The impact of human resource practices on employee commitment and retention among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa
- Authors: Terera, Sharon Ruvimbo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employee retention--South Africa Nurses--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Industrial Psychology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17727 , vital:41188
- Description: This study explored the impact of human resource practices on employee commitment and retention among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa. The objectives of this study were to determine the influence of human resources practices (HR) on nurse retention in public hospitals; investigate the influence of HR practices on organizational commitment of nurses, and retention and to make recommendations to the hospitals on possible ways to improve the organisational commitment and employee retention of nurses based on the research findings. The study utilized a quantitative research design and questionnaires were used to collect data. The sample comprised of 150 nurses and the data was analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Research findings revealed that the effective use of sound human resources practices reduces nurse turnover whilst nurse organisational commitment and retention improves.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Terera, Sharon Ruvimbo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employee retention--South Africa Nurses--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Industrial Psychology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17727 , vital:41188
- Description: This study explored the impact of human resource practices on employee commitment and retention among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa. The objectives of this study were to determine the influence of human resources practices (HR) on nurse retention in public hospitals; investigate the influence of HR practices on organizational commitment of nurses, and retention and to make recommendations to the hospitals on possible ways to improve the organisational commitment and employee retention of nurses based on the research findings. The study utilized a quantitative research design and questionnaires were used to collect data. The sample comprised of 150 nurses and the data was analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Research findings revealed that the effective use of sound human resources practices reduces nurse turnover whilst nurse organisational commitment and retention improves.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The impact of inflation on financial development in South Africa
- Authors: Muzvanya, Kudzai Fungai
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Economic development Monetary policy Consumer price indexes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13045 , vital:39440
- Description: Growing theoretical and empirical studies have predicted different influences that inflation has on financial development in different economies. This dissertation observes the impact South Africa’s inflation has on financial development over the period between 1990 and 2012. Monetary policy framework in South Africa has, to a greater extent, assisted in monitoring the movement of the consumer price index. Although inflation does affect financial sector performance, the study also looked into other variables that have an effect like private credit, money supply and gross domestic product. To test for stationarity to avoid spurious regression, the ADF test and the PP test were used. To determine the long- and short-run relationship, the Johansen Maximum Likelihood test and VECM models were used. Results of the study indicated that money supply and inflation have a negative effect on financial development. In addition, apart from money supply and inflation the findings revealed that private credit and gross domestic product play a significant part in financial sector performance. The study recommends that the South African Reserve Bank should keep the inflation rate within its target range (3-6percent). This would ensure price stability and restore investor confidence in the financial sector, which then improves financial sector development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Muzvanya, Kudzai Fungai
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Economic development Monetary policy Consumer price indexes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13045 , vital:39440
- Description: Growing theoretical and empirical studies have predicted different influences that inflation has on financial development in different economies. This dissertation observes the impact South Africa’s inflation has on financial development over the period between 1990 and 2012. Monetary policy framework in South Africa has, to a greater extent, assisted in monitoring the movement of the consumer price index. Although inflation does affect financial sector performance, the study also looked into other variables that have an effect like private credit, money supply and gross domestic product. To test for stationarity to avoid spurious regression, the ADF test and the PP test were used. To determine the long- and short-run relationship, the Johansen Maximum Likelihood test and VECM models were used. Results of the study indicated that money supply and inflation have a negative effect on financial development. In addition, apart from money supply and inflation the findings revealed that private credit and gross domestic product play a significant part in financial sector performance. The study recommends that the South African Reserve Bank should keep the inflation rate within its target range (3-6percent). This would ensure price stability and restore investor confidence in the financial sector, which then improves financial sector development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The impact of learning advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa
- Authors: Marufu, Tandiwe Joy
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Nurses -- Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5630 , vital:29353
- Description: Ongoing instability in the nursing workforce is raising questions globally about the issue of nurse turnover. It is against this background that this research examines the impact of learning, advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in selected hospitals from Eastern Cape. Little research has been conducted to investigate the impact of the above mentioned subjects on turnover intentions among nurses in the South African health sector. Research questions as well as hypotheses were formulated as the means to gain data on the subject. The research employed a quantitative design with a sample size of 160 nurses and 159 were returned. The data analysis consisted of both descriptive and inferential statistics. The main findings of the study showed a positive relationship among job satisfaction, work-life rewards, learning and advancement opportunities and job satisfaction. However, there were negative relationships between job satisfaction and turnover intentions; work-life rewards and turnover intentions; and also among learning, career advancement and turnover intentions. Finally, suggestions were made to the top management in the Health sector to come up with strategies and mechanisms that improve nurses’ quality of work-life and offering them training and advancement opportunities through organisational change programs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Marufu, Tandiwe Joy
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Nurses -- Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5630 , vital:29353
- Description: Ongoing instability in the nursing workforce is raising questions globally about the issue of nurse turnover. It is against this background that this research examines the impact of learning, advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in selected hospitals from Eastern Cape. Little research has been conducted to investigate the impact of the above mentioned subjects on turnover intentions among nurses in the South African health sector. Research questions as well as hypotheses were formulated as the means to gain data on the subject. The research employed a quantitative design with a sample size of 160 nurses and 159 were returned. The data analysis consisted of both descriptive and inferential statistics. The main findings of the study showed a positive relationship among job satisfaction, work-life rewards, learning and advancement opportunities and job satisfaction. However, there were negative relationships between job satisfaction and turnover intentions; work-life rewards and turnover intentions; and also among learning, career advancement and turnover intentions. Finally, suggestions were made to the top management in the Health sector to come up with strategies and mechanisms that improve nurses’ quality of work-life and offering them training and advancement opportunities through organisational change programs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The impact of learning advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa
- Authors: Marufu, Tandiwe Joy
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Nurses -- Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2182 , vital:27666
- Description: Ongoing instability in the nursing workforce is raising questions globally about the issue of nurse turnover. It is against this background that this research examines the impact of learning, advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in selected hospitals from Eastern Cape. Little research has been conducted to investigate the impact of the above mentioned subjects on turnover intentions among nurses in the South African health sector. Research questions as well as hypotheses were formulated as the means to gain data on the subject. The research employed a quantitative design with a sample size of 160 nurses and 159 were returned. The data analysis consisted of both descriptive and inferential statistics. The main findings of the study showed a positive relationship among job satisfaction, work-life rewards, learning and advancement opportunities and job satisfaction. However, there were negative relationships between job satisfaction and turnover intentions; work-life rewards and turnover intentions; and also among learning, career advancement and turnover intentions. Finally, suggestions were made to the top management in the Health sector to come up with strategies and mechanisms that improve nurses’ quality of work-life and offering them training and advancement opportunities through organisational change programs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Marufu, Tandiwe Joy
