bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The analysis of market concentration in Hungarian tertiary education through enrolment data
Authors: Keresztes Éva Réka
Published: March 2016

As a result of its dynamic growth, the service sector has become the dominant sector of national economies in developed countries. At the end of the 20th century people began to perceive tertiary education as a service and this has brought about a change in their attitude towards higher education considering it as a commodity that can be bought. Non-business services like higher education are increasingly shaped by market forces and marketisation trends. The study examines the market structure of Hungarian higher education sector through enrolment data in Academic Year 2010-11. The paper presents various metrics of concentration based upon the number of students. The data analysis is performed using the Lorenz curve, the Gini index (G), the concentration coefficient (C) and the Herfindahl-Hirschman index (HHI). The paper examines the market segmentation of higher education, specially focusing on the enrolment data of management and business studies of higher education.
Tourist Destination Integral Product Eco-Efficiency
Authors: Jankovic Sandra , Vejzagic Vanja , Vlašić Dubravka
Published: March 2016

The main objective of this article is to illustrate the accounting methodology for eco-efficiency measurement, which allows for inclusion of the economically-orientated component in the processes of environmental reporting on tourist destination integral product, while examining the interrelation of eco-costs and values found in the classic LCC and particular tourist destination SBU (Strategic Business Unit). The process of tourist destination integral product eco-efficiency measurement calls for development of environmental accounting methods suitable for presentation of economically-orientated sustainability information. In the complex process of integral product eco-efficiency measurement, LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) and LCC (Life Cycle Costing) take important roles. Interpretation and presentation of the data includes detailed cradle-to-grave environmental impact assessment of direct and indirect tourist activity and different products of tourist destination SBU’s. Eco-costs represent the monetary component in the processes of environmental accounting and reporting on environmental impact of tourist destination integral product.
The Recent Global Financial Crisis: Impacts On Selected Developing Regions
Authors: Agbetsiafa Douglas K.
Published: March 2016

The manuscript entitled The Recent Global Financial Crisis: Impacts On Selected Developing Regions was retracted on September 11, 2014. Please contact our office at Journals@CluteInstitute.com for more information.
Changing Patterns In The Day-Of-The-Week Effects In African Stock Markets
Authors: Kalidas Shakeel , Mbululu Douglas , Chipeta Chimwemwe
Published: March 2016

The changing patterns in returns on African stock markets have not been adequately documented. This paper addresses this gap by testing for the day-of-the-week effect and the changes in the patterns of returns for several African stock markets. A direct test on skewness and kurtosis is used to capture higher statistical moments in the search for seasonal patterns in returns. Daily index data for South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, Nigeria, and Morocco are used for the period 2004 to 2012. Day-of-the-week effects are documented for all the countries with the exception of South Africa. Furthermore, significant changes in patterns over time are observed for these same countries. Each day in the pre-financial crisis period shows significantly different patterns to every other day in post-crisis epoch. Further, the patterns displayed amongst the countries with significant results are largely similar in terms of highest/lowest mean returns. This paper presents new policy implications and research suggestions on the day-of-the-week patterns.
An Investigation Into A Peer Module Mentoring Programme In Economic And Management Sciences
Authors: Du Preez Ronel , Steenkamp Leon P. , Baard Roelof S.
Published: March 2016

All South African universities face the challenges of student success and retention - a challenge compounded by under-prepared students from diverse backgrounds. This article explores peer module mentoring as a possible approach to facilitate student success in Economic and Management Sciences. An ex post facto quantitative research methodology, with a web-based questionnaire, was implemented. Perspectives of both mentors and mentees who participated in the faculty module mentoring programme during 2012 were investigated regarding their motivation for participation and evaluation of the programme. The module mentoring programme was experienced as being beneficial by both the mentors and mentees. Altruistic, cognitive, social, personal growth and financial benefits were derived from the programme. The findings provide a strong argument in favour of the expanding and continuation of module mentoring programmes in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences. The findings are not generalisable beyond the scope of the particular faculty and institution, but provide input and guidance for decision-making related to student support initiatives. The continuance of the module mentoring programme entails investments in terms of both money and time. This article considers the benefits derived from these investments in a faculty-wide module mentoring programme at a South African university.
The Impact Of Platform On Global Video Game Sales
Authors: Babb Jeffry , Terry Neil , Dana Kareem
Published: March 2016

