Entrepreneurial intention in the public service of South Africa
- Authors: Mhlanga, Unathi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , New business enterprises -- South Africa Small business -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41106 , vital:36357
- Description: Entrepreneurship is a phenomenon that has been studied across the world by scholars, practitioners and governments. All these different researchers believe that it is a critical tool for economic growth, job creation and enhancing innovation. However, some researchers have conceded that there has been limited research in entrepreneurship and the public service. Thus, this treatise is one of the few studies that have been conducted in entrepreneurial intention in the public service and the examination of entrepreneurial intention of public servants and the factors that influence individuals to opt for employment in the public service. A literature review examining the current knowledge on entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial intention in various contexts was conducted. The reviewed literature allowed for the formation of the base for a conceptual model to be developed. The proposed model claimed that there was a positive influence of culture, family obligations, job security, role modelling, entrepreneurial self – efficacy, access to financial resources and locus of control on the entrepreneurial intentions of public servants in South Africa. Furthermore, the theory of planned behaviour and social learning theory also known as social cognitive theory were explored. There were various statistical analysis tests that were conducted on the quantitative data collected. The mono – method quantitative was used with 280 respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests and exploratory factor analysis were conducted to test the proposed conceptual model. The conceptual model tested consisted of the independent variables; culture, family obligations, job security, role modelling, entrepreneurial self – efficacy, access to financial resources and locus of control with entrepreneurial intention being the dependent variable for assessing the entrepreneurial intention of public servants in the public service of South Africa. The study found that the South African public servants have high entrepreneurial intentions and are very optimistic about creating and running their own business someday. The various statistical analyses split the independent variables from seven to eighteen variables: Family Commitments, Career, Job Purpose, Risk, Access to Knowledge, Entrepreneurship Exposure, Influence, Access to Finance, Financial Support, Business Financing, Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy, Cultural Perceptions, Societal Standards, Cultural Dedication, Service, Self-Belief and Reward. However, after further analysis of the relationships between the independent variables and the dependent variable, some factors were rejected. A model comprising of factors useful for assessing the entrepreneurial intentions in the public service is recommended with the following factors: Family Commitments, Career, Entrepreneurship Exposure, Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy, Cultural Perceptions, Societal Standards and Reward. Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy was found to explain approximately 75% of the movement in the entrepreneurial intentions of public servants. Significant differences on the entrepreneurial intentions of individuals from different races and those who varied according to years of experience were found. The study also found that Culture and Job Security influenced the decision to pursue public service employment. To conclude, the study makes managerial recommendations implementable for government and other stakeholders. Some of the recommendations include incentivising public servants with tax breaks, entrepreneurship courses and easier access to funding to enable them to exit the public service to start their own businesses. Additionally, entrepreneurship education is recommended to become compulsory in schools and for public servants through the National School of Government (NSG). Entrepreneurial ecosystems that encourage pay-it-forward type of interactions were also recommended. Seasoned entrepreneurs can be used as mentors to those public servants who wish to pursue entrepreneurship instead of remaining in the public service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mhlanga, Unathi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , New business enterprises -- South Africa Small business -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41106 , vital:36357
- Description: Entrepreneurship is a phenomenon that has been studied across the world by scholars, practitioners and governments. All these different researchers believe that it is a critical tool for economic growth, job creation and enhancing innovation. However, some researchers have conceded that there has been limited research in entrepreneurship and the public service. Thus, this treatise is one of the few studies that have been conducted in entrepreneurial intention in the public service and the examination of entrepreneurial intention of public servants and the factors that influence individuals to opt for employment in the public service. A literature review examining the current knowledge on entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial intention in various contexts was conducted. The reviewed literature allowed for the formation of the base for a conceptual model to be developed. The proposed model claimed that there was a positive influence of culture, family obligations, job security, role modelling, entrepreneurial self – efficacy, access to financial resources and locus of control on the entrepreneurial intentions of public servants in South Africa. Furthermore, the theory of planned behaviour and social learning theory also known as social cognitive theory were explored. There were various statistical analysis tests that were conducted on the quantitative data collected. The mono – method quantitative was used with 280 respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests and exploratory factor analysis were conducted to test the proposed conceptual model. The conceptual model tested consisted of the independent variables; culture, family obligations, job security, role modelling, entrepreneurial self – efficacy, access to financial resources and locus of control with entrepreneurial intention being the dependent variable for assessing the entrepreneurial intention of public servants in the public service of South Africa. The study found that the South African public servants have high entrepreneurial intentions and are very optimistic about creating and running their own business someday. The various statistical analyses split the independent variables from seven to eighteen variables: Family Commitments, Career, Job Purpose, Risk, Access to Knowledge, Entrepreneurship Exposure, Influence, Access to Finance, Financial Support, Business Financing, Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy, Cultural Perceptions, Societal Standards, Cultural Dedication, Service, Self-Belief and Reward. However, after further analysis of the relationships between the independent variables and the dependent variable, some factors were rejected. A model comprising of factors useful for assessing the entrepreneurial intentions in the public service is recommended with the following factors: Family Commitments, Career, Entrepreneurship Exposure, Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy, Cultural Perceptions, Societal Standards and Reward. Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy was found to explain approximately 75% of the movement in the entrepreneurial intentions of public servants. Significant differences on the entrepreneurial intentions of individuals from different races and those who varied according to years of experience were found. The study also found that Culture and Job Security influenced the decision to pursue public service employment. To conclude, the study makes managerial recommendations implementable for government and other stakeholders. Some of the recommendations include incentivising public servants with tax breaks, entrepreneurship courses and easier access to funding to enable them to exit the public service to start their own businesses. Additionally, entrepreneurship education is recommended to become compulsory in schools and for public servants through the National School of Government (NSG). Entrepreneurial ecosystems that encourage pay-it-forward type of interactions were also recommended. Seasoned entrepreneurs can be used as mentors to those public servants who wish to pursue entrepreneurship instead of remaining in the public service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The identification of a model to promote intrapreneurship in an automotive component company
- Authors: Du Preez, Catherine Amanda
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Organizational change
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8549 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/423 , Entrepreneurship , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Organizational change
- Description: South African organisations are facing a new era of intense global competition. The modern business world is characterised by change and this change presents both challenges and opportunities. As a result, organisations have to become more responsive to change by continuous, rapid and cost-effective innovation through integrating the strengths of the entrepreneurial small firm, such as creativity, flexibility and innovativeness, with the market power and resources of the large firm. Due to the dynamic nature of the automotive industry, it is vital that South African organisations and management identify creativity and innovation as the main sources of sustainable competitive advantage. Sustained competitive advantage is derived from consistently satisfying customers’ wants and needs through innovation. An intrapreneurial philosophy is of key importance to an organisation’s corporate strategy, ensuring that entrepreneurial values are incorporated into the culture of the organisation. This study took place within an automotive component company operating in the Eastern Cape. Based on the theoretical findings of the literature study a questionnaire was developed and distributed to all employees of the company. The objective of the questionnaire was to measure the prevalence of intrapreneurship within the company and based on the findings of the literature study, recommendations on the structure, systems, culture and management styles of the organisation were made. Finally, a model was developed that identifies the importance of innovation, customer-solution centeredness and being market driven as core strategic values.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Du Preez, Catherine Amanda
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Organizational change
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8549 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/423 , Entrepreneurship , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Organizational change