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Nurses -- Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2182 , vital:27666
- Description: Ongoing instability in the nursing workforce is raising questions globally about the issue of nurse turnover. It is against this background that this research examines the impact of learning, advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in selected hospitals from Eastern Cape. Little research has been conducted to investigate the impact of the above mentioned subjects on turnover intentions among nurses in the South African health sector. Research questions as well as hypotheses were formulated as the means to gain data on the subject. The research employed a quantitative design with a sample size of 160 nurses and 159 were returned. The data analysis consisted of both descriptive and inferential statistics. The main findings of the study showed a positive relationship among job satisfaction, work-life rewards, learning and advancement opportunities and job satisfaction. However, there were negative relationships between job satisfaction and turnover intentions; work-life rewards and turnover intentions; and also among learning, career advancement and turnover intentions. Finally, suggestions were made to the top management in the Health sector to come up with strategies and mechanisms that improve nurses’ quality of work-life and offering them training and advancement opportunities through organisational change programs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The impact of mineral resources production on economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Kholwane, Noluthando
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13502 , vital:39674
- Description: South Africa is widely known in the world as a country rich in mineral resources mainly due to its large mineral reserves of gold and diamonds. Such wealth in mineral resources in the country raises the expectations of advanced economic growth. How the production of mineral resources influences economic growth in a country is an interesting area of investigation. Therefore, this study examined the impact of mineral resources production on economic growth using the standard econometric techniques, such as stationarity tests, Johansen co-integration test and the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) estimation technique, using quarterly data between 1995 and 2016. In addition, diagnostic tests and impulse response analysis were conducted. In the model estimation, real gross domestic product (GDP) was regressed against mineral resource production as a percentage of GDP (MRP/GDP), Final Consumption Expenditure by Households (FCE_by Houselds), gross fixed capital formation as a percentage of GDP (excluding mining investment) (GFCF/GDP), labour productivity (LP) and Rand/ Dollar exchange rate (ER). The results from this study show that the explanatory variables without mineral resource governance positively influence GDP in the long run. On the other hand, the diagnostic test results indicate that the model is well specified and fitted since residuals are homoscedastic, normally distributed without autocorrelation. Likewise, the impulse response of real GDP is positive for mineral resource production, fixed capital formation and final consumption by household. Moreover, real GDP reacts negatively from shocks of labour productivity and exchange rate. Based on the outcomes of the study, from a policy perspective, intensified productive activities other than mineral resources production and re-investment of mineral rents could guarantee a sustainable increase in the real gross domestic product of a country in the long run. Furthermore, raw material processing should also be a consideration to foster economic growth in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Kholwane, Noluthando
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13502 , vital:39674
- Description: South Africa is widely known in the world as a country rich in mineral resources mainly due to its large mineral reserves of gold and diamonds. Such wealth in mineral resources in the country raises the expectations of advanced economic growth. How the production of mineral resources influences economic growth in a country is an interesting area of investigation. Therefore, this study examined the impact of mineral resources production on economic growth using the standard econometric techniques, such as stationarity tests, Johansen co-integration test and the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) estimation technique, using quarterly data between 1995 and 2016. In addition, diagnostic tests and impulse response analysis were conducted. In the model estimation, real gross domestic product (GDP) was regressed against mineral resource production as a percentage of GDP (MRP/GDP), Final Consumption Expenditure by Households (FCE_by Houselds), gross fixed capital formation as a percentage of GDP (excluding mining investment) (GFCF/GDP), labour productivity (LP) and Rand/ Dollar exchange rate (ER). The results from this study show that the explanatory variables without mineral resource governance positively influence GDP in the long run. On the other hand, the diagnostic test results indicate that the model is well specified and fitted since residuals are homoscedastic, normally distributed without autocorrelation. Likewise, the impulse response of real GDP is positive for mineral resource production, fixed capital formation and final consumption by household. Moreover, real GDP reacts negatively from shocks of labour productivity and exchange rate. Based on the outcomes of the study, from a policy perspective, intensified productive activities other than mineral resources production and re-investment of mineral rents could guarantee a sustainable increase in the real gross domestic product of a country in the long run. Furthermore, raw material processing should also be a consideration to foster economic growth in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The impact of monetary policy announcement on financial markets in South Africa
- Authors: Chipfunde, Memory
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Johannesburg Stock Exchange Monetary policy Money market
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12193 , vital:39195
- Description: Monetary policy announcements are among the major decisions that affect the economy as a whole. The purpose of this study was to analyze the impact of monetary policy announcements on equity markets in South Africa during 2014-2015 financial years. That financial period is a unique year for analyzing the impact of monetary announcements on stock returns because the Reserve Bank Governor was changed in the last quarter of 2014. Moreover, interest rates were changed in four monetary policy announcements over the course of two years. This provides a good opportunity to investigate how monetary policy announcements can affect financial markets. The study used an event study methodology whereby a 15-day event window is used as well as a 45-day estimation window. Around the event window, abnormal returns were calculated using the market model and capital asset pricing model (CAPM) was used to calculate expected returns. The results are mixed; (both significant and insignificant) impact of monetary policy announcements on JSE stock returns. Of the 12 interest rates announcements, only four seemed to be significant. It was observed that of the four significant results, three of them were because of a hike in interest rates. The results show an asymmetric response by the market to interest rate changes. The results also suggest that the market anticipated the relative volatility arising from the change of the minister of the reserve bank governor. Following the appointment of the new Central Bank‟s governor in the last quarter of 2014, the first interest rate announcement seemed to have been anticipated by the public thereby rendering it insignificant. Inorder to improve the strength of the results in future, it is important that that there should be the absence of signalling effect in the market. It is recommended that the markets are efficient and the announcements should not be highly anticipated by the public.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Chipfunde, Memory
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Johannesburg Stock Exchange Monetary policy Money market
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12193 , vital:39195