This paper examines video game sales by platform in the global market from a period spanning 2006 through 2011. As the home video game industry has rapidly matured and become established as a forefront facet of interactive entertainment in the home, we seek to determine what aspects of the video game market have the greatest impact on sales. This question is particularly poignant, as the maturation of the video game industry has witnessed efforts at both vertical integration and horizontal expansion on the part of the top game publishers and developers in hopes of solidly grounding the industry. This study employs a Kruskal-Wallis test to compare eight different gaming platforms. The results indicate Nintendos Wii was the top selling global platform; Nintendo DS was the second tier; Xbox 360, Sony PlayStation 3, and the personal computer (PC) are in the third tier; the fourth tier consists of Sony PlayStation 2 and Sony PSP; and the retired sixth generation Nintendo GameCube is the lowest sales tier.
The Influence Of Brand Experience On Brand Satisfaction, Trust And Attachment In South Africa
Authors: Chinomona Richard
Published: March 2016

This study examines the influence of consumer brand experience on their brand satisfaction, brand trust and brand attachment in an African context. Five hypotheses are posited and in order to empirically test them, a sample data set of 151 was collected from Gauteng Province of South Africa. The results indicate that brand experience positively influences brand satisfaction, brand trust and brand attachment in a significant way. Drawing from the studys findings, managerial implications are discussed and limitations and future research directions are suggested. By and large, this study immensely contributes new knowledge to the existing body of brand management literature in Africa - a context that is often most neglected by some researchers in developing countries.
Foreign Aid, Domestic Savings, And Economic Growth In South Asia
Authors: Basnet Hem C.
Published: March 2016

The role of foreign aid in promoting growth by complimenting domestic savings has been an issue of considerable controversy. This study examines the role of foreign aid on domestic savings and economic growth in South Asian countries - Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri-Lanka - by using simultaneous equation system in which growth and savings are jointly determined. The results indicate that aid has a positive and significant effect on the growth rates of the five nations studied during 1960 to 2008. However, foreign aid appears to crowd out domestic savings rather than complementing it.
A Conceptual Framework For Evaluating An Academic Department: A Systems Approach
Authors: Green Paul , Hardman Stanley
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this paper is to report on the development of a conceptual framework for the evaluation of an academic department as a service provider at a university of technology. A multi-methodological approach using action research, which involved a cyclical process between action and critical reflection, continuous refinement and understanding, was implemented. Critical to the study was the concept of emergence as a consequence of the interactions in the system. An analysis of systems methodologies and their applicability to evaluation signified a possible complementarity in their strengths with respect to their application in complex situations. A theoretical contribution of the study involved a unique combination of several existing techniques from different paradigms, which are mutually complementary into one intervention. Although the techniques and paradigms utilised in the study are not innovative, the combination and application thereof at a relatively new type of university in South Africa is, to the best of our knowledge, original.
Predictors Of Customer Loyalty To Mobile Service Provider In South Africa
Authors: Chinomona Richard , Sandada Maxwell
Published: March 2016

In spite of the increasing research on consumer behaviour, there is a dearth of studies that have investigated the influence of mobile provider service quality in customer satisfaction regarding customer trust and loyalty in the African mobile communication context. Therefore, this study examines the relationships using a data set of 151 mobile service clients in Gauteng Province of South Africa. All the posited five hypotheses are supported. The results indicate that the relationships between mobile service quality-customer satisfaction, customer satisfaction-customer trust, customer satisfaction-customer intimacy, customer trust-customer loyalty, and customer intimacy-customer loyalty are positive in a significant way. The research paper discusses both academic and managerial implications of the results and future research directions are suggested.
Impacts Of The National Economic And Social Development Plan On Songkhla Lake Basin Development Thailand
Authors: Doungsuwan Narit , Ratanachai Chatchai , Somgpongchaiyakul Penjai , Sangganjanavanich Prapaporn
Published: March 2016

The objectives of this study were to explore the impacts of Thailands eleven National Economic and Social Development Plans (NESDP or NP) on the development, natural resources, and environment of the Songkhla Lake Basin (SLB), Thailand, and to propose policy recommendations for this development. Data on development in the SLB were collected through literature reviews and through four focus group discussions for related stakeholders in the four sub-basins. Our results showed that the focus of development changed from economic development in NP1 through NP7 to a new model of holistic people-centered development with an emphasis on sustainability in NP8 through NP11. During this time (1961-2013), economic development has progressed in the SLB. For instance, 443 irrigation projects were developed to support expanded rice paddy fields, the area of shrimp farms increased to a current total of 60,174 rais, rubber plantations encroached into 30% of the total watershed area, and the number of factories increased to 2,748. This increased development has led to water pollution, sedimentation in Songkhla Lake, degradation of the watershed, and the depletion of fishery resources, requiring urgent remedial action. We recommend that mechanisms are provided for the public to fully participate in formulating basin development plans by, for example, establishing a Songkhla Lake Basin Development Institute and conducting a basin-level strategic environmental assessment.
The Performance Of Linear Versus Non-Linear Models In Forecasting Returns On The Johannesburg Stock Exchange
Authors: Van Gysen Michael , Huang Chun-Sung , Kruger Ryan
Published: March 2016

