Masters Degrees (University of the Free State: Business School)

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Open Access
Absenteeism of factory workers at the Grain Field Chickens Abattoir
(University of the Free State, 2022) De Villiers, Kevin; Markham, L. G.
This research was conducted to assess absenteeism at the Grain Field Chickens broiler abattoir in Reitz. This was assessed through the analyses of absenteeism by contextualizing the different forms of absenteeism according to the literature; determining the contributing factors of absenteeism; determining how absenteeism affects the workplace and determining if strategies exist to assist in reducing absenteeism. The researcher adopted a quantitative research design where questionnaires were distributed. The researcher used Regression Analysis, Kruskall-Wallis analysis, Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient, and Chi-Squared Analysis to analyse the results. The population consisted of 352 factory workers working at the Grain Field Chickens Abattoir. The primary explanatory factor of absenteeism was found to be years of employment, followed by family responsibility. It was found that as the years of employment increase, the rate of absenteeism increases. The average absent days for employees that are employed for less than three years were 8.93 days per year, while employees that are employed for longer than three years were absent on average of 20.39 days per year. It was found that the average absent days for employees with family members in their care were 18.67 days per year, as opposed to 9.16 days per year for employees who do not have a family member in their care. Based on the findings, absenteeism figures should be documented in such a way as to inform managers of any adverse trends that may exist.
Open Access
Accounting ethics in the accounting profession: a sample stakeholder survey in Bloemfontein
(University of the Free State, 2015-11) Makhabane, Frank Thebe; Massyn, Liezel
Recent years have witnessed an increase in the emphasis on accountability and transparency in both private and public sectors, largely because of a need to optimize efficiencies and productivity. Accompanying this trend has been an increasing appreciation of the centrality of ethics in public life. A key profession in meeting these demands is the accounting profession. An often-understated aspect of the accounting profession that strives to ensure adherence to ethics by accounting professionals is accounting ethics, which is defined as an example of professional ethics and, in particular, the study and practice of moral values and judgments in the field of applied ethics as they apply to accountancy. Against this background and with a specific focus on Bloemfontein, this study sought answers from the following research question: (i) Why are accounting ethics important/critical to the accounting profession? To answer the above, the secondary objectives of the study were: (a) To identify the development of accounting ethics in accounting as a profession. (b) To assess the importance of accounting ethics in the accounting profession in Bloemfontein. (c) To evaluate the role of accounting ethics education in the accounting profession among stakeholders in Bloemfontein and thereafter map the range of these stakeholder perceptions. The research methods used was a quantitative approach through the use of questionnaires. Questionnaires were coded and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Results from questionnaire data show a high percentage of the sampled population being aware of accounting ethics and that they chose to be ethical in their business decisions. Further, the overwhelming majority (85%) of the sampled population indicated that ethics should be integral to all modules that form the basis of accountancy training. It is for this reason that the study recommends that (accounting) ethics should not be a stand-alone module or subject but one that is integrated vertically (in a succession of study years, i.e. first, second and third years of study as the case may be) and horizontally (in different modules/subjects in a particular year of study). Other recommendations of the study include continuous development and support in the form of workshops and other forms of in-service training and development programmes for accounting professionals and corporate leaders, aimed at engendering accounting ethics in the workplace and as an integral part of personal values. Additionally, these recommendations include professional bodies in the accounting profession that should enforce registration by accounting professionals so as to be in a position to enforce their codes of conduct. Another recommendation is that there is a need for close cooperation in all aspects of accountancy training (from curriculum design through to curriculum delivery) between educational institutions and professional and regulatory bodies in the accounting profession so as to guarantee organic development of training in alignment with the changing demands of the profession.
Open Access
The adherence to credit control and the effectiveness of debt collection tools in an energy municipal entity
(University of the Free State, 2023) Williams, Zoe Shaloom; Zidel, David
The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, promulgated in 1996, describes three government levels, namely national, provincial and local government. The accounting officer of a municipality (at the local level) is accountable for the management of municipal revenues and the enforcement of revenue collection procedures, including the reconciliation and recognition of allowed revenues of the municipal entity. Over the years, revenue collection – especially by local government – has faced serious financial management challenges, in particular in relation to prudent revenue and debt collection management and has resulted in the pressing predicament of unsatisfying service delivery due to inadequate revenue management by municipalities and municipal entities in their provision of services to their communities. For effective service delivery, a sound revenue system is essential for a municipal energy entity to render services to its customers; to maintain and sustain sufficient income to adhere to service delivery commitments; and/or to render any goods or services as legislatively mandated. The study discusses a municipal energy entity’s credit control measures and debt collection tools, that can assist the South African government in strengthening municipal revenue and maintaining a favourable cash flow, to render good service to its communities. The enhancement of income is conditioned on the effectiveness of two intrinsic elements, namely, billing-rendered services and meter-calibrated service delivery.
Open Access
The adoption of Fintech applications in wealth banking
(University of the Free State, 2023) Nel, Pierre Retief; Coetzee, J.
