The effects of poor programme management coordination on the delivery of health infrastructure projects: a case of the Northern Cape
- Authors: Mabona, Lesetja Godley
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Health facilities -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Hospital buildings -- Maintenance and repair
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8165 , vital:25341
- Description: The Northern Cape Department of Health (NCDoH) experiences sub-optimal programme management coordination in the delivery of health facilities. This research study aimed to determine how programme management coordination amongst the provincial office of the NCDoH, district office and the hospital that did undergo revitalisation through the Hospital Revitalisation Programme (HRP) could be improved. In order to explore the research problem the concepts of construction management and operations management were studied from which factors that impact positively and negatively on programme management coordination were extracted. A rationalist philosophical approach and subjectivist epistemology were utilised. The empirical enquiry was conducted through the case study method to obtain in-depth context of the case. The empirical evidence was obtained through a research interview guide utilising the purposive sampling strategy. The research initiated the sampling procedure by targeting the most relevant managers to the research study in the three units of analysis. A snowball approach evolved for the identification of other managers deemed relevant for purposes of this research. The thesis obtained opinions on the subject matter from managers who participated or were supposed to participate in the implementation of the delivery objectives of the administrative programmes in the NCDoH together with the objectives of the HRP. The research revealed that poor programme management coordination in the NCDoH as a result of internal competition and silo functions which prevent synergy from programme management plan development up to implementation. Furthermore, the complete building infrastructure only attains the objectives of construction management but the building infrastructure are not a complete justification for benefit realisation without the integration of operations management. The NCDoH cannot declare a successful programme management practices if it fails to realise the benefits that require integration of infrastructure and services. It is recommended that in order to attain effective programme management and realise the benefits of strategic objectives there should be a cross-functional approach from executive management which should trickle-down to the lowest level of administration. This research has developed a framework that can be useful in the integration of construction and operations management whereby infrastructure and operational services have to be delivered simultaneously in the field of programme management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mabona, Lesetja Godley
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Health facilities -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Hospital buildings -- Maintenance and repair
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8165 , vital:25341
- Description: The Northern Cape Department of Health (NCDoH) experiences sub-optimal programme management coordination in the delivery of health facilities. This research study aimed to determine how programme management coordination amongst the provincial office of the NCDoH, district office and the hospital that did undergo revitalisation through the Hospital Revitalisation Programme (HRP) could be improved. In order to explore the research problem the concepts of construction management and operations management were studied from which factors that impact positively and negatively on programme management coordination were extracted. A rationalist philosophical approach and subjectivist epistemology were utilised. The empirical enquiry was conducted through the case study method to obtain in-depth context of the case. The empirical evidence was obtained through a research interview guide utilising the purposive sampling strategy. The research initiated the sampling procedure by targeting the most relevant managers to the research study in the three units of analysis. A snowball approach evolved for the identification of other managers deemed relevant for purposes of this research. The thesis obtained opinions on the subject matter from managers who participated or were supposed to participate in the implementation of the delivery objectives of the administrative programmes in the NCDoH together with the objectives of the HRP. The research revealed that poor programme management coordination in the NCDoH as a result of internal competition and silo functions which prevent synergy from programme management plan development up to implementation. Furthermore, the complete building infrastructure only attains the objectives of construction management but the building infrastructure are not a complete justification for benefit realisation without the integration of operations management. The NCDoH cannot declare a successful programme management practices if it fails to realise the benefits that require integration of infrastructure and services. It is recommended that in order to attain effective programme management and realise the benefits of strategic objectives there should be a cross-functional approach from executive management which should trickle-down to the lowest level of administration. This research has developed a framework that can be useful in the integration of construction and operations management whereby infrastructure and operational services have to be delivered simultaneously in the field of programme management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The implications of the 2014 construction regulations for the Department of Public Works procurement system
- Authors: Matete, Kenevoe Rose
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Safety regulations -- South Africa Construction industry -- Standards -- South Africa Industrial procurement -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10309 , vital:26651
- Description: The Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) notes that regulations seek to make improvements by changing individual or organisational behaviour in ways that generate positive impacts in terms of solving societal and economic problems. At its most basic level, regulations are designed to work according to implementation, leading to changes in behaviours that, in turn, lead to changes in outcomes. Such outcomes can be satisfaction in terms of an underlying problem or other (hopefully positive) changes in conditions in the world. Following this premise, this research project investigates the implications of the 2014 Construction Regulations for the Department of Public Works’ procurement system. The study also examines the contents of the construction Regulations; the impact of the Construction Regulations 2014 – permit-to-work; client / contractor procurement issues; the enforcement of compliance to permit-to-work requirements, and education and training demands in relation to health and safety (H&S) competency. The study shows that even though industry role players are relatively familiar with the Construction Regulations 2014, there is a common concern regarding competency (education and training) levels required for the implementation of the permit-to-work requirement of the regulations. The concerns focus on the ability of the Department of Labour (DoL) to process the permits. Based on the study’s findings, the research concludes that there would be cost implications for project actors when implementing the permit-to-work requirement and this cost factor could delay project initiation and planning, as well as service delivery.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Matete, Kenevoe Rose
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Safety regulations -- South Africa Construction industry -- Standards -- South Africa Industrial procurement -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10309 , vital:26651
- Description: The Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) notes that regulations seek to make improvements by changing individual or organisational behaviour in ways that generate positive impacts in terms of solving societal and economic problems. At its most basic level, regulations are designed to work according to implementation, leading to changes in behaviours that, in turn, lead to changes in outcomes. Such outcomes can be satisfaction in terms of an underlying problem or other (hopefully positive) changes in conditions in the world. Following this premise, this research project investigates the implications of the 2014 Construction Regulations for the Department of Public Works’ procurement system. The study also examines the contents of the construction Regulations; the impact of the Construction Regulations 2014 – permit-to-work; client / contractor procurement issues; the enforcement of compliance to permit-to-work requirements, and education and training demands in relation to health and safety (H&S) competency. The study shows that even though industry role players are relatively familiar with the Construction Regulations 2014, there is a common concern regarding competency (education and training) levels required for the implementation of the permit-to-work requirement of the regulations. The concerns focus on the ability of the Department of Labour (DoL) to process the permits. Based on the study’s findings, the research concludes that there would be cost implications for project actors when implementing the permit-to-work requirement and this cost factor could delay project initiation and planning, as well as service delivery.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The maturity of project management in engineering consulting firms
- Authors: Machite, Kennedy
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Project management Consulting engineers -- South Africa , Engineering firms -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18409 , vital:28634
- Description: With a considerable number of built environment projects not being completed successfully, this study was undertaken to investigate how effectively consulting engineering firms are applying project management principles in the way they manage projects. This was achieved by measuring the project management maturity levels of consulting engineering firms. Maturity levels were measured for each of the ten knowledge areas of the Project Management Institute’s Project Management Body of Knowledge to determine areas where consulting engineering firms perform below expectation and as a result determine probable causes of project failures. The maturity of the firm was then calculated as the average of the maturity for the knowledge areas. The study found that consulting engineering firms have higher levels of project management maturity than the average for the construction and civil engineering sector. Apart from risk and procurement management, all the other knowledge areas have higher maturity levels than the corresponding construction and civil engineering knowledge areas. Although the overall maturity results indicate that the larger firms are more mature in their project management practices than the smaller firms, the individual knowledge areas are inconsistent. The study reveals that consulting engineering firms are weakest in the risk management, human resources and stakeholder management knowledge areas. There is limited literature available on the status of project management, project management methodologies, and performance of consulting projects in the engineering environment (Labuschagne & Steyn, 2010:70). There is need for future studies to establish a methodology developed specifically for the Consulting Engineering Firms in line with what Labuschagne & Steyn (2010) started and a Project Management Maturity Model specific to the Consulting Engineering Industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Machite, Kennedy