In this paper we provide a comprehensive comparison of the predictive accuracy of linear and non-linear models when forecasting financial returns, using a number of macroeconomic variables, on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. We implement a range of linear specifications, Markov switching ARMA and Dynamic Regression models, and univariate models in which the conditional heteroskedasticity is captured by GARCH or EGARCH innovations. Our results indicate that Markov switching models provide the most significant in-sample fit. However, results for the stable portion of the out-of-sample period and the recent recovery period are mixed with both EGARCH-based linear models and 2-state Dynamic Regression models outperforming the alternatives. Over the market crisis period we find that the forecast performance of the nonlinear models is worse than that of the linear models, which suggests that the benefit of the nonlinear treatment of conditional volatility diminishes over this period.
Moral Behaviour And Ethical Misconduct In Nigerian Small Businesses
Authors: Wiid Johannes A. , Cant Michael C. , Van Niekerk Claudette
Published: March 2016

The small business sector plays a vital role in the economic development, upliftment and job creation of any third world country, and even more so in Africa. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have underperformed over the past years and therefore have not contributed their expected roles in the growth and development of the Nigerian economy. This can and may lead to unethical behaviour and questionable practices which speak of moral decay something that Africa, in general, and Nigeria, specifically, has been accused of. The performance and ethical behaviour of Nigerian SMEs have been of great concern to numerous individuals, parties and organisations (Onugu, 2005:8). Since managers decisions impact organisational goals and behaviours, this research aims to determine whether a sense of moral behaviour will have an influence on the concern for ethical misconduct in the Nigerian business environment by examining the relationship between Moral Behaviour and the Concern for Ethical Dilemmas/Misconduct. The research followed a quantitative approach. Results indicated that there is a fine line between what is perceived as being morally wrong or unethical and that, in many instances, the focus is rather on future existence of the business and not really on the ethical issues involved. The study confirms that there is a medium to strong relationship correlation between sense of ethical concerns and immoral behaviour in the Nigerian small business environment. The hypothesis (H0: Entrepreneurs who have an acute sense of moral behaviour are concerned about ethical misconduct/dilemmas in the business environment) is therefore accepted.
The Impact Of American Advertising Humor On Taiwanese Consumers
Authors: Chang Yu Yao , Bandyopadhyay Soumava
Published: March 2016

This paper examines the effect of American humorous advertising on consumers in Taiwan. Several American print advertisements for brands familiar in Taiwan were shown to Taiwanese consumers in a field study. Three distinct perceptual appealshumor, quality and positivityin the processing of the advertisements by Taiwanese consumers were identified. It was found that all of these three types of appeals positively impacted the perceived image of and the motivation to purchase the brands featured in the advertisements. This paper also discusses the managerial implications and future research avenues stemming from the results of the study.
Policy Implementation And The Promotion Of Service Delivery Within The Public Health Sector In South Africa
Authors: Brauns Melody , Wallis Malcolm
Published: March 2016

The South African healthcare sector stands at the threshold of major restructuring in an attempt to address inadequacies as a result of fragmentation of health services in apartheid South Africa. The level of health services, particularly in rural areas, has decreased and has led to reduced quality and productivity of health services. For individuals residing in rural communities, access to health services can be arduous. Delivery of essential services has to meet the needs of marginalised people who live in remote areas. The health sector is reputed to be good at formulating policies, discussing ideas, making recommendations, and spending resources, but poor on implementing policies. The government insists that the policy framework is transparent and well-defined and that what is needed is effective implementation. Regrettably, the transition of policy into practice is more complex than the perceived judgement of government. Critical concerns regarding issues about how policy can be effectively implemented and who should be responsible for implementation is one of major concern.
The Identification Of Realistic Export Opportunities For The South African Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Viviers Wilma , Lubbe Martie , Steenkamp Ermie , Olivier Douglas
Published: March 2016