Financial technology, or FinTech, offers substitutes for some products used in traditional banking and non-banking finance services. In the financial sector, FinTech is a new idea. This field study’s main goal is to gain insight into wealth clients' perspectives of FinTech adoption within a wealth banking paradigm. It explains the factors that affect how clients perceive using FinTech services in the wealth management industry. The wealth management services industry's traditions and behaviour will alter as well as how AI will be adopted, different generations and population to name a few. This study explored further into the factors that influence wealth clients’ perceptions when adopting FinTech services as part of a large South African bank's wealth management client base. Due to technological advancements, the financial world has been changing quickly, and practically every facet of it now has a new look and feel. FinTech is the term used to describe this technological transformation in the financial sector. Even if the ‘FinTech influence’ has been felt throughout all financial services, the wealth management business is just beginning to experience it in comparison to other financial services industries. The clientele of wealth management is ageing, and younger people and women are significantly underrepresented. Despite the younger populations' interest in FinTech solutions, the wealth services sector currently provides only a few possibilities for them. The distribution of female clients in wealth management is lagging behind overall growth trends. Wealthy customers use a variety of wealth service providers, combine different wealth service options, and maintain a strong personal connection with either their wealth banker, investment manager, or both. FinTech services help wealth management clients operate more effectively while also increasing their usefulness and meeting their needs for services. Financial management clients employ FinTech service offerings from only well-known wealth service providers with confidence. South Africa's wealth management industry lags the US and UK's by several years. Currently, FinTech is seldom present in the core wealth management industry. In the South African wealth market, there aren't many entry-level Robo-advisors, but those that do exist don't pose much of a threat to the market leaders. Wealth management should acknowledge the impact of technology advancements on client behaviour. Ensuring a trusted relationship for wealth management is high priority in evaluating the bank/client relationship when incorporating or planning FinTech services in wealth banking. Also, to understand what drives client perception in relationship quality and how these perceptions need to be combined to find the right balance of quality. It is important for the wealth management business to understand the risk of an aging book and to implement proper wealth transfer strategies to include the next generation. With a diversified and growing investment market with increasing options, wealth management need to look at how they can deliver alternative asset classes to add value to a growing and more diversified client base. Managing complexity such as volatility, and the risk of various different asset classes, might be in the form of robo-advisors. Wealth management need to find the FinTech ‘disruptor’ of the status quo. Overall, FinTech has improved the services offered by the traditional wealth management sector. Wealth management need to accept the future lies in a fully digital FinTech platform that serves as a one-stop shop for all wealth management needs. Digital and online engagement is the future of the wealth management industry and wealth technology. The current nature of advice professionals will evolve, becoming a more individualised one-stop solution thanks to the more sophisticated client interaction digital platforms. South Africa's banking system is in a state of flux and change. On one hand, traditional banking models have seen a decrease in market share as fintech innovations have gained traction within the country. On the other hand, fintech has had its own struggles, with many South Africans still not having access to digital banking services. Fintech refers to the use of technology to offer financial services, including mobile banking, online banking, and digital wallets.
Open Access
Analysing the effectiveness of the reward strategy of the Department of Justice in the Northern Cape in motivating its employees: a case study
(University of the Free State, 2014-10) De Klerk, Ronel; Huysamen, C. A.
Chapter 6 highlighted the problem areas identified in the findings of the study, and those were verified against the literature review which was discussed in Chapter 2. Each of the different sub-problems as identified in Chapter 1 was addressed and recommendations were made on how each of the sub-problems might be solved. The first sub-problem concentrated on determining whether the monetary reward strategy of performance bonuses leads to employee motivation. The second subproblem was focused on determining whether the monetary reward strategy of notch increments leads to employee motivation in the Department. The third sub-problem involved the different facets of a total reward strategy, and was aimed at determining which of these facets are important in motivating employees. The facets concerned are: Recognition; communication; the work environment; training, and career development. The aim of the research was to determine which of the above-mentioned reward strategies were regarded as important motivating factors to the employees of the Department of Justice in the Northern Cape. The „components of total reward‟ model of Shields (2012), as illustrated in Chapter 1, was used as a guide in the research. Conclusions drawn from the data provided in Chapter 5 were summarised, and based on these conclusions and the theory discussed in Chapter 2, recommendations were made with a view to improve and reinforce the performance and reward management processes in place in the Department. 140 The value of the study is that it has contributed to research-based studies on the effectiveness of performance and reward management practices aimed at motivating employees. The research was successful in building theory on the implementation of individual reward strategies that will address the individual needs of employees, as people have different needs and aspirations. It is hoped that the outcome of this study will make a contribution to performance management policies by providing guidelines for the implementation of a total reward management system based on Shields‟ components of a total reward model.
Open Access
An analysis of virtual teams working in higher education online programme management projects in South Africa
(University of the Free State, 2019) Musgrave, Sarah; Van Zyl, H.
