bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecasting tourist arrivals in South Africa
Authors: Saayman Andrea , Saayman Melville
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to model and forecast tourism to South Africa from the country's main intercontinental tourism markets. These include Great Britain, Germany, the Netherlands, the United States of America and France. Problem investigated: Tourism to South Africa has grown substantially since the first democratic elections in 1994. It is currently the third largest industry in the country and a vital source of foreign exchange earnings. Tourist arrivals continue to grow annually, and have shown some resilience to a number of emerging market crises, including the terrorist attacks in the USA. Business success, marketing decisions, government's investment policy as well as macroeconomic policy are influenced by the accuracy of tourism forecasts, since the tourism product comprises a number of services that cannot be accumulated. Accurate forecasts of tourism demand are paramount to ensure the availability of such services when demanded. In addition, the seasonal nature of tourism leads to a pattern of excess capacity followed by shortage in capacity. Method: Since univariate time series modelling has proved to be a very successful method for forecasting tourist arrivals, it is also the method employed in this paper. The naïve model is tested against a standard ARIMA model, as well as the Holt-Winters exponential smoothing and seasonal-non-seasonal ARIMA models. Forecasting accuracy is assessed using the mean absolute percentage error, root mean square error and Theill's U of the various models. Monthly tourist arrivals from 1994 to 2006 are used in the analysis, and arrivals are forecasted for 2007. Findings: The results show that seasonal ARIMA models deliver the most accurate predictions of arrivals over three time horizons, namely three months, six months and 12 months. Value: This paper is the first tourist arrivals forecast using South African data for the country as a whole, and therefore it forms an interesting case study as a long haul and growing tourist destination. Conclusion: The univariate forecasts provide fairly accurate forecasts of tourist arrivals in South Africa, especially over the short run. As such, it is understandable why it remains a popular approach to forecast tourist arrivals. However, this method does not make provision for assessing the influence of external events and therefore its policy application is limited.
Contributing factors to potential turnover in a sample of South African management-level employees
Authors: Muteswa Rudolph , Ortlepp Karen
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The overall purpose of this study was to explore the extent to which a number of key organisational variables influence the potential decision to leave the organisation in a sample of managerial-level employees. Organisational variables focused on included: career path strategies, management style, intrinsic and extrinsic rewards, team dynamics, training and development opportunities, and work / life balance. Methodology: An exploratory and descriptive research design was adopted. A questionnaire was developed by the researchers based on the related literature. 106 MBA students based in KwaZulu-Natal participated in the study. Findings: The three aspects of internal organisational functioning found to have a significant influence on the participant's potential turnover considerations were: management / leadership style, career path strategies and rewards. Value of the research: According to the Department of Labour (2008:5) there is need for an additional 22 600 managers in various professions in South Africa. As a result of the skills shortages, South African organisations find themselves competing with international organisations for managerial-level employees, resulting in a 'war for talent'. This research is of significant value to organisations as it provides information relevant to the design and support of talent management and retention strategies in South African organisations.
The bullwhip effect phenomenon in automotive supply chains in South Africa
Authors: Naude M. J. , Badenhorst-Weiss J. A.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The purpose of the article is to report on research that was completed to explore the concept of the bullwhip effect in supply chains and to illustrate empirically the presence of the bullwhip effect in automotive supply chains in South Africa. Problem Investigated: This article investigates the presence of the bullwhip effect - which was identified through an empirical study - and its causes and implications for supply chain management in the South African automotive component industry. Methodology: A literature study was conducted on the causes and implications of the bullwhip effect phenomenon. This was followed by an empirical study in the form of a survey among South African automotive component manufacturers. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to determine the significant supply chain problems relating to the bullwhip effect in automotive supply chains. Findings and Implications: The results indicate that automotive component manufacturers are dependent on demand-forecasting information from their customers. They experience long lead times, fluctuating orders, cancellation of orders, excess and slow moving inventory and a lack of integration with suppliers and customers. There are also signs of relationship problems and a possible silo mentality. The mentioned results indicate the presence of the bullwhip effect in South African automotive supply chains. Since the bullwhip effect can have a major impact on organisations' costs, knowing where to invest effort and resources should be a high priority for supply chain managers. Value of the Research: Since the field of supply chain management is extremely dynamic, this article contributes to the body of knowledge and provides new insight into the bullwhip effect phenomenon. The results included in this article could assist parties in automotive supply chains to focus their attention on problems that might be within their control and if solved could lead to improved competitiveness. Furthermore, there is little empirical research on this topic in the South African automotive component industry. Conclusion: It is possible that the bullwhip effect is responsible for inefficiencies in automotive supply chains. Knowledge of the indicators of the bullwhip effect can enable supply chain managers to identify it at an early stage and thus be proactive in preventing its costly influence on the efficiency of the supply chain. The bullwhip effect can be experienced by any industry. This is possibly the case in the automotive component industry in South Africa.