- Description: Monetary policy announcements are among the major decisions that affect the economy as a whole. The purpose of this study was to analyze the impact of monetary policy announcements on equity markets in South Africa during 2014-2015 financial years. That financial period is a unique year for analyzing the impact of monetary announcements on stock returns because the Reserve Bank Governor was changed in the last quarter of 2014. Moreover, interest rates were changed in four monetary policy announcements over the course of two years. This provides a good opportunity to investigate how monetary policy announcements can affect financial markets. The study used an event study methodology whereby a 15-day event window is used as well as a 45-day estimation window. Around the event window, abnormal returns were calculated using the market model and capital asset pricing model (CAPM) was used to calculate expected returns. The results are mixed; (both significant and insignificant) impact of monetary policy announcements on JSE stock returns. Of the 12 interest rates announcements, only four seemed to be significant. It was observed that of the four significant results, three of them were because of a hike in interest rates. The results show an asymmetric response by the market to interest rate changes. The results also suggest that the market anticipated the relative volatility arising from the change of the minister of the reserve bank governor. Following the appointment of the new Central Bank‟s governor in the last quarter of 2014, the first interest rate announcement seemed to have been anticipated by the public thereby rendering it insignificant. Inorder to improve the strength of the results in future, it is important that that there should be the absence of signalling effect in the market. It is recommended that the markets are efficient and the announcements should not be highly anticipated by the public.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The impact of oil price variability on the exchange rate in South Africa
- Authors: Ngonisa, Phillip
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Foreign exchange -- South Africa -- Econometric models Petroleum products -- Prices -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8261 , vital:32108
- Description: Economic theory asserts that exchange rate is a critical variable in the performance of exports and the economy at large. Equally important are variables that affect the exchange rate. In particular, economies that rely on commodity exports are vulnerable to fluctuations in commodity prices. Price volatility of such commodities can lead to significant fluctuations in exchange rates, a phenomenon referred to as commodity currencies. South Africa‘s currency has fluctuated significantly since 1994. Anecdotal evidence suggests that commodity prices may have a significant effect. Of interest is fluctuations in the oil prices, which in themselves have fluctuated greatly over the same period. This study uses a GARCH(1.1) model to investigate the impact of oil price variability on the South African exchange rate by employing the monthly data for a period spanning from January 1994 to December 2014. The results show that oil price variability affects both the level and volatility of the exchange rate. Informal evidence suggests that sovereign credit ratings are an important factor affecting the South African rand. This is supported by the results of this study. Accordingly, both variables carry important information for markets and policy makers at large.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Ngonisa, Phillip
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Foreign exchange -- South Africa -- Econometric models Petroleum products -- Prices -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8261 , vital:32108
- Description: Economic theory asserts that exchange rate is a critical variable in the performance of exports and the economy at large. Equally important are variables that affect the exchange rate. In particular, economies that rely on commodity exports are vulnerable to fluctuations in commodity prices. Price volatility of such commodities can lead to significant fluctuations in exchange rates, a phenomenon referred to as commodity currencies. South Africa‘s currency has fluctuated significantly since 1994. Anecdotal evidence suggests that commodity prices may have a significant effect. Of interest is fluctuations in the oil prices, which in themselves have fluctuated greatly over the same period. This study uses a GARCH(1.1) model to investigate the impact of oil price variability on the South African exchange rate by employing the monthly data for a period spanning from January 1994 to December 2014. The results show that oil price variability affects both the level and volatility of the exchange rate. Informal evidence suggests that sovereign credit ratings are an important factor affecting the South African rand. This is supported by the results of this study. Accordingly, both variables carry important information for markets and policy makers at large.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The impact of oil price volatility on unemployment: a case study of South Africa
- Authors: Senzangakhona, Phakama
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Cointegration -- South Africa Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa Interest rate futures -- South Africa Petroleum products -- Prices -- South Africa Petroleum industry and trade -- South Africa -- Econometric models
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1697 , vital:27550
- Description: This study analyses and investigates the impact of crude oil price vitality on unemployment in South Africa. This is done by firstly surveying theoretical and empirical literature on the crude oil price-unemployment relationship before relating it to South Africa. Secondly, crude oil and unemployment trends with their causes are overviewed. The study employs a Johansen co-integration technique based on VAR to model unemployment against crude oil prices, real effective exchange rate, real interest rates and real gross domestic product. Using quarterly data for the period 1990-2010, econometric results show that crude oil prices are positively related to unemployment in the long run while the opposite is true in the short run. Parameter estimates and variables are statistically significant; hence there are also policy recommendations which are related to both empirical and theoretical literature. Lastly, impulse response functions show that unemployment returns to equilibrium in the long run when crude oil price changes whereas real interest rates followed by crude oil prices explain most of unemployment changes compared to other variables in the long run.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Senzangakhona, Phakama
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Cointegration -- South Africa Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa Interest rate futures -- South Africa Petroleum products -- Prices -- South Africa Petroleum industry and trade -- South Africa -- Econometric models
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1697 , vital:27550
- Description: This study analyses and investigates the impact of crude oil price vitality on unemployment in South Africa. This is done by firstly surveying theoretical and empirical literature on the crude oil price-unemployment relationship before relating it to South Africa. Secondly, crude oil and unemployment trends with their causes are overviewed. The study employs a Johansen co-integration technique based on VAR to model unemployment against crude oil prices, real effective exchange rate, real interest rates and real gross domestic product. Using quarterly data for the period 1990-2010, econometric results show that crude oil prices are positively related to unemployment in the long run while the opposite is true in the short run. Parameter estimates and variables are statistically significant; hence there are also policy recommendations which are related to both empirical and theoretical literature. Lastly, impulse response functions show that unemployment returns to equilibrium in the long run when crude oil price changes whereas real interest rates followed by crude oil prices explain most of unemployment changes compared to other variables in the long run.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The impact of oil prices on the trade balance of South Africa
- Authors: Mili, Akhona
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Petroleum products -- Prices Balance of trade -- South Africa Petroleum industry and trade -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8630 , vital:33228
- Description: The Autoregressive Distributed Lag model was used to estimate and analyse the relationship between crude oil prices and the trade balance of South Africa. This study estimated the trade balance model and analysed the relationship between crude oil prices and the trade balance of South Africa from the period 1990 to 2015. The bounds cointegration test confirmed the existence of a long-run relationship between the trade balance and real oil prices, real effective exchange rate, domestic income, real interest rate and the inflation rate. The results confirm that changes in oil prices have a negative impact on the trade balance whereas, currency devaluation, real interest, inflation rate and domestic income had a positive effect on the trade balance. The negative sign and significance of the Error Correction Term and diagnostic tests confirmed the reliability of the results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mili, Akhona
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Petroleum products -- Prices Balance of trade -- South Africa Petroleum industry and trade -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8630 , vital:33228
- Description: The Autoregressive Distributed Lag model was used to estimate and analyse the relationship between crude oil prices and the trade balance of South Africa. This study estimated the trade balance model and analysed the relationship between crude oil prices and the trade balance of South Africa from the period 1990 to 2015. The bounds cointegration test confirmed the existence of a long-run relationship between the trade balance and real oil prices, real effective exchange rate, domestic income, real interest rate and the inflation rate. The results confirm that changes in oil prices have a negative impact on the trade balance whereas, currency devaluation, real interest, inflation rate and domestic income had a positive effect on the trade balance. The negative sign and significance of the Error Correction Term and diagnostic tests confirmed the reliability of the results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The impact of public health expenditure on health outcomes in South Africa
- Authors: Hlafa, Besuthu
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Health services administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13381 , vital:39639