Virtual teams (VTs) achieve shared goals despite not being co located, by relying on electronic communicati on media. The use of VTs trans pires into higher education (HE), allowing them to participate and compete in an ever changing world. In this study, the focus is on VTs that work on higher education projects in partnership with an online programme management (OPM) company in South Africa (SA). It provides the opportunity to study VTs not only in a single organisation, but between different organisations and at different levels between organisations. The study aims to investigate VTs, in particular the advanta ges, challenges and success fa ctors that contribute towards the performance of VTs. The study was an explorative qualitative case study, making use of nine semi structured interviews followed by a thematic analysis of the data. The experience and opinions of participants in this study were, in general, not surprising, and aligned with those documented in previous research studies. The participants did, however, confirm that VTs in combination with working virtually across two different organisations (Higher Ed Partners SA and HE institu tions) present unique challenges and advantages. The interviewees shared challenges that all VTs face, e.g. the absence of face to face contact, challenges caused by technology due to bandwidth issues and unstable internet con nections, and barriers to comm unication and the building of trust. However, circumstances beyond their control such as load shedding and on campus student riots added to a more complex work environment. The participants did, despite the challenges, indicat e that these challenges are no t insurmountable and that they would prefer to continue working as VTs due to the advantages offered.
Open Access
The antecedents and consequences of corporate reputation in higher education: A parental perspective
(University of the Free State, 2022) Bakkes, Elizabeth; Nel, J.
Higher education institutions (HEIs) in South Africa are increasingly realising the differentiating role that corporate reputation plays in a very competitive higher education marketplace. However, from the literature reviewed, there are uncertainties towards the dimensions of a HEI’s corporate reputation that impacts specifically the perspective and behavioral responses of parents of Grade 12 learners. Parents play a critical role in the selection of a HEI for post-school studies for their Grade 12 child. The field study set out to identify the antecedents and consequences of corporate reputation in higher education from a parental perspective. Service experience, information from others, and information from the media were identified as antecedents of corporate reputation of a HEI. Trust, identification, commitment, word-of-mouth intention, and supportive intention were identified as consequences of a HEI’s corporate reputation. A conceptual model of the parental perspective of a HEI’s corporate reputation was developed based on the Stimulus-Organism-Response Theory. The field study followed an ontological assumption, a positivism approach, and a cross-sectional time horizon. The theory development followed a deductive theory approach. A quantitative research method was followed using a simple random sampling technique to collect data from 163 Grade 12 learners’ parents of high schools in Bloemfontein, South Africa. Six high schools agreed to distribute the self-completion questionnaires to the parents of their respective Grade 12 learners. The self-completion questionnaire consisted of three sections. The first two sections contained screening and background questions, while the third section posed statements to test each of the eleven hypotheses according to a seven-point Likert scale. Data analysis was done to test the hypotheses using the statistical software package SmartPLS version 4.0. Findings indicated that the influence of information from others, information from media on corporate reputation were positive and statistically significant. The influence of corporate reputation on trust and identification was positive and statistically significant. Furthermore, the influence of trust and identification on commitment was also positive and statistically significant as well as the influence of commitment of word-of-mouth intention and supportive intentions. The field study’s findings provided a basis for HEI management teams to understand the perspective of parents on corporate reputation of HEIs and the impact of their perceptions on the selection of a suitable HEI for post-school studies for their children. Recommendations were given to HEI management teams to practically improve the perspectives of the HEI’s corporate reputation.
Open Access
Assessment of the effectiveness of risk management processes used to develop a COVID-19 risk strategy at XYZ Public Health Care Facility
(University of the Free State, 2024) Thejane, Mosebi Alexis; Njenga,Samuel
This study's objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of the risk management procedures employed in the development of a COVID-19 risk management strategy at the XYZ public health care (PHC) facility in a YZ district in the Free State Province (FSP), South Africa. The findings and knowledge acquired from this study will be utilised to enhance the risk management procedures of the Department of Health and give other public health care facilities advice on how to create flexible and responsive risk management plans in the event that they encounter similar calamities in the future. The exploratory sequential design, a mixed methods research methodology that combines qualitative and quantitative research approaches, is used in this study. This hybrid research methodology was used to comprehend the effectiveness of the risk management processes implemented by the XYZ PHC facility in effectively addressing COVID-19 infections. To determine the elements of enterprise risk management and the crucial success factors for its effective implementation, a thorough literature review was carried out. Key references included established practices such as ISO 31000, COSO Integrated Enterprise Risk Management frameworks, Department of Health’s five-year strategic plan, annual performance plans, and other relevant literature materials. The XYZ PHC facility’s enterprise risk management processes were determined by examining the Department of Health’s Enterprise Risk Management Guideline and Framework. In this study, both research methods received equal priority (weighting). Qualitative method was used to provide a comprehensive understanding of the research question. The research question was fully understood through the application of the qualitative method by conducting in-depth interviews which extracted detailed information and contextual insights regarding the enterprise risk management processes utilised, which may not be available in the records and data but can be derived from the participants’ experiences, knowledge, and understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. The researcher utilised enterprise risk management's important critical success factors as a tool to inform the interview questions in order to enhance the depth and rigour of the conversations. Since risk management is a strategic function, face-to-face interviews targeted 20 senior and middle managers who were actively engaged in risk management activities and processes at the XYZ PHC facility. The outcomes of the first phase were then linked to the second phase by means of a questionnaire that was given to roughly 54 middle and upper managers based on the findings of the interviews. This helped with the interpretation of the qualitative findings. 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀: ERM process used to develop COVID-19 RM strategy in XYZ PHC facility was effective. In order to strengthen ERM processes, there is a need to cascades ERM to lower levels, use of quality improvement plan ‘s tools and interactive Information and Communication Technology and engage different stakeholders in the processes. Four critical success factors were identified for effective ERM implementation. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: Eight elements of ERM are present and functioning in the facility, while majority of top and middle staff have a fairly good ERM experience and are involved in ERM activities.