A framework to investigate money attitudes and materialism
Authors: Duh H. , Struwig M. , Mazibuko E.
Published: May 2017

Purpose and/or objectives: This paper presents a framework to investigate money attitudes and materialistic values. The conceptualization of the framework is guided by a critical review of literature. The intention is to provide a framework that will be useful to examine how various childhood family experiences influence later-life consumption orientations. Problem investigated: The differences in family resources represent one of the biggest distinctions between an intact and a disrupted family. The underlining question is whether children raised in disrupted families will experience lower levels of family resources (economic and emotional) and find the experience stressful. If so, will these experiences influence them to adopt conservative money attitudes and be less materialistic or will they symbolically value money and be more materialistic? Design/methodology/approach: The development of a framework requires a critical review of secondary sources. The literature review is based on theories that provide an explanation of how childhood family experiences can affect the development of materialistic values and money attitudes. The secondary sources require careful scrutiny of journal articles, dissertations and essays in a number of libraries to provide more scholarly insight into the concepts and to assist in the conceptualisation of the framework. Findings and/or implications: Four main theories were found useful in conceptualizing the framework. They are Ryan and Deci's (2000) self-determination theory, Maslow's (1943) human need theory, Wicklund and Gollwitzer's (1982) symbolic self-completion theory and the life course theory contextualized by Moschis (2007). However, in line with Moschis' (2007) realization, the perspectives of the life course theory were found to be multi-disciplinary, multi-theoretical and thus innovative. They would therefore form the main theoretical guide for the design of the framework. Originality and/or value of the research: The paper provides a framework to investigate the moderating effect that money attitudes can have on how childhood family experiences influence later-life materialistic values. This proposed framework may form the building blocks for a number of empirical studies especially as the life course approach in studying consumption orientations is innovative and multidisciplinary. Conclusion: The framework includes as independent variable, childhood family structure. Depended variables are perceived level of family resources, stress and materialistic values. Money attitudes are regarded as moderating variables.
The relationship between personality types and reward preferences
Authors: Nienaber R. , Bussin M. H.R. , Henn C.
Published: May 2017

Orientation: Research has shown that total rewards models structured according to individual preferences, positively influence efforts to attract, retain and motivate key employees. Yet, this is seldom done. Structuring total rewards models according to the preferences of employee segments is a viable alternative to accommodate individual preferences. Research purpose: The primary aim of the study was to determine the relationship between personality types and reward preferences. The secondary aim was to determine the reward preferences for different demographic groups. Motivation for the study: An enhanced understanding of reward preferences for different employee segments will enable employers to offer more competitive reward options to their employees. This may, in turn, have a positive impact on retention. Research design, approach and method: Two measuring instruments, the MBTI® Form GRV and the Rewards Preferences Questionnaire, were distributed electronically to 5 000 potential respondents. The results from 589 sets of questionnaires were used in the data analyses. Primary and secondary factor analyses were done on the items in the Rewards Preferences Questionnaire. Main findings/results: The study confirmed that individuals with certain personality types and personality preferences, have different preferences for certain reward categories. There was a stronger relationship between reward preferences and personality preferences than for reward preferences and personality types. Preferences for reward categories by different demographic groups were confirmed. The significant difference in reward preferences between Black and White respondents in particular was noteworthy, with Black respondents indicating significantly higher mean scores for all reward categories than White respondents. Finally, a total rewards framework influenced by the most prominent preferences for reward categories, was designed. Practical/Managerial implications: This study confirms that there are significant differences in the reward preferences of different segments. Management can more effectively structure reward models according to these preferences without increasing overall costs. Contribution/value-add: The existing body of knowledge on the reward preferences of people with different personality types and personality preferences are enhanced. In addition, the study on the reward preferences of different demographic groups within a South African context adds considerably to the existing body of literature. Based on research results, a total rewards framework, on employee preferences, was designed. Furthermore, an increased understanding of the reward categories that contribute towards .the attraction, retention and motivation of employees as well as preferences for certain reward categories, have been obtained.