South Africa needs to advance its industrialisation process and diversify its exports if it is to enhance its global competitiveness ranking and meaningfully tackle the double scourge of unemployment and poverty. The pharmaceutical industry makes a significant contribution to the countrys economy, and has a growing international footprint. However, export activity is largely centred on Southern and Eastern Africa, while markets in other parts of the world remain largely untapped. A longstanding concern of the government has been that export market selection has not been conducted in a scientific manner. Added to this is the problem of limited resources on the part of export promotion organisations. A Decision Support Model (DSM), originally conceived by Cuyvers et al. (1995) and then developed for the South African environment by Viviers, Steenkamp, Rossouw, and Cuyvers (2009, 2010), was used in this study to identify those export opportunities with the greatest potential for the South African pharmaceutical industry. Through a systematic filtering and elimination process, the DSM revealed that there are a large number of export opportunities for South African pharmaceutical products, particularly in Western Europe, North America, and Africa. Such information constitutes an important basis for strategic decision making on the part of industry and government stakeholders.
Outsourcing U.S. Jobs Abroad: Why?
Authors: Schieberl Jeffrey , Nickles Marshall
Published: March 2016

Although the United States is the worlds biggest proponent of capitalism and free trade, the time has come to address what global economic pressures have done to Americas labor force. From the Second World War to approximately the late 1990s, the U.S. labor market was robust and full employment without inflation appeared to be feasible. However, the rapid spread of global technology provided the means by which all resources, including labor, could be transferred or utilized around the world with ease. From the 1980s forward, the American government began to favor deregulation, less government regulation on business, as well as more favorable business taxes. From 2000 to the present, the U.S. government encouraged the exporting of American jobs to other countries that provided less expensive labor as well as other favorable political and economic incentives. This was done by passing favorable domestic tax legislation for those firms that wished to outsource production. This paper addresses the dilemma that the U.S. economy now faces with high unemployment and its contribution to slow economic growth. Some of the economic, legal, and political factors that have encouraged the outsourcing of jobs are also addressed. A brief review of some of the suggested ways to help reverse U.S. job losses due to outsourcing is also explored.
Effect Of Episodic Market Conditions On Beta Variability In Nigerian Stock Market
Authors: Nwakanma Prince C. , Ajibola Arewa , Nwakanma Hudson C.
Published: March 2016

The studies on beta variability have been fully documented in the literature with various empirical stances, meaning that a concession has not been reached. In view of this we employ the variable Mean Response Regression Model to investigate the random movement of beta coefficients over time and across market phases, using monthly stock returns from Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). Our findings based on this model show that beta coefficients move randomly around a trend line when the market is up-beat, whereas they tend to be less volatile in the down market. However, a long-run equilibrium relationship between the return on the individual security and beta components is evident in the two markets. Based on these findings we recommend that investors should arbitrage between these markets and take advantage of price differentials to earn riskless profit.
The Inception Of Ethical Banking: An Imperative Transformation In Post-Revolution Egypt
Authors: Dorasamy Nirmala , Abdel-Baki Monal A.
Published: March 2016

While the Egyptian Revolution has initiated democratic transformation, the economy remains vulnerable to shocks that are apt to exacerbate unemployment, inequity, and poverty the prime triggers of the popular uprising. Stability hinges on the newly elected governments ability to accelerate macroeconomic growth, create jobs, and alleviate poverty. Prior to the popular unrest, the Egyptian banking sector was principally focused on financial return, and Egyptian regulators were mainly concerned with bank soundness. While there has been a paradigm shift in bank customers perception of banks as needing to have an intrinsic ethical responsibility, ethical banking is still in its infancy stage in the Egyptian banking sector. This research aims to bridge the gap between the newly developed perceptions of Egyptian savers/borrowers on the one hand and the conduct of bankers on the other hand. To this avail, we introduce a two-stage model where the value creation of banks is not solely confined to pure financial value but the human, social, and environmental demands of all stakeholders are integrated. In the first stage, instead of adopting mainstream ethics and sustainability indexes, we administer a field survey in order to develop a stakeholder-centric view of the requisites of (1) ethical banking principles, (2) lending policies with human, socially, and ecologically responsible criteria, (3) ethical screening, (4) risk minimization, and (5) the maximization of financial returns. Subsequent to building the all-inclusive Ethical Banking Index (EBI), the second stage of the model gauges the performance of Egyptian banks. The EBI is not only applicable to Egypt, but could also prove useful to nations encountering similar socioeconomic woes.
Exploring The Incidents Of Strikes In Post-Apartheid South Africa
Authors: Murwirapachena Genius , Sibanda Kin
Published: March 2016

