The effect of entrepreneurial competencies on the performance of small micro and medium enterprises in or Tambo District, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Senzeni, Phumlani
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28960 , vital:75577
- Description: The Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) remain the key competitor in the development of the economy growth of the country. The SMME sector is the key driver to the national economy of countries, as it creates job opportunities, reduce poverty, supports household income, and improve the people’s standard of living. However, the rate at which SMMEs fail to succeed results in non-performance and business closure, and this is alarming and require attention. The reasons for this failure can emanate from a number of reasons, such as lack of entrepreneurial competencies, managerial skills, lack of intellectual personnel, low entrepreneurial culture and obstacles that hinder access to resources and market. Therefore, in this study the researcher examined the effect of entrepreneurial competencies on the performance of SMMEs in OR Tambo District, Eastern Cape. The researcher adopted quantitative research approach. The research data was collected using Google Forms survey method. The emails containing the link to access the instrument were sent to a sample of 399 SMMEs in the OR Tambo District. The response rate of 74%, which is 294 was attained. Thus, the findings of the study discovered that entrepreneurial competencies have significant effect on the performance of SMMEs. The study further found that entrepreneurial competencies “opportunity recognition, creative-problem solving, resource leveraging, and business networking” had a low degree of association with business performance although they are statistically significant to business performance. The self-efficacy was found with a high degree of association with business performance and statistically significant with the achievement of positive beta and low p-value which indicated a strong association to performance. The study made conclusions that entrepreneurial competencies have positive effect on the performance of SMMEs. Therefore, it was concluded that performing and successful SMMEs in the regions means employment opportunities in the country because they require human resources to do operational services and render services. The government and policymakers are encouraged to work together to form and strengthen development programs to assist SMMEs to grow the production capacity, operations and become productive. The SMMEs owners/managers and practitioners on skills development are encouraged to relook and strengthen entrepreneurial competencies that contribute to productivity and performance. , Thesis (DBA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Senzeni, Phumlani
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28960 , vital:75577
- Description: The Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) remain the key competitor in the development of the economy growth of the country. The SMME sector is the key driver to the national economy of countries, as it creates job opportunities, reduce poverty, supports household income, and improve the people’s standard of living. However, the rate at which SMMEs fail to succeed results in non-performance and business closure, and this is alarming and require attention. The reasons for this failure can emanate from a number of reasons, such as lack of entrepreneurial competencies, managerial skills, lack of intellectual personnel, low entrepreneurial culture and obstacles that hinder access to resources and market. Therefore, in this study the researcher examined the effect of entrepreneurial competencies on the performance of SMMEs in OR Tambo District, Eastern Cape. The researcher adopted quantitative research approach. The research data was collected using Google Forms survey method. The emails containing the link to access the instrument were sent to a sample of 399 SMMEs in the OR Tambo District. The response rate of 74%, which is 294 was attained. Thus, the findings of the study discovered that entrepreneurial competencies have significant effect on the performance of SMMEs. The study further found that entrepreneurial competencies “opportunity recognition, creative-problem solving, resource leveraging, and business networking” had a low degree of association with business performance although they are statistically significant to business performance. The self-efficacy was found with a high degree of association with business performance and statistically significant with the achievement of positive beta and low p-value which indicated a strong association to performance. The study made conclusions that entrepreneurial competencies have positive effect on the performance of SMMEs. Therefore, it was concluded that performing and successful SMMEs in the regions means employment opportunities in the country because they require human resources to do operational services and render services. The government and policymakers are encouraged to work together to form and strengthen development programs to assist SMMEs to grow the production capacity, operations and become productive. The SMMEs owners/managers and practitioners on skills development are encouraged to relook and strengthen entrepreneurial competencies that contribute to productivity and performance. , Thesis (DBA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
The contribution of export support programmes for small and medium enterprises in the agro-processing sector in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Fihlani, Asisipho
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51400 , vital:43271
- Description: Globally, government export support programmes have been created to assist SMEs with exports. In South Africa, there has been an introduction of government export support programme. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the contribution of the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) for SMEs in the agro-processing sector in the Eastern Cape, with specific focus on East London and Port Elizabeth. A qualitative methodology meant to acquire in-depth knowledge was employed in the study. A case study was developed, in which EMIA’s contribution to SMEs’ export was the case in study. A group of seventeen participants, which included government officials and SMEs were interviewed and thematic analysis was used to evaluate the contribution of EMIA to agro-processing SME exports. The study found that EMIA was useful towards SME exports but lacked on addressing key barriers to exports faced by SMEs. The study recommends that government should place more emphasis on linking SMEs with proper contacts of buyers in international markets and that SMEs should be incentivised for costs relating to logistics for initial export orders. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Finance, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Fihlani, Asisipho