The South African wildlife ranching sector: A Social Accounting Matrix Leontief multiplier analysis
Authors: Cloete Philippus C. , Rosouw Riaan
Published: May 2017

Orientation: There is startlingly little economic research on the South African wildlife sector which contributes toward disputes regarding the economic contribution of the sector.Research purpose: The purpose of this article is to put into context the relative economic contribution of the wildlife ranching sector, as opposed to other land-use options in South Africa.Motivation for the study: Growth in the wildlife ranching sector at the cost of other traditional farming practices resulted in disagreements amongst various role players about the impact thereof on the national economy. The controversy can most probably be explained by different beliefs, coupled with the lack of a proper understanding and quantification of the wildlife ranching sector’s contribution toward the economy.Research methodology: The study employed a Social Accounting Matrix-based Leontief multiplier analysis for South Africa.Main findings: Results from the multiplier analysis revealed that developments within the wildlife ranching sector are likely to make a relatively more superior contribution towards the economy, especially when compared to similar land-use options such as extensive livestock production.Practical/managerial implications: It has been acknowledged by both academia and private sector that a major need exists for more research on the South African wildlife ranching industry, specifically looking at issues such as the industries, economic and social contributions, potentials and constraints. The research, therefore, contributes toward the depth of economic information and research regarding the South African wildlife sector.Contribution/value added: The research provides valuable information in dealing with the ‘popular belief’, especially amongst some of South Africa’s decision makers, namely, that growth in the wildlife ranching sector is not or does not have the ability to contribute significantly toward economic and socioeconomic factors.
Motivation influencing worker performance in a technical division of Telkom SA
Authors: Oosthuizen T. F.J.
Published: May 2017

This paper investigates the overall motivational level of employees in a technical division of Telkom SA during change periods. Specific reasons for the established levels of motivation are identified. Based on the six motivator factors and ten hygiene factors as presented by Herzberg, it is the conclusion of this study that the solution to motivate employees are based on informed and positively motivated employees who participate continuously in the change process at all levels
Competing through Information Technology
Authors: Pieterse M.
Published: May 2017

Despite the fact that more money is spent annually on information technology, very few firms have found competitive advantage through the use of information technology. Information technology is seen as a backoffice function that is used for administrative functions and not as a key business enabler. Information technology will not only aid the business in surviving, but can be a strategic component to providing competitive advantage to the business, provided that the information technology function in the business is aligned to the business strategy. The critical factor in achieving competitive advantage through the use on information technology is not what technology is used, but how the technology is implemented and how the technology is aligned to the business.
Private Higher Educational Institutions in a changing South African environment
Authors: Froneman L.
Published: May 2017

One of the problems experienced by potential learners is accessibility to education facilities, especially in rural areas and for people with time constraints. The objective of this research is to investigate the role for Private Higher Educational Institutions (PHEIs) in South Africa, sharing the task of providing education with government supported institutions. Although distance learning is not a panacea for all educational problems, it holds great promise for driving change in education. The research is based on questionnaires, interviews and literature. Results indicated that traditional residential education couldn't reach all people. Distance learning can relieve the situation. However, both private and public providers of higher education (residential and distance) can co-exist in South Africa. Private Higher Distance Learning (PHDL) contributes in lowering present levels of unemployment by providing skills, as many prospective students stay in rural areas and townships. This paper emphasizes some of the changes impacting on the future of PHDL and bringing education opportunities to masses by creating an environment of shared responsibility between government institutions and private initiatives, jointly servicing a greater part of the population.
Product Life Cycle concept use and application by marketing decision-makers in small South African organisations
Authors: Herbst F. J.