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Project management Consulting engineers -- South Africa , Engineering firms -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18409 , vital:28634
- Description: With a considerable number of built environment projects not being completed successfully, this study was undertaken to investigate how effectively consulting engineering firms are applying project management principles in the way they manage projects. This was achieved by measuring the project management maturity levels of consulting engineering firms. Maturity levels were measured for each of the ten knowledge areas of the Project Management Institute’s Project Management Body of Knowledge to determine areas where consulting engineering firms perform below expectation and as a result determine probable causes of project failures. The maturity of the firm was then calculated as the average of the maturity for the knowledge areas. The study found that consulting engineering firms have higher levels of project management maturity than the average for the construction and civil engineering sector. Apart from risk and procurement management, all the other knowledge areas have higher maturity levels than the corresponding construction and civil engineering knowledge areas. Although the overall maturity results indicate that the larger firms are more mature in their project management practices than the smaller firms, the individual knowledge areas are inconsistent. The study reveals that consulting engineering firms are weakest in the risk management, human resources and stakeholder management knowledge areas. There is limited literature available on the status of project management, project management methodologies, and performance of consulting projects in the engineering environment (Labuschagne & Steyn, 2010:70). There is need for future studies to establish a methodology developed specifically for the Consulting Engineering Firms in line with what Labuschagne & Steyn (2010) started and a Project Management Maturity Model specific to the Consulting Engineering Industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Ultra-high precision grinding of BK7 glass
- Authors: Onwuka, Goodness Raluchukwu
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Machining , Machine-tools -- Monitoring , Acoustic emission
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEngineering
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5203 , vital:20820
- Description: With the increase in the application of ultra-precision manufactured parts and the absence of much participation of researchers in ultra-high precision grinding of optical glasses which has a high rate of demand in the industries, it becomes imperative to garner a full understanding of the production of these precision optics using the above-listed technology. Single point inclined axes grinding configuration and Box-Behnken experimental design was developed and applied to the ultra-high precision grinding of BK7 glass. A high sampling acoustic emission monitoring system was implemented to monitor the process. The research tends to monitor the ultra-high precision grinding of BK7 glass using acoustic emission which has proven to be an effective sensing technique to monitor grinding processes. Response surface methodology was adopted to analyze the effect of the interaction between the machining parameters: feed, speed, depth of cut and the generated surface roughness. Furthermore, back propagation Artificial Neural Network was also implemented through careful feature extraction and selection process. The proposed models are aimed at creating a database guide to the ultra-high precision grinding of precision optics.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Onwuka, Goodness Raluchukwu
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Machining , Machine-tools -- Monitoring , Acoustic emission
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEngineering
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5203 , vital:20820
- Description: With the increase in the application of ultra-precision manufactured parts and the absence of much participation of researchers in ultra-high precision grinding of optical glasses which has a high rate of demand in the industries, it becomes imperative to garner a full understanding of the production of these precision optics using the above-listed technology. Single point inclined axes grinding configuration and Box-Behnken experimental design was developed and applied to the ultra-high precision grinding of BK7 glass. A high sampling acoustic emission monitoring system was implemented to monitor the process. The research tends to monitor the ultra-high precision grinding of BK7 glass using acoustic emission which has proven to be an effective sensing technique to monitor grinding processes. Response surface methodology was adopted to analyze the effect of the interaction between the machining parameters: feed, speed, depth of cut and the generated surface roughness. Furthermore, back propagation Artificial Neural Network was also implemented through careful feature extraction and selection process. The proposed models are aimed at creating a database guide to the ultra-high precision grinding of precision optics.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The Effectiveness of Eskom’s transmission project team lationships in the delivery process
- Authors: Mpetshwa, Noninzi
- Date: 2015-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53318 , vital:45137
- Description: Eskom Holding is a public limited liability company that supplies electricity. It supplies approximately ninety-nine percent of the electricity used in South Africa, and approximately forty-five percent of that used in Africa. Eskom generates, transmits and distributes electricity to its customers. The Project Execution Department is a department in the Transmission Division that executes the capital and refurbishment of projects. The objective of the study was to discover the opinion of the project team members, on whether there is a lack of project-team efficiency in delivering the projects on time, and within the budget. Descriptive research methodology was used to investigate the objectives of the research. The data were obtained through the structured questionnaires that were hand-delivered and emailed. The research is limited to the Project Execution and Procurement Department in the Transmission Division. The research excludes the Capital Expansion Department (CED) project (Medupi, Kusile and Power Development Projects). The findings of the study showed that, Eskom’s Transmission Project Execution and Commercial Departments need to work hand-in-hand. This will avoid any unnecessary procurement delays which would have an impact on project delivery time. Continuous communication among the project team members could improve the efficiency and serve to build good relationships. Currently, projects are delivered late and over budget. This situation could lead to the outsourcing of departments or even to the redeployment of Senior Management. It would also have a negative impact on the cost and supply of electricity to the country. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology, School of the Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-04
- Authors: Mpetshwa, Noninzi
- Date: 2015-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53318 , vital:45137
- Description: Eskom Holding is a public limited liability company that supplies electricity. It supplies approximately ninety-nine percent of the electricity used in South Africa, and approximately forty-five percent of that used in Africa. Eskom generates, transmits and distributes electricity to its customers. The Project Execution Department is a department in the Transmission Division that executes the capital and refurbishment of projects. The objective of the study was to discover the opinion of the project team members, on whether there is a lack of project-team efficiency in delivering the projects on time, and within the budget. Descriptive research methodology was used to investigate the objectives of the research. The data were obtained through the structured questionnaires that were hand-delivered and emailed. The research is limited to the Project Execution and Procurement Department in the Transmission Division. The research excludes the Capital Expansion Department (CED) project (Medupi, Kusile and Power Development Projects). The findings of the study showed that, Eskom’s Transmission Project Execution and Commercial Departments need to work hand-in-hand. This will avoid any unnecessary procurement delays which would have an impact on project delivery time. Continuous communication among the project team members could improve the efficiency and serve to build good relationships. Currently, projects are delivered late and over budget. This situation could lead to the outsourcing of departments or even to the redeployment of Senior Management. It would also have a negative impact on the cost and supply of electricity to the country. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology, School of the Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-04
A comparative study of performance and efficiency of a tube and fin type domestic solar water heat collector
- Authors: Kleyn, Gysbert
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Solar collectors , Solar water heaters -- Testing , Solar heating
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7959 , vital:24329
- Description: The main purpose of this research project was to do a comparative study, by identifying a testing methodology for transient conditions, through which to allow the expression of the relative thermal performance of two DSWH collectors in comparison. The study started off by considering literature about Solar Domestic Water Heaters and National Standards-based test methods, most of which were for Steady State testing conditions. Thereafter establishing a testing methodology and setup, identifying factors to be considered. The results were analyzed and conclusions drawn. The hypothesis was to allow the reduction in the complexity of testing equipment and methods, and by doing transient condition testing and still utilizing the Hottel-Whillier-Bliss relationship as a way of expressing efficiency, the hypothesis was proven.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Kleyn, Gysbert