Open Access
Awareness of living expenses after retirement for Lesotho public servants
(University of the Free State, 2015-10-13) Mokhothu, Polello; Van Zyl, Helena
The main objective of the study was to analyse the Lesotho public servants’ awareness of living expenses after retirement. The secondary objectives were to determine if Lesotho public servants engaged in financial planning, take retirement risks into consideration when planning for their retirement and the degree of their engagement with the Public Officers’ Defined Contribution Pension Fund. In the research, the epistemology assumption followed is objectivism while the ontology assumption followed is positivism. Quantitative data was collected by means of a structured questionnaire presented in English to a sample of 408 public servants formulated from 24 Lesotho government ministries using stratified random sampling and simple random sampling. The research revealed that the majority of public servants aged 50 years and younger will have to work during their retirement to supplement their retirement income, while most public servants do not have other pension and investment funds to supplement their retirement income. Furthermore, Lesotho public servants do not wish to downsize their residential homes when they retire and very few public servants will carry substantial debts into retirement. The research concluded that since almost all public servants who have to work in retirement to supplement their income wish to join the business sector, public servants must be made aware of and be equipped with business development and business management skills. The employer must also accept the responsibility of educating the public servants about different employment options in retirement. Public servants should be encouraged to acquire specialist skills that require experience which will make them more competitive than younger workers in the future. Most importantly, the research established that a substantial percentage of public servants do not review their pension plan statements because they do not understand the terms of the Public Officers’ Defined Contribution Pension Fund. This hinders the public servants’ ability to make proper retirement provisions. The employer should organise a team composed of human resources management benefits specialists to educate the public servants on their pension plans and to facilitate the provision of timely statements.
Open Access
Burnout of clinical personnel at Dr J S Moroka District Hospital
(University of the Free State, 2014-10) Wu, Chun-Hsien; Massyn, Liezel
Over the years the public hospitals had undergone service transformation and were consequently faced with multiple challenges such as the rapid expansion of primary healthcare services and an epidemically demanding profile of patients. The clinical personnel at Dr J S Moroka District Hospital had been subjected to enormous pressure to deliver healthcare services. No formal study had been done to assess the problem of declining personnel motivation and increase in personnel absenteeism which resulted in work overload and the impact of burnout on the clinical personnel, which had been the focus of this field study. The primary objectives was to determine the level of burnout on clinical personnel and assess the relationship between burnout, work stress and job satisfaction at Dr J S Moroka District Hospital. The study targeted the clinical personnel who worked in the clinical department during the survey period. A quantitative method was used where the respondents participated by filling out a self-administered questionnaire that included an assessment of burnout, job satisfaction and demographic details. The response rate was 83.72%, with females making up the majority of the respondents. The clinical personnel experienced a medium level of burnout and were exposed to a moderate level of work-related stress. Among the different departments, personnel at the MDR TB ward were more prevalent to burnout, while at the casualty department, the personnel had the highest vii prevalence of work stress. Females with a longer service record were proven to experience a higher level of burnout. Despite the medium level burnout, the majority of the clinical personnel were somewhat satisfied with their job and 28.99% said they will definitely refer a friend for a job at the hospital. Staff motivation was very low, with 34.78% indicated that they were not at all motivated. This study has illustrated the prevalence of burnout and significant concern on staff engagement at DR J S Moroka district hospital as it proven to exist among the study population. Substantial evident discussed above has proven the importance of employee assistance programs and the need to improve staff engagement so to achieve future sustainability and benefits for the organisation and its staff.
Open Access
A business generator for online undergraduate programme offering at a Dual-Mode University
(University of the Free State, 2020) Saayman, Herman; Barnard, D.
In the current economic climate, public higher education institutions cannot afford to carry on doing business as usual. This is not only due to increased costs and decreased government funding, but also because the world is increasingly digitalised. Digitisation in the higher education arena has been intensified during the Covid-19 pandemic where staff and students very quickly had to adapt to the so-called “new normal” of working and studying from home, and this trend is likely to continue. Online learning indeed offers a unique opportunity for public higher education institutions to expand their programme offerings, and thus also increase their income. Online programme delivery comes with its own cost, and these must be considered when decisions are taken about this mode of delivery. The main purpose of this study is thus to compare the current financial model used at the distance education campus of one institution with models used by other online universities around the world to improve its ability to inform decision-making with regard to future fully online structured programmes accurately. In addition, the researcher aimed to review knowledge on current financial models available in the literature and described the importance of current financial model variables incorporating the view of other higher education institutions worldwide. A mixed-method approach was used in the study: the qualitative data was collected through interviews and the quantitative data by means of an online survey. Findings suggest that the model used by the institution compares well with other models. All financial model variables included were also included by the other institutions from which respondents hailed. Some important insights were the suggestion to include a market analysis, to ensure higher accuracy with the estimation of student numbers along with the finding regarding the importance of the experience and knowledge of the person capturing the data in the financial model. In conclusion, the study highlighted that the current South Campus business Generator financial model used by the University of the Free State are useful in providing information with regard to future online structured qualifications, especially in the absence of any replacement model. Future developments should include making it more user friendly and establishing an accountability culture where section heads will take responsibility for the information submitted.