Published: May 2017

The purpose of the study was to test the underlying theory of the product life cycle concept with the primary objective of establishing what the use and practical value of the product life cycle concept is in making marketing decisions in small manufacturing and dealer organisations in Gauteng. The main focus was to test the ability of marketing decision-makers in these small organisations to associate their application and use of the product life cycle concept with Kotler's assumptions on marketing characteristics, described marketing objectives and proposed marketing strategies. A major finding was that small organisations tended to display a marketing knowledge level with the existing marketing theory. Another important conclusion of the study was that the current product life cycle concept theory needs to be broadened to include strategies on the expanded marketing mix. Apart from the different use and application by marketing decision-makers in small organisations in South Africa the product life cycle concept theory has potential as a strategic tool and a high likelihood for its future use as a marketing decision-making instrument.
Strategic positioning of EAP in South African workplaces
Authors: Matlhape M. G.
Published: May 2017

Two phenomena are having a profound effect on management and industry in the 21st century. The first one is the increasing rate and depth of competition locally, regionally, and globally, and the consequent increase in focus on achieving competitiveness by companies. The second phenomenon is the increasing appreciation of the importance of employees in assisting the company to gain a competitive advantage over its competitors. Employee Assistance Programmes have been used as part of the business strategy to enhance employee functioning, loyalty, and performance in organisations around the world for a good part of the 20th century. In South Africa this service did not gain much momentum until the 1980. Despite the growth of EAP in South Africa, however, in most cases it still remains on the periphery of real business activities and is often regarded as a "nice to have" rather than as a business imperative. The location of EAP within a company is very important in determining its impact within the organisation. Because of EAPs capacity to impact on both individual employees and the organisation as its primary client, it has potential to make a great impact in organisations' business processes, where these interface with individual output and wellbeing. A service-profit-chain model was introduced as a link between employee satisfaction and company profitability. This article gives an in-depth focus on EAP and the important role it can play in achieving employee satisfaction.
Data management: Managing data as an organisational resource
Authors: Maritz S. G.
Published: May 2017

Managing data as a resource is an important function of information management. Accurate and relevant data is the source of valuable information. By managing data efficiently, sound management decisions can be made. The traditional file environment is not appropriate for managing data; database management systems are the most popular choice for managing data effectively. Some of the broader trends in data management include outsourcing, data reuse, data re-engineering, archiving, data warehousing and data mining.
An imminent collapse of the global money system?
Authors: Silvis J. , Lessing N.
Published: May 2017

The global money system should from a biblical perspective be based on a true weight. However, the existing global money system is based on a false weight. To track the use of a false weight in the US, the total US debt to gross domestic product (GDP) and the Dow Jones are compared from 1950 to 17 November 2004. From 1950 to 14 January 2000 there was a positive correlation between total US debt to GDP and the nominal value of the Dow Jones. From 14 January 2000 added false weight to the system did not increase the nominal value of the Dow Jones beyond the high of 14 January 2004. According to this research the US and the global money system is set to implode.
The purification, analysis and validation of a service quality scale
Authors: Venter P. F. , Dhurup M.
Published: May 2017

The retail industry remains one of the largest sectors in the global economy. In South Africa, retailing is one of the toughest and the most competitive industries. In this study factor analysis were used during the pilot stage to examine the robustness of the factor structure of the quality variables. The variables were analysed using principal component analysis, initially u rotated and then through Varimax normalisation. The findings of this preliminary study do provide basic support for a three-factor structure for supermarket service quality in terms of reliability and validity. The reliability analysis, which followed the factor analysis reflected coefficient a values ranging from 0.85 to 0.90 indicating high internal consistency amongst variables within each dimension. In today's saturated retail markets, retailers' face increasing hurdles to attract and maintain customers.
The influence of information & communication technology on the selling activities of the professional sales representative
Authors: Drotsky G. A.P. , De Jager J. W. , North E. J.
Published: May 2017

The application of information and communication technology (ICT) has become a reality in selling in the South African pharmaceutical industry. Low awareness levels exist in the pharmaceutical industry about how the effective use of ICT can contribute to client services and productivity. The effectiveness of ICT in selling depends on the way it is managed and implemented by management and accepted by the salespeople and clients, on how effectively it is applied, and on the influence, it has on the salesperson. A descriptive research design was used to determine whether the introduction of ICT into the selling process has influenced the professional sales representatives' activities in a positive way. The results of this study clearly indicate that pharmaceutical sales representatives, both those appointed before the introduction of ICT and those appointed there after, are not positive about the introduction of ICT into the selling process.
