builds on the insights gathered from a semi-structured survey conducted among field experts, leading to the formulation of a cohesive framework that synergises the socio-technical aspects of the manufacturing environment. The core of the study revolves around the design and development of a Bi-directional Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM) model artefact, capable of analysing sequential data to predict the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) of machinery, thereby pre-empting production halts. The model's predictive capability is rigorously tested and validated using historical IoT data, demonstrating a high degree of accuracy across different spot-welding locations. Overall, the study highlights the critical role of AI in transforming manufacturing processes, emphasising the need for continuous adaptation and improvement of predictive models to maintain operational efficiency. The proposed framework aims to serve as a strategic tool in lean manufacturing, contributing to smoother operations and improved OEE in automotive manufacturing settings
Postmodernism, Postmodern marketing, and the consumption behaviours of Millennials and Generation Z in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Mkhonto, Zonke Mbali; Saini, Yvonne Kabeya
There is an insufficient degree of research-related exploration and analysis in the postmodern marketing field or sphere in the context of consumer behaviours of the Generation Y (Millennials) and Generation Z in South Africa. Accordingly, this study explores the integration of and its application to postmodern marketing strategies, and also analyses the influences of these strategies on the consumption habits and behaviours of the Generation Y and Generation Z youth cohorts. In its focus on contributin towards the resolution of these research-related gaps, the study explored and analysed the application of postmodernism in respect of the principles or constructs of hyperreality, fragmentation, and reversals of production and consumption. These principles were then examined and integrated with postmodern marketing approaches such as the gamification, omnichannel, user-generated content, and experiential marketing strategies for broader understanding of the nature and impact of the identified consumption behaviours of the Millennials and Generation Z in South Africa. The methodology entailed a quantitative methodological approach since it is objective, systematic, more efficient and further amenable to testing of hypotheses. A self- administered online questionnaire designed by the researcher was utilised for data collection and as reference framework for statistical data analysis. The findings supported all the developed hypotheses, and further revealed, amongst others, that a positive and significant relationship between all constructs concerning the nature and impact of the identified consumption behaviours of the Millennials and Generation Z in South Africa. Notwithstanding these findings, the study supports and recommends further research (future studies) in the adoption and application of the omnichannel marketing strategy, which seemed to display the most dynamism in the context of correlation analysis and path modelling more than the other postmodern marketing constructs
Gamification in production of a manufacturing firm in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Jooste, Stephanie Margaret
Gamification although an old concept, is only recently being adopted into various industries which have shown tremendous positive outcomes from the adoption of the concept. However, the manufacturing industry in South Africa lacks diversity and has failed to adopt the new concept. Therefore, it is critical to explore the potential of gamification in this sector. The extant body of literature on gamification highlights the concept's beneficial consequences; yet, as no research has been done to document gamification's long-term effects, caution is advised. Leaving adopters uncertain about the duration of time they can enjoy the advantages of higher output and staff engagement. The concept of gamification was investigated in the manufacturing industry todetermine if adoption is a viable option. This research provided insights on the complexity of the workforce and the resistance towards change. The industry is hungry for a disturbance to drive productivity and employee engagement to the next level. A qualitative methodology was employed, with 4 participants from one manufacturing firm supplying information on how gamification might be implemented in the manufacturing sector and the potential impact. The research findings provide insight into the difficulties the company would face if gamification was implemented. While highlighting the anticipated benefits, participants voiced concern about the workforce's divergent viewpoints. The overall viewpoint of the participants was that gamification can have a positive impact on productivity levels in the firm if introduced in a slow cautious manner. One of the main recommendations was to implement gamification in the company in conjunction with a motivational theory as a means of assisting the employees in adapting to the shift. It was recommended that the change must happen slowly and purposeful, it is imperative that the workforce understands the change and what is to be expected from it
Resolving Inter- and Extra-group Discord Between Forestry and Milling Industries Using Photo-optical Technology
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022-03) Bierman, Rohan; Penman, Neale