Open Access
Cash flow management of commercial grain farmers in the highveld of Mpumalanga
(University of the Free State, 2022) Ngakantsi, Gaopalelwe Mosimanegape; Otto, W. H.
The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the cash flow management of commercial grain farmers in the Highveld region of Mpumalanga. To investigate whether these farmers follow active cash flow management techniques in managing their farming businesses. Additionally, the study aims to investigate the impact of cash flow management on the financial performance reported in the farmers’ annual financial statements. An overview of an understanding of cash flow management and its usefulness are addressed in the literature review, which are supported by a discussion around the use of cash flow budgets in farming businesses. Farm management is also a key aspect of this study because each farm is unique with its set of goals and targets that farmers seek to achieve at the end of the season. Therefore, the functions of farm management are discussed with a focus on planning, execution, control and fine-tuning because these aspects have an impact on the business’s cash flow. Next, the study moves to the research methodology in Chapter 3. The study research methodology used the qualitative research design because interpretivism was the approach used to acknowledge the different realities and truths of the different farmers that participated in the study. The information was collected through semi-structured interviews with the participants to understand each participant’s viewpoint. The interview schedule was compiled and used to gather the data. The research findings from the interviews identified 10 themes that resonated with the participants. These themes were discussed and assessed, leading to the identification of 4 gaps that exist. The 10 themes were able to address the three secondary objectives of the study and the 4 gaps were complemented by 4 recommendations for the study. The conclusions derived were firstly, farmers have the knowledge and understanding of cash flow management and its potential impact on a farming business. However, farmers do not practically put this knowledge to use in their farming businesses. Secondly, good cash flow management alone could not conclusively be linked to the profit or loss reported on the farmers’ annual financial statements. The aim and objectives of the study were achieved. The study limitations were that it was confined to the Highveld region of Mpumalanga, and limited to grain commercial farmers currently banked with First National Bank. Additionally, a random sample of farmers was selected on the basis that each participant was not to plant more than 3000 hectares per season.
Open Access
Centralised versus decentralised administrative resource allocation in the Faculty of the Humanities at the University of the Free State
(University of the Free State, 2015-11) Coetsee, Marica; Crous, M. J.
At present, universities find themselves in an environment of increasing competition for scarce resources in the public sector at large. Being in a competitive environment, universities might lean towards a centralised management control system (on the one extreme) to improve coordination, monitor quality and reduce costs, but still allowing academic decision-making to take place at departmental level (decentralised on the other extreme). Due to the increasing tension between these polarities, universities tend to opt for a more hybrid option by adapting the best of both practices in order to optimise the allocation of scarce resources. Furthermore, external audits and quality control mechanisms increase the accountability on the universities’ side, forcing them to implement transparent resource allocation procedures. The problem facing Faculties of the Humanities is the ability to identify the best form of an administrative framework in order to optimise resource allocation and improve service delivery in academic administration. The primary objective of this study is to propose an administrative framework for Faculties of the Humanities in order to improve service delivery in academic administration. Various qualitative research methods were used to gather data. These included the investigation of possible administrative structures available to the Faculty of the Humanities at the UFS by comparing it to the administrative structures of Humanities faculties at other universities. The recent restructuring of academic support structures in the office of the Dean in the Faculty of the Humanities at the UFS will also be analysed in an attempt to identify further optimisation of service delivery to students. Data collection took place through semi-structured interviews; informal interviews; focus-group observation and texts and electronic resources. Through process and activity analysis, the recent restructuring of academic administrative processes in the Dean’s Office in the Faculty of the Humanities was used as a basis for possible adjustments and improvements in order to identify the optimal administrative structure. Demographic change; rapid advance of digital technology; political atmosphere, and the professionalisation of university administration are all factors forcing the university and the Faculty, to adapt in order to provide their students with the best possible service. Within the Faculty, the challenge of adequate human resources is complicated further with the constant underlying tension of costs incurred for administrative staff versus academic staff. In conclusion, it is advised that the Faculty of the Humanities at the UFS adopt a hybrid administrative framework, capitalising on the strengths of both the centralised and the decentralised models. On a central level, clear guidelines through policies and procedures will provide a solid framework as reference for the Faculty to build its processes around. In turn, this will provide the Faculty with the necessary room for flexibility on a decentralised platform to make its own decisions and to respond more promptly to any external changes that might have an impact on the Faculty. Through a hybrid administrative system, collaboration between the Faculty and the central administration will be emphasised and the isolation of any of the two units from the institutional goals will be prevented.