- Description: South African organisations are facing a new era of intense global competition. The modern business world is characterised by change and this change presents both challenges and opportunities. As a result, organisations have to become more responsive to change by continuous, rapid and cost-effective innovation through integrating the strengths of the entrepreneurial small firm, such as creativity, flexibility and innovativeness, with the market power and resources of the large firm. Due to the dynamic nature of the automotive industry, it is vital that South African organisations and management identify creativity and innovation as the main sources of sustainable competitive advantage. Sustained competitive advantage is derived from consistently satisfying customers’ wants and needs through innovation. An intrapreneurial philosophy is of key importance to an organisation’s corporate strategy, ensuring that entrepreneurial values are incorporated into the culture of the organisation. This study took place within an automotive component company operating in the Eastern Cape. Based on the theoretical findings of the literature study a questionnaire was developed and distributed to all employees of the company. The objective of the questionnaire was to measure the prevalence of intrapreneurship within the company and based on the findings of the literature study, recommendations on the structure, systems, culture and management styles of the organisation were made. Finally, a model was developed that identifies the importance of innovation, customer-solution centeredness and being market driven as core strategic values.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Perceived value creation in technology-based entrepreneurial businesses
- Van den Heever, Thomas Stanley
- Authors: Van den Heever, Thomas Stanley
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: New business enterprises , Entrepreneurship , Technological innovations -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9329 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021047
- Description: Small entrepreneurial businesses are widely regarded as important contributors to the economic well-being of countries all over the world as they create value for both the entrepreneur and the economy in which they operate. The value creation process in these businesses often differs from what commonly happens in larger established businesses. Resources available to the entrepreneur are normally much more restricted and decisions are often based on limited information. This thesis focuses on the value that is created by technology-based entrepreneurial businesses, the leveraging of limited resources and the decision-making orientation they adopt during this process. Given the importance of technology-based entrepreneurial businesses in contributing to economic growth and job creation in most global economies, as well as the limited previous research conducted amongst these businesses, the purpose of this study was to identify the human and social capital factors influencing value creation in technology-based entrepreneurial businesses. With this purpose in mind, the primary objective was to identify, investigate and empirically test the relationships between the various identified factors and Perceived value creation in technology-based entrepreneurial businesses, taking into account their decision-making orientation, as well as the uncertain environment under which they operate. This study uses the Resource-Based View of the business as the basis of its theoretical orientation. The literature review revealed five main categories of constructs, namely Knowledge and skills, Experience, Networks, Decision-making orientation and Perceived environmental uncertainty influencing the dependent variable Perceived value creation in technology-based entrepreneurial businesses. Knowledge and skills, Experience and Networks were identified as independent variables while Decision-making orientation was identified as the mediating variable and Perceived environmental uncertainty as the moderating variable. Six demographic variables (type of industry, age of business, number of employees, age of entrepreneur, academic qualifications of entrepreneur and the number of previous businesses started by the entrepreneur) were also identified as potential influencing factors. Various hypotheses were formulated to be tested during the empirical investigation. Each construct was clearly defined and then operationalised. Operationalisation was done by using reliable and valid items sourced from tested measuring instruments used in previous studies, as well as a number of self-generated items based on secondary sources. A structured questionnaire was made available to respondents identified by means of the convenience snowball sampling technique, and the data collected from 313 usable questionnaires was subjected to various statistical analyses. An Exploratory Factor Analyses (EFA) was conducted which confirmed the different variables, and Cronbach-alpha coefficients were calculated to confirm the reliability of the measuring instrument. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was the main statistical procedure used to test the significance of the relationships hypothesised between the various independent, mediating, moderating and dependent variables. A number of different models were tested, and the results discussed and explained. The main finding of the study was that technology-based entrepreneurial business can create financial and non-financial value by adopting a decision-making orientation in the business of co-creating the future with other stakeholders. The most important human and social capital factors that influence the decision-making orientation of these businesses are Knowledge and skills, Unstructured networks and Structured networks. The main limitations of the study were firstly the convenience snowball sampling technique used to collect responses, secondly the dependence of reporting on organisation issues by individuals, and thirdly the limited number of influencing factors included in the models. Future research should address these limitations, and could include qualitative analyses. This study has added to the empirical body of knowledge on entrepreneurship research by investigating a particularly important segment of the literature, namely technology-based entrepreneurial businesses. By identifying and developing various models that outline the most significant factors that influence perceived value creation in technology-based entrepreneurial businesses, this study offers recommendations and suggestions for managing these businesses in such a way as to improve the creation of financial and non-financial value in them. It further provides recommendations for business teaching programmes to enhance curriculums by focusing on alternatives to the format of formal business planning.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Van den Heever, Thomas Stanley
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: New business enterprises , Entrepreneurship , Technological innovations -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9329 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021047
- Description: Small entrepreneurial businesses are widely regarded as important contributors to the economic well-being of countries all over the world as they create value for both the entrepreneur and the economy in which they operate. The value creation process in these businesses often differs from what commonly happens in larger established businesses. Resources available to the entrepreneur are normally much more restricted and decisions are often based on limited information. This thesis focuses on the value that is created by technology-based entrepreneurial businesses, the leveraging of limited resources and the decision-making orientation they adopt during this process. Given the importance of technology-based entrepreneurial businesses in contributing to economic growth and job creation in most global economies, as well as the limited previous research conducted amongst these businesses, the purpose of this study was to identify the human and social capital factors influencing value creation in technology-based entrepreneurial businesses. With this purpose in mind, the primary objective was to identify, investigate and empirically test the relationships between the various identified factors and Perceived value creation in technology-based entrepreneurial businesses, taking into account their decision-making orientation, as well as the uncertain environment under which they operate. This study uses the Resource-Based View of the business as the basis of its theoretical orientation. The literature review revealed five main categories of constructs, namely Knowledge and skills, Experience, Networks, Decision-making orientation and Perceived environmental uncertainty influencing the dependent variable Perceived value creation in technology-based entrepreneurial businesses. Knowledge and skills, Experience and Networks were identified as independent variables while Decision-making orientation was identified as the mediating variable and Perceived environmental uncertainty as the moderating variable. Six demographic variables (type of industry, age of business, number of employees, age of entrepreneur, academic qualifications of entrepreneur and the number of previous businesses started by the entrepreneur) were also identified as potential influencing factors. Various hypotheses were formulated to be tested during the empirical investigation. Each construct was clearly defined and then operationalised. Operationalisation was done by using reliable and valid items sourced from tested measuring instruments used in previous studies, as well as a number of self-generated items based on secondary sources. A structured questionnaire was made available to respondents identified by means of the convenience snowball sampling technique, and the data collected from 313 usable questionnaires was subjected to various statistical analyses. An Exploratory Factor Analyses (EFA) was conducted which confirmed the different variables, and Cronbach-alpha coefficients were calculated to confirm the reliability of the measuring instrument. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was the main statistical procedure used to test the significance of the relationships hypothesised between the various independent, mediating, moderating and dependent variables. A number of different models were tested, and the results discussed and explained. The main finding of the study was that technology-based entrepreneurial business can create financial and non-financial value by adopting a decision-making orientation in the business of co-creating the future with other stakeholders. The most important human and social capital factors that influence the decision-making orientation of these businesses are Knowledge and skills, Unstructured networks and Structured networks. The main limitations of the study were firstly the convenience snowball sampling technique used to collect responses, secondly the dependence of reporting on organisation issues by individuals, and thirdly the limited number of influencing factors included in the models. Future research should address these limitations, and could include qualitative analyses. This study has added to the empirical body of knowledge on entrepreneurship research by investigating a particularly important segment of the literature, namely technology-based entrepreneurial businesses. By identifying and developing various models that outline the most significant factors that influence perceived value creation in technology-based entrepreneurial businesses, this study offers recommendations and suggestions for managing these businesses in such a way as to improve the creation of financial and non-financial value in them. It further provides recommendations for business teaching programmes to enhance curriculums by focusing on alternatives to the format of formal business planning.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The determinants of corporate entrepreneurship for firms in adventure tourism sector in the Eastern Cape Province: South Africa
