The effect of entrepreneurial competencies on the performance of small micro and medium enterprises in or Tambo District, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Senzeni, Phumlani
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28960 , vital:75577
- Description: The Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) remain the key competitor in the development of the economy growth of the country. The SMME sector is the key driver to the national economy of countries, as it creates job opportunities, reduce poverty, supports household income, and improve the people’s standard of living. However, the rate at which SMMEs fail to succeed results in non-performance and business closure, and this is alarming and require attention. The reasons for this failure can emanate from a number of reasons, such as lack of entrepreneurial competencies, managerial skills, lack of intellectual personnel, low entrepreneurial culture and obstacles that hinder access to resources and market. Therefore, in this study the researcher examined the effect of entrepreneurial competencies on the performance of SMMEs in OR Tambo District, Eastern Cape. The researcher adopted quantitative research approach. The research data was collected using Google Forms survey method. The emails containing the link to access the instrument were sent to a sample of 399 SMMEs in the OR Tambo District. The response rate of 74%, which is 294 was attained. Thus, the findings of the study discovered that entrepreneurial competencies have significant effect on the performance of SMMEs. The study further found that entrepreneurial competencies “opportunity recognition, creative-problem solving, resource leveraging, and business networking” had a low degree of association with business performance although they are statistically significant to business performance. The self-efficacy was found with a high degree of association with business performance and statistically significant with the achievement of positive beta and low p-value which indicated a strong association to performance. The study made conclusions that entrepreneurial competencies have positive effect on the performance of SMMEs. Therefore, it was concluded that performing and successful SMMEs in the regions means employment opportunities in the country because they require human resources to do operational services and render services. The government and policymakers are encouraged to work together to form and strengthen development programs to assist SMMEs to grow the production capacity, operations and become productive. The SMMEs owners/managers and practitioners on skills development are encouraged to relook and strengthen entrepreneurial competencies that contribute to productivity and performance. , Thesis (DBA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Senzeni, Phumlani
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28960 , vital:75577
- Description: The Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) remain the key competitor in the development of the economy growth of the country. The SMME sector is the key driver to the national economy of countries, as it creates job opportunities, reduce poverty, supports household income, and improve the people’s standard of living. However, the rate at which SMMEs fail to succeed results in non-performance and business closure, and this is alarming and require attention. The reasons for this failure can emanate from a number of reasons, such as lack of entrepreneurial competencies, managerial skills, lack of intellectual personnel, low entrepreneurial culture and obstacles that hinder access to resources and market. Therefore, in this study the researcher examined the effect of entrepreneurial competencies on the performance of SMMEs in OR Tambo District, Eastern Cape. The researcher adopted quantitative research approach. The research data was collected using Google Forms survey method. The emails containing the link to access the instrument were sent to a sample of 399 SMMEs in the OR Tambo District. The response rate of 74%, which is 294 was attained. Thus, the findings of the study discovered that entrepreneurial competencies have significant effect on the performance of SMMEs. The study further found that entrepreneurial competencies “opportunity recognition, creative-problem solving, resource leveraging, and business networking” had a low degree of association with business performance although they are statistically significant to business performance. The self-efficacy was found with a high degree of association with business performance and statistically significant with the achievement of positive beta and low p-value which indicated a strong association to performance. The study made conclusions that entrepreneurial competencies have positive effect on the performance of SMMEs. Therefore, it was concluded that performing and successful SMMEs in the regions means employment opportunities in the country because they require human resources to do operational services and render services. The government and policymakers are encouraged to work together to form and strengthen development programs to assist SMMEs to grow the production capacity, operations and become productive. The SMMEs owners/managers and practitioners on skills development are encouraged to relook and strengthen entrepreneurial competencies that contribute to productivity and performance. , Thesis (DBA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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The impact of small, micro and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) on local development in the Eastern Cape province: the case of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Majiza, Xolelwa
- Date: 2016-12
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development , Entrepreneurship.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29155 , vital:77523