Knowledge management and cognitive theory: An African case study
Authors: Misch A. , Tobin P. K.J.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to report on research into whether knowledge can be managed more effectively by taking into consideration the nature and complexity of information being received by members of an organisation; the cognitive abilities of those members; and finally the nature and composition of the hierarchical structure of the organisation within which those members operate. Design/Methodology/Approach: The research reported on in this paper was carried out using a case study approach, with the focus on a single organisation to which the authors had special access. Data was gathered using a combination of interviews and a focus group, with participants drawn from a cross-section of members of the case study organisation. Analysis was conducted within the framework associated with the primary theoretical model (Jaques & Clement, 1991) that underpins this research. Findings: This research helps to further an understanding of how individual and organisational performance may be influenced by issues such as cognitive processes and the relationship to information complexity. The research findings support the work of Jaques and Clement (1991). Implications: This research had important implications for the organisation in the case study investigation. Other organisations would need to evaluate the research findings in terms of their applicability to other organisations in the same industry, in the same country (South Africa) or elsewhere in other industries or in other countries on the African continent. Originality/Value: This research is original in terms of the application of cognitive theory in conjunction with knowledge management principles in the context of the legal profession in South Africa. It has potential value in many other industries and countries.
Key success factors for the management of a shared services business unit (Article 3 of 3)
Authors: Van der Linde T. N. , Boessenkool A. L. , Jooste C. J.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The first and second articles in the trilogy introduced shared services as a business model and the various models through which a shared services business can and must evolve to create value. The purpose of this third and final article in the trilogy of articles is to identify the key success factors required to successfully manage a shared services business unit. Methodology: A comprehensive literature study was conducted in order to identify the key success factors required to successfully manage a shared services business unit. This was followed up with an empirical study to determine if organisations that have implemented shared services as a business model are using any of these identified factors to successfully manage their respective shared services business units. Findings: In the article, a framework is generated to help organisations understand the key success factors required to successfully manage a shared services business unit. This work has further potential in that the key factors required can also be used not only in the normal brick and mortar organisations, but also in virtual organisations. Implications: This article presents a comprehensive approach to understand the key success factors required to manage a shared services business unit. These findings are important as they can be applied to a conventional organisation as well as a virtual organisation. Value: This article provides an understanding of the key success factors required to manage a shared services business model. When these key success factors are used as a basis for the management of a shared services business unit, it will continuously create value for the organisation.
The dual labour market theory and the informal sector in South Africa
Authors: Uys M. D. , Blaauw P. F.
Published: May 2017

Purpose of the paper: The purpose of this paper is to revisit the dual labour market theory as far as the informal sector in South Africa is concerned. The hypothesis is that the dual labour market theory must be extended in order to be applicable to the informal sector of the South African economy. It is our view that within some informal occupations a further segmentation exists. Problem investigated: Among South Africa Âs grave socio-economic problems, unemployment is one of the most serious and intractable. An increase in informal and self-employment was experienced during the last decades. Traditional dual labour market theory maintains that jobs can be roughly divided into two groups: those with low wages, bad working conditions, unstable employment and little opportunity for advancement; and those with relatively high wages, good working conditions and opportunities for advancement. The problem that confronts researchers is that even within informal employment, further segmentation is possible. Approach: To determine whether the dualism, that described by the dual labour market theory, is also present within the informal sector itself, available data on a typical informal sector activity, namely car guarding, is analysed. This provides the evidence to achieve the objective of this paper. Findings and implications: The case study of car guards confirms that the dual labour market theory can also apply within the informal sector on the condition that it is expanded to make provision for a further segmentation of the periphery sector. This finding presents several important policy implications. A basket of policies is needed to address the problem of unemployment as effectively as possible. Value of the research: The paper provides further knowledge on informal employment in South Africa. This is an area that requires a lot of attention, given the importance of the informal sector in South Africa and Africa at large. It goes further than the traditional implications stemming from the dual labour market theory. Conclusion: The South African labour market is fragmented, consisting of a well-paid formal sector and the periphery that consists of workers in the informal sector, subsistence agriculture and the unemployed. Within the periphery, there is the possibility that a certain degree of dualism exists. The case study of car guards confirms that the dual labour market theory can be extended to make provision for this dualism, even within the informal sector.