- Description: Health holds an important position in maintainable economic development since it is both a prerequisite for and an outcome of economic development. This means that health contributes hugely to the attainment of sustainable development and health outcomes. The importance of health is demonstrated in the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) where three of the eight goals are aimed at improving health outcomes. Despite progress made by other middle-income countries in achieving health-related MDGs, South Africa still has worse health outcomes and experiences a challenge in attaining positive outcomes for these goals (Coovadia et al., 2009; Malaudzi 2016). This study’s main focus was to identify the association between public health expenditure and health outcomes in South Africa’s nine provinces from 2002 to 2016. The study implemented fixed effects and a random effects panel data estimation technique to control for time effects and individual province heterogeneity. This was followed by employing the Hausman specification test to identify the fixed effects model as the appropriate estimator for the study. The study also employed the seemingly unrelated regression (SUR) model and the least squares dummy variable (LSDV) model to examine the impact of public health expenditure on each province separately. The findings from the study elucidated that the relationship between public health expenditure and health outcomes in South Africa varied across provinces depending provincial management and infrastructure availability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Hlafa, Besuthu
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Health services administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13381 , vital:39639
- Description: Health holds an important position in maintainable economic development since it is both a prerequisite for and an outcome of economic development. This means that health contributes hugely to the attainment of sustainable development and health outcomes. The importance of health is demonstrated in the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) where three of the eight goals are aimed at improving health outcomes. Despite progress made by other middle-income countries in achieving health-related MDGs, South Africa still has worse health outcomes and experiences a challenge in attaining positive outcomes for these goals (Coovadia et al., 2009; Malaudzi 2016). This study’s main focus was to identify the association between public health expenditure and health outcomes in South Africa’s nine provinces from 2002 to 2016. The study implemented fixed effects and a random effects panel data estimation technique to control for time effects and individual province heterogeneity. This was followed by employing the Hausman specification test to identify the fixed effects model as the appropriate estimator for the study. The study also employed the seemingly unrelated regression (SUR) model and the least squares dummy variable (LSDV) model to examine the impact of public health expenditure on each province separately. The findings from the study elucidated that the relationship between public health expenditure and health outcomes in South Africa varied across provinces depending provincial management and infrastructure availability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
The impact of road construction on the livelihoods of rural communities : a case of Nyandeni Municipality in Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Ndesi, Zabambo Nale
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Roads -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8769 , vital:33542
- Description: All over the world many rural households are engaged in different economic activities to sustain their livelihoods. To a large extent, a household’s ability to do this depends on access to basic assets such as infrastructure, social, human, finance or physical. Access to these assets can be affected by large projects such as road construction which can either enhance or hinder access to key assets. The main objective of the study is to investigate the impact of the construction of the N2 Wild Coast Highway in the Eastern Cape Province on the livelihoods of rural households in the Nyandeni local municipality. The study also seeks to investigate the dominant household economic activities within the municipality, factors affecting the choice of these activities and the probable impact of the construction of the N2 highway on these economic activities and livelihood strategies. The road construction is translated as a ‘shock’ in the livelihood context, hence the study further seeks to document how households respond to road construction ‘shock’ to their livelihoods, based on the findings of the study. The study applied a mixed methods approach, applying both qualitative and quantitative data. Two sources of data are used; a survey of 40 households in the Nyandeni local municipality which provided the qualitative data and survey data from the PSPPD-II quantitative data from project conducted by the Economics department at the University of Fort Hare, which provided the quantitative data. The multinomial logistic regression was used to determine the livelihood strategies used as well as the related determinants. The results showed that financial, social and physical capitals are key assets that support livelihoods in Nyandeni municipality, which were highly determined by the deprivation score, social grants and community networks. To get a clearer understanding of the underlying effects of the road construction, focus prompts interviews were also conducted. These were analysed using thematic analysis. The results showed that the road construction had both the negative and positive effects. The positive effects included better links to social facilities such as hospitals and schools as well as neighbouring municipalities. The construction also created employment for construction workers. In addition, the construction company helped households whose houses were destroyed near the road to build better houses. Although the households complained of danger from high speed vehicles because of better roads, they also indicated that the speed bumps in some areas led to an improvement in well-being especially for school children. The negative effects included destruction of burial grounds as well as the weakening of housing structures due to blasting. Further, some vegetation which was used by households as a source of livelihood was destroyed during road construction. In some cases, social capital assets were also disturbed as a result of the displacement that occurred in the process. Responses by households have been mixed, with some households taking advantage of increased access to markets as well as finances to find alternative sources of livelihoods. Households that responded negatively constantly seek out reimbursement from the government and construction company without much success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ndesi, Zabambo Nale
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Roads -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8769 , vital:33542
- Description: All over the world many rural households are engaged in different economic activities to sustain their livelihoods. To a large extent, a household’s ability to do this depends on access to basic assets such as infrastructure, social, human, finance or physical. Access to these assets can be affected by large projects such as road construction which can either enhance or hinder access to key assets. The main objective of the study is to investigate the impact of the construction of the N2 Wild Coast Highway in the Eastern Cape Province on the livelihoods of rural households in the Nyandeni local municipality. The study also seeks to investigate the dominant household economic activities within the municipality, factors affecting the choice of these activities and the probable impact of the construction of the N2 highway on these economic activities and livelihood strategies. The road construction is translated as a ‘shock’ in the livelihood context, hence the study further seeks to document how households respond to road construction ‘shock’ to their livelihoods, based on the findings of the study. The study applied a mixed methods approach, applying both qualitative and quantitative data. Two sources of data are used; a survey of 40 households in the Nyandeni local municipality which provided the qualitative data and survey data from the PSPPD-II quantitative data from project conducted by the Economics department at the University of Fort Hare, which provided the quantitative data. The multinomial logistic regression was used to determine the livelihood strategies used as well as the related determinants. The results showed that financial, social and physical capitals are key assets that support livelihoods in Nyandeni municipality, which were highly determined by the deprivation score, social grants and community networks. To get a clearer understanding of the underlying effects of the road construction, focus prompts interviews were also conducted. These were analysed using thematic analysis. The results showed that the road construction had both the negative and positive effects. The positive effects included better links to social facilities such as hospitals and schools as well as neighbouring municipalities. The construction also created employment for construction workers. In addition, the construction company helped households whose houses were destroyed near the road to build better houses. Although the households complained of danger from high speed vehicles because of better roads, they also indicated that the speed bumps in some areas led to an improvement in well-being especially for school children. The negative effects included destruction of burial grounds as well as the weakening of housing structures due to blasting. Further, some vegetation which was used by households as a source of livelihood was destroyed during road construction. In some cases, social capital assets were also disturbed as a result of the displacement that occurred in the process. Responses by households have been mixed, with some households taking advantage of increased access to markets as well as finances to find alternative sources of livelihoods. Households that responded negatively constantly seek out reimbursement from the government and construction company without much success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The impact of the Local Economic Development (LED) implementation on socio-economic environments in Intsika local municipality