Open Access
Challenges faced by Small and Medium Enterprises in Lesotho
(University of the Free State, 2023) Seturumane, Thabo; Peters, Mark
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are considered the main catalysts behind economic growth and overall national development as they are renowned for addressing socio-economic issues confronting a specific country. As a result, different governments in developed and developing countries leverage the SME sector to expand the employment grid and tackle poverty-related issues. As such, creating an enabling environment for the success of SMEs is one of the main policy agendas world-wide, and governments constantly seek to develop policies that address SMEs’ challenges to ensure their sustainability. However, in light of these efforts, SMEs still encounter several challenges that limit their growth, subsequently failing to fulfil their mandate of addressing the socio-economic challenges. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to determine the challenges SMEs in Lesotho face. The study assumed a quantitative approach. A survey questionnaire was used as a primary data collection instrument, utilising a database of SMEs in Lesotho using emails compiled from their online presence. A sample of 400 SMEs was chosen using a simple random sampling technique from a population of 76 000 SMEs in Lesotho. The study employed descriptive statistics to determine the characteristics and distribution of the data. The data analysis employed the Chi-Square test and the Pearson Correlation test to reveal the associations and relationships between the challenges faced by SMEs and SMEs' performance, the relationship between the government of Lesotho (GoL) intervention and SMEs' access to finance, and the relationship between the challenge of access to finance, including several other challenges. Based on the Chi-Square test, the study's findings revealed associations between the challenge of access to finance, workplace skills, employee retention, marketing challenges, technological challenges, and other challenges (e.g., Covid-19, crime rate, labour law), including SMEs’ performance. Furthermore, the study established associations between GoL intervention and SMEs' access to finance. Lastly, the study determined associations between the challenge of access to finance and several challenges confronting SMEs in Lesotho. The Pearson-Correlation test found statistically significant negative relationships between the challenge of access to finance, workforce skills, technological challenges, and other challenges (e.g., Covid-19, crime rate, labour law) and SMEs’ performance. Also, a significant negative relationship was established between GoL intervention and SMEs' access to finance. Finally, the study discovered significant positive relationships between the challenge of access to finance and workforce skills, including technological and other challenges (Covid-19, Crime rate, labour law).
Open Access
Challenges faced by SMME's during Covid-19 pandemic in Mangaung Metro Municipality
(University of the Free State, 2022) Moipolai, Letshego Merriam; Mundy, M.
Small, medium, and micro-enterprises (SMMEs) are important economic drivers in South Africa. SME's account for 95% of all businesses worldwide and contribute 40% of all economic activity. South Africa's small businesses are a major source of job creation. The COVID-19 Pandemic, also known as Coronavirus, has had a significant impact on business operations as well as customer activities and trends. Because of the virus's rapid spread, the Pandemic has had immediate socioeconomic consequences in both developed and growing countries and is now the new normal. The study aims to investigate and identify challenges faced by SMME during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Mangaung Metro Municipality, the effects it has on business development, and identifying possible solutions to these challenges. This study was executed using a qualitative approach. Purposive sampling was used, which allows participants to be chosen solely on the essential characteristics that make them the holders of the data needed for the study. A sample size of 20 SMMEs within Mangaung municipality was used. This sample included representatives from Bloemfontein, Thaba-Nchu, and Botshabelo. Open-ended questions were used in conjunction with other interviewing techniques to delve deeply into topics, allowing participants to elaborate and express their views freely. Qualitative interviews were based primarily on patterns and recognising the point of data saturation. South Africa's SMMEs were faced with many challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, these challenges include but not limited to lack of access to funding, limited access to local and international markets, strict Legislations and regulations, lack of training and education and access to technology. Themes and interpretive analysis were performed. The inability to obtain financing was identified is one of the main challenges that SMMEs in Mangaung Metro Municipality face. This severely impedes the development and expansion of these businesses. To survive in this region, SMMEs must acknowledge the importance of trying to access markets locally and internationally, as well as have the necessary skills and resources while pursuing government support. Perception and sample size were two of the limitations, and recommendations includes increased market accessibility, skills development, access to proper infrastructure, and technology advancement in SMME development. Future research may investigate the challenges that SMMEs may face if these findings are not addressed in future.