Transformational change in the SA gambling and lotteries sector
Authors: Van Lill D.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: This paper examines the transformation of the South African gaming and casino sub-sector after South Africa's democratic dispensation in 1994 and the National Gambling Act (33 of 1996). These developments introduced an adapt-or-die scenario to the gambling and lotteries sector leading to a total overhaul of strategy, structure, systems, processes, technology, work, culture, behaviour and mindset. More specifically, Sun International's gaming and casino division's response to transformational change was examined by tapping into, and reflecting on, the experiences of managers involved in day-to-day casino operations. Design: The conceptual framework of the research is based on transformation as a form of change where business principles and people management are highly integrated. Subsequently, a user-friendly tool called the "See-Saw model" was developed to measure transformational progress. The model was applied in six change management workshops for casino managers and, from this framework, transformational progress was interpreted. Findings: The results highlighted the magnitude of change in the gambling and lotteries sector. It appeared that this sector has evolved in 10 year cycles up to 2000, whereas the current level of competitiveness fuels the demand for innovation and change in less than two year cycles. The second significant finding revolved around employees' perception that Sun International's gaming and casinos division has performed well in terms of value innovation variables. Implications: The study confirmed that, in successful transformation, business innovation needs to be balanced by fairness principles. Moreover, that the threat-rigidity in leader and employee mindset has become a most challenging people management puzzle to position in securing sustainable competitive advantage. Originality: The value of the research lies in the development of a user-friendly, non-threatening strategic tool called the "see-saw model" which can be used across industries to evaluate transformational progress from the employees' point of view.
Measuring tangibility and assurance as determinants of service quality for public health care in South Africa
Authors: De Jager J. , Du Plooy T.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to measure service quality offered to patients treated in a government controlled hospital in South Africa. Desig/Methodology/Approach: A service satisfaction survey was conducted amongst patients treated at a provincial hospital in Gauteng. The attitudes of the patients were tested regarding pre-identified service quality aspects related to health care. Tangibility and assurance categories are analysed for the purposes of this paper. A total of 583 in- and out-patients were selected at random and were personally interviewed. A five point Likert type scale was used to measure their expectations and perceived performance. Findings: These indicated patient dissatisfaction with both service quality dimensions measured, although significant differences exist between in- and out-patients. Personal safety and cleanliness of facilities were regarded as the most important variables in the assurance and tangibility dimensions. The level of satisfaction was the highest for clear information signage and communication at an understandable level in the tangibility-and assurance categories, respectively. Implications: This paper presents a comprehensive framework for prioritising important issues by provincial hospital management policy makers to satisfy patients' expectations and, because they have more authority over expenditure, the findings are important in the interest of supplying acceptable health care. Originality/Value: This study challenges existing work on health care services. Its significance lies in investigating the diversified health care needs and wants of various cultural groups in South Africa, because it focuses on service quality as experienced by in- and out-patients. It offers a new framework from an original South African perspective, focusing on differences and similarities between in- and outpatients of a Gauteng public hospital.
The strategic entrepreneurial thinking imperative
Authors: Dhliwayo S. , Van Vuuren J. J.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to demonstrate that strategic entrepreneurial thinking is a unitary concept which should be viewed as a standalone construct. Design/Methodology/Approach: The concept strategic entrepreneurial thinking is modelled from an analysis of strategic thinking and entrepreneurial thinking from available literature. The strategic entrepreneurial mindset imperative is then emphasised and confirmed. Findings: This paper's finding is that there is no difference between strategic thinking and the entrepreneurial mindset. Instead, the composite strategic entrepreneurial mindset construct should be treated as a unitary construct. Practical implications: The importance for practitioners is that the paper integrates two constructs, strategic thinking and entrepreneurial thinking into a new concept, strategic entrepreneurial thinking. The paper shows how difficult it is to split this thinking and behaviour into separate strategic and entrepreneurial thought and action processes. Originality/Value: The paper explores the ''thinking'' aspect of the strategic entrepreneurial concept which prominent authors on the strategic entrepreneurship topic seem to have not focused on. The resultant strategic entrepreneurial mindset is modelled into a new stand alone concept on its own.