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Solar collectors , Solar water heaters -- Testing , Solar heating
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7959 , vital:24329
- Description: The main purpose of this research project was to do a comparative study, by identifying a testing methodology for transient conditions, through which to allow the expression of the relative thermal performance of two DSWH collectors in comparison. The study started off by considering literature about Solar Domestic Water Heaters and National Standards-based test methods, most of which were for Steady State testing conditions. Thereafter establishing a testing methodology and setup, identifying factors to be considered. The results were analyzed and conclusions drawn. The hypothesis was to allow the reduction in the complexity of testing equipment and methods, and by doing transient condition testing and still utilizing the Hottel-Whillier-Bliss relationship as a way of expressing efficiency, the hypothesis was proven.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
A sustainable water quality framework for South Africa towards 2050
- Authors: Osmond, Christopher John
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Construction industry -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa , Water resources development -- South Africa , Water quality management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3255 , vital:20417
- Description: There are a wide range of issues that stem from inadequate access to, and the unsustainable management of water resources, which can lead to ecological and human crises (Gleik, 1998: 571). With the increasing demand for clean water for drinking and sanitation, coupled with population growth, aging infrastructure, and climate change, many countries face a complex set of threats when dealing with their water resources and the management thereof (Environmental Protection Agency, 2012: 4). South Africa‟s challenges are no different, if current trends in water management continue and government does not intervene with what has been an unequal society even in terms of the division of water, it will continue to lose ground in its development and sustaining of water resources (Ukwandu, 2009: 24 - 30). “The objective of managing the quantity, quality and reliability of the nation‟s water resources is to achieve optimum, long-term, environmentally sustainable social and economic benefit for society from their use.” (Principle 7 of the National Water Policy, Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, 1997: 20). The primary objective of this research is to develop a framework for water management and sustainable development by utilising a Causal Layered Analysis (CLA) to develop strategies for innovation in South Africa towards 2050. New rules and regulations have been adopted by local municipal divisions in South Africa to promote sustainable, environmentally friendly buildings and methods. It is therefore the aim of the research to establish ways in which water can be harvested and saved in a simple and innovative yet sustainable manner. The complexity of erecting structures has also increased with some sustainable measures in water management taking place, however the water issues in South Africa continue to grow and cause concern. Government therefore plays a pivotal role in ensuring that water is managed sustainably at not only harvesting and infrastructure level but also re-cycling level, where simple innovative strategies can be adopted. This paper further seeks to highlight the positive and negative impacts of implementing water management methods and strategies that can be adopted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Osmond, Christopher John
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Construction industry -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa , Water resources development -- South Africa , Water quality management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3255 , vital:20417
- Description: There are a wide range of issues that stem from inadequate access to, and the unsustainable management of water resources, which can lead to ecological and human crises (Gleik, 1998: 571). With the increasing demand for clean water for drinking and sanitation, coupled with population growth, aging infrastructure, and climate change, many countries face a complex set of threats when dealing with their water resources and the management thereof (Environmental Protection Agency, 2012: 4). South Africa‟s challenges are no different, if current trends in water management continue and government does not intervene with what has been an unequal society even in terms of the division of water, it will continue to lose ground in its development and sustaining of water resources (Ukwandu, 2009: 24 - 30). “The objective of managing the quantity, quality and reliability of the nation‟s water resources is to achieve optimum, long-term, environmentally sustainable social and economic benefit for society from their use.” (Principle 7 of the National Water Policy, Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, 1997: 20). The primary objective of this research is to develop a framework for water management and sustainable development by utilising a Causal Layered Analysis (CLA) to develop strategies for innovation in South Africa towards 2050. New rules and regulations have been adopted by local municipal divisions in South Africa to promote sustainable, environmentally friendly buildings and methods. It is therefore the aim of the research to establish ways in which water can be harvested and saved in a simple and innovative yet sustainable manner. The complexity of erecting structures has also increased with some sustainable measures in water management taking place, however the water issues in South Africa continue to grow and cause concern. Government therefore plays a pivotal role in ensuring that water is managed sustainably at not only harvesting and infrastructure level but also re-cycling level, where simple innovative strategies can be adopted. This paper further seeks to highlight the positive and negative impacts of implementing water management methods and strategies that can be adopted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An entrepreneurial framework for new venture property development projects
- Authors: Abrey, Mark Henry Shaw
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Real estate development -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Land subdivision -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9709 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020162
- Description: The business of real estate is one of the largest suppliers of employment, and contributes significantly to the gross domestic product of numerous countries worldwide. It is, therefore, imperative that new real estate development entrepreneurs entering the market identify key competitiveness indicators in order to survive and ensure their success within an ever-changing market. However, property development is a complex process and considered to be 'too risky' Consequently, property development entrepreneurs lack the skills and expertise to effectively manage their business enterprises and the associated risks from project inception to completion, and commissioning. The study was conducted by means of a review of the related literature and by conducting an empirical study. The empirical study was conducted using a quantitative statistical approach by distributing research questionnaires to members falling within the sample population. The primary objective of the study was to develop an entrepreneurial framework for perceived success of new venture property development projects. A descriptive survey was conducted among professionals registered with the South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) and property development practitioners within South Africa. The salient findings suggest that the following variables positively influence the perceived success of new venture property development projects: Entrepreneurial vision; Strategic management; Stakeholders‘ interests; Professional feasibility and viability reporting; Procurement; Communication; Consumer confidence; Risk management; Governance structures; Specialist advice; The entrepreneurial framework, and The project management body of knowledge (PMBOK). Furthermore, the following variables were identified in the empirical framework affecting the perceived success of new venture property development projects: Entrepreneurial Vision; Strategic Management; Stakeholders‘ Interest; Professional Feasibility and Viability Reporting; Procurement; Communication; Consumer Confidence; Risk Management; Governance Structures; Specialist Advice, and The Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK). This study contributed to the South African property development body of knowledge by addressing the challenges faced by inexperienced entrepreneurs entering the property development market. Furthermore, this study aimed to improve the framework utilised by emerging property developers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Abrey, Mark Henry Shaw
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Real estate development -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Land subdivision -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9709 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020162
- Description: The business of real estate is one of the largest suppliers of employment, and contributes significantly to the gross domestic product of numerous countries worldwide. It is, therefore, imperative that new real estate development entrepreneurs entering the market identify key competitiveness indicators in order to survive and ensure their success within an ever-changing market. However, property development is a complex process and considered to be 'too risky' Consequently, property development entrepreneurs lack the skills and expertise to effectively manage their business enterprises and the associated risks from project inception to completion, and commissioning. The study was conducted by means of a review of the related literature and by conducting an empirical study. The empirical study was conducted using a quantitative statistical approach by distributing research questionnaires to members falling within the sample population. The primary objective of the study was to develop an entrepreneurial framework for perceived success of new venture property development projects. A descriptive survey was conducted among professionals registered with the South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) and property development practitioners within South Africa. The salient findings suggest that the following variables positively influence the perceived success of new venture property development projects: Entrepreneurial vision; Strategic management; Stakeholders‘ interests; Professional feasibility and viability reporting; Procurement; Communication; Consumer confidence; Risk management; Governance structures; Specialist advice; The entrepreneurial framework, and The project management body of knowledge (PMBOK). Furthermore, the following variables were identified in the empirical framework affecting the perceived success of new venture property development projects: Entrepreneurial Vision; Strategic Management; Stakeholders‘ Interest; Professional Feasibility and Viability Reporting; Procurement; Communication; Consumer Confidence; Risk Management; Governance Structures; Specialist Advice, and The Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK). This study contributed to the South African property development body of knowledge by addressing the challenges faced by inexperienced entrepreneurs entering the property development market. Furthermore, this study aimed to improve the framework utilised by emerging property developers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