Open Access
Challenges faced by TVET entrepreneurship graduates in establishing their own businesses
(University of the Free State, 2023) Tondi, Nonkululeko Mamphela; Madikane, Thandekile
It is challenging not to include the direct impact on the economy and the dependence on government assistance when assessing youth unemployment in any country. In a developing country like South Africa, it is necessary to acknowledge some of the interventions set in the nation's development plan that aims at supporting youth economic empowerment. Acknowledging that most businesses face challenges when starting up, the main purpose of this research was to analyse the inherent challenges that TVET entrepreneurship graduates face when attempting to establish their businesses. A qualitative design was sought for this study. The study was conducted with the participation of 20 entrepreneurship graduates and utilised a non-probability sampling method to determine the sample size. Data was collected by means of a focus group where the participants were interviewed by means of answering 7 open-ended questions. This research revealed that factors such as high youth unemployment rates and a lack of economic opportunities for young people have gradually begun to turn to entrepreneurship as a viable alternative to looking for a job after graduation. government's attempts to address economic problems have not been the only thing to support this; passion and intent have also been demonstrated to have an impact. Limited resources, a lack of mentorship, lack of transparency, lack of financial literacy, a traditional theoretical teaching approach, a lack of specially designed workspaces with sufficient resources, lack of dependable support, and a lack of readiness to deal with business challenges were among leading causes of failure in starting a business for entrepreneurship graduates. Furthermore, the findings also revealed that partnerships between entrepreneurially focused businesses and TVETs were deemed contributing factors to limited entrepreneurial world exposure. Despite government efforts, some issues will persist, which will keep causing youth-owned enterprises to fail because remedies are not properly put into place, followed up on, and reviewed over time. As the research is of the idea that to promote entrepreneurship as a career rather than a module, the DHET needs to take a thorough look at the research-related theories and their recommendations for viable ways to support entrepreneurship, particularly at TVET colleges. The study thus concluded by recommending that both the government and private sector be encouraged to enhance the nation's entrepreneurial activity proactively. An approach that would ensure that college graduates are only trained in skills related to the needs of the South African market before redesigning the current curricula that will align with the desired kind of entrepreneurial education. Furthermore, the research recommends that each TVET college build its own incubator as a joint effort to help new enterprises succeed when they first launch as this approach will improve the entrepreneurial climate at higher education institutions, particularly TVETs.
Open Access
Challenges of the construction industry in the Free State
(University of the Free State, 2019) Tsimong, Tsepo Abner; Van Zyl, H.
The construction industry plays a significant role in the economy of South Africa, and it is a crucial contributor to the gross domestic product (GDP) of the country. However, recent economic trends show that the contribution of the construction industry to the GDP in South Africa is declining. This poor performance is attributed to the challenges that the construction industry is currently facing. The Free State province is among the provinces where infrastructure developments are slacking. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges facing the construction industry in the Free State. The study aimed at establishing what the challenges are as well as to propose strategic interventions that may improve the performance of the construction industry in the Free State. This study followed a quantitative approach and made use of the two forms of a quantitative study, namely: descriptive research and explanatory research. The former enabled the researcher to describe the characteristics of the current situation of the construction industry in the Free State. In contrast, the latter allowed the researcher to identify the degree and nature of cause-and-effect relationships in the activities of the construction industry. The study collected data through a questionnaire survey using the online survey tool Survey Monkey. The link to the questionnaires was distributed via email and WhatsApp. WhatsApp was used as a distribution platform since most people use smartphones and have quick access to their WhatsApp messages. It therefore made it easier for many people to access the questionnaire and respond quicker. The respondents to the survey were purposely selected through the quota sampling method. This sampling method enabled the researcher to strategically select respondents based on their unique characteristics so that those sampled were relevant to the research questions. The analysis and interpretation of the collected data were based on the 104 completed and usable questionnaires received from the 200 respondents invited to participate. Univariate analysis was performed through frequency tables, bar charts, pie charts, measures of central tendency and measures of dispersion. The data were further analysed using the relative importance index (RII) method to determine the relative importance of the various factors and challenges of the construction industry in the Free State. In terms of demographics, the results showed that the majority of the respondents (63.46%) were males, while females only made up 36.54%. The RII ranking method showed that the five most important issues facing the construction industry at the time of the study according to the respondents were: (1) lack of application of proper construction management tools and techniques by consultants and project site staff (RII = 0.730); (2) poor qualifications and inadequate experience of contractors’ supervisors (RII = 0.722); (3) ineffective planning and scheduling of projects (RII = 0.720); (4) delays in producing design documents (RII = 0.717); and (5) no application of construction management procedures on the part of the client which contributes to late detection of construction problems (RII = 0.704). The results also showed that most of the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the construction industry in the Free State fail mainly due to their inability to develop long-term strategies, their lack of access to funding, delayed payments by clients, significantly high start-up costs and their inability to compete with big construction firms. Based on the results, it was concluded that the root problem of the challenges in the construction industry in the Free State lies in project management activities. The project and construction management role carries a large responsibility in construction projects because most projects fail or incur high extra costs due to poor project and construction management techniques. Thus, it was recommended that contractors must undertake regular training on effective planning and execution of construction projects, which will result in the efficient and effective management of construction projects. In the long run, construction industry performance will improve and subsequently contribute significantly to the economic growth of the Free State and the country at large.