- Authors: Chigamba, Cleopas
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Organizational change -- Management , Entrepreneurship , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11326 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015312 , Organizational change -- Management , Entrepreneurship , Industrial management
- Description: Tourism has been acknowledged for the past decade as one of the leading driving forces for economic development in post-apartheid South Africa (Nel & Binns, 2002:189). The objective of this study was to investigate the determinants of corporate entrepreneurship for firms in adventure tourism sector in the Eastern Cape Province; South Africa. The population for the study were firms registered with the Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism Portal (NMBT) and the Dirty Boot Adventure South Africa. Convenience sampling method was used. Data was collected through the use of a self-administered questionnaire. For the purpose of data collection, one hundred and fourteen questions were identified through a thorough review of the literature. Principal component analysis was used to reduce the one hundred and fourteen questions to twelve factors namely: flat organisational structure, management support for intrapreneurship, vision and strategic intent, rewards / reinforcement and sponsorship, innovativeness and creativity, multi-disciplined teamwork and diversity, entrepreneurial leadership, resources and time, strong customer orientation, continuous cross-functional learning, tolerance of risk, mistakes and failure and work discretion and discretionary time. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, T-test and ANOVA. Cohen`s (d-value) was used to measure the effect size of differences for t-statistics. The Cronbach’s alpha was used to test the reliability of the scales. The results showed significant positive relationships between the twelve factors and corporate entrepreneurship. Recommendations included an integrated framework that could assist adventure tour operator to establish and sustain corporate entrepreneurship within this sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Chigamba, Cleopas
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Organizational change -- Management , Entrepreneurship , Industrial management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11326 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015312 , Organizational change -- Management , Entrepreneurship , Industrial management
- Description: Tourism has been acknowledged for the past decade as one of the leading driving forces for economic development in post-apartheid South Africa (Nel & Binns, 2002:189). The objective of this study was to investigate the determinants of corporate entrepreneurship for firms in adventure tourism sector in the Eastern Cape Province; South Africa. The population for the study were firms registered with the Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism Portal (NMBT) and the Dirty Boot Adventure South Africa. Convenience sampling method was used. Data was collected through the use of a self-administered questionnaire. For the purpose of data collection, one hundred and fourteen questions were identified through a thorough review of the literature. Principal component analysis was used to reduce the one hundred and fourteen questions to twelve factors namely: flat organisational structure, management support for intrapreneurship, vision and strategic intent, rewards / reinforcement and sponsorship, innovativeness and creativity, multi-disciplined teamwork and diversity, entrepreneurial leadership, resources and time, strong customer orientation, continuous cross-functional learning, tolerance of risk, mistakes and failure and work discretion and discretionary time. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, T-test and ANOVA. Cohen`s (d-value) was used to measure the effect size of differences for t-statistics. The Cronbach’s alpha was used to test the reliability of the scales. The results showed significant positive relationships between the twelve factors and corporate entrepreneurship. Recommendations included an integrated framework that could assist adventure tour operator to establish and sustain corporate entrepreneurship within this sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An entrepreneurial framework for deciding on the implementation of large format digital printing internationally
- Adendorff, Christian Michael
- Authors: Adendorff, Christian Michael
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Success in business , Business -- Technological innovations , Digital printing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002785 , Entrepreneurship , Success in business , Business -- Technological innovations , Digital printing
- Description: This study focuses on entrepreneurs within the SME sector using large format digital printing (LFDP) because of the changes in technology that influences the decisionmaking processes of the entrepreneur in the purchasing of a new LFDP. These fast changes are likely to continue and can cause technologies to become obsolete overnight. The entrepreneurs within the LFDP industry find themselves in the midst of these fast changes and are faced with a dilemma. On the one hand, they need to make sure that the technology used produces consistent and quality products. On the other hand, the entrepreneur needs to ensure an optimal return on investments. From the literature and the findings of the study, the researcher recommends a change to an existing model on a consultant involvement purchase of high technology products, which is then adapted to integrate resource-forecasting areas together with timing and type of information required as well as external environment scanning. The existing model’s focus is on the individual’s ability to make decisions based on their own knowledge. However, by integrating technology forecasting components, and scanning the business environment and resource forecasting needed the decision-maker will be better equipped to make decisions that also takes into account the external environment. This will also allow them to plan and manage growth in a systematic way. Therefore the proposed model takes into account individual capabilities and technology forecasting components that can facilitate the decision-making process. The adapted model on decision-making clearly delineates that the combination of entrepreneurial qualities and technology forecasting techniques in the LFDP industry will ultimately assist the entrepreneur on various levels in deciding on a new LFDP.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Adendorff, Christian Michael
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Success in business , Business -- Technological innovations , Digital printing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1169 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002785 , Entrepreneurship , Success in business , Business -- Technological innovations , Digital printing
- Description: This study focuses on entrepreneurs within the SME sector using large format digital printing (LFDP) because of the changes in technology that influences the decisionmaking processes of the entrepreneur in the purchasing of a new LFDP. These fast changes are likely to continue and can cause technologies to become obsolete overnight. The entrepreneurs within the LFDP industry find themselves in the midst of these fast changes and are faced with a dilemma. On the one hand, they need to make sure that the technology used produces consistent and quality products. On the other hand, the entrepreneur needs to ensure an optimal return on investments. From the literature and the findings of the study, the researcher recommends a change to an existing model on a consultant involvement purchase of high technology products, which is then adapted to integrate resource-forecasting areas together with timing and type of information required as well as external environment scanning. The existing model’s focus is on the individual’s ability to make decisions based on their own knowledge. However, by integrating technology forecasting components, and scanning the business environment and resource forecasting needed the decision-maker will be better equipped to make decisions that also takes into account the external environment. This will also allow them to plan and manage growth in a systematic way. Therefore the proposed model takes into account individual capabilities and technology forecasting components that can facilitate the decision-making process. The adapted model on decision-making clearly delineates that the combination of entrepreneurial qualities and technology forecasting techniques in the LFDP industry will ultimately assist the entrepreneur on various levels in deciding on a new LFDP.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
A study of growth and entrepreneurship of a small organisation in the automotive industry of South Africa
- Authors: White, Andrew Stephen
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8608 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1525 , Entrepreneurship
- Description: The strategy of the organisation and its entrepreneur’s expectations of the organisation should be aligned in order to create an environment in which all entrepreneurs are motivated and work towards common goals. Furthermore, the entrepreneur’s life stages and personal life plans should be synchronised with the needs of the organisation to achieve the goals. As organisations pass through different stages of growth; they require different resources to assist in progression to next stages. As with organisations and their growth phases; entrepreneurs also undergo growth stages in many different areas of their lives. Entrepreneurs being individuals each have their own set of characteristics in terms of personality, leadership style, entrepreneurship type, skills, life stage and career stages. The challenge of an organisation is to create a strategy that best matches the expectations of all the entrepreneurs and members. The resources of the organisation need to be aligned in order to achieve the common strategy. The problem is as to how the organisation makes use of its leaders and entrepreneurs to achieve strategy; and how does it deal with inconsistencies in goals of entrepreneurs and shortfalls of specific skills or resources that it will require to sustain or grow the organisation?