An organic rankine cycle heat engine using a rock thermal battery as the heat source
- Authors: Humm, Jason Christopher
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Heat engineering Renewable energy sources
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10960 , vital:26861
- Description: Organic Rankine cycles (ORC) have unique properties that are well suited to power generation from low grade heat sources. It is envisaged that a domestic scale ORC Heat Engine can be developed that will be able to run off heat stored in a solar charged rock thermal battery. The use of a thermal battery as the heat source for the ORC system will provide the user with electricity during the day and for a number of hours into the night. The concept presented consists of four key components: rock thermal battery, 1 kW scroll expander, condenser and working fluid pump.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Humm, Jason Christopher
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Heat engineering Renewable energy sources
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10960 , vital:26861
- Description: Organic Rankine cycles (ORC) have unique properties that are well suited to power generation from low grade heat sources. It is envisaged that a domestic scale ORC Heat Engine can be developed that will be able to run off heat stored in a solar charged rock thermal battery. The use of a thermal battery as the heat source for the ORC system will provide the user with electricity during the day and for a number of hours into the night. The concept presented consists of four key components: rock thermal battery, 1 kW scroll expander, condenser and working fluid pump.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Closed-loop temperature control of friction stir welding
- Authors: Pothier, Raymond Peter
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Friction welding
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEngineering
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10362 , vital:26656
- Description: This study develops and presents a friction stir weld (FSW) quality assurance tool based on control of weld zone temperature. Apart from correct tool geometry, tool tilt angle, traverse speed and forge force during welding, one important requirement is that the weld material be sufficiently plasticised (softened). The level of plasticisation is related to weld zone temperature which is primarily dependent on spindle speed, traverse speed and forge force. When all other conditions are correct, sufficiently plasticised material flows around and consolidates behind the tool without the production of voids in the weld. Typically, weld temperature varies along the weld length which may result in variations in weld quality. Weld zone temperature control makes constant weld zone temperature possible. In this study, thermocouple sensors were embedded in the FSW tool and a weld zone temperature control algorithm was developed. Spindle speed was the actuating mechanism for controlling weld temperature. The system was modelled and controllers were designed using Matlab tools. The system was simulated and the performance was compared to the system performance during welding. The control system ensures that the weld zone temperature can be maintained irrespective of the presence of thermal disturbances. Tensile testing was conducted which confirmed a range of temperature in which the welds resulted in consistent strength.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Pothier, Raymond Peter
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Friction welding
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEngineering
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10362 , vital:26656
- Description: This study develops and presents a friction stir weld (FSW) quality assurance tool based on control of weld zone temperature. Apart from correct tool geometry, tool tilt angle, traverse speed and forge force during welding, one important requirement is that the weld material be sufficiently plasticised (softened). The level of plasticisation is related to weld zone temperature which is primarily dependent on spindle speed, traverse speed and forge force. When all other conditions are correct, sufficiently plasticised material flows around and consolidates behind the tool without the production of voids in the weld. Typically, weld temperature varies along the weld length which may result in variations in weld quality. Weld zone temperature control makes constant weld zone temperature possible. In this study, thermocouple sensors were embedded in the FSW tool and a weld zone temperature control algorithm was developed. Spindle speed was the actuating mechanism for controlling weld temperature. The system was modelled and controllers were designed using Matlab tools. The system was simulated and the performance was compared to the system performance during welding. The control system ensures that the weld zone temperature can be maintained irrespective of the presence of thermal disturbances. Tensile testing was conducted which confirmed a range of temperature in which the welds resulted in consistent strength.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Decision making for investment in residential real estate
- Authors: James, Matthew Gary Robert
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Real estate investment -- Decision making Investment analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10868 , vital:26831
- Description: Investment in residential real estate involves almost all members of the public at some stage of their lives, whether this be one's first home or the purchasing of one‟s first investment property. Understanding how to maximise the return on one's investment is something that can benefit the investor from before the investment is made until after the property has been sold, if it is sold at all. Literature surveys have concluded that there are a number of variables to consider when maximising the return on investment. As residential real estate is not a perfect science, there are guidelines and routes that are more beneficial to the investor depending on the current market, environment and economic standing. A survey was undertaken by members of the public that are involved in residential real estate investment, relative to the maximisation of the return on investment in residential real estate. The salient findings include: Investors in residential real estate spend more than average to extensive time prior, to investment researching the chosen residential real estate property; Investors in residential real estate perform a feasibility study before committing to the development whereas; Investors in residential real estate make use of financial advisors/valuers/estate agents or other investors' knowledge bases in deciding whether to invest in a residential property development; Investors in residential real estate believe that their degree of knowledge about the residential property market and residential property investments are average to very high. Investors in residential real estate somewhat agree that residential real estate investors do not effectively manage their investments. It was recommended that investors make use of help and guidance when investing in residential real estate, perform a feasibility study and ensure that they know their market before investing in a project. It was also noted that location plays a large role when deciding on an investment opportunity worth investing into. By creating awareness and ensuring that all methods and guidelines have been used to maximise the returns that their proposed residential real estate investment, investors can ensure a stronger, healthier cash flow and reap the highest possible benefits from their residential real estate portfolio.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: James, Matthew Gary Robert
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Real estate investment -- Decision making Investment analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10868 , vital:26831
- Description: Investment in residential real estate involves almost all members of the public at some stage of their lives, whether this be one's first home or the purchasing of one‟s first investment property. Understanding how to maximise the return on one's investment is something that can benefit the investor from before the investment is made until after the property has been sold, if it is sold at all. Literature surveys have concluded that there are a number of variables to consider when maximising the return on investment. As residential real estate is not a perfect science, there are guidelines and routes that are more beneficial to the investor depending on the current market, environment and economic standing. A survey was undertaken by members of the public that are involved in residential real estate investment, relative to the maximisation of the return on investment in residential real estate. The salient findings include: Investors in residential real estate spend more than average to extensive time prior, to investment researching the chosen residential real estate property; Investors in residential real estate perform a feasibility study before committing to the development whereas; Investors in residential real estate make use of financial advisors/valuers/estate agents or other investors' knowledge bases in deciding whether to invest in a residential property development; Investors in residential real estate believe that their degree of knowledge about the residential property market and residential property investments are average to very high. Investors in residential real estate somewhat agree that residential real estate investors do not effectively manage their investments. It was recommended that investors make use of help and guidance when investing in residential real estate, perform a feasibility study and ensure that they know their market before investing in a project. It was also noted that location plays a large role when deciding on an investment opportunity worth investing into. By creating awareness and ensuring that all methods and guidelines have been used to maximise the returns that their proposed residential real estate investment, investors can ensure a stronger, healthier cash flow and reap the highest possible benefits from their residential real estate portfolio.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Design of a low-cost autonomous guided cart for material handling