- Description: This study was carried out to analyse the impact of SMMEs on LED in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The objectives of the study were to assess the implementation of SMME strategy in this municipality analyse the contribution of SMMEs to LED in terms of creating of sustainable businesses in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality; and proposed comprehensive framework for SMME development for LED. The quantitative approach study was used as the main research methodology. The simple random sampling technique was used to select thirty respondents who participated in this study. Data was collected through surveys using a questionnaire and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science Version 23 (SPSS 23). The findings indicated that SMMEs have little understanding on the SMME strategy but they are willing to contribute to its implementation. The SMME strategy was last reviewed in the past 3-5 years and the government plays an essential role through Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality to assist SMMEs by offering them affordable loans, affordable tax, free workshops, grants and other subsidies, infrastructural improvement, local tax credit, operational permit assistance and subsidised training. The study also indicated that the SMMEs level of cooperation towards LED is moderate and they do so mostly through employment creation, provision of fair wages and affordable goods and services. The SMMEs also indicated that they offer sponsorships, child care and infrastructural development. Recommendations have been given in the form of provision of funding, awareness structures and grounds for economic development. For a sustained development of SMMEs and enhanced role in LED, this study has identified three areas of further research. These include research to: validate the Hexagon for LED to investigate the challenges faced by SMMEs in accessing assistance from the private and public sector and to ascertain the impacts of training and development on the participation of SMMEs in LED. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2016
- Full Text:
- Authors: Majiza, Xolelwa
- Date: 2016-12
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development , Entrepreneurship.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29155 , vital:77523
- Description: This study was carried out to analyse the impact of SMMEs on LED in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The objectives of the study were to assess the implementation of SMME strategy in this municipality analyse the contribution of SMMEs to LED in terms of creating of sustainable businesses in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality; and proposed comprehensive framework for SMME development for LED. The quantitative approach study was used as the main research methodology. The simple random sampling technique was used to select thirty respondents who participated in this study. Data was collected through surveys using a questionnaire and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science Version 23 (SPSS 23). The findings indicated that SMMEs have little understanding on the SMME strategy but they are willing to contribute to its implementation. The SMME strategy was last reviewed in the past 3-5 years and the government plays an essential role through Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality to assist SMMEs by offering them affordable loans, affordable tax, free workshops, grants and other subsidies, infrastructural improvement, local tax credit, operational permit assistance and subsidised training. The study also indicated that the SMMEs level of cooperation towards LED is moderate and they do so mostly through employment creation, provision of fair wages and affordable goods and services. The SMMEs also indicated that they offer sponsorships, child care and infrastructural development. Recommendations have been given in the form of provision of funding, awareness structures and grounds for economic development. For a sustained development of SMMEs and enhanced role in LED, this study has identified three areas of further research. These include research to: validate the Hexagon for LED to investigate the challenges faced by SMMEs in accessing assistance from the private and public sector and to ascertain the impacts of training and development on the participation of SMMEs in LED. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2016
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The influence of gender on access to venture capital and firm performance in small, medium and micro enterprises in King Williams Town, South Africa
- Authors: Shava, Herring
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Venture capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/767 , vital:26495 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Venture capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study examined the influence of gender on access to venture capital and firm performance on Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises in King Williams Town, South Africa. This study sought to establish whether there was differential access to venture capital between genders; to establish whether men- and women-owned SMMEs differ in performance; to identify whether an association between gender and business related experience can be found; and to assess the extent to which the gender gap in SMME access to venture capital and performance could be allocated to gender differences in levels of business related experience. A total sample of 109 SMMEs was used which comprised 53 female- and 56 male-owned. The quota sampling technique was implemented and a self-administered questionnaire was used for the purpose of gathering primary data. Data for this study was gathered from SMME owners only as they were the targeted respondents. The t-test and Chi-square test were used for the statistical analysis in order to arrive at findings and conclusions. Based on a 64% survey response rate, the study reports the existence of statistically significant gender gap in SMME access to venture capital and SMME performance. In addition, this study also reports the existence of a gender gap in business related experience amongst SMME owners. However, after controlling for business related experience, the gender gap in SMMEs access to venture capital and performance disappears. This study therefore argues that the variation in business related experience between gender plays a major role in the noted gender gap. This study therefore concludes that addressing gender gap in business related experience is of vital importance as this would also assist in eliminating the apparent gender gap in access to venture capital and firm performance. To address the gender gap in business related experience, the study recommends that innovations in the design and delivery of training programmes should be implemented. Establishing and monitoring targets for current women managers who are also potential future business owners/SMME owners, should be a policy being practiced in both the private and public sector, among other recommendations outlined in the study.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Shava, Herring