The application of holistic risk management in the banking industry
Authors: Chibayambuya J. , Theron D. J.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The application of holistic risk management is fast becoming a standard measure of good governance in the business arena. What role can holistic risk management play in the management of risk in the financial services industry? The aim of this paper is to propose a holistic risk management framework for the management of risk. Design/Methodology/Approach: A comprehensive framework that covers the holistic view risk management is proposed/developed out of an extensive literature review. Findings: Given the deliberations of various frameworks, a holistic risk management is proposed. The proposed framework ensures that all components of risk management are taken into account when strategizing for risk management in general and holistic risk management in particular; thereby improving the management of risk in the banking industry. Implications: The article proposes a holistic approach to risk management which takes into account all the facets of risk management, e.g. analyzing, planning, strategy, communication, implementation, motivation, systems review and plan modification. This holistic approach, when implemented in the banking industry, can have a significant impact on the improved management of risk. Originality/Value: The new proposed holistic risk management framework offers a fresh perspective of strategizing for risk management in terms of risk analysis, risk planning, risk strategy, risk communication, risk implementation, risk motivation, risk review and risk plan modification.
Employee motivation in Ghana: A factor structure and measurement tool
Authors: Puplampu B. B.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: This paper reports research on the factor structure of employee motivation as well as provides a tool for measuring the level of employee motivation in Ghanaian organisations. Methodology: The study was designed as exploratory, comparative and cross-sectional. 260 respondents drawn from across the gender, status and job grade hierarchy of 19 organisations participated. The organisations were matched in terms of tenure (over 5years), number of employees (50 or more) and geographic location (headquartered in Accra). A 41-item questionnaire on the Level of Motivation (LoM); Characteristics of Employee Motivation (CEM); aspects of Organisational Citizenship Behaviour (OCB); Managerial Assumptions about employee behaviour (MA); Contextual Institutional Analysis (IAN) and Organisational Leadership Issues (Le) was developed and used. The instrument combined fixed response format on a 3-point scale with open-ended responses. Findings: Exploratory Factor Analyses (Varimax Rotation, converging in 26 iterations) yielded 6 factors, which account for 60% of the variance. Thematic analyses of both interview and open-ended questionnaire data support the emergent factor structure, providing some tentative indication that employee motivation in the Ghanaian (or indeed African) context should be looked at more in an integrated manner rather than in terms of the limiting confines of any one theory of motivation. The 3 items hypothesised to constitute the measure of level of employee motivation loaded neatly onto Factor 6. One-way ANOVA demonstrated no differences in the level of motivation across the organisational samples; this was confirmed by the interview data. Implications/Originality/Value: The implications and value of this research are: that motivation research in Africa does need to focus more on developing an integrated model of employee motivation; also, a simple 3-item but novel tool for measuring the level of employee motivation as well as its underlying dynamics, is tentatively put forward. This, in the Ghanaian context, is a much needed psychometric.
South African pension fund conversions: Dealing with environmental change
Authors: George D. T. , Joubert R. J.O.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyse South African pension fund conversions from defined benefit to defined contribution structures and to develop a model for dealing with environmental change. Design/Methodology/Approach: Qualitative research methodology was used. Industry experts were interviewed to obtain a macro view of the phenomenon and specific manifestations of the phenomenon were also considered in case studies.Feedback from semi-structured interviews was categorised into several emergent themes. Within-case and cross-case analyses were conducted. Findings: Results indicated that an environmental shock exerted a substantial influence on the course of events. Under these: Various factors combined to drive organisational evolution (i.e. adaptation to the environment). Adaptation speed was inappropriate and exceeded that which was required for sufficient thought. Uncertainty and vacuum circumstances arose leading to consequences that require redress. The relative power of the stakeholders changed and influenced the strategic outcome. An imbalance in stakeholder interests arose and ethical factors became consequential. Business acted to restore certainty for itself.Implications: This paper provides insight into organisational behaviour during periods of environmental shock. Environmental shock can be defined as "a condition that arises where business or societal rules are inadequate, or do not exist, to deal with unfolding events". An environmental shock has greater magnitude than a competitive shock, and can include several competitive shocks.Originality/Value: Analysis of pension fund conversions revealed organisational behaviour during periods of environmental shock and the emerging model can be applied in other instances of environmental shock, such as broad-based black economic empowerment (B-B BEE), land redistribution, sanctions and constitutional development.