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: White, Andrew Stephen
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8608 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1525 , Entrepreneurship
- Description: The strategy of the organisation and its entrepreneur’s expectations of the organisation should be aligned in order to create an environment in which all entrepreneurs are motivated and work towards common goals. Furthermore, the entrepreneur’s life stages and personal life plans should be synchronised with the needs of the organisation to achieve the goals. As organisations pass through different stages of growth; they require different resources to assist in progression to next stages. As with organisations and their growth phases; entrepreneurs also undergo growth stages in many different areas of their lives. Entrepreneurs being individuals each have their own set of characteristics in terms of personality, leadership style, entrepreneurship type, skills, life stage and career stages. The challenge of an organisation is to create a strategy that best matches the expectations of all the entrepreneurs and members. The resources of the organisation need to be aligned in order to achieve the common strategy. The problem is as to how the organisation makes use of its leaders and entrepreneurs to achieve strategy; and how does it deal with inconsistencies in goals of entrepreneurs and shortfalls of specific skills or resources that it will require to sustain or grow the organisation?
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Mapping the transition from a traditional university into an entrepreneurial university
- Authors: Naidoo, Tharusha
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Rhodes University -- Management , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Academic-industrial cooperation , Entrepreneurship , Business and education -- South Africa , Research -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172214 , vital:42177
- Description: The study aims to map the transition of a traditional university into an entrepreneurial university. The concept of the entrepreneurial university has been established as a game changer in the development and innovation spheres at higher education institutions worldwide. In the year 2002, the South African Higher Education sector embarked on a modelling and redefining journey which gave birth to the National Plan for Higher Education. The Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education has undertaken work done on the entrepreneurial university which gave rise to the mapping that breeds ground towards policy. This study sought to investigate whether there is a conducive environment at Rhodes University, with an entrepreneurial climate to develop institutional capabilities and build new networks. The research highlights the current direction of Rhodes University and elaborates on the potential for the transition towards an entrepreneurial university. An overview of the entrepreneurial university was provided through an analysis of literature, which dominated in the more developed countries compared to South Africa. The researcher adopted a qualitative research study to capture the direct experiences of the individuals that are in the institution. A questionnaire was designed using the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Guiding Framework and the direct perceptions of academics from the university were documented. The objectives were firstly, to explore elements of leadership and governance that enhance transformation of Higher Education Institution from a traditional university towards an entrepreneurial university. Secondly, to investigate internal resources that enhance Organisational Capacity with specific reference to people and incentives. Lastly, to determine how Teaching and Learning strengthen entrepreneurship development. The interviews revealed that the challenges faced by the institution were closely linked to those recognized by existing literature. What was interesting to note, limited funding and support were regarded as the most significant problems, closely followed by unskilled people and lack of infrastructure. It is suggested that cultivating and nurturing an entrepreneurial culture is of paramount importance together with the creation of a policy framework. Furthermore, the study concluded with practical recommendations proposed to management regarding the three strategic lenses. The research also illustrated that Rhodes University may not be viewed as being entrepreneurial but certainly has pockets of entrepreneurship and innovative activities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Naidoo, Tharusha
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Rhodes University -- Management , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Academic-industrial cooperation , Entrepreneurship , Business and education -- South Africa , Research -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172214 , vital:42177
- Description: The study aims to map the transition of a traditional university into an entrepreneurial university. The concept of the entrepreneurial university has been established as a game changer in the development and innovation spheres at higher education institutions worldwide. In the year 2002, the South African Higher Education sector embarked on a modelling and redefining journey which gave birth to the National Plan for Higher Education. The Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education has undertaken work done on the entrepreneurial university which gave rise to the mapping that breeds ground towards policy. This study sought to investigate whether there is a conducive environment at Rhodes University, with an entrepreneurial climate to develop institutional capabilities and build new networks. The research highlights the current direction of Rhodes University and elaborates on the potential for the transition towards an entrepreneurial university. An overview of the entrepreneurial university was provided through an analysis of literature, which dominated in the more developed countries compared to South Africa. The researcher adopted a qualitative research study to capture the direct experiences of the individuals that are in the institution. A questionnaire was designed using the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Guiding Framework and the direct perceptions of academics from the university were documented. The objectives were firstly, to explore elements of leadership and governance that enhance transformation of Higher Education Institution from a traditional university towards an entrepreneurial university. Secondly, to investigate internal resources that enhance Organisational Capacity with specific reference to people and incentives. Lastly, to determine how Teaching and Learning strengthen entrepreneurship development. The interviews revealed that the challenges faced by the institution were closely linked to those recognized by existing literature. What was interesting to note, limited funding and support were regarded as the most significant problems, closely followed by unskilled people and lack of infrastructure. It is suggested that cultivating and nurturing an entrepreneurial culture is of paramount importance together with the creation of a policy framework. Furthermore, the study concluded with practical recommendations proposed to management regarding the three strategic lenses. The research also illustrated that Rhodes University may not be viewed as being entrepreneurial but certainly has pockets of entrepreneurship and innovative activities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
A model to promote entrepreneurial competitiveness in the South African telecommunications sector
- Oberholzer, Stephanus Marius
- Authors: Oberholzer, Stephanus Marius
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Telecommunication -- Planning -- South Africa , Business planning -- South Africa , Business enterprises -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: vital:8769 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012150 , Telecommunication -- Planning -- South Africa , Business planning -- South Africa , Business enterprises -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship
- Description: The fast pace of technological advancements is a driver of change in the world. In telecommunications, advancements as well as sector transformation pose challenges to entrepreneurs to remain competitive. The purpose of this study is to contribute to the promotion of entrepreneurial competitiveness in the telecommunications sector in South Africa. In order to achieve this purpose, the objective was to develop and test a theoretical model to promote entrepreneurial competitiveness in this sector. The purpose of the study was that if the factors that influence entrepreneurial businesses in this sector can be identified and recommendations applied, the competitiveness of these businesses can be improved. The approach was as follows: 1. Identify the factors, in a literature review, in three areas related to this study, namely, Entrepreneurial Orientation, Telecommunications and Benchmarking; 2. Develop a conceptual theoretical model comprising these identified factors which formed the base for the data collection; 3. Develop a measuring instrument to empirically test the relationships described in the conceptual model; 4. Empirically test the proposed model and suggested hypotheses by means of sourcing data from entrepreneurs in the telecommunications sector in South Africa and thereafter statistically analyse the sourced data; 5. Formulate the final theoretical model to support the research objective and 6. Propose recommendations based on the results of the statistical analysis. The three areas of literature study analysed were Entrepreneurial