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Venture capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/767 , vital:26495 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Venture capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study examined the influence of gender on access to venture capital and firm performance on Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises in King Williams Town, South Africa. This study sought to establish whether there was differential access to venture capital between genders; to establish whether men- and women-owned SMMEs differ in performance; to identify whether an association between gender and business related experience can be found; and to assess the extent to which the gender gap in SMME access to venture capital and performance could be allocated to gender differences in levels of business related experience. A total sample of 109 SMMEs was used which comprised 53 female- and 56 male-owned. The quota sampling technique was implemented and a self-administered questionnaire was used for the purpose of gathering primary data. Data for this study was gathered from SMME owners only as they were the targeted respondents. The t-test and Chi-square test were used for the statistical analysis in order to arrive at findings and conclusions. Based on a 64% survey response rate, the study reports the existence of statistically significant gender gap in SMME access to venture capital and SMME performance. In addition, this study also reports the existence of a gender gap in business related experience amongst SMME owners. However, after controlling for business related experience, the gender gap in SMMEs access to venture capital and performance disappears. This study therefore argues that the variation in business related experience between gender plays a major role in the noted gender gap. This study therefore concludes that addressing gender gap in business related experience is of vital importance as this would also assist in eliminating the apparent gender gap in access to venture capital and firm performance. To address the gender gap in business related experience, the study recommends that innovations in the design and delivery of training programmes should be implemented. Establishing and monitoring targets for current women managers who are also potential future business owners/SMME owners, should be a policy being practiced in both the private and public sector, among other recommendations outlined in the study.
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An exploration of corporate social responsibility in SME liquor retail outlets in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mupazi, Rutendo Getrude
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Retail trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor laws -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/799 , vital:26498 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Retail trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor laws -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In the contemporary business environment, a plethora of retail literature exists which examine the influence of CSR on the business. However, literature that explores Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the liquor retail sector has been relatively sparse. This study explored CSR in Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) liquor retail outlets in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The objectives of the study were to investigate the engagement of SME liquor retailers in CSR practices, to ascertain whether a relationship exists between providing employee training on responsible retailing of alcohol and CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to investigate whether employee involvement in decision making influences CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to ascertain whether a relationship exists between the practical actions to reduce alcohol-related harm and CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to investigate whether SME liquor retailers do social good as an expression of CSR as well as to determine whether SME liquor retailers are influenced by stakeholders to engage in CSR initiatives. Both primary and secondary data sources were used in this study. A quantitative research design was used in conducting this research. Convenience sampling, a non-probability sampling technique, was used to select a sample of 94 from the sample frame of 123 SME liquor retailers. The survey method, by way of a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) as statistical software was used to analyse data. The Chi-square test, Pearson correlation, and descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. The findings of this research revealed that Stakeholder influence, employee involvement in decision making and employee training in responsible retailing of alcohol have an influence on the CSR practices of SME liquor retailers. The study also identified the safety and practical measures that SME liquor retailers are practicing as a way of reducing alcohol related-harm. A recommendation to stakeholders, such as suppliers and government to find more strategies of influencing SME liquor retailers to practice CSR, was made. Lastly, recommendations were made to SME liquor owners and managers on how to improve their CSR practices.