- Authors: Cawood, Gareth James
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Automobiles -- Design and construction , Automobiles -- Automatic control , Vehicles -- Automatic control
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEngineering
- Identifier: vital:9655
- Description: This dissertation covers the design and manufacture of an autonomous guided cart (AGC) for use in the material handling industry. General Motors South Africa (GMSA) requires a low-cost AGC for use in their Struandale plant. A budget of R35 000 per unit was proposed. The researcher, in collaboration with staff at GM, compiled a list of engineering requirements for the AGC. After research into the unique problems of the project, an examination of a previous design attempt by staff of GM Thailand, the researcher developed a new design, the subject of this report. Different solutions for each design problem were investigated before the design was finalised. A three-wheeled vehicle was designed making use of two motors in a differential-drive setup to control motion. Navigation is via a line-following mechanism, using an induction sensor-array in conjunction with a pre-laid metallic strip. To aid the design, the system was modelled to understand the different control elements at play. The researcher developed software for several aspects of the design: for the PLC controlling the system and motors; for a microcontroller that communicates with the PLC and a wireless module; for a computer server that communicates with a second wireless device, receiving information from the PLC; and a web interface to view this information. These form the SCADA integration of the project. The final product meets the GMSA specifications. It is a robot capable of towing a trolley of mass not exceeding 350 kg. While the robot is able to navigate a pre-laid route, it cannot reliably stop at marked locations. It is possible to monitor the system via a web-interface. The robot is capable of operating for an entire 8-hour shift before the batteries need to be recharged. The total cost of the prototype was R26 340.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Cawood, Gareth James
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Automobiles -- Design and construction , Automobiles -- Automatic control , Vehicles -- Automatic control
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEngineering
- Identifier: vital:9655
- Description: This dissertation covers the design and manufacture of an autonomous guided cart (AGC) for use in the material handling industry. General Motors South Africa (GMSA) requires a low-cost AGC for use in their Struandale plant. A budget of R35 000 per unit was proposed. The researcher, in collaboration with staff at GM, compiled a list of engineering requirements for the AGC. After research into the unique problems of the project, an examination of a previous design attempt by staff of GM Thailand, the researcher developed a new design, the subject of this report. Different solutions for each design problem were investigated before the design was finalised. A three-wheeled vehicle was designed making use of two motors in a differential-drive setup to control motion. Navigation is via a line-following mechanism, using an induction sensor-array in conjunction with a pre-laid metallic strip. To aid the design, the system was modelled to understand the different control elements at play. The researcher developed software for several aspects of the design: for the PLC controlling the system and motors; for a microcontroller that communicates with the PLC and a wireless module; for a computer server that communicates with a second wireless device, receiving information from the PLC; and a web interface to view this information. These form the SCADA integration of the project. The final product meets the GMSA specifications. It is a robot capable of towing a trolley of mass not exceeding 350 kg. While the robot is able to navigate a pre-laid route, it cannot reliably stop at marked locations. It is possible to monitor the system via a web-interface. The robot is capable of operating for an entire 8-hour shift before the batteries need to be recharged. The total cost of the prototype was R26 340.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Drivers and consequences of residents' satisfaction with off-campus student housing in South-South, Nigeria
- Authors: Bella-Omunagbe, Ojo Cyprain
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Student housing -- Nigeria , Housing -- Resident satisfaction , Residence and education , Universities and colleges -- Nigeria -- Administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9720 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021198
- Description: The student housing system worldwide and South-South Nigeria in particular has witnessed an unprecedented transformation, such that private off-campus student housing facilities (SHFs) are now the primary source of accommodation for students in tertiary institutions. A considerable gap exists between the supply and demand for on-campus student housing and the quest to fill this gap has stimulated the creation of a significant student housing market in the areas where these tertiary institutions are located. The prospect for economic investments in the student housing sector is high and private investors are involved in the provision and management of offcampus student housing. The main consequence of this practice in South-South, Nigeria is the delivery of low-quality buildings that are not able to meet the needs and expectations of residents. SHFs that are constructed without due regard to residents needs are characterised by dissatisfaction with attributes of housing and low investment performance. The implication is that residence users are often not satisfied with the attributes of the residential environment that are provided; thus their behaviours often impose some consequences on investors gains and objectives.Therefore, understanding the dynamics among attributes that are important to students, that give the required satisfaction, and the impact of the availability or lack-of on behaviour such as loyalty, willingness to pay for attributes and word of mouth behaviour are critical to profitability. Most often, the relationship among these attributes are treated as linear and symmetrical with the assumed implication that better attributes produce improved behaviours. However, this may not always be the case. This approach is rarely addressed and is little understood in student housing studies. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify student housing attributes that act as drivers of resident atisfaction and the consequences/effects of these drivers on student behaviour in order to determine appropriate measures that could be used to develop, maintain and upgrade student accommodation. The methodology of the study included an extensive literature review and a field study conducted to obtain the perceptions of students in seven tertiary institutions located in South-South, Nigeria. The main task was to define attributes of student housing facilities based on the symmetric and asymmetric impact of the performance of attributes on satisfaction with residence. The Kano model and importance-performance analysis (IPA) were used to establish sets of criteria that could be used to prioritise attributes that are required in student housing for optimal investor gains. Analysis of the findings lead to the conclusions that different degrees of behaviour were associated to the perception of importance that is attached to attributes by residents and the satisfaction that is derived from the use of such attributes. The implication of the conclusions is that to meet users satisfaction needs, varied improvement strategies are required for different attributes in order to maximise the use of resources for maximum gains. The recommendations for investors in SHFs include among others to segment the SHFs market based on demographic characteristics, prioritise and provide only attributes that add-value to identified groups. Emphasis should also be placed on providing attributes that are not only satisfactory, but with capacity to improve loyalty/retention, willingness to pay and positive word of mouth behaviour. It is also recommended that the local authority should improve critical attributes that are deemed to be outside the scope of the investors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Bella-Omunagbe, Ojo Cyprain
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Student housing -- Nigeria , Housing -- Resident satisfaction , Residence and education , Universities and colleges -- Nigeria -- Administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9720 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021198
- Description: The student housing system worldwide and South-South Nigeria in particular has witnessed an unprecedented transformation, such that private off-campus student housing facilities (SHFs) are now the primary source of accommodation for students in tertiary institutions. A considerable gap exists between the supply and demand for on-campus student housing and the quest to fill this gap has stimulated the creation of a significant student housing market in the areas where these tertiary institutions are located. The prospect for economic investments in the student housing sector is high and private investors are involved in the provision and management of offcampus student housing. The main consequence of this practice in South-South, Nigeria is the delivery of low-quality buildings that are not able to meet the needs and expectations of residents. SHFs that are constructed without due regard to residents needs are characterised by dissatisfaction with attributes of housing and low investment performance. The implication is that residence users are often not satisfied with the attributes of the residential environment that are provided; thus their behaviours often impose some consequences on investors gains and objectives.Therefore, understanding the dynamics among attributes that are important to students, that give the required satisfaction, and the impact of the availability or lack-of on behaviour such as loyalty, willingness to pay for attributes and word of mouth behaviour are critical to profitability. Most often, the relationship among these attributes are treated as linear and symmetrical with the assumed implication that better attributes produce improved behaviours. However, this may not always be the case. This approach is rarely addressed and is little understood in student housing studies. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify student housing attributes that act as drivers of resident atisfaction and the consequences/effects of these drivers on student behaviour in order to determine appropriate measures that could be used to develop, maintain and upgrade student accommodation. The methodology of the study included an extensive literature review and a field study conducted to obtain the perceptions of students in seven tertiary institutions located in South-South, Nigeria. The main task was to define attributes of student housing facilities based on the symmetric and asymmetric impact of the performance of attributes on satisfaction with residence. The Kano model and importance-performance analysis (IPA) were used to establish sets of criteria that could be used to prioritise attributes that are required in student housing for optimal investor gains. Analysis of the findings lead to the conclusions that different degrees of behaviour were associated to the perception of importance that is attached to attributes by residents and the satisfaction that is derived from the use of such attributes. The implication of the conclusions is that to meet users satisfaction needs, varied improvement strategies are required for different attributes in order to maximise the use of resources for maximum gains. The recommendations for investors in SHFs include among others to segment the SHFs market based on demographic characteristics, prioritise and provide only attributes that add-value to identified groups. Emphasis should also be placed on providing attributes that are not only satisfactory, but with capacity to improve loyalty/retention, willingness to pay and positive word of mouth behaviour. It is also recommended that the local authority should improve critical attributes that are deemed to be outside the scope of the investors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Electrical-static discharge in single point diamond turning machining of contact lens polymers