Since the right to strike was recognised in the South African Constitution, strike actions have been a common phenomenon in the country. Causes of strikes in South Africa are multifaceted and their effects detrimentally catastrophic. This paper explored the incidents of strikes in post-apartheid South Africa and it analysed newspaper and other published articles to track down the occurrence, causes, and effects of strikes in South Africa. In this paper, it was established that the main causes of strike actions range from poverty, inequality, and unemployment to union rivalry and the undemocratic nature of the labour relations. It also established the effects of strike actions which are both social and economic. To achieve labour market stability, this paper recommended the democratisation of labour relations, the creation of sound stakeholder relations, turning employees into employers through indigenisation policies, and the implementation of a national minimum wage.
Perceptions And Uses Of Social Media Networking Systems By South African Students
Authors: Wiid Johannes A. , Cant Michael C. , Nell Corinne E.
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this study was to determine South African students perceptions and uses of social media networking systems. The study further determined whether students are making use of social media networking systems, the purpose of making use of social media networking systems, and whether the students believe that it can be an effective and easy tool to use in order to study the course content. The reason for this study was the fact that students now a days are more familiar with social media networking systems, as more technology mediums are available today to communicate on a more flexible and timely manner. The study made use of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) constructs in order to test the objectives. These constructs are; Perceive ease of use, Perceived usefulness, Attitude towards using, Intention to use, and System accessibility. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to students, and it was found that social media is mostly being used by students for social purposes rather than for educational purposes, and that Facebook is the most popular social media networking system to use.
The Enigma Of Technology Management In Strategy Deployment
Authors: Pelser Theuns G.
Published: March 2016

The ever-increasing emphasis on knowledge acquisition and assimilation is forcing companies to focus on methods to improve their effectiveness in technology management. Corporate strategists are increasingly focusing on the integration of technology throughout the organisation as a source of sustainable competitive advantage. The purpose of this study was to investigate technology management principles in widespread use in technology intensive industries and to explore their relationship to company performance. A non-probability, judgment sample of companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) were taken. The study makes a contribution to the field of strategic management research by integrating the dimensions of several previous studies, to derive a more comprehensive taxonomy of technology management archetypes. Two distinct technology management factors obtained with the analysis were proved to positively influence the company performance dimensions and were classified as R&D Commitment and Control Market Planning factors. The results show that strategic management choices can significantly affect company performance. It thereby indicates which of the underlying dimensions have the strongest relationship with company performance. From an industry perspective, the greatest significance of these findings may be that they accentuate the importance technology management in developing and implementing a strategic approach to technology. This study has expanded on the identified technology process dimensions and has highlighted the link between technology strategy and technology management through different measures of performance.
Cross-Border Shopping: A Research Proposal For A Comparison Of Service Encounters Of Canadian Cross-Border Shoppers Versus Canadian Domestic In-Shoppers
Authors: Zinser Brian A. , Brunswick Gary J.
Published: March 2016

The phenomenon known as out-shopping behavior (also known as intermarket patronage) is further explored and analyzed within the context of international cross-border consumer behavior. The authors provide an extensive literature review and a set of research hypotheses, as well as a suggested research methodology, and argue that this research will allow for significant contributions to the literature on out-shopping, international cross-border shopping, and services marketing.
How Does Supervisor Burnout Affect Leader-Member Exchange? A Dyadic Perspective
Authors: Chullen Cody Logan
Published: March 2016

Employee burnout remains a legitimate concern for organizations because of its links to costly outcomes, including increased absenteeism, turnover, and reduced employee productivity. An emerging stream of research has provided initial evidence that burnout can be highly contagious (i.e., transferable) between employees, suggesting that it may be a meaningful dyadic construct. These initial findings suggest that if organizations do not undertake efforts to curb burnout, it could spread among employees and result in detrimental consequences. However, the existing burnout contagion literature has been plagued by methodological problems and has focused primarily on main effects, revealing little about the causal processes underlying dyadic burnout. To date, several scholars have cited the importance of the role of the supervisor in providing employees with key resources enabling them to effectively cope with job demands, thereby reducing the risk of burnout. However, although literature continues to cite the importance of supervisory behavior as a factor contributing to subordinate burnout, a model detailing the role of the supervisor in the subordinate burnout process has yet to be articulated. Drawing on a sample of 103 supervisor-subordinate dyads, this paper articulates and tests a model of dyadic burnout with a specific focus on how supervisor burnout affects subordinate burnout, both directly and through their leader-member exchange relationship. Results and implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Measuring Service Quality: The Student As Primary Consumer
Authors: Hefer Y. , Cant M. C.
Published: March 2016