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- Authors: Mupazi, Rutendo Getrude
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Retail trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor laws -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/799 , vital:26498 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Retail trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor laws -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In the contemporary business environment, a plethora of retail literature exists which examine the influence of CSR on the business. However, literature that explores Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the liquor retail sector has been relatively sparse. This study explored CSR in Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) liquor retail outlets in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The objectives of the study were to investigate the engagement of SME liquor retailers in CSR practices, to ascertain whether a relationship exists between providing employee training on responsible retailing of alcohol and CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to investigate whether employee involvement in decision making influences CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to ascertain whether a relationship exists between the practical actions to reduce alcohol-related harm and CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to investigate whether SME liquor retailers do social good as an expression of CSR as well as to determine whether SME liquor retailers are influenced by stakeholders to engage in CSR initiatives. Both primary and secondary data sources were used in this study. A quantitative research design was used in conducting this research. Convenience sampling, a non-probability sampling technique, was used to select a sample of 94 from the sample frame of 123 SME liquor retailers. The survey method, by way of a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) as statistical software was used to analyse data. The Chi-square test, Pearson correlation, and descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. The findings of this research revealed that Stakeholder influence, employee involvement in decision making and employee training in responsible retailing of alcohol have an influence on the CSR practices of SME liquor retailers. The study also identified the safety and practical measures that SME liquor retailers are practicing as a way of reducing alcohol related-harm. A recommendation to stakeholders, such as suppliers and government to find more strategies of influencing SME liquor retailers to practice CSR, was made. Lastly, recommendations were made to SME liquor owners and managers on how to improve their CSR practices.
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The impact of entrepreneurship education on the performance of small, micro and medium enterprises in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Chimucheka, Tendai
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11321 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007107 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) play an important role in contributing to economic development of many countries around the world, including South Africa. Despite the importance of SMMEs an unacceptable and disappointingly high number of these ventures fail during the first few years of operation. It is in light of the importance and challenges faced by SMMEs that the performance of SMMEs is of interest to all countries. This study investigated the impact of entrepreneurship education on the performance of SMMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The objectives of the study were to investigate the role of entrepreneurship education in improving entrepreneurship skills and knowledge of owner/managers of SMMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, to determine the role of entrepreneurship education on the establishment and survival of SMMEs and to identify strategies that can be implemented to improve the performance of SMMEs. Both primary and secondary data sources were used in this study. A quantitative research design was used in conducting this research. Simple random sampling, a probability sampling technique was used to select a sample of 201 from the sample frame of 420 registered SMMEs. The survey method, by way of a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) is the statistical software that was used to analyse data. The Chi-square test, the T-test, Pearson Product Moment Correlation and descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. Validity and reliability of the research instrument and the findings was assured. The results for this study are useful for the development of the SMME sector, which is very important to South Africa for they contribute to the solving of socio-economic challenges. The findings of this research showed that entrepreneurship education has a positive impact on the performance of SMMEs and it plays a critical role in improving entrepreneurial skills and knowledge of SMME owners and managers. It was also found that entrepreneurial education is very important for the establishment and survival of SMMEs. Strategies that can be implemented to improve the performance of SMMEs in South Africa were suggested to the government, government agencies, educational institutions, other organisations, and SMME owners and managers.