Orientation which focused on the entrepreneur, the entrepreneurial process and the positioning of technological entrepreneurs in the sector. The telecommunications section included an overview of telecommunications from a global perspective followed by specific focus on the South African sector. The section on benchmarking covered business performance aspects together with measurement techniques and benchmarking institutions relevant to entrepreneurship and telecommunications businesses. Initially, the literature study delivered four intervening variables (Entrepreneurial Orientation, Opportunity Recognition, Resource Allocation and Strategic Positioning) which influence entrepreneurial competitiveness. Within these four intervening variables, twelve underlying independent variables were identified. All the variables were hypothesised as they were perceived significantly to influence the dependent variable, perceived to be entrepreneurial competitiveness in the telecommunications sector in South Africa. These factors, clearly defined and operationalised, were structured in a questionnaire which was sent to entrepreneurs in the telecommunications sector. A response rate of 37 percent was achieved. Data collected from 301 questionnaires were subjected to various statistical analysis techniques. Cronbach-alpha coefficients were calculated to confirm the validity and reliability of the measuring instrument that was tested whilst the latent variables were confirmed by exploratory factor analysis. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to test the hypothesised significance of the relationships between the variables. Due to the sample size limitation, the conceptual model could not be subjected to SEM as a whole and consequently two sub-models were identified and subjected to further analysis. The SEM results presented the factors influencing entrepreneurial competitiveness whereafter the final model was presented for this study. This study contributed to this specific field of knowledge as follows: 1. New literature contributions are made in the field of entrepreneurial competitiveness in a specific sector; 2. It is the first known research conducted into the promotion of entrepreneurial competitiveness in the telecommunications sector in South Africa; 3. A theoretical model was developed that can be used to promote entrepreneurial competitiveness in the sector and 4. It suggests recommendations on empirically tested factors that significantly influence entrepreneurial competitiveness. Additional knowledge has been gained through the identification and description of how the following individual factors significantly influence entrepreneurial competitiveness in this sector: Benchmarking; Entrepreneurial Mindset; Entrepreneurial Management; Entrepreneurial Orientation; Financial Resources; Infrastructural Change; Regulatory Alignment and Technological Entrepreneurship. The present study was conducted in a time frame where sector transformation is prevalent in South Africa. The current circumstances relating to sector transformation and infrastructural changes will not last forever. The theoretical model therefore is limited to the specific sector conditions in a specific time cycle. In conclusion, the model and managerial recommendations that are presented can act as a guideline for entrepreneurs to adopt in order to improve the competitiveness of their businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Oberholzer, Stephanus Marius
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Telecommunication -- Planning -- South Africa , Business planning -- South Africa , Business enterprises -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: vital:8769 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1012150 , Telecommunication -- Planning -- South Africa , Business planning -- South Africa , Business enterprises -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship
- Description: The fast pace of technological advancements is a driver of change in the world. In telecommunications, advancements as well as sector transformation pose challenges to entrepreneurs to remain competitive. The purpose of this study is to contribute to the promotion of entrepreneurial competitiveness in the telecommunications sector in South Africa. In order to achieve this purpose, the objective was to develop and test a theoretical model to promote entrepreneurial competitiveness in this sector. The purpose of the study was that if the factors that influence entrepreneurial businesses in this sector can be identified and recommendations applied, the competitiveness of these businesses can be improved. The approach was as follows: 1. Identify the factors, in a literature review, in three areas related to this study, namely, Entrepreneurial Orientation, Telecommunications and Benchmarking; 2. Develop a conceptual theoretical model comprising these identified factors which formed the base for the data collection; 3. Develop a measuring instrument to empirically test the relationships described in the conceptual model; 4. Empirically test the proposed model and suggested hypotheses by means of sourcing data from entrepreneurs in the telecommunications sector in South Africa and thereafter statistically analyse the sourced data; 5. Formulate the final theoretical model to support the research objective and 6. Propose recommendations based on the results of the statistical analysis. The three areas of literature study analysed were Entrepreneurial Orientation which focused on the entrepreneur, the entrepreneurial process and the positioning of technological entrepreneurs in the sector. The telecommunications section included an overview of telecommunications from a global perspective followed by specific focus on the South African sector. The section on benchmarking covered business performance aspects together with measurement techniques and benchmarking institutions relevant to entrepreneurship and telecommunications businesses. Initially, the literature study delivered four intervening variables (Entrepreneurial Orientation, Opportunity Recognition, Resource Allocation and Strategic Positioning) which influence entrepreneurial competitiveness. Within these four intervening variables, twelve underlying independent variables were identified. All the variables were hypothesised as they were perceived significantly to influence the dependent variable, perceived to be entrepreneurial competitiveness in the telecommunications sector in South Africa. These factors, clearly defined and operationalised, were structured in a questionnaire which was sent to entrepreneurs in the telecommunications sector. A response rate of 37 percent was achieved. Data collected from 301 questionnaires were subjected to various statistical analysis techniques. Cronbach-alpha coefficients were calculated to confirm the validity and reliability of the measuring instrument that was tested whilst the latent variables were confirmed by exploratory factor analysis. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to test the hypothesised significance of the relationships between the variables. Due to the sample size limitation, the conceptual model could not be subjected to SEM as a whole and consequently two sub-models were identified and subjected to further analysis. The SEM results presented the factors influencing entrepreneurial competitiveness whereafter the final model was presented for this study. This study contributed to this specific field of knowledge as follows: 1. New literature contributions are made in the field of entrepreneurial competitiveness in a specific sector; 2. It is the first known research conducted into the promotion of entrepreneurial competitiveness in the telecommunications sector in South Africa; 3. A theoretical model was developed that can be used to promote entrepreneurial competitiveness in the sector and 4. It suggests recommendations on empirically tested factors that significantly influence entrepreneurial competitiveness. Additional knowledge has been gained through the identification and description of how the following individual factors significantly influence entrepreneurial competitiveness in this sector: Benchmarking; Entrepreneurial Mindset; Entrepreneurial Management; Entrepreneurial Orientation; Financial Resources; Infrastructural Change; Regulatory Alignment and Technological Entrepreneurship. The present study was conducted in a time frame where sector transformation is prevalent in South Africa. The current circumstances relating to sector transformation and infrastructural changes will not last forever. The theoretical model therefore is limited to the specific sector conditions in a specific time cycle. In conclusion, the model and managerial recommendations that are presented can act as a guideline for entrepreneurs to adopt in order to improve the competitiveness of their businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Enablers and barriers to involvement in commercialisation
- Authors: Chetty, Mary-Ann T
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Commercialism , Entrepreneurship , Technology transfer
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4720 , vital:20657