- Authors: Koyo, Mxolisi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1591 , vital:27481
- Description: Local Economic Development has (LED) become essential in the ever changing global economy. It is seen as a sustainable substitute to traditional development approaches in a dynamic global environment characterised by the emergence of local political players and territorial governance. The research investigated to what extent the implementation of Local Economic Development strategies have turn to be necessary and viable in improving the social and economic state of people in lntsika Yethu Local Municipality. The population for the study was council employees, the mayoral committee and councillors of the lntsika Yethu Local Municipality. The study unity was limited to lntsika Yethu Municipal area. Convenience sampling method or theoretical sampling method was used for the sampling purposes. A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was gathered through the completion of the questionnaire and through focus group interviews using the same set of questions in the questionnaire.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Koyo, Mxolisi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1591 , vital:27481
- Description: Local Economic Development has (LED) become essential in the ever changing global economy. It is seen as a sustainable substitute to traditional development approaches in a dynamic global environment characterised by the emergence of local political players and territorial governance. The research investigated to what extent the implementation of Local Economic Development strategies have turn to be necessary and viable in improving the social and economic state of people in lntsika Yethu Local Municipality. The population for the study was council employees, the mayoral committee and councillors of the lntsika Yethu Local Municipality. The study unity was limited to lntsika Yethu Municipal area. Convenience sampling method or theoretical sampling method was used for the sampling purposes. A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was gathered through the completion of the questionnaire and through focus group interviews using the same set of questions in the questionnaire.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2014
The impact of transport infrastructure investment on unemployment in South Africa
- Authors: Mayekiso, Sipokazi
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Transportation -- South Africa Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2260 , vital:27720
- Description: The transport infrastructure investment has been a subject of many studies for some time, mainly in improving and predicting the economic growth of the country and improving employment in South Africa. Given this, the study examines the impact of transport infrastructure investment on unemployment in South Africa by using time series econometric analysis over the period 1982-2012. Some key variables considered include unemployment, real GDP, real exchange rate, real interest rate, and trade openness total infrastructure investment exclude transport infrastructure investment. To separate the long and short run effect, VECM was employed after ensuring stationarity of the series. The study found that a long run relationship exist between the unemployment, transport infrastructure investment, real GDP, real exchange rate , real interest rate, trade openness and total infrastructure investment exclude transport infrastructure investment. The Results of this thesis have implications for policy and academic work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mayekiso, Sipokazi
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Transportation -- South Africa Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2260 , vital:27720
- Description: The transport infrastructure investment has been a subject of many studies for some time, mainly in improving and predicting the economic growth of the country and improving employment in South Africa. Given this, the study examines the impact of transport infrastructure investment on unemployment in South Africa by using time series econometric analysis over the period 1982-2012. Some key variables considered include unemployment, real GDP, real exchange rate, real interest rate, and trade openness total infrastructure investment exclude transport infrastructure investment. To separate the long and short run effect, VECM was employed after ensuring stationarity of the series. The study found that a long run relationship exist between the unemployment, transport infrastructure investment, real GDP, real exchange rate , real interest rate, trade openness and total infrastructure investment exclude transport infrastructure investment. The Results of this thesis have implications for policy and academic work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
The implementation of leadership development strategic plan : a case study of the department of education in the Eastern Cape province
- Authors: Dom, Khanyiswa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Development leadership Strategic planning Performance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11288 , vital:39053
- Description: The study used qualitative methodology to investigate and evaluate the implementation of leadership development strategic plan in the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Education. The study sought to establish what does the Department‘s policy of leadership development entail to Human Resource Management and Development and what challenges are there in the implementation of the policy and what interventions are necessary to improve the implementation of the leadership policy. The study established that given the need for a transformed public service in line with the post-apartheid democratic dispensation, fundamental reforms to the administration, governance and the funding of education in general had to be given maximum attention hence the need for the adoption and implementation of the leadership development strategic plan in the Provincial Department of Education of the Eastern Cape. The study revealed that the nature of challenges that the department is facing speaks a lot the need for leadership development at the provincial level. However, the implementation of the strategic plan is marred by the challenges that include resources constraints and lack of funding among others. The study therefore came up with some recommendation that can help to improve the implementation of the leadership development plan in the public service sector especially as it relates to the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Dom, Khanyiswa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Development leadership Strategic planning Performance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11288 , vital:39053
- Description: The study used qualitative methodology to investigate and evaluate the implementation of leadership development strategic plan in the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Education. The study sought to establish what does the Department‘s policy of leadership development entail to Human Resource Management and Development and what challenges are there in the implementation of the policy and what interventions are necessary to improve the implementation of the leadership policy. The study established that given the need for a transformed public service in line with the post-apartheid democratic dispensation, fundamental reforms to the administration, governance and the funding of education in general had to be given maximum attention hence the need for the adoption and implementation of the leadership development strategic plan in the Provincial Department of Education of the Eastern Cape. The study revealed that the nature of challenges that the department is facing speaks a lot the need for leadership development at the provincial level. However, the implementation of the strategic plan is marred by the challenges that include resources constraints and lack of funding among others. The study therefore came up with some recommendation that can help to improve the implementation of the leadership development plan in the public service sector especially as it relates to the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The implementation of the back to basics programme by municipalities: a case of Raymond Mhlaba Municipality
- Zengethwa, Noluvuyo Precious
- Authors: Zengethwa, Noluvuyo Precious
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Leadership Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18941 , vital:43001