Competition in the educational market is increasing at a rapid rate. With e-education and the increasing globalisation taking place, universities are competing more and more for student numbers. Service quality has become one of those factors that differentiate institutions from one another. As a result, higher education institutions can use service quality as a competitive advantage to ensure that they stay the first choice in the minds of potential students. It is a known fact that many consumers and students will support a product or university based on the level of service they receive. It is for this reason that universities will benefit from research into service quality and the importance that students attach to this. In this study, student satisfaction towards the quality of the service received was measured in terms of appearance of the higher educations physical facilities, equipment, staff and communication materials by using the SERVQUAL model. The results may assist higher education institutions to focus on the unknown, yet important elements of the tangibility element in order to improve the students overall satisfaction. The results indicated that students perception about the tangibility of the service, as well as the overall level of satisfaction of the service received, is slightly above average.
The Protection Of Personal Information (POPI) Act - Impact On South Africa
Authors: De Bruyn Michelle
Published: March 2016

South Africa has received its own data protection legislation - the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act - in November 2013 and is expecting the government to appoint an Information Regulator to enforce the letter of the law. Until then, South African businesses will have time to get their house in order, but uncertainty exists as to how businesses will be affected when this happens. It is anticipated that the enforcement activities by the Information Regulator will be similar to how it is done by the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) in the United Kingdom. The ICO has been enforcing compliance with the Data Protection Act (DPA) of the United Kingdom since it obtained its enforcement powers in April 2010. This article summarises all actions taken by the ICO from April 2010 until the end of December2013 to determine the industries most affected, the contraventions with the highest frequency and, where applicable, the highest monetary fines. This article should provide some insight into what South African businesses can expect after the Information Regulator is appointed and starts to enforce the law. It will also enable them to focus their attention on the safeguarding of business areas with increased data protection risks as well as provide some counter measures that can be taken to prevent punishable contraventions.
Investigating Municipal Procurement Challenges in South Africa: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Pooe David R.I. , Mafini Chengedzai , Makhubele Donna Tsakani
Published: March 2016

This study explored procurement challenges faced by municipalities in South Africa. A qualitative approach was adopted in which semi-structured interviews were employed to elicit information regarding procurement related challenges encountered by municipalities in South Africa. The respondents consisted of ten individuals who were employed as supply chain managers in different municipalities located in Gauteng Province. The findings of the study show that despite the existent policies and support strategies, municipalities in South Africa still find it difficult to achieve their procurement objectives due to four major inundations; namely, the lack of training, the lack of capacity, the lack of transparency and the failure to comply with existing public procurement policies. The study recommends strategies for addressing the identified performance shortfalls in the area of municipal procurement.
Effects Of Poorly Implemented Performance Management Systems On The Job Behavior And Performance Of Employees
Authors: Singh Prakash , Twalo Thembinkosi
Published: March 2016

The focus of this study is on the effects of a poorly implemented performance management system (PMS) on the job behaviour and performance of employees. In the implementation of a PMS, one of the imperatives is that managers ensure that their employees outputs are compatible with that of their organizations goals. The PMS provides vital information on whether the work-integrated learning skills of employees are compatible with the objectives of their organizations. A poorly implemented PMS will fail to motivate an organizations employees, and inevitably their lack of job satisfaction will impact negatively on their self-esteem, productivity levels and outputs. In a poorly implemented PMS as is evident in the findings of this case study, only 8.85% of the respondents agreed that there is daily monitoring of their jobs to ensure it's done properly. The fact that monitoring and evaluation systems seem to be weak could result in the proliferation of an unproductive workforce. The findings of this case study strongly suggest that a PMS can be the key factor determining whether an organization can manage its human resources effectively. This research affirms that when employees expectations are not met, inappropriate job behaviour and performance can derail the attainment of an organizations goals. When implemented well, a good PMS would provide critical information that would allow an organization to make sound decisions regarding their human resources. Hence, there should be no room to compromise the use of a well-developed PMS to achieve the strategic plans of any organization.
Proposed Practices To Mitigate Significant Mobility Security Risks
Authors: Brand Johanna Catherina , Kruger-Van Renen Wandi , Rudman Riaan
Published: March 2016

Enterprise mobility is emerging as a fast-growing trend worldwide. Numerous risks originate from using mobile devices for business-related tasks and most of these risks pose a significant security threat to organisations information. Information Technology (IT) governance frameworks can provide guidance in managing these risks at a strategic level, but these frameworks do not effectively govern on a technical operational level. Implementation of these frameworks may also be inefficient, as they are generic and do not necessarily cover all the risks relating to a specific technology. This study provides organisations with guidance on how to govern these enterprise mobility security risks in an effective manner at both a strategic and an operational level. Using three IT governance frameworks, this study identified 12 practices that companies can employ to mitigate significant mobility security risks.
Born Globals: Investigating The Influence Of Their Business Models On Rapid Internationalization
Authors: Bouncken Ricarda B. , Muench Miriam , Kraus Sascha
Published: March 2016