- Description: Universities are facing growing pressure to contribute towards innovation which has social impact and which contributes to economic development. Researchers mainly in the Science and Engineering fields are the primary sources of innovation outputs from universities and as such their involvement in commercialisation activities directly adds to the growth of innovative outputs from publicly financed research. Technology Transfer Offices (TTO) have been established at universities across South Africa to foster the involvement of researchers in commercialisation activities, to champion the innovation conversation within higher education institutions and to progress innovations from concept to application in society. This study focussed on understanding the factors which enable or create a barrier to the involvement of researchers in commercialisation activities at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. The key elements examined in this study include the researchers’ perception of enablers (monetary and nonmonetary incentives) and barriers to involvement at national, institutional and individual levels. This study undertook to understand the perceptions of researchers of enablers and barriers to involvement in commercialisation at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. Researchers in the two faculties of Science and Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology were approached to anonymously complete an electronic survey, the questions for which were developed from literature. The results from the survey were analysed using descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing. This study finds that a combination of incentives is necessary to enable researcher involvement and to lower barriers to involvement in commercialisation research. A set of recommendations based on the study are put forward on how such recommendations can be implemented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Chetty, Mary-Ann T
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Commercialism , Entrepreneurship , Technology transfer
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4720 , vital:20657
- Description: Universities are facing growing pressure to contribute towards innovation which has social impact and which contributes to economic development. Researchers mainly in the Science and Engineering fields are the primary sources of innovation outputs from universities and as such their involvement in commercialisation activities directly adds to the growth of innovative outputs from publicly financed research. Technology Transfer Offices (TTO) have been established at universities across South Africa to foster the involvement of researchers in commercialisation activities, to champion the innovation conversation within higher education institutions and to progress innovations from concept to application in society. This study focussed on understanding the factors which enable or create a barrier to the involvement of researchers in commercialisation activities at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. The key elements examined in this study include the researchers’ perception of enablers (monetary and nonmonetary incentives) and barriers to involvement at national, institutional and individual levels. This study undertook to understand the perceptions of researchers of enablers and barriers to involvement in commercialisation at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. Researchers in the two faculties of Science and Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology were approached to anonymously complete an electronic survey, the questions for which were developed from literature. The results from the survey were analysed using descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing. This study finds that a combination of incentives is necessary to enable researcher involvement and to lower barriers to involvement in commercialisation research. A set of recommendations based on the study are put forward on how such recommendations can be implemented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Second life: a support teaching methodology for entrepreneurship
- Authors: Mandla, Siyabulela
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Shared virtual environments , Teaching -- Methodology , Business students , Entrepreneurship
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8827 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019728
- Description: The constant evolution of technology and the prevalent demands of the 21st century continue to put pressure on both the business and education sector. Business is ever looking for competent workers to meet these progressive demands, while the education sector continues to struggle to produce such competent workers to meet the heightened needs of the business sector. Universities and business schools have a greater role and responsibility in ensuring that these competent employees are produced. The use of virtual platforms like Second Life has gained significant popularity in the education sector. Therefore the objective of this study was to explore and examine some of the prevalent benefits associated with using Second life for teaching entrepreneurship. This study was also extended to cover the following areas: The benefits of Second Life for business and education sector; - The benefits of Second Life for teaching and learning environment. The study followed an exploratory research design in an attempt to answer the main research question and the respective sub-questions related to the study. Using a qualitative approach, student’s perceptions, opinions, assumptions, observations and experiences during their interaction with Second Life were identified and reflected in the study. The research discovered that the associated benefits of Second Life were coherent with the reviewed literature findings. The research study concluded that Second Life can be used as a support teaching methodology for entrepreneurship for third year MBA students at NMMU Business School. In addition, the research also highlighted some recommendations regarding the introduction and implementation of Second Life at NMMU Business School and future research opportunities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mandla, Siyabulela
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Shared virtual environments , Teaching -- Methodology , Business students , Entrepreneurship
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8827 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019728
- Description: The constant evolution of technology and the prevalent demands of the 21st century continue to put pressure on both the business and education sector. Business is ever looking for competent workers to meet these progressive demands, while the education sector continues to struggle to produce such competent workers to meet the heightened needs of the business sector. Universities and business schools have a greater role and responsibility in ensuring that these competent employees are produced. The use of virtual platforms like Second Life has gained significant popularity in the education sector. Therefore the objective of this study was to explore and examine some of the prevalent benefits associated with using Second life for teaching entrepreneurship. This study was also extended to cover the following areas: The benefits of Second Life for business and education sector; - The benefits of Second Life for teaching and learning environment. The study followed an exploratory research design in an attempt to answer the main research question and the respective sub-questions related to the study. Using a qualitative approach, student’s perceptions, opinions, assumptions, observations and experiences during their interaction with Second Life were identified and reflected in the study. The research discovered that the associated benefits of Second Life were coherent with the reviewed literature findings. The research study concluded that Second Life can be used as a support teaching methodology for entrepreneurship for third year MBA students at NMMU Business School. In addition, the research also highlighted some recommendations regarding the introduction and implementation of Second Life at NMMU Business School and future research opportunities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Improving technological entrepreneurship of first-year students at universities
- Khohliso, Sylvester Mziwonke
- Authors: Khohliso, Sylvester Mziwonke
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Technological innovations -- Economic aspects , Entrepreneurship , Technical education , Business enterprises -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6476 , vital:21095
- Description: A challenge facing higher education institutions is the level of technological entrepreneurship of first-year students in the field of technological programmes. This challenge has put pressure on management of higher education institutions to introduce an entrepreneurial mindset and encourage innovation. According to Development Policy Research Unit (2007:18), 23 percent of students choose qualifications mainly for the employment opportunities. According to Shein, Crous, and Schepers (2010:1), not only in growing economies such as South Africa‟s, entrepreneurship contributes to a national growth and contributes to job creation. Shein, et al. (2010:1), further claim that recent studies have shown a shift towards studying entrepreneurship in an attempt to uncover its fundamentals and its importance in adding to the well-being of the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Khohliso, Sylvester Mziwonke
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Technological innovations -- Economic aspects , Entrepreneurship , Technical education , Business enterprises -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6476 , vital:21095
- Description: A challenge facing higher education institutions is the level of technological entrepreneurship of first-year students in the field of technological programmes. This challenge has put pressure on management of higher education institutions to introduce an entrepreneurial mindset and encourage innovation. According to Development Policy Research Unit (2007:18), 23 percent of students choose qualifications mainly for the employment opportunities. According to Shein, Crous, and Schepers (2010:1), not only in growing economies such as South Africa‟s, entrepreneurship contributes to a national growth and contributes to job creation. Shein, et al. (2010:1), further claim that recent studies have shown a shift towards studying entrepreneurship in an attempt to uncover its fundamentals and its importance in adding to the well-being of the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Impact of Chinese small business on sustainable livelihoods in Port Elizabeth after 1994