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the implementation of the Back-to-Basics (B2B) programme in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality. The study used qualitative research design and data was collected using in-depth interviews. The finding of the study revealed that the municipality was able to sufficiently implement the appropriate B2B programme in the community areas. Moreover, the findings identified corruption and mismanagement of funds, improper understanding of the municipality’s IDP and the roles of different government departments, poor communication skills between the municipality ward councillors and the community members, as well as poor service delivery as some of the challenges faced by Raymond Mhlaba Municipality in implementing the Back-To-Basics programmes. Importantly, in respective community areas, the findings revealed that water crises, empty promises and unrealistic/fake promises are some of the negative impacts the community members experienced during the implementation of the B2B programme, which brought little growth and development to the communities. Besides, the findings revealed that the implementation of this programme created employment opportunities for the unemployed youths in the communities. The study, however, concluded that the municipality is not doing enough in the implementation of B2B programme as many communities still complain of poor service delivery. Hence, for effectiveness in the implementation of B2B programme, it is important that the municipality delegates powers to the ward councillors. Furthermore, municipality management needs to refrain from making empty promises to the communities, they must be honest and deliver qualitative services to communities. However, community members should show signs of appreciation to all municipal activities, as well be supportive and ii show lots of interest and willingness attending the municipality’s manifestoes. Finally, the municipality management should ensure transparency, effective communication with the community members, provision of good service delivery, fulfilment of promises, honesty, proper budgetary allocation and spending, effective monitoring and evaluation of the municipal officials, as well as avoiding of nepotism in awarding tenders for the purpose of achieving a smooth running of the municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Zengethwa, Noluvuyo Precious
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Leadership Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18941 , vital:43001
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the implementation of the Back-to-Basics (B2B) programme in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality. The study used qualitative research design and data was collected using in-depth interviews. The finding of the study revealed that the municipality was able to sufficiently implement the appropriate B2B programme in the community areas. Moreover, the findings identified corruption and mismanagement of funds, improper understanding of the municipality’s IDP and the roles of different government departments, poor communication skills between the municipality ward councillors and the community members, as well as poor service delivery as some of the challenges faced by Raymond Mhlaba Municipality in implementing the Back-To-Basics programmes. Importantly, in respective community areas, the findings revealed that water crises, empty promises and unrealistic/fake promises are some of the negative impacts the community members experienced during the implementation of the B2B programme, which brought little growth and development to the communities. Besides, the findings revealed that the implementation of this programme created employment opportunities for the unemployed youths in the communities. The study, however, concluded that the municipality is not doing enough in the implementation of B2B programme as many communities still complain of poor service delivery. Hence, for effectiveness in the implementation of B2B programme, it is important that the municipality delegates powers to the ward councillors. Furthermore, municipality management needs to refrain from making empty promises to the communities, they must be honest and deliver qualitative services to communities. However, community members should show signs of appreciation to all municipal activities, as well be supportive and ii show lots of interest and willingness attending the municipality’s manifestoes. Finally, the municipality management should ensure transparency, effective communication with the community members, provision of good service delivery, fulfilment of promises, honesty, proper budgetary allocation and spending, effective monitoring and evaluation of the municipal officials, as well as avoiding of nepotism in awarding tenders for the purpose of achieving a smooth running of the municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The implications of indigenisation policy on women empowerment in Zimbabwe: A Case Study of Mhondoro-Ngezi District
- Authors: Makosa, Precious Tariro
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Zimbabwe -- Economic policy Women in development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Development Studies)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12406 , vital:39261
- Description: The study sought to establish how the indigenisation policy solves women discrimination by empowering them through the Community Share Ownership Trust revenue. Literature reveals that Zimbabwe was not the first country to implement the indigenization policy as it was implemented in neighbouring countries. The aim of the policy was to disempower foreign investors and empower local people with the aim of lifting up the standards of the discriminated and less privileged, such as women. Based on the results, the study establishes and concludes that discrimination of women was poorly addressed by the indigenization policy due to some factors such as poor presentation of women in the law-making bodies, patriarchal dominance as well as cultural beliefs that supress women, and lack of clarity on policy objectives. Therefore, a top-down approach was used to address the problem of discrimination faced by women at market place. As a result the approach yielded a negative outcome because empowerment of women without women ideas is impossible. Basic Need Approach (BNA) and Capability Approach (CA) are the two approaches discussed in relation to women and Indigenization, Economic and Empowerment policy in Zimbabwe, with a case reference to Mhondoro-Ngezi district. More preference was given to the capability approach. This was so because it helps to explain the abilities and potential in women as entrepreneurs who produce outcomes to development of society and the nation at large. The study was qualitative in nature of which descriptive research design was employed where semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were used as research tools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Makosa, Precious Tariro
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Zimbabwe -- Economic policy Women in development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Development Studies)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12406 , vital:39261
- Description: The study sought to establish how the indigenisation policy solves women discrimination by empowering them through the Community Share Ownership Trust revenue. Literature reveals that Zimbabwe was not the first country to implement the indigenization policy as it was implemented in neighbouring countries. The aim of the policy was to disempower foreign investors and empower local people with the aim of lifting up the standards of the discriminated and less privileged, such as women. Based on the results, the study establishes and concludes that discrimination of women was poorly addressed by the indigenization policy due to some factors such as poor presentation of women in the law-making bodies, patriarchal dominance as well as cultural beliefs that supress women, and lack of clarity on policy objectives. Therefore, a top-down approach was used to address the problem of discrimination faced by women at market place. As a result the approach yielded a negative outcome because empowerment of women without women ideas is impossible. Basic Need Approach (BNA) and Capability Approach (CA) are the two approaches discussed in relation to women and Indigenization, Economic and Empowerment policy in Zimbabwe, with a case reference to Mhondoro-Ngezi district. More preference was given to the capability approach. This was so because it helps to explain the abilities and potential in women as entrepreneurs who produce outcomes to development of society and the nation at large. The study was qualitative in nature of which descriptive research design was employed where semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were used as research tools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
The influence of physical service recovery and online service recovery on trust and relationship retention
- Authors: Dube, Langelihle
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Consumer complaints Customer loyalty Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12766 , vital:39359
- Description: Service mishaps remain a profound topic in business due to their inevitability and detrimental impacts they bring about. As a result of this incessant detrimental effect, service recovery has been initiated into business exchanges to curb such. Moreover, service recovery programmes have been embarked on both in the offline and online delivery systems to retain this diverse need market consisting of the technological averse and experts in trading. This study therefore has to pinpoint the difficulties experienced in offline and online service recovery procedures and demarcate which of the two is the preferred channel. Service failures cut across all sectors and industries, and banking has not been spared in turn. Clients tend to choose a service recovery method based on various factors such as the panel of occurrence, technological skills and awareness, personal behaviours and available options provided by the service provider. Clients tend to choose a service recovery method based on various factors such as the panel of occurrence, technological skills and awareness, personal behaviours and available options provided by the service provider (Buttle, (2009); Clark & Melancon, (2013). The panel of occurrence depicts the method of service delivery that resulted in failed services, thus, an online service delivery is likely to attract an online resolution. Customers who transact online are highly likely to choose the same recovery method due to the associated innate benefits. Technological skills and awareness deal with the client’s articulateness in navigating the business’ website in effort to resolve the encountered problem. Personal behaviours explain that introvert clients would prefer to interact with the system and assistants online to resolve the issue while extroverts will choose the offline methods so as to experience facial interactions. Organisations sometimes detect the panel of solution based on the severity of the problem. Thus, for example, serious problems to be handled using physical means. Assessments of the degree of impact on retaining relations and gaining trust that presently employed recovery strategies pose were unearthed in this study. For physical service recovery, contact, empathy and politeness were assessed on the significance they have in recouping failed services. Responsiveness and the state of the bank’s websites will also depict the degree to which failed clients can be restored in online service delivery. Physical service recovery received greater apprehension by clients during a service error with empathy and politeness emerging as the most customer required successful strategy to enhance relations and trust thereafter. Despite its less preference, online service recovery strategies such as responsiveness and website interface resulted in significant correlations affirming their importance during service delivery and recovery. The measurement model fit quite well with sound goodness of fit indices results as per the comparison with the recommended thresholds. Moreover, the Structural Equation Model fit well with data collected.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Dube, Langelihle