- Authors: Kadermani, Mohamed Munir
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Electric discharges , Electrostatics , Contact lenses , Polymers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEngineering (Mechatronics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4055 , vital:20508
- Description: Single Point Diamond Turning (SPDT) is a technology widely applied for the fabrication of contact lenses. One of the limiting factors in polymer machining is wear of the diamond tool due to electrostatic discharge resulting in poor surface quality of the machined products. The research work presented in this dissertation highlights the electrostatic properties of contact lenses during machining operations and the effects these properties have on the surface quality of the work piece materials. Two contact lens samples were experimented on, Definitive 74 (Silicone Hydrogel) and Tyro 97 (Rigid Gas Permeable). The electrostatic surface potentials (ESPs) were measured during turning operations using an electrostatic voltmeter and the surface roughness measurements were taken using a surface profilometer. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) techniques were employed to create predictive models for both surface roughness and ESPs with respect to the cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut. Predictive surface roughness models were successfully generated for both materials and the cutting speed and feed rate were identified as the parameters with most effect on surface roughness. In addition, an electrostatic model was successfully generated for the Definitive 74 contact lens material which cited the cutting speed and feed rate as the most effective parameters on the material’s electrostatic behaviour. However, no relationship was evident between the machining parameters and electrostatic behaviour of Tyro 97.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Kadermani, Mohamed Munir
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Electric discharges , Electrostatics , Contact lenses , Polymers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEngineering (Mechatronics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4055 , vital:20508
- Description: Single Point Diamond Turning (SPDT) is a technology widely applied for the fabrication of contact lenses. One of the limiting factors in polymer machining is wear of the diamond tool due to electrostatic discharge resulting in poor surface quality of the machined products. The research work presented in this dissertation highlights the electrostatic properties of contact lenses during machining operations and the effects these properties have on the surface quality of the work piece materials. Two contact lens samples were experimented on, Definitive 74 (Silicone Hydrogel) and Tyro 97 (Rigid Gas Permeable). The electrostatic surface potentials (ESPs) were measured during turning operations using an electrostatic voltmeter and the surface roughness measurements were taken using a surface profilometer. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) techniques were employed to create predictive models for both surface roughness and ESPs with respect to the cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut. Predictive surface roughness models were successfully generated for both materials and the cutting speed and feed rate were identified as the parameters with most effect on surface roughness. In addition, an electrostatic model was successfully generated for the Definitive 74 contact lens material which cited the cutting speed and feed rate as the most effective parameters on the material’s electrostatic behaviour. However, no relationship was evident between the machining parameters and electrostatic behaviour of Tyro 97.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Friction hydro pillar riveting process of Ti-6AI-4V titanium sheet
- Authors: Tsikayi, Davies Shamiso
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Friction welding , Titanium alloys -- Welding , Sheet-metal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6357 , vital:21078
- Description: Mechanical fasteners are used extensively in the joining of two or more metal plates or sheets. Riveted joints have been the joints of choice mainly for the Aerospace Industry. However for this research, Friction Hydro Pillar Processing has been used to develop and characterise a new riveting technique termed Friction Hydro Pillar Riveting (FHPR). Two overlapping 3.17 mm Ti-6Al-4V sheets were joined together using Ø6 mm rivet which was friction processed. This research has focussed on the initial development of Friction Hydro Pillar Riveting thereby establishing a basic understanding of the influences of main process parameters, rotational speed and axial force - and also joint configurations. The results showed that with a decrease in the bottom hole chamfer angle, there was resulting overall increase in the rivet joint pull off strength. From the best performing joint configuration in pull off tests, shear tests were conducted whilst a blind hole FHPR joint was also done and tested in pull off and shear strength. The shear test fracture surfaces exhibited ductile failure. The microstructure of the joints was thus evaluated. From parent material, heat affected zone and to weld zone there was a variation in the microstructure analysed. The hardness profiles showed increased hardness in the weld zone which partly explained the shear results. The hardness increase was mainly due to grain refinement in the weld zone by the Friction Hydro Pillar Riveting process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Tsikayi, Davies Shamiso
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Friction welding , Titanium alloys -- Welding , Sheet-metal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6357 , vital:21078
- Description: Mechanical fasteners are used extensively in the joining of two or more metal plates or sheets. Riveted joints have been the joints of choice mainly for the Aerospace Industry. However for this research, Friction Hydro Pillar Processing has been used to develop and characterise a new riveting technique termed Friction Hydro Pillar Riveting (FHPR). Two overlapping 3.17 mm Ti-6Al-4V sheets were joined together using Ø6 mm rivet which was friction processed. This research has focussed on the initial development of Friction Hydro Pillar Riveting thereby establishing a basic understanding of the influences of main process parameters, rotational speed and axial force - and also joint configurations. The results showed that with a decrease in the bottom hole chamfer angle, there was resulting overall increase in the rivet joint pull off strength. From the best performing joint configuration in pull off tests, shear tests were conducted whilst a blind hole FHPR joint was also done and tested in pull off and shear strength. The shear test fracture surfaces exhibited ductile failure. The microstructure of the joints was thus evaluated. From parent material, heat affected zone and to weld zone there was a variation in the microstructure analysed. The hardness profiles showed increased hardness in the weld zone which partly explained the shear results. The hardness increase was mainly due to grain refinement in the weld zone by the Friction Hydro Pillar Riveting process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Green procurement for municipal construction projects
- Authors: Maboza, Luthando Sithembele
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Sustainable construction , Construction industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3165 , vital:20407
- Description: The study is a qualitative investigation of the implementation of green procurement in the construction sector at Local Government level. The focus is on the Metropolitan Municipalities of EThekwini, Nelson Mandela Bay and City of Cape Town. For the purpose of realising an extended comparative perspective, an additional three smaller municipalities were also reviewed. Green procurement is the tool used by governments to source the supply of products and services that are environmentally friendly to counter the global problem of climate change. The study commences with the exposition of the aspects of green procurement from the basis of the enabling legal framework to the scholarly contribution from which the study can be predicated. It becomes apparent from this review of legislation that there is a scope within the existing body of legislation for the use of green procurement as an environmental tool. Scholarly work addresses adoption of green procurement and considers, inter alia, the Bottom-up Approach, the Top-down Approach, and the Procura + Milestones model. Literature indicates that development has a negative impact on the environment, which includes vegetation loss, illegal dumping, and greenhouse gas emissions. Further, the literature recommends green lifecycle design and production of construction projects to reduce the impact of construction on the environment. A systematic investigation of municipalities by means of interviews with relevant municipal officials involved with the procurement of products and services, infrastructure services and environmental affairs officials made it possible to identify factors that impact on the implementation of green procurement. The investigation finds that the major obstacles to green procurement are socio-economic challenges that confront municipalities, lack of policy, and lack of awareness. Recommendations include the proposal of initiatives that encourage and improve the implementation of green procurement. The study hopes to inspire innovation in the implementation of green procurement in the construction sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Maboza, Luthando Sithembele