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- Authors: Chimucheka, Tendai
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11321 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007107 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) play an important role in contributing to economic development of many countries around the world, including South Africa. Despite the importance of SMMEs an unacceptable and disappointingly high number of these ventures fail during the first few years of operation. It is in light of the importance and challenges faced by SMMEs that the performance of SMMEs is of interest to all countries. This study investigated the impact of entrepreneurship education on the performance of SMMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The objectives of the study were to investigate the role of entrepreneurship education in improving entrepreneurship skills and knowledge of owner/managers of SMMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, to determine the role of entrepreneurship education on the establishment and survival of SMMEs and to identify strategies that can be implemented to improve the performance of SMMEs. Both primary and secondary data sources were used in this study. A quantitative research design was used in conducting this research. Simple random sampling, a probability sampling technique was used to select a sample of 201 from the sample frame of 420 registered SMMEs. The survey method, by way of a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) is the statistical software that was used to analyse data. The Chi-square test, the T-test, Pearson Product Moment Correlation and descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. Validity and reliability of the research instrument and the findings was assured. The results for this study are useful for the development of the SMME sector, which is very important to South Africa for they contribute to the solving of socio-economic challenges. The findings of this research showed that entrepreneurship education has a positive impact on the performance of SMMEs and it plays a critical role in improving entrepreneurial skills and knowledge of SMME owners and managers. It was also found that entrepreneurial education is very important for the establishment and survival of SMMEs. Strategies that can be implemented to improve the performance of SMMEs in South Africa were suggested to the government, government agencies, educational institutions, other organisations, and SMME owners and managers.
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The impact of motivations, personal values, management skills of managers on the perfomance of SME`s in selected towns (Port Elizabeth and Port Alfred) in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Tangwo, Asah Francis
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personalism , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11320 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007046 , Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personalism , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Description: This study investigates the impact of motivations, personal values and managerial skills of managers on the performance of Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa. The failure rate of SMEs in South Africa is very high and it is of great importance to investigate the factors that can impact on the performance of SMEs. Financial and non-financial methods were used to measure SMEs performance. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires. Exploratory factor analysis was used to improve the research problems and enhance the validity of the research. Data analysis for this study includes descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and regression analysis. Reliability was tested using the Cronbach‟s Alpha while validity was ensured by using a statistician and by pre-testing the research instrument in a pilot study.
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- Authors: Tangwo, Asah Francis
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personalism , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11320 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007046 , Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personalism , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Description: This study investigates the impact of motivations, personal values and managerial skills of managers on the performance of Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa. The failure rate of SMEs in South Africa is very high and it is of great importance to investigate the factors that can impact on the performance of SMEs. Financial and non-financial methods were used to measure SMEs performance. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires. Exploratory factor analysis was used to improve the research problems and enhance the validity of the research. Data analysis for this study includes descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and regression analysis. Reliability was tested using the Cronbach‟s Alpha while validity was ensured by using a statistician and by pre-testing the research instrument in a pilot study.
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The impact of technological marketing on Porter's competitive forces model and SMEs' performance
- Authors: Hove, Progress
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marketing -- Mathematical models , Marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Technique , Telemarketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Competition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11323 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007120 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marketing -- Mathematical models , Marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Technique , Telemarketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Competition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: It is commonly understood that the adoption and development of technological marketing capabilities by firms provides them with immense opportunities to transform their business practices and strategies, so as to strategically position themselves in the market and enhance firm performance. Nevertheless, little attention has, thus far, been given to the empirical investigation of the impact of adopting and developing the technological marketing on Porter‟s five competitive forces and firm performance of SMEs. The principal objective of this study was to fill this void by investigating the influence of the technological marketing on Porter‟s five competitive forces model (industry structure) of SMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Secondarily, the study sought to determine the influence of technological marketing capability on firm performance of SMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality; in order to ascertain whether or not the competitiveness of SMEs impacts on their firm performance; to determine whether or not SMEs adopt new and advanced technological capabilities when marketing their products/services and to examine whether or not SMEs adopt new and advanced technological capabilities in order to enhance their performance. The study employs a quantitative method in data collection. Sample data from 211 SME owners/managers in the retail and manufacturing sectors of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality was collected for the final data analysis of this project. The sample data was analysed by performing a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using AMOS 7 Statistical Analysis software. The principal finding of this study reveals that technological marketing has no significant impact on Porter‟s five forces. In addition, the results showed that technological marketing capability has a positive and significant influence on firm performance. The findings also revealed that SMEs adopt new and advanced technologies when marketing their products and services. The conclusions and implications of the research findings are provided and recommendations are suggested. The researcher recommended non technological strategies for improving SMEs‟ competitiveness and the following technological strategies to boost performance: creating a customer-centric e-commerce strategy, embracing outsourcing, joining e-business community and integrating information management into new marketing technologies. Strategies were also recommended to the government as the policy maker. These include introducing e-business finance arrangement, marketing hubs for SMEs and promoting synergies between technology vendor companies and the small enterprises. The study tried to address marketing technologies‟ policy deficiencies on the side of both SMEs and the government.