An entrepreneurial education model for the Namibian Higher Education system
Authors: Ras P. , Pretorius M.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to develop an entrepreneurial education model for implementation in the Namibian Higher Education system. Namibia, just like South Africa, has an objective to develop small, medium and micro enterprises to enhance economic growth and reduce unemployment. Development of such a model is supported by the government of Namibia. This paper investigates appropriate entrepreneurial education models used in South Africa for this purpose.Design/Methodology/Approach: This research is an exploratory research design based upon secondary data mainly provided by the Namibian Economic Policy Research Unit (NEPRU) that enabled the researcher to understand and identify the problems that Namibia encounter in their small business environment. Theories, as developed by the University of Pretoria based on entrepreneurial education, were explored and formed the base of the theory exploration. Findings : The researcher investigated an existing entrepreneurial education model being used for the South African context, as well as a comparison of two models, and an integrated model based on the cited models. These models are used to show the importance of such models and the need to develop one for Namibia. Implications: This paper presents a model that can solve the basic need expressed by the Namibian Higher Education System to find an appropriate model to implement. Originality/Value: This paper provides a foundation from which an entrepreneurial education model can be implemented and improved / customised for the Namibian context.
African business schools: Information and communication technology survey
Authors: Tobin P. K.J
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to report on research into the status of information and communication technology in use at members of the Association of African Business Schools (AABS).Design/Methodology/Approach: The research reported on in this paper was carried out using a questionnaire sent by email to the target population (all the members of the AABS). The questionnaire covered a wide range of issues, including information technology strategy and governance, as well as the operational aspects of the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the institutions surveyed. Questions were based on topics identified from the literature and a recent industry survey conducted in one of the member countries, and the assessment criteria were based on a maturity rating scale. Findings: This research helps to further an understanding of the use of ICT in the organisations that responded to the survey. Overall, there was a high level of understanding or applicability (over 95%) among the topics surveyed across all schools, but there was a significant proportion where no action on that topic had yet been taken (over 30% of all maturity ratings across all respondents). Average maturity rating across all topics for all respondents was 2.3 (action taken but an informal approach to the topic is currently used) on a scale from 0 to 5. Implications: This research has important implications for the organisations responding to the survey and their awareness of the issues they face as institutions that seek to leverage their investments in ICT to raise their own competitive position and thus that of African organisations which have students educated at these business schools. There are also implications for the future success of the newly-formed AABS and its other initiatives in terms of meeting the objectives of the Association. Originality/Value: This research is original in terms of which there is a broad understanding of the extent to which ICT is available and in use amongst the members of the AABS. Prior to the foundation of the Association, no suitable forum existed for the conduct of this research. The originality therefore, is in the opportunity presented to form a broader understanding of the status of the use of ICT to support the activities of business schools across Africa. The value of this research may be applied to both those respondents to the survey, other members of the AABS and other business schools operating in Africa that wish to understand the issues in the field of ICT that they should be addressing.
Factors influencing the preparation, support and training of South African expatriates
Authors: Vogel A. J. , Van Vuuren J. J.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to determine if the independent variables; location of an international assignment, the age of an expatriate, the duration of an assignment and the management level of an expatriate, influence the preparation, support and training that they require for an international assignment. Design/Methodology/Approach: This formal, empirical study was undertaken using an electronic questionnaire that was distributed to expatriates who were on an international assignment. Expatriates who were on an international assignment were thought to be in the best position to respond to their preparation, support and training needs. Findings: The research found that the preparation, support and training required by South African expatriates are not influenced by the location of an international assignment, the age of the expatriate, the duration of an international assignment or the management level of the expatriate. Implications: The findings highlight the fact that human resource managers of South African multinational enterprises should provide all their expatriates with the same preparation, support and training, as well as identifies five requirements that should be included in all South African expatriate policies.
Organisational norms of academic administration at a higher education institution
Authors: Struwig F. W. , Smith E. E.
Published: May 2017

This article sets out to investigate the organisational norms at a higher education institution as perceived by academic administrative staff members. To achieve the aim of this article, a literature study and empirical research were undertaken. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 88 staff members in the Academic Administration Department at a higher education institution. To investigate the relationship between the independent and dependent variables, nine hypotheses were tested. The results indicated significant relationships between some of these variables. Guidelines are provided as to which organisational norms are acceptable, which are not yet problematic but pose various challenges and which are problematic and need interventions. The guidelines could be useful in any organisational setting which requires new group formation or working relationships. A hypothesized model to investigate norms is also proposed.