The distinguishing characteristic of a business model is the way in which the type of product or service is linked to a particular group of customers using a specific communication and delivery method. The authors argue that the distinctive characteristic of BGs of foreign sales from the outset, or very quickly afterward, may be due to differences in their business models and their ability to adapt them to foreign markets. In contrast to other internationalization theories, the business model approach focuses on the holistic view of the firms core activities in which business model innovation plays a pivotal role to gain competitive advantages. Thus, a business model is a strategic and dynamic value-creation process that is adapted to foreign markets - a main accelerator of the rapid internationalization of BGs.
Does Information Technology Spend Impact On Company Performance? Evidence From Accounting And Market-Based Measures
Authors: Ramrathan Durrel , Sibanda Mabutho
Published: March 2016

This study investigates the association between information technology spend and future company performance for a sample of companies where accounting and market value measures are used as proxies for performance. While the earnings measure indicated a strong positive relationship initiating early on, the profit margin and asset turnover measures provided some unexpected and mixed findings. However, Tobins q, a market valuation measure, indicated a strong positive relationship that supported the notion that investment in information technology can improve future company performance.
Life Expectancy In Zimbabwe: An Analysis Of Five Decades
Authors: Murwirapachena Genius , Mlambo Courage
Published: March 2016

Great inconsistencies have been observed in life expectancy dynamics in Zimbabwe over the past decades. Contradictions exist among Zimbabweans where some believe that people used to live longer during the colonial era than they live now. Such beliefs have been exacerbated by the recent economic woes that ensued in the country. Dynamics in the Zimbabwean life expectancy patterns have seen male Zimbabweans outliving their female counterparts since the year 2000. Such an alteration contradicts general world life expectancy trends where females commonly live longer than males. This paper analyses trends in the Zimbabwean life expectancy over the period 1970 to 2012. The ordinary least squares method is used to examine the impact of economic growth, inflation, increase in agriculture land, population growth and the dependency ratio on life expectancy in Zimbabwe. Empirical results from this study revealed that economic growth, inflation and population growth have a positive relationship with life expectancy while increases in both agricultural land and the dependency ratio have negative effects on life expectancy in Zimbabwe.
David Against Goliath: Predicting The Survival Of Formal Small Businesses In Soweto
Authors: Strydom Johan
Published: March 2016

The aim of the paper is to determine empirically through quantitative research the key characteristics for survival of formal small businesses in the Soweto Township area. The focus was on the formal small businesses that have been operating in a very dynamic business environment with the introduction of modern shopping facilities during this period. Binary logistic regression was used to develop two regression models to predict the survival of formal small businesses based on the key characteristics identified in the literature study. The results indicate survival similarities between formal and informal small businesses regarding longevity of the business, better qualifications of owners/managers, greater maturity of owners/managers and being further away from the new shopping malls. Even with the drastic changes in the business environment of formal small businesses in Soweto, there were a group of small businesses that were able to survive and grow. Information regarding this group of small businesses can be of value to owners and investors in their future consideration of venturing and funding new small businesses in the township areas of South Africa.
Microeconomic Competitiveness And Post-Conflict Reconstruction: Firm-Level Evidence From Zimbabwe
Authors: Matthee Marianne , Krugell Waldo , Mzumara Macleans
Published: March 2016

This paper examines the micro-level factors that constrain Zimbabwean firms in the countrys post-conflict environment. An analysis was conducted into what Zimbabwean firms see as their most debilitating obstacle to achieving higher levels of competitiveness. Among the findings was that so-called non-politically constrained firms face many challenges in their day-to-day operations, which often points to internal strategic and operational shortcomings. Politically constrained firms, on the other hand, have progressed to a stage where their internal systems are in good shape, but their future vision and goals are potentially threatened by the unstable political situation in the country. This creates uncertainty, which can impact negatively on ongoing investment and expansion.
Outsourcing And Off-Shoring: Options For The US Construction Industry
Authors: Sattineni Anoop
Published: March 2016

The construction industry relies on the skills of structural engineers for all projects. There exists a large volume of design and detailing work for structural engineering in the United States (US) and there are insufficient numbers of qualified designers in the US to do the work. Recent changes in the telecommunications sector make off-shoring structural design work to developing countries like India and China a realistic possibility. Economics of outsourcing is a key reason for this possibility to be realized. It is logical to consider the effects of outsourcing in the design sector and its effects on the construction industry. The manuscript will present the authors finding based on detailed case-study model research with two companies that are outsourcing work to India from the US. The author conducted detailed interviews with principals in US structural design firms and then traveled to Bangalore, India to interview their Indian counterparts. Results from these interviews are presented. The author will present an empirical model for outsourcing construction activities. Processes in the construction industry that are most suited for outsourcing and off-shoring are presented. Issues surrounding outsourcing such as training, economics and logistics are discussed.
Processing Of Marine Products: Sustainability, Competitiveness And Financial Viability Of The Canned Food Industry In Spain
Authors: Amigo-Dobaño Lucy , Garza-Gil Ma Dolores , Varela-Lafuente Manuel
Published: March 2016