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Consumer complaints Customer loyalty Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12766 , vital:39359
- Description: Service mishaps remain a profound topic in business due to their inevitability and detrimental impacts they bring about. As a result of this incessant detrimental effect, service recovery has been initiated into business exchanges to curb such. Moreover, service recovery programmes have been embarked on both in the offline and online delivery systems to retain this diverse need market consisting of the technological averse and experts in trading. This study therefore has to pinpoint the difficulties experienced in offline and online service recovery procedures and demarcate which of the two is the preferred channel. Service failures cut across all sectors and industries, and banking has not been spared in turn. Clients tend to choose a service recovery method based on various factors such as the panel of occurrence, technological skills and awareness, personal behaviours and available options provided by the service provider. Clients tend to choose a service recovery method based on various factors such as the panel of occurrence, technological skills and awareness, personal behaviours and available options provided by the service provider (Buttle, (2009); Clark & Melancon, (2013). The panel of occurrence depicts the method of service delivery that resulted in failed services, thus, an online service delivery is likely to attract an online resolution. Customers who transact online are highly likely to choose the same recovery method due to the associated innate benefits. Technological skills and awareness deal with the client’s articulateness in navigating the business’ website in effort to resolve the encountered problem. Personal behaviours explain that introvert clients would prefer to interact with the system and assistants online to resolve the issue while extroverts will choose the offline methods so as to experience facial interactions. Organisations sometimes detect the panel of solution based on the severity of the problem. Thus, for example, serious problems to be handled using physical means. Assessments of the degree of impact on retaining relations and gaining trust that presently employed recovery strategies pose were unearthed in this study. For physical service recovery, contact, empathy and politeness were assessed on the significance they have in recouping failed services. Responsiveness and the state of the bank’s websites will also depict the degree to which failed clients can be restored in online service delivery. Physical service recovery received greater apprehension by clients during a service error with empathy and politeness emerging as the most customer required successful strategy to enhance relations and trust thereafter. Despite its less preference, online service recovery strategies such as responsiveness and website interface resulted in significant correlations affirming their importance during service delivery and recovery. The measurement model fit quite well with sound goodness of fit indices results as per the comparison with the recommended thresholds. Moreover, the Structural Equation Model fit well with data collected.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The influence of social media on the intention to vote for student political organisations in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Chininga, Tapiwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Students -- Political activity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Student movements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11506 , vital:39078
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of social media on the intention to vote for students political organizations in the Eastern Cape. The main objectives included measuring the influence of predictor variables such as medium credibility, message credibility, tie strength with peers, identification with the peers, peer communication, user trust, information credibilit on the intention to vote. To measure these hypothesised relationships a conceptual model was developed for the study. Data collection was conducted in the Eastern Cape in which 381 participants were surveyed. To analyse the data the two stage structural equation modeling approach was adopted in which confimatory factor analysis and hypothesis testing was adopted. This was conducted ulitising Structural equation modelling. The main findings of the study were that all the proposed hypotheses were supported with the exception of that of peer commnication and tie strength with peers on the intention to vote. It was also important to note that identification with peers had the strongest impact on the intention to vote while the message credibility had the weakest. The implication was that users feel that the ability to identify with each other influenced their voting intentions however the message itself was irrelevant.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Chininga, Tapiwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Students -- Political activity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Student movements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11506 , vital:39078
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of social media on the intention to vote for students political organizations in the Eastern Cape. The main objectives included measuring the influence of predictor variables such as medium credibility, message credibility, tie strength with peers, identification with the peers, peer communication, user trust, information credibilit on the intention to vote. To measure these hypothesised relationships a conceptual model was developed for the study. Data collection was conducted in the Eastern Cape in which 381 participants were surveyed. To analyse the data the two stage structural equation modeling approach was adopted in which confimatory factor analysis and hypothesis testing was adopted. This was conducted ulitising Structural equation modelling. The main findings of the study were that all the proposed hypotheses were supported with the exception of that of peer commnication and tie strength with peers on the intention to vote. It was also important to note that identification with peers had the strongest impact on the intention to vote while the message credibility had the weakest. The implication was that users feel that the ability to identify with each other influenced their voting intentions however the message itself was irrelevant.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The influence of social media service quality on client loyalty in the South African banking industry
- Authors: Gavaza, Bramwell Kundishora
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa Social media -- South Africa Customer loyalty -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12903 , vital:39389
- Description: The advent of the Internet during the past two decades has changed the way in which businesses operate. Social media networks such as Facebook have become an essential communication element for businesses to interact with clients. The impact and growth rates of Facebook and other forms of social media have made it imperative for all businesses to ensure they have social media strategies in place. Following social media business trends, banks across the world have included social media to market their services. Banks are now emphasising the offering of high client service quality in order to retain clients in this highly competitive environment. Thus, South African banks, as is the case with global banks, need to continuously assess the quality of the services offered to their clients in order to sustainably maintain or grow their market share or to fully utilise its commercial opportunities. This study determined the influence of social media service quality on client loyalty in the South African banking industry. The primary objective was to examine the extent to which social media service quality influence client loyalty in the South African banking industry. The study also determined if social media system availability, efficiency, fulfilment, and privacy has influence on the overall service quality of social media in the South African banking industry. In addition, the study examined the relationship between overall service quality and client loyalty intention in the South African banking industry. The study used a quantitative research approach to collect and analyse the data, and a descriptive research design was utilised for the purpose of this study. Data was collected from both primary and secondary sources of data. An online survey was conducted