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Sustainable construction , Construction industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3165 , vital:20407
- Description: The study is a qualitative investigation of the implementation of green procurement in the construction sector at Local Government level. The focus is on the Metropolitan Municipalities of EThekwini, Nelson Mandela Bay and City of Cape Town. For the purpose of realising an extended comparative perspective, an additional three smaller municipalities were also reviewed. Green procurement is the tool used by governments to source the supply of products and services that are environmentally friendly to counter the global problem of climate change. The study commences with the exposition of the aspects of green procurement from the basis of the enabling legal framework to the scholarly contribution from which the study can be predicated. It becomes apparent from this review of legislation that there is a scope within the existing body of legislation for the use of green procurement as an environmental tool. Scholarly work addresses adoption of green procurement and considers, inter alia, the Bottom-up Approach, the Top-down Approach, and the Procura + Milestones model. Literature indicates that development has a negative impact on the environment, which includes vegetation loss, illegal dumping, and greenhouse gas emissions. Further, the literature recommends green lifecycle design and production of construction projects to reduce the impact of construction on the environment. A systematic investigation of municipalities by means of interviews with relevant municipal officials involved with the procurement of products and services, infrastructure services and environmental affairs officials made it possible to identify factors that impact on the implementation of green procurement. The investigation finds that the major obstacles to green procurement are socio-economic challenges that confront municipalities, lack of policy, and lack of awareness. Recommendations include the proposal of initiatives that encourage and improve the implementation of green procurement. The study hopes to inspire innovation in the implementation of green procurement in the construction sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Guidelines for the analysis of student web usage in support of primary educational objectives
- Authors: Von Schoultz, Dean John
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Information behavior , Searching behavior , Internet in higher education , World Wide Web , Educational technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4965 , vital:20772
- Description: The Internet and World Wide Web provides huge amounts of information to individuals with access to it. Information is an important driving factor of education and higher education has experienced massive adoption rates of information and communication technologies, and accessing the Web is not an uncommon practice within a higher educational institution. The Web provides numerous benefits and many students rely on the Web for information, communication and technical support. However, the immense amount of information available on the Web has brought about some negative side effects associated with abundant information. Whether the Web is a positive influence on students’ academic well-being within higher education is a difficult question to answer. To understand how the Web is used by students within a higher education institution is not an easy task. However, there are ways to understand the Web usage behaviour of students. Using established methods for gathering useful information from data produced by an institution, Web usage behaviours of students within a higher education institution could be analysed and presented. This dissertation presents guidance for analysing Web traffic within a higher educational institution in order to gain insight into the Web usage behaviours of students. This insight can provide educators with valuable information to bolster their decision-making capacity towards achieving their educational goals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Von Schoultz, Dean John
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Information behavior , Searching behavior , Internet in higher education , World Wide Web , Educational technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4965 , vital:20772
- Description: The Internet and World Wide Web provides huge amounts of information to individuals with access to it. Information is an important driving factor of education and higher education has experienced massive adoption rates of information and communication technologies, and accessing the Web is not an uncommon practice within a higher educational institution. The Web provides numerous benefits and many students rely on the Web for information, communication and technical support. However, the immense amount of information available on the Web has brought about some negative side effects associated with abundant information. Whether the Web is a positive influence on students’ academic well-being within higher education is a difficult question to answer. To understand how the Web is used by students within a higher education institution is not an easy task. However, there are ways to understand the Web usage behaviour of students. Using established methods for gathering useful information from data produced by an institution, Web usage behaviours of students within a higher education institution could be analysed and presented. This dissertation presents guidance for analysing Web traffic within a higher educational institution in order to gain insight into the Web usage behaviours of students. This insight can provide educators with valuable information to bolster their decision-making capacity towards achieving their educational goals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Maintenance management systems of on-campus student hostels at Nigerian universities
- Authors: Adamu, Anita Dzikwi
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: School buildings -- Maintenance and repair , Dormitories -- Nigeria , Nigeria -- Student housing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9710 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020168
- Description: Most universities have long recognised the importance and contribution of on-campus hostels to the learning process. In so doing, most of these institutions have provided and maintained building facilities for academic purposes (teaching and research). Hostels are integral components of most campuses of Nigerian universities, and they are part of the built assets of the institutions in terms of both administration and maintenance management. Currently, there is little understanding of the maintenance management systems of on-campus hostel buildings in both the public and the private universities. Moreover, there is a dearth of research evidence demonstrating that there is an appreciable difference in the maintenance management systems of the Federal, State and private universities in Nigeria. This research aimed at establishing an understanding of maintenance management systems of on-campus hostel buildings at Nigerian universities owned by the Federal and State governments and the Private Sector, relative to stipulated criteria for best practice.The qualitative method of research inquiry that is rooted in the phenomenological paradigm was employed in the investigations. The research activities included a comprehensive review of the related literature and study of selected cases. The North-central geopolitical zone of Nigeria was the selected geographical scope of this research. Ten universities were purposefully selected for the study, and they include three Federal, four state and three private universities. The nature and differences in the research questions necessitated generating different forms of data. The questions that were related to the maintenance management systems for the hostels in place at the universities were addressed with the outcomes of interviews with the hostel managers. The questions that were about the structures and current conditions of the hostel buildings at the three categories of universities were addressed with data that were generated from condition assessments of the facilities and physical observations with the aid of cameras. The study reveals apparent deteriorated and unhealthy conditions of most of the on-campus hostels at the public universities, while those of the private universities are satisfactory. The research also found that the maintenance management systems in use at all the universities are reactive and lack proper planning and coordination of maintenance activities. There is no significant difference in the maintenance management systems of hostels at the public and the private universities and the systems have major negative impact on the conditions of the buildings and their performances. The research has developed a conceptual model for the study of maintenance management informed by the theoretical framework. The model considered the impact of the external environmental factors on the management and maintenance of the hostels. Secondly, the interrelationships of strategic and performance management with maintenance management in developing an effective maintenance management system were established. The study has achieved its aim of establishing an understanding of maintenance management systems of on-campus hostel buildings at Nigerian universities owned by the Federal and, State governments and the Private Sector. The maintenance management model developed in the study is recommended to maintenance management departments as a guide for effective maintenance of the built facilities in their institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Adamu, Anita Dzikwi
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: School buildings -- Maintenance and repair , Dormitories -- Nigeria , Nigeria -- Student housing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9710 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020168