TWK Agri timber mills purchase significant volumes of timber from the forestry division of the group and external plantations. A process is followed when timber arrives at a mill to determine the volume of timber to pay in tons, and this process utilises a conversion factor to convert cubic meters to tons. This conversion factor, 1.37 m3/ton, has been in use for many years, although recently it has become apparent that timber suppliers are dissatisfied with this value as they believe it to be longer representative of the state of timber being supplied to the mills. Importantly, the conversion factor has a direct impact on the amount that suppliers are compensated. The implications of low trust relationships with disgruntled suppliers of a key raw material cannot be overstated: if suppliers withdraw from supply agreements, the timber mills will be unable to meet the demand of the mining industry and other markets. This consulting report is concerned with investigating whether the conversion factor is still representative or should be adjusted. The means of conducting this investigation is using a photo-optical mobile device application, Timbeter, which can determine the volume of timber on a truck through photographing every stack and inputting the length of the logs. The application can identify each log and size it accordingly to calculate volume. The implication is that it has greater accuracy than the current manual method to determine volume. Using volume data from the Timbeter application of trucks measured from February to October 2021, along with weighbridge data, the actual factors were statistically analysed in comparison with the current factor, as well as reviewing other variables of stack density for varying timber diameter classes, species, and season. It is shown that the current factor is no longer suitable and should be adjusted to 1.24 m3/ton. This will have a profound impact on suppliers in terms of additional revenue; using volume measurements from Timbeter with the new factor the timber mills would pay a minimum additional R7.2 – R7.8m to all suppliers combined. However, with better recovery from lower input volumes calculated, the timber mills can calculate lower cost prices for products, thereby increasing gross profit. It was also imperative to investigate the perceptions of key individuals employed at the timber mills in relation to technology and the implementation of Timbeter as a technological solution to calculate timber volume on trucks. This qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured interviews and identifying the main themes into which the response data could be grouped. Four main themes were identified, covering operational challenges, supplier treatment, training and implementation and acknowledging the issues that arise with new technology implementation. The main conclusions from the quantitative and qualitative components of the consulting project were presented. Finally, recommendations were made in respect of the conclusions from the quantitative and qualitative components.
The Role of Consultants in Ensuring Compliance to Engineering Standards in Steel Fabrication Projects
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Khumalo, Buhlebezwe; Owusu Junio, Peterson
This research paper investigates the role played by engineering consultants on steel fabrication projects to provide compliance to engineering standards. Complying to all engineering standards increases chances of considering the project as successful. With significant number of engineering project that have failed, it was important to investigate the client’s satisfaction on the work conducted by engineering consultants. Criteria such as importance of engineering consultant, value added by engineering consultants and the percentage amount to be paid consultants were used to investigate clients’ satisfaction on the work done by engineering consultants on steel fabrication projects. Literature review revealed that engineering consultants need to keep up with latest technology to be able to comply with the engineering standards. Sharing of information was one the emphasis put by literature on the mandate for engineering consultants to assist the steel fabrication industry to grow. Results from the chosen sample indicated that 95% of clients involved in steel fabrication projects feels engineering consultants are important and should be remunerated between 10% and 20% of the total project cost. Engineering consultants were praised for assisting on compliance to standards. Clients indicated that engineering consultants do add value on steel fabrication projects. It is recommended as future research to investigate how satisfied engineering consultants are on steel fabrication projects. It is recommended to further investigate the engineering consultants’ satisfaction to conclude the study on the performance of the whole steel fabrication industry. Engineering consultants also need to indicate how working with clients have been to ensure the required delivery. They could indicate the challenges experience and factors that have contributed to their success. They could also indicate the gaps that will need to be closed to make the steel fabrication industry a highly successful sector. All these opinions could be integrated with those obtained from this report to ensure that a complete view of the industry is obtained.

Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)

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