- Authors: Pang, Jing
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Economic assistance, Chinese , Small business , Entrepreneurship , South Africa -- Politics and government --1994-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9229 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020983
- Description: Since the advent of democracy in April 1994, the issues of economic empowerment and growth have been high on the agenda of the Government of National Unity of South Africa. In order to achieve social-economic growth, resolve wealth and asset gaps between rich and poor, decrease unemployment and meet the Millennium Development Goals, government has sought efficient mechanisms of transformation. The formation of SMMEs was put forward as a solution to solve the above problems. SMMEs play a vital role in economic development and livelihoods uplifting. The purpose of this study is to examine how Chinese SMMEs have impacted on sustainable livelihoods in Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan District. The study has identified the challenges of local livelihoods in the district. The findings on the effects of Chinese SMMEs were that: (1) They have provided affordable goods and services to local people, improving livelihoods by means of reducing living costs of the local population and thus providing relief on their financial capital; (2) The vast extent of their services in the district has enlarged their network of offerings in urban, suburban and even rural settings; (3) They have enabled the poor’s access to the economic markets and services; (4) They have contributed positively to employment by providing local jobseekers with gainful employment and access to financial capital; (5) They have empowered the local employee base through training and skills transfer; (6) They have promoted knowledge and skills that have enriched local human capital and positively contributed to livelihoods; and (7) They have made a contribution to GDP and tax revenues. Revenues fed to government have helped fund welfare and public services, including in the areas of education, health care, pensions, unemployment benefits, public transportation, infrastructure and housing. These benefits have collectively contributed to the improvement of local livelihoods in the district.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Pang, Jing
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Economic assistance, Chinese , Small business , Entrepreneurship , South Africa -- Politics and government --1994-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9229 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020983
- Description: Since the advent of democracy in April 1994, the issues of economic empowerment and growth have been high on the agenda of the Government of National Unity of South Africa. In order to achieve social-economic growth, resolve wealth and asset gaps between rich and poor, decrease unemployment and meet the Millennium Development Goals, government has sought efficient mechanisms of transformation. The formation of SMMEs was put forward as a solution to solve the above problems. SMMEs play a vital role in economic development and livelihoods uplifting. The purpose of this study is to examine how Chinese SMMEs have impacted on sustainable livelihoods in Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan District. The study has identified the challenges of local livelihoods in the district. The findings on the effects of Chinese SMMEs were that: (1) They have provided affordable goods and services to local people, improving livelihoods by means of reducing living costs of the local population and thus providing relief on their financial capital; (2) The vast extent of their services in the district has enlarged their network of offerings in urban, suburban and even rural settings; (3) They have enabled the poor’s access to the economic markets and services; (4) They have contributed positively to employment by providing local jobseekers with gainful employment and access to financial capital; (5) They have empowered the local employee base through training and skills transfer; (6) They have promoted knowledge and skills that have enriched local human capital and positively contributed to livelihoods; and (7) They have made a contribution to GDP and tax revenues. Revenues fed to government have helped fund welfare and public services, including in the areas of education, health care, pensions, unemployment benefits, public transportation, infrastructure and housing. These benefits have collectively contributed to the improvement of local livelihoods in the district.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The stimulation of innovation advantage through autonomous intrapreneurship at Federal Mogul Sealing Systems South Africa
- Authors: Morgan, Beverley Ann
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Sealing (Technology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8552 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/573 , Entrepreneurship , Sealing (Technology)
- Description: In the rapidly evolving organisational landscapes of today, the quest to grow or sustain competitive advantage demands that organisational practices become more innovative, hence innovative advantage. Globalisation and technological advances drive the necessity for innovation within organisational contexts and the resultant rapid pace of change demands that organisations adopt an intrapreneurial orientation to accommodate this need for innovation. South African organisations, in particular those within the automotive sector, are faced with both unique opportunities and threats as a result of the increased impact of globalisation and the resultant open markets in the post-apartheid era. Programs offered by governmental institutions for this industry sector, such as the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP), as well as widely promoted systems such as those engendered by continuous improvement and benchmarking to achieve excellence, are successful only in attaining uniformity and incremental improvements and one-dimensional thinking methodologies. The quest for innovation advantage requires increased creative activity to assist individuals within these organisations in adopting an intrapreneurial outlook to provide proactive solutions. The literature survey has revealed that top-down controls and centralised decision-making as provided by corporate entrepreneurship, is the antithesis of intrapreneurship. Intrapreneurship is thus an autonomous process. Federal Mogul Sealing Systems (FMSS), an automotive component manufacturer within the Eastern Cape served as the basis for this study. A detailed literature review was conducted and a questionnaire was drawn up and distributed in an attempt to assess the three prevalent elements for the creation of innovation advantage through intrapreneurship as reviewed in the literature survey. The three elements were: individual intrapreneurial traits, organisational barriers and enablers of intrapreneurship and the influence of precipitating events on intrapreneurship. The research was conducted and recommendations were made based on the objectives of this study in relation to the organisation under study, FMSS.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Morgan, Beverley Ann
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Sealing (Technology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8552 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/573 , Entrepreneurship , Sealing (Technology)
- Description: In the rapidly evolving organisational landscapes of today, the quest to grow or sustain competitive advantage demands that organisational practices become more innovative, hence innovative advantage. Globalisation and technological advances drive the necessity for innovation within organisational contexts and the resultant rapid pace of change demands that organisations adopt an intrapreneurial orientation to accommodate this need for innovation. South African organisations, in particular those within the automotive sector, are faced with both unique opportunities and threats as a result of the increased impact of globalisation and the resultant open markets in the post-apartheid era. Programs offered by governmental institutions for this industry sector, such as the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP), as well as widely promoted systems such as those engendered by continuous improvement and benchmarking to achieve excellence, are successful only in attaining uniformity and incremental improvements and one-dimensional thinking methodologies. The quest for innovation advantage requires increased creative activity to assist individuals within these organisations in adopting an intrapreneurial outlook to provide proactive solutions. The literature survey has revealed that top-down controls and centralised decision-making as provided by corporate entrepreneurship, is the antithesis of intrapreneurship. Intrapreneurship is thus an autonomous process. Federal Mogul Sealing Systems (FMSS), an automotive component manufacturer within the Eastern Cape served as the basis for this study. A detailed literature review was conducted and a questionnaire was drawn up and distributed in an attempt to assess the three prevalent elements for the creation of innovation advantage through intrapreneurship as reviewed in the literature survey. The three elements were: individual intrapreneurial traits, organisational barriers and enablers of intrapreneurship and the influence of precipitating events on intrapreneurship. The research was conducted and recommendations were made based on the objectives of this study in relation to the organisation under study, FMSS.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The development of an instrument to measure intrapreneurship: entrepreneurship within the corporate setting