Open Access
Client satisfaction in the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform in South Africa
(University of the Free State, 2014-11) Johannes, Petrus; Van Zyl, Helena
It is generally believed that the impact of interior client satisfaction can generate comparative advantages for institutional performance. The primary objective of this survey is to investigate the client satisfaction levels of the workforce of the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR) in South Africa (SA). It is impelled by the continuous complaining of the workforce who comes in direct contact with the exterior clients. Complaints revolve around the correct inputs to their disposal in order for them to respond to concerns of exterior clients. In this survey a quantitative research approach in the form of a sample survey was used in order to document outcomes based on the respondents‟ responses during the survey. Data was collected from 1 080 employees from the DRDLR in SA through a structured electronic questionnaire. The results were replicated to ensure that the results are constant while the researcher was perceived as being exterior to the research, regardless of his identity. The extent and acknowledgement of interior client satisfaction in the DRDLR is satisfactory (66.6 %), which revolves around the operations of the Department in terms of the provision of services to interior clients (employees). Although a 66.6 % satisfaction level was achieved, a narrative on additional comments made by the respondents showed that there are challenges with regards to flow of communication, recruitment and labour relation issues and performance appraisals approaches in the Department. Even if the results were satisfactory, to enhance the interior institutional assistance to the workforce requires continuous research to improve the efficiency of work. In addition and even more significantly, advanced satisfaction levels among exterior as well as interior clients are vital for employee productivity, turnover rate and the Department‟s ability to attract talent.
Open Access
Client segmentation in a South African financial services company
(University of the Free State, 2015-11) Miya, Asiya; van Zyl, Helena
Purpose: The business landscape for financial services providers around the world and in South Africa has seen many changes in terms of the economic environment, regulation and consumer needs. Amidst these changes, financial services providers seek to ensure efficient and sustainable business practices through strategies such as client segmentation. The purpose of this research is to analyse the client segmentation practices of financial advisors working under the licence of a financial service provider (FSP) in South Africa. Methodology: A qualitative approach was adopted to analyse segmentation practices of the financial advisors working under the FSP licence. Eight financial advisors were interviewed in order to gain insight to the research questions. The participants’ identities were kept anonymous to protect the identity of the financial service provider and to ensure that the participants’ responses were not restricted. Findings: The following themes were noted; participants’ experience and perception of client segmentation, the approach by most advisors lacked alignment to the value proposition. Conclusion: Effective implementation of client segmentation and a defined service standard depends on the alignment of the segmentation to the value proposition and resource capability of the advisor. Based on this, recommendations were made with respect to a change management programme to address these issues and a best practice guide was included in the appendix.
Open Access
Collaboration between sales and marketing divisions
(University of the Free State, 2014-11) Veale, Linda; Van Zyl, J.
The issue addressed in this study is the insufficient collaboration between the sales and marketing divisions within a sales organisation. To address this problem, the purpose of this study was to investigate and research the antecedents of collaboration between the sales and marketing divisions and to identify possible recommendations for improving the collaboration. The study was conducted in a subsidiary of an international organisation in South Africa. This sales company had a dedicated sales and marketing division from which a purposive convenience sample was selected. Participants came from the same population, and sample groups were of equal size for the quantitative and qualitative data analysis. The data was analysed on the basis of being employed in a sales or marketing position. A mixed methods convergent design was chosen with the intent to merge the results of the quantitative and qualitative data analysis. The researcher believed that quantitative or qualitative research alone would be insufficient to gain an adequate understanding of the research problem in such a small sample size. A questionnaire consisting of open- and closed-ended questions was developed and structured around the identified antecedents of collaboration gathered from the literature review. The antecedents were cultural and economic in nature with aspects related to information and the sales division‟s involvement in the marketing strategy process. The qualitative data was integrated with the quantitative data around the existing antecedents of collaboration. The integrated results showed that, overall, the respondents agreed that collaboration and coordination with regard to their activities are to the sales organisation‟s advantage. The majority strongly felt that the current collaboration could and should be improved. What appeared to be lacking was a shared frame of reference and the ability to create and maintain a personal rapport with one another based on appreciation of one another‟s work. Each division expected the other to help it achieve its divisional objective but not one another‟s objectives. Despite the apparent conflict and insufficient collaboration, there was an underlying wish by both sales and marketing respondents to collaborate on shared goals. The change should be driven by senior management since a positive senior management attitude towards collaboration leads to reduced inter-functional conflict. In addition, a culture of organisational learning and transparent information sharing should be encouraged. The development of intra-organisational guidelines on the role allocation of activities during the buying cycle will reduce uncertainty. Open and respectful communication between the sales and marketing divisions can provide a basis for the clarification of misunderstandings and keep the other division up to date in terms of marketing initiatives. Increasing the frequency of co-travelling of the members of the marketing and sales divisions will assist in fostering relationships and increase credibility along with opportunities for further study. The current market intelligence system needs improvement. Alternative market intelligence systems should be investigated by sales and marketing individuals. The system should promote easy access to all within the sales organisation. The sales divisions should be more involved throughout the marketing strategy. There was no consensus on when, how or how often and to what degree they should be involved. It is recommended that an intra-organisational survey should be conducted together with the consultation of senior sales and marketing individuals. Other factors that are important for collaboration were identified. There is a definite need for clear and transparent two-way communication between sales and marketing divisions. Regular, scheduled meetings between sales and marketing divisions are needed where the quality of the exchange is more important than the quantity or duration of meetings. These will help foster a sense of collaboration within the organisation.