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- Authors: Hove, Progress
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marketing -- Mathematical models , Marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Technique , Telemarketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Competition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11323 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007120 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marketing -- Mathematical models , Marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Technique , Telemarketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Competition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: It is commonly understood that the adoption and development of technological marketing capabilities by firms provides them with immense opportunities to transform their business practices and strategies, so as to strategically position themselves in the market and enhance firm performance. Nevertheless, little attention has, thus far, been given to the empirical investigation of the impact of adopting and developing the technological marketing on Porter‟s five competitive forces and firm performance of SMEs. The principal objective of this study was to fill this void by investigating the influence of the technological marketing on Porter‟s five competitive forces model (industry structure) of SMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Secondarily, the study sought to determine the influence of technological marketing capability on firm performance of SMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality; in order to ascertain whether or not the competitiveness of SMEs impacts on their firm performance; to determine whether or not SMEs adopt new and advanced technological capabilities when marketing their products/services and to examine whether or not SMEs adopt new and advanced technological capabilities in order to enhance their performance. The study employs a quantitative method in data collection. Sample data from 211 SME owners/managers in the retail and manufacturing sectors of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality was collected for the final data analysis of this project. The sample data was analysed by performing a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using AMOS 7 Statistical Analysis software. The principal finding of this study reveals that technological marketing has no significant impact on Porter‟s five forces. In addition, the results showed that technological marketing capability has a positive and significant influence on firm performance. The findings also revealed that SMEs adopt new and advanced technologies when marketing their products and services. The conclusions and implications of the research findings are provided and recommendations are suggested. The researcher recommended non technological strategies for improving SMEs‟ competitiveness and the following technological strategies to boost performance: creating a customer-centric e-commerce strategy, embracing outsourcing, joining e-business community and integrating information management into new marketing technologies. Strategies were also recommended to the government as the policy maker. These include introducing e-business finance arrangement, marketing hubs for SMEs and promoting synergies between technology vendor companies and the small enterprises. The study tried to address marketing technologies‟ policy deficiencies on the side of both SMEs and the government.
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An analysis of the business relationship between SMEs and insurance companies in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan area
- Authors: Chodokufa, Kudakwashe
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Insurance -- Finance , Business insurance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business networks , Strategic alliances (Business)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11318 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/279 , Insurance -- Finance , Business insurance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business networks , Strategic alliances (Business)
- Description: Small and Medium enterprises (SMEs) play an important role as employers and in the economic growth of South Africa and in Africa as a whole. SMEs comprise over 90 percent of African business operations and contribute to over percent of African employment and GDP. SMEs sector has shown positive signs in South Africa, Mauritius and North Africa. SMEs constitute 95 percent of formal manufacturing activity in Nigeria. Senegal and Kenya have provided an environment which is conducive for SMEs (African Development Bank 2005). In August 2006, flood damage to small businesses and residential premises in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area was estimated at R120million (SABC News 2006). The holding of an insurance cover by SMEs is crucial and beneficial to the economy and to the survival and success of the Small and Medium Enterprise sector. If a business has an insurance policy and a relationship with its insurer it becomes easier for the company to over come such a catastrophe. However, literature has shown that insurance companies are not willing to insure SMEs and it is the aim of this research to establish whether a relationship between the two constructs exists. An article entitled New Deal In The Offering for SMMEs, the author stated that the insurance industry prefer to deal only with established businesses (Mthimkhulu 2008). The aim of this research is to establish the importance of business relationship between Insurance companies and SMEs. The research will show how beneficial such a relationship is to both industries. The data for the research was collected through a survey type structured questionnaire that was developed and validated. The questionnaire was administered to the owners or managers of SMEs in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area. The primary objective of this research was to establish whether SMEs in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area have insurance policies for their businesses, and the results have shown that most of the SMEs in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area do not have insurance policies for their businesses.