- Authors: Hill, Marguerite Elizabeth
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Psychology, Industrial , Organizational change
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2991 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002500 , Entrepreneurship , Psychology, Industrial , Organizational change
- Description: “Intrapreneurship is not a choice, it is the only survival attitude” (Pinchot, 2000, p.75). In 1985 Pinchot coined the term ‘intrapreneurship’, short for intra-corporate entrepreneurship, which describes the practice of entrepreneurship within organisations. Intrapreneurship is increasingly becoming a term used in the business world to describe organisations that are willing to pursue opportunities, initiate actions, and emphasise new, innovative products or services. Due to the dynamic nature of modern organisations, it is imperative that organisations and their managers remain receptive to new ideas, approaches and attitudes. It is therefore the belief that rapid and cost-effective innovation is the primary source of lasting competitive advantage in the twenty-first century, leaving organisations no alternative but to become intrapreneurial or cease to exist. This thesis focuses on this need and examines ways in which intrapreneurship can be measured in organisations in order to provide a benchmark for further organisational development. A questionnaire (known as the Intrapreneurial Intensity Index) was designed and distributed to a sample of 500 employees working in large South African organisations, which classified themselves as ‘forward-thinking’ and aimed for an intrapreneurial ‘type of thinking’. The results obtained from these questionnaires underwent item analysis, after which the questionnaire was redesigned in an electronic format. A pilot case study was then conducted in order to test the reliability of the instrument. Finally the questionnaire was redistributed to a sample of six organisations that are viewed as being ‘intrapreneurial’ and two that are regarded as being ‘non-intrapreneurial’. The data from this sample was used to test the validity of the Intrapreneurial Intensity Index and to demonstrate its application. This study resulted in an instrument that can be used to ascertain the intensity of intrapreneurship present in a large organisation. Specifically, this instrument can provide an overall view of the organisation’s intrapreneurial ability, as well as identify the specific areas in the organisation that require change or modification in order to become more intrapreneurial. This instrument provides a valuable means of identifying areas in need of organisational change, by determining an organisation’s intrapreneurial properties in the organisation’s core areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
- Authors: Hill, Marguerite Elizabeth
- Date: 2003
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Psychology, Industrial , Organizational change
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2991 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002500 , Entrepreneurship , Psychology, Industrial , Organizational change
- Description: “Intrapreneurship is not a choice, it is the only survival attitude” (Pinchot, 2000, p.75). In 1985 Pinchot coined the term ‘intrapreneurship’, short for intra-corporate entrepreneurship, which describes the practice of entrepreneurship within organisations. Intrapreneurship is increasingly becoming a term used in the business world to describe organisations that are willing to pursue opportunities, initiate actions, and emphasise new, innovative products or services. Due to the dynamic nature of modern organisations, it is imperative that organisations and their managers remain receptive to new ideas, approaches and attitudes. It is therefore the belief that rapid and cost-effective innovation is the primary source of lasting competitive advantage in the twenty-first century, leaving organisations no alternative but to become intrapreneurial or cease to exist. This thesis focuses on this need and examines ways in which intrapreneurship can be measured in organisations in order to provide a benchmark for further organisational development. A questionnaire (known as the Intrapreneurial Intensity Index) was designed and distributed to a sample of 500 employees working in large South African organisations, which classified themselves as ‘forward-thinking’ and aimed for an intrapreneurial ‘type of thinking’. The results obtained from these questionnaires underwent item analysis, after which the questionnaire was redesigned in an electronic format. A pilot case study was then conducted in order to test the reliability of the instrument. Finally the questionnaire was redistributed to a sample of six organisations that are viewed as being ‘intrapreneurial’ and two that are regarded as being ‘non-intrapreneurial’. The data from this sample was used to test the validity of the Intrapreneurial Intensity Index and to demonstrate its application. This study resulted in an instrument that can be used to ascertain the intensity of intrapreneurship present in a large organisation. Specifically, this instrument can provide an overall view of the organisation’s intrapreneurial ability, as well as identify the specific areas in the organisation that require change or modification in order to become more intrapreneurial. This instrument provides a valuable means of identifying areas in need of organisational change, by determining an organisation’s intrapreneurial properties in the organisation’s core areas.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2003
The development of an entrepreneurial management model to promote the survival and growth of family estate wine businesses in the South African wine industry
- Cullen, Margaret Diane Munro
- Authors: Cullen, Margaret Diane Munro
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Wine industry -- South Africa -- Management , Entrepreneurship
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: vital:8766 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/491 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011909 , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Wine industry -- South Africa -- Management , Entrepreneurship
- Description: The South African wine industry is polarised into the quantity-producing majority and the quality-conscious minority [Hughes, 2003]. The qualityproducing sector of the South African wine industry is dominated by family businesses. Research shows that there are approximately ninety familyowned wineries in South Africa. By international standards, South Africa is viewed as a quantity, not quality producing wine country, which will make it difficult to survive in an industry where quality is paramount for recognition. The ‘trailblazers’ of the international wine industry are family owned wineries [Robinson, 2000]. Twenty five percent of the 2003 five star South African wines were made by individuals or family wineries [Hughes, 2003], emphasising the growing importance of family wineries in the production of quality wines. It is important now, more than ever, with the industry opening up internationally, that survival of the family-owned wineries and their production of icon wines are promoted so that they can become flagship producers of the industry. The achievement of international status as a quality producing country, as well as building an industry based on the longevity of wine producing families, as well as a nation of wine lovers in South Africa should result.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Cullen, Margaret Diane Munro
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Wine industry -- South Africa -- Management , Entrepreneurship
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: vital:8766 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/491 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011909 , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Wine industry -- South Africa -- Management , Entrepreneurship
- Description: The South African wine industry is polarised into the quantity-producing majority and the quality-conscious minority [Hughes, 2003]. The qualityproducing sector of the South African wine industry is dominated by family businesses. Research shows that there are approximately ninety familyowned wineries in South Africa. By international standards, South Africa is viewed as a quantity, not quality producing wine country, which will make it difficult to survive in an industry where quality is paramount for recognition. The ‘trailblazers’ of the international wine industry are family owned wineries [Robinson, 2000]. Twenty five percent of the 2003 five star South African wines were made by individuals or family wineries [Hughes, 2003], emphasising the growing importance of family wineries in the production of quality wines. It is important now, more than ever, with the industry opening up internationally, that survival of the family-owned wineries and their production of icon wines are promoted so that they can become flagship producers of the industry. The achievement of international status as a quality producing country, as well as building an industry based on the longevity of wine producing families, as well as a nation of wine lovers in South Africa should result.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
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