- Description: Most universities have long recognised the importance and contribution of on-campus hostels to the learning process. In so doing, most of these institutions have provided and maintained building facilities for academic purposes (teaching and research). Hostels are integral components of most campuses of Nigerian universities, and they are part of the built assets of the institutions in terms of both administration and maintenance management. Currently, there is little understanding of the maintenance management systems of on-campus hostel buildings in both the public and the private universities. Moreover, there is a dearth of research evidence demonstrating that there is an appreciable difference in the maintenance management systems of the Federal, State and private universities in Nigeria. This research aimed at establishing an understanding of maintenance management systems of on-campus hostel buildings at Nigerian universities owned by the Federal and State governments and the Private Sector, relative to stipulated criteria for best practice.The qualitative method of research inquiry that is rooted in the phenomenological paradigm was employed in the investigations. The research activities included a comprehensive review of the related literature and study of selected cases. The North-central geopolitical zone of Nigeria was the selected geographical scope of this research. Ten universities were purposefully selected for the study, and they include three Federal, four state and three private universities. The nature and differences in the research questions necessitated generating different forms of data. The questions that were related to the maintenance management systems for the hostels in place at the universities were addressed with the outcomes of interviews with the hostel managers. The questions that were about the structures and current conditions of the hostel buildings at the three categories of universities were addressed with data that were generated from condition assessments of the facilities and physical observations with the aid of cameras. The study reveals apparent deteriorated and unhealthy conditions of most of the on-campus hostels at the public universities, while those of the private universities are satisfactory. The research also found that the maintenance management systems in use at all the universities are reactive and lack proper planning and coordination of maintenance activities. There is no significant difference in the maintenance management systems of hostels at the public and the private universities and the systems have major negative impact on the conditions of the buildings and their performances. The research has developed a conceptual model for the study of maintenance management informed by the theoretical framework. The model considered the impact of the external environmental factors on the management and maintenance of the hostels. Secondly, the interrelationships of strategic and performance management with maintenance management in developing an effective maintenance management system were established. The study has achieved its aim of establishing an understanding of maintenance management systems of on-campus hostel buildings at Nigerian universities owned by the Federal and, State governments and the Private Sector. The maintenance management model developed in the study is recommended to maintenance management departments as a guide for effective maintenance of the built facilities in their institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Organizational culture in the South African construction industry : effects on work-life balance and individual performance
- Dlamini, Gcebekile Tikhokhile
- Authors: Dlamini, Gcebekile Tikhokhile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Construction industry -- South Africa , Work-life balance -- South Africa , Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9702 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018513
- Description: The South African construction industry plays an important role in the economy and overall development of the country, with respect to its total fiscal contribution and the total number of people who are employed. In addition, it is a major contributor to infrastructure development. However, the human resource base within this industry is confronted with a plethora of challenges that are inherent to the construction industry. These manifest themselves in stressful working conditions and long working hours, labour intensive jobs, reduced job security due to job losses and short-term projects, and the feeble health and safety (H&S) standards. Together with a variety of socio-economic and political issues, these challenges form a perceived and broad organisational culture of this industry, which impacts on the industry‟s productivity. As construction management efforts in the development of the human resources base increase, the industry recognises that work-life balance is an important and critical issue in the 21st century. Construction management is a discipline that embodies two interdependent dimensions; the management of the business of construction and the management of projects. Of the latter, the key principles thereof are, as part of a management strategy, planning, organizing, leading, controlling and coordinating projects. To achieve these strategic components, an effective human resource base is required. Work-life balance is therefore a management issue and organizational culture sets a backdrop from which it can be understood. This study focused on the status of the organisational culture of the production establishments that form part of the construction industry and the manner in which it manifests on the work-life balance of the workers. Furthermore, the correlation between work-life balance and individual work performance was examined. An exploratory research approach was adopted and the research technique followed an interview protocol. The main findings demonstrate that the South African construction industry is predominantly a clan culture with minor characteristics of the hierarchy, adhocracy and market cultures. Furthermore, work-life balance is difficult to attain and it influences individual work performance. The main conclusion is that organizational culture in construction firms is imbalanced. Thus, the main recommendation is that the industry adopts a balanced organizational culture and modern human resource practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Dlamini, Gcebekile Tikhokhile
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Construction industry -- South Africa , Work-life balance -- South Africa , Corporate culture -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9702 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018513
- Description: The South African construction industry plays an important role in the economy and overall development of the country, with respect to its total fiscal contribution and the total number of people who are employed. In addition, it is a major contributor to infrastructure development. However, the human resource base within this industry is confronted with a plethora of challenges that are inherent to the construction industry. These manifest themselves in stressful working conditions and long working hours, labour intensive jobs, reduced job security due to job losses and short-term projects, and the feeble health and safety (H&S) standards. Together with a variety of socio-economic and political issues, these challenges form a perceived and broad organisational culture of this industry, which impacts on the industry‟s productivity. As construction management efforts in the development of the human resources base increase, the industry recognises that work-life balance is an important and critical issue in the 21st century. Construction management is a discipline that embodies two interdependent dimensions; the management of the business of construction and the management of projects. Of the latter, the key principles thereof are, as part of a management strategy, planning, organizing, leading, controlling and coordinating projects. To achieve these strategic components, an effective human resource base is required. Work-life balance is therefore a management issue and organizational culture sets a backdrop from which it can be understood. This study focused on the status of the organisational culture of the production establishments that form part of the construction industry and the manner in which it manifests on the work-life balance of the workers. Furthermore, the correlation between work-life balance and individual work performance was examined. An exploratory research approach was adopted and the research technique followed an interview protocol. The main findings demonstrate that the South African construction industry is predominantly a clan culture with minor characteristics of the hierarchy, adhocracy and market cultures. Furthermore, work-life balance is difficult to attain and it influences individual work performance. The main conclusion is that organizational culture in construction firms is imbalanced. Thus, the main recommendation is that the industry adopts a balanced organizational culture and modern human resource practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Research and development of an intelligent AGV-based material handling system for industrial applications
- Authors: Ferreira, Tremaine Pierre
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Robotics -- Industrial applications Artificial intelligence , Mechatronics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21711 , vital:29738
- Description: The use of autonomous robots in industrial applications is growing in popularity and possesses the following advantages: cost effectiveness, job efficiency and safety aspects. Despite the advantages, the major drawback to using autonomous robots is the cost involved to acquire such robots. It is the aim of GMSA to develop a low cost AGV capable of performing material handling in an industrial environment. Collective autonomous robots are often used to perform tasks, that is, more than one working together to achieve a common goal. The intelligent controller, responsible for establishing coordination between the individual robots, plays a key role in managing the tasks of each robot to achieve the common goal. This dissertation addresses the development of an AGV capable of such functionality. Key research areas include: the development of an autonomous coupling system, integration of key safety devices and the development of an intelligent control strategy that can be used to govern the operation of multiple AGVs in an area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Ferreira, Tremaine Pierre
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Robotics -- Industrial applications Artificial intelligence , Mechatronics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEng
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21711 , vital:29738
- Description: The use of autonomous robots in industrial applications is growing in popularity and possesses the following advantages: cost effectiveness, job efficiency and safety aspects. Despite the advantages, the major drawback to using autonomous robots is the cost involved to acquire such robots. It is the aim of GMSA to develop a low cost AGV capable of performing material handling in an industrial environment. Collective autonomous robots are often used to perform tasks, that is, more than one working together to achieve a common goal. The intelligent controller, responsible for establishing coordination between the individual robots, plays a key role in managing the tasks of each robot to achieve the common goal. This dissertation addresses the development of an AGV capable of such functionality. Key research areas include: the development of an autonomous coupling system, integration of key safety devices and the development of an intelligent control strategy that can be used to govern the operation of multiple AGVs in an area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015