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- Authors: Chodokufa, Kudakwashe
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Insurance -- Finance , Business insurance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business networks , Strategic alliances (Business)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11318 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/279 , Insurance -- Finance , Business insurance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business networks , Strategic alliances (Business)
- Description: Small and Medium enterprises (SMEs) play an important role as employers and in the economic growth of South Africa and in Africa as a whole. SMEs comprise over 90 percent of African business operations and contribute to over percent of African employment and GDP. SMEs sector has shown positive signs in South Africa, Mauritius and North Africa. SMEs constitute 95 percent of formal manufacturing activity in Nigeria. Senegal and Kenya have provided an environment which is conducive for SMEs (African Development Bank 2005). In August 2006, flood damage to small businesses and residential premises in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area was estimated at R120million (SABC News 2006). The holding of an insurance cover by SMEs is crucial and beneficial to the economy and to the survival and success of the Small and Medium Enterprise sector. If a business has an insurance policy and a relationship with its insurer it becomes easier for the company to over come such a catastrophe. However, literature has shown that insurance companies are not willing to insure SMEs and it is the aim of this research to establish whether a relationship between the two constructs exists. An article entitled New Deal In The Offering for SMMEs, the author stated that the insurance industry prefer to deal only with established businesses (Mthimkhulu 2008). The aim of this research is to establish the importance of business relationship between Insurance companies and SMEs. The research will show how beneficial such a relationship is to both industries. The data for the research was collected through a survey type structured questionnaire that was developed and validated. The questionnaire was administered to the owners or managers of SMEs in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area. The primary objective of this research was to establish whether SMEs in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area have insurance policies for their businesses, and the results have shown that most of the SMEs in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area do not have insurance policies for their businesses.
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Deriving value from IT investments within botique hotels: a Buffalo City case study
- Authors: Mathe, Thabelang
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Information technology , Hotels -- Finance , Boardinghouses -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11134 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1000975 , Information technology , Hotels -- Finance , Boardinghouses -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- Finance
- Description: Even though many organizations invest in IT, the value that IT is expected to contribute is still not clearly understood. Researchers agree that IT has become a crucial element to business operations and business existence. However, while there is continued investment in new information technologies and systems, organizations are not certain whether significant value is derived from IT investments. The failure to realize good return on IT investments is ascribed to a lack of understanding of IT by organizations and also the failure by organizations to align IT strategies with business strategies. The lack of alignment leads to the failure to match the right IT to the correct task, which leads to the poor application of systems and poor allocation of human resources to tasks. Therefore, organizations such as Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in particular Boutique Hotels, are noted for their failure to derive better IT value. Their unique characteristics are understood to be influential in the way IT is used and managed by affecting the delivery of value from technology. In order to enable Boutique Hotels to derive more value from IT, the IT governance frameworks, Val IT and CobiT (ITGI, 2007), were examined as these integrate good practices to ensure that an organization‘s IT supports the business objectives. In addition, the Task Technology Fit (TTF) (Goodhue and Thompson, 1995) and Gap Analysis (Heeks, 2001) theories were highlighted as these prescribe the platform ideal for more value to be derived from IT. The current status of Boutique Hotels in Buffalo City was assessed through the use of questionnaires and interviews. The collected data was analyzed and resulted in the development of a model that can be used by Boutique Hotels in order to derive more value from IT and to maximize the use of IT.