through Survey Monkey, via a Facebook page titled: Social media service quality in the South African banking industry. An online questionnaire was administered via the Facebook page. The study used a sample of 377 respondents who are Facebook users of the five major banks in South Africa. Analysis and interpretation of findings was done using both the descriptive and inferential statistical measures, with the help of Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) 24 and Lisrel (version 9). The electronic social media service quality (E-S-SERVQUAL) scale which consist of five constructs, namely; social media system availability, efficiency, fulfilment, privacy and overall service quality; and client loyalty intentions were the scales that were adopted for this study. All the scales used in this study were found to be reliable and valid. Findings of the research study proved that social media system availability, fulfilment, and privacy has a significant influence on the overall service quality of social media in the South African banking industry. In addition, findings of the research revealed that social media efficiency does not significantly influence overall service quality of social media in the South African banking industry. Furthermore, findings of the research also proved that the overall service quality of social media positively influences client loyalty intention in the South African banking industry. The study recommended that managers and marketers should constantly evaluate, monitor, and improve the overall service quality of social media offered to their clients, as it leads to a corresponding increase in overall client satisfaction, which in turn leads to client loyalty in the South African banking industry. However, further research studies may be conducted in other developing countries to gain a wider understanding on the influence of social media service quality on client loyalty in the banking industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Gavaza, Bramwell Kundishora
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa Social media -- South Africa Customer loyalty -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12903 , vital:39389
- Description: The advent of the Internet during the past two decades has changed the way in which businesses operate. Social media networks such as Facebook have become an essential communication element for businesses to interact with clients. The impact and growth rates of Facebook and other forms of social media have made it imperative for all businesses to ensure they have social media strategies in place. Following social media business trends, banks across the world have included social media to market their services. Banks are now emphasising the offering of high client service quality in order to retain clients in this highly competitive environment. Thus, South African banks, as is the case with global banks, need to continuously assess the quality of the services offered to their clients in order to sustainably maintain or grow their market share or to fully utilise its commercial opportunities. This study determined the influence of social media service quality on client loyalty in the South African banking industry. The primary objective was to examine the extent to which social media service quality influence client loyalty in the South African banking industry. The study also determined if social media system availability, efficiency, fulfilment, and privacy has influence on the overall service quality of social media in the South African banking industry. In addition, the study examined the relationship between overall service quality and client loyalty intention in the South African banking industry. The study used a quantitative research approach to collect and analyse the data, and a descriptive research design was utilised for the purpose of this study. Data was collected from both primary and secondary sources of data. An online survey was conducted through Survey Monkey, via a Facebook page titled: Social media service quality in the South African banking industry. An online questionnaire was administered via the Facebook page. The study used a sample of 377 respondents who are Facebook users of the five major banks in South Africa. Analysis and interpretation of findings was done using both the descriptive and inferential statistical measures, with the help of Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) 24 and Lisrel (version 9). The electronic social media service quality (E-S-SERVQUAL) scale which consist of five constructs, namely; social media system availability, efficiency, fulfilment, privacy and overall service quality; and client loyalty intentions were the scales that were adopted for this study. All the scales used in this study were found to be reliable and valid. Findings of the research study proved that social media system availability, fulfilment, and privacy has a significant influence on the overall service quality of social media in the South African banking industry. In addition, findings of the research revealed that social media efficiency does not significantly influence overall service quality of social media in the South African banking industry. Furthermore, findings of the research also proved that the overall service quality of social media positively influences client loyalty intention in the South African banking industry. The study recommended that managers and marketers should constantly evaluate, monitor, and improve the overall service quality of social media offered to their clients, as it leads to a corresponding increase in overall client satisfaction, which in turn leads to client loyalty in the South African banking industry. However, further research studies may be conducted in other developing countries to gain a wider understanding on the influence of social media service quality on client loyalty in the banking industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The influence of technology factors on turnover intentions amongst a sample of government employees in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Mahlasela, Samkelisiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Work -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13535 , vital:39677
- Description: Orientation: Technology affects organisations both positively and negatively and in some instances technology factors can result in turnover intentions for certain employees of organisations. Research purpose: The main objective of the study was to investigate how technology-based job autonomy, technology-based job overload and technologybased job monitoring impact turnover intentions of employees. Motivation of the study: Exploring and understanding the relationship between technology factors and turnover intention amongst government employees to determine whether these factors affect government as much as they affect the private sector. Research design, approach and method: This research used a quantitative research approach. It drew a convenience sample of 182 employees (N= 182) from the South African Government. Main findings: The three main findings of the study were: Technology-based job autonomy was positively related to turnover intention. Technology-based job overload was found to be positively related to turnover intention. Finally, technology-based monitoring was found to be positively related to turnover intention. Practical/managerial implications: If organisations do not address the issue of monitoring and overload they are likely to experience many turnover intentions amongst the employees. Furthermore, the organisations with less autonomy are likely to lose their employees which means they will lose the resources that have been serving the organisation for a long time. This will also contribute to the organisation losing many funds as they would constantly have to train new employees. Contribution/value-add: The research adds value to the knowledge about the effects of technology factors on turnover intention by pointing out the reasons that lead to turnover intention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mahlasela, Samkelisiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Work -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13535 , vital:39677
- Description: Orientation: Technology affects organisations both positively and negatively and in some instances technology factors can result in turnover intentions for certain employees of organisations. Research purpose: The main objective of the study was to investigate how technology-based job autonomy, technology-based job overload and technologybased job monitoring impact turnover intentions of employees. Motivation of the study: Exploring and understanding the relationship between technology factors and turnover intention amongst government employees to determine whether these factors affect government as much as they affect the private sector. Research design, approach and method: This research used a quantitative research approach. It drew a convenience sample of 182 employees (N= 182) from the South African Government. Main findings: The three main findings of the study were: Technology-based job autonomy was positively related to turnover intention. Technology-based job overload was found to be positively related to turnover intention. Finally, technology-based monitoring was found to be positively related to turnover intention. Practical/managerial implications: If organisations do not address the issue of monitoring and overload they are likely to experience many turnover intentions amongst the employees. Furthermore, the organisations with less autonomy are likely to lose their employees which means they will lose the resources that have been serving the organisation for a long time. This will also contribute to the organisation losing many funds as they would constantly have to train new employees. Contribution/value-add: The research adds value to the knowledge about the effects of technology factors on turnover intention by pointing out the reasons that lead to turnover intention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018