For many decades Spain has been an important fish producer, the fact of which has created an important fish product processing sector. The main sub-sector is the canned food industry; in fact, Spain is the main canned fish and seafood producer in the EU. This paper studies the economic and financial structure of the canned food industry in Galicia, a region where the majority of the sector is located. The study is presented from the point of view of a prospective increase in demand and the risks associated with greater international competition, which obliges companies in the sector to apply more competitive strategies in order to guarantee the activitys future, both from the perspectives of access to consumers as well as business organisation and scale. The result will impact on the regional economy and on the way in which fishing resources are dealt with.
Services Exports: An Evolution And Evaluation Of Thailands Services Exports In The Context Of ASEAN-5
Authors: Chemsripong Sujinda , Mahmood Amir
Published: March 2016

The services sector plays an important role in the economic transformation of a country. The growing tradability of services provides new challenges and opportunities to Thailands services industries. Underpinning these challenges and opportunities is the competitiveness and export structure of the services sector. Thailands current services export structure is a manifest of its relative specialisation based upon given resources, activities, and strategies. To assess the competitiveness of Thailands services sector, the paper computes the Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) indices of Thailands transport, travel, insurance, and financial services. Specifically, the paper evaluates the shifting export competitiveness of Thailands services industries in the context of ASEAN-5. Among other factors, export competitiveness in services depends upon the height of market access barriers, targeted under GATS and AFAS. The paper analyses Thailands service liberalisation scorecard in terms of its commitments to liberalise trade in services. Acknowledging the fact that the domestic, regional, and global trading environment is a necessary but not a sufficient condition for services firms to participate in international trade, the paper signifies the need to work on various industry, firm, and mode-specific factors that underpin competitiveness of the Thai services industry.
Analysis Of International Ethical Standards In Accounting
Authors: Mitchem Cheryl E.
Published: March 2016

This study examined the international standards regarding ethics education for professional accountants in the International Federation of Accountants International Education Standard (IES 4) and International Education Practice Statement 1 and analyzed the curricula of a set of U.S. AACSB institutions to assess if they are meeting the ethics requirements. None of the schools selected for this study appears to have met the ethics requirements to an acceptable level; however, the private (religious-based) institutions examined came closer to the international model for ethical education for professional accountants. The study further suggests that the lost faith in the accounting profession and financial reporting system can only be regained by constructive efforts of U.S. regulators, educators and accounting professionals.
A Systems Dynamics Model To Analyze The Influence Of Financial Resources On The Percentage Of Franchised Units
Authors: Mariz-Pére Rosa Ma Mariz-Pére , García-Alvarez Ma Teresa
Published: March 2016

In this paper, we analyze the evolution of the percentage of franchised units. For this purpose, the sample includes Spanish chains that were already franchising in 1997 and continue to do so in 2005 a nine year period-. Specifically, we study the influence of the availability/constraints of financial resources on the decision of the franchisor to invest in an additional chain unit or to franchise it. For this, we develop a simulation model using the Systems Dynamics methodology.
European Grants For Investment In Regional SMEs: The Case Of Castilla-La Mancha (Spain)
Authors: Vargas-Vargas Manuel , Mondéjar-Jiménez José , Mondéjar-Jiménez Juan-Antonio , Meseguer-Santamaría María-Leticia
Published: March 2016

Public initiatives to assist the sustainable development of the rural environment are of great significance in the Spanish region of Castilla-La Mancha, which is faced with important socio-economic changes that will undoubtedly condition the future of the rural environment. In these latter fields, the experience acquired in the Rural Innovation Programmes (Spanish acronym: PIR) carried out so far is of particular relevance. The intention of this study is to analyse the impact of the line known as 1.06, which is meant to support small enterprises (SMEs) and services in the general context of rural innovation programmes. For the empirical work, the chosen territory was the Autonomous Community of Castilla-La Mancha during the programme period 2002-2006 (LEADER + and PRODER II) for which there is data on the implementation of the financial tables from 2006. The incidence of the aforementioned programmes is analysed using the shift-share methodology, which allows to identify the different effects (global, structural and competitive) into which financial implementation may be divided.