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- Authors: Mathe, Thabelang
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Information technology , Hotels -- Finance , Boardinghouses -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11134 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1000975 , Information technology , Hotels -- Finance , Boardinghouses -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- Finance
- Description: Even though many organizations invest in IT, the value that IT is expected to contribute is still not clearly understood. Researchers agree that IT has become a crucial element to business operations and business existence. However, while there is continued investment in new information technologies and systems, organizations are not certain whether significant value is derived from IT investments. The failure to realize good return on IT investments is ascribed to a lack of understanding of IT by organizations and also the failure by organizations to align IT strategies with business strategies. The lack of alignment leads to the failure to match the right IT to the correct task, which leads to the poor application of systems and poor allocation of human resources to tasks. Therefore, organizations such as Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in particular Boutique Hotels, are noted for their failure to derive better IT value. Their unique characteristics are understood to be influential in the way IT is used and managed by affecting the delivery of value from technology. In order to enable Boutique Hotels to derive more value from IT, the IT governance frameworks, Val IT and CobiT (ITGI, 2007), were examined as these integrate good practices to ensure that an organization‘s IT supports the business objectives. In addition, the Task Technology Fit (TTF) (Goodhue and Thompson, 1995) and Gap Analysis (Heeks, 2001) theories were highlighted as these prescribe the platform ideal for more value to be derived from IT. The current status of Boutique Hotels in Buffalo City was assessed through the use of questionnaires and interviews. The collected data was analyzed and resulted in the development of a model that can be used by Boutique Hotels in order to derive more value from IT and to maximize the use of IT.
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Determinants of capital structure of small and medium enterprises in the Buffalo City Municipality Eastern Cape Province South Africa
- Authors: Rungani, Ellen Chenesai
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Debt-to-equity ratio , Capital , Value , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11317 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/271 , Debt-to-equity ratio , Capital , Value , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study investigated the determinants of capital structure of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Buffalo city municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The objectives of the study were, to ascertain whether the use of internal equity (retained profits) was positively or negatively related to the size, age and profitability of the firm. Furthermore the study examined if the use of external equity (capital from owners) was negatively or positively related to the age, size and profitability of the firm. Finally the study wanted to establish if the use of debt was positively or negatively related to the size, age and profitability of the firm. To achieve these objectives, the study hypothesised that age, size and profitability amongst other factors were determinants of capital structure. The study further hypothesised that the use of retained profits by SMEs was negatively related with age, size and profitability of the firm. Furthermore the study hypothesised that the use of external equity by SMEs was negatively related with age, size and profitability of the firm. Finally, the study hypothesised that the use of debt by SMEs was negatively related to the size, age and profitability of the firm. The results revealed that size, age and profitability of the firm were some of the major determinants of capital structure. Finally, the study recommended that SMEs, commercial banks and the South African government take measures to improve access to capital by SMEs. Such measures included government intervention in reducing discrimination from the banks as well as encouragement of SMEs training and education so that they are empowered with business and financial management skills.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Rungani, Ellen Chenesai
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Debt-to-equity ratio , Capital , Value , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11317 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/271 , Debt-to-equity ratio , Capital , Value , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study investigated the determinants of capital structure of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Buffalo city municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The objectives of the study were, to ascertain whether the use of internal equity (retained profits) was positively or negatively related to the size, age and profitability of the firm. Furthermore the study examined if the use of external equity (capital from owners) was negatively or positively related to the age, size and profitability of the firm. Finally the study wanted to establish if the use of debt was positively or negatively related to the size, age and profitability of the firm. To achieve these objectives, the study hypothesised that age, size and profitability amongst other factors were determinants of capital structure. The study further hypothesised that the use of retained profits by SMEs was negatively related with age, size and profitability of the firm. Furthermore the study hypothesised that the use of external equity by SMEs was negatively related with age, size and profitability of the firm. Finally, the study hypothesised that the use of debt by SMEs was negatively related to the size, age and profitability of the firm. The results revealed that size, age and profitability of the firm were some of the major determinants of capital structure. Finally, the study recommended that SMEs, commercial banks and the South African government take measures to improve access to capital by SMEs. Such measures included government intervention in reducing discrimination from the banks as well as encouragement of SMEs training and education so that they are empowered with business and financial management skills.
- Full Text:
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