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51400 , vital:43271
- Description: Globally, government export support programmes have been created to assist SMEs with exports. In South Africa, there has been an introduction of government export support programme. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the contribution of the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) for SMEs in the agro-processing sector in the Eastern Cape, with specific focus on East London and Port Elizabeth. A qualitative methodology meant to acquire in-depth knowledge was employed in the study. A case study was developed, in which EMIA’s contribution to SMEs’ export was the case in study. A group of seventeen participants, which included government officials and SMEs were interviewed and thematic analysis was used to evaluate the contribution of EMIA to agro-processing SME exports. The study found that EMIA was useful towards SME exports but lacked on addressing key barriers to exports faced by SMEs. The study recommends that government should place more emphasis on linking SMEs with proper contacts of buyers in international markets and that SMEs should be incentivised for costs relating to logistics for initial export orders. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Finance, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Government support and sustainable small, medium enterprises (SMEs) in the ocean economy: a case of Eastern Cape
- Authors: Zilimbola, Mlungiseleli
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marine resources -- Economic aspects Shipping -- Economic aspects Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44291 , vital:37149
- Description: In the past few years, South Africa has started to follow other developing countries, such as Japan and Greece, in pursuit of oceans economy. The presidency launched operation phakisa in Port Elizabeth in 2016 with the hope that it would contribute greatly to job creation and economic development in South Africa. It has been noted that oceans economy is a wide concept and covers a number of activities/sectors in the oceans. This study will focus on different economic is a wide concept and covers a number of activities, such as transport, fishing, bunkering and many other economic activities. This study seeks to investigate the strategic role of SMEs in the oceans economy. In accordance with the report drafted by the small enterprise development agency (seda) in 2016, which was commissioned by the department of trade and industry , the report show that SMMEs are struggling because of access to finance and markets, poor infrastructure, labour laws, crime, skills shortages.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Zilimbola, Mlungiseleli
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marine resources -- Economic aspects Shipping -- Economic aspects Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44291 , vital:37149
- Description: In the past few years, South Africa has started to follow other developing countries, such as Japan and Greece, in pursuit of oceans economy. The presidency launched operation phakisa in Port Elizabeth in 2016 with the hope that it would contribute greatly to job creation and economic development in South Africa. It has been noted that oceans economy is a wide concept and covers a number of activities/sectors in the oceans. This study will focus on different economic is a wide concept and covers a number of activities, such as transport, fishing, bunkering and many other economic activities. This study seeks to investigate the strategic role of SMEs in the oceans economy. In accordance with the report drafted by the small enterprise development agency (seda) in 2016, which was commissioned by the department of trade and industry , the report show that SMMEs are struggling because of access to finance and markets, poor infrastructure, labour laws, crime, skills shortages.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
The entrepreneurial orientation and performance of African immigrant-owned small businesses in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Akah Ndang, William
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13868 , vital:27315
- Description: Given the rapid inflow of African immigrant entrepreneurs into South Africa, as well as the lack of understanding and research attention given to African immigrant entrepreneurial orientation, the failure rate of their businesses in South Africa is very high. The purpose of this study is to contribute to more effective and robust African immigrant entrepreneurship in South Africa by investigating the impact of African immigrant entrepreneurial orientation on business performance. With this purpose in mind, the primary objective of this study is to establish the level of entrepreneurial orientation of African immigrant-owned small businesses in the Eastern Cape Province, and to determine the influence of this orientation on business performance. This study sets out to pull together previous findings and theories on the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation, and business performance, to find support for the theories on the determinants of entrepreneurial orientation in the literature, and to combine these findings into a simple model. An overview of small businesses was first conducted, in which the nature of small businesses and African immigrant-owned small businesses was taken into consideration, as well as the role small businesses play within the economy and the different challenges small businesses face. The dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation were discussed. These included Innovativeness, Pro-activeness, Risk-taking, Competitive aggressiveness, and Autonomy. Business performance was discussed and was measured in terms of financial and non-financial measures. The resource based view was also discussed and human, social, and financial capitals were taken into consideration. A proposed theoretical framework was established to show the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and business performance of African immigrant-owned small businesses and this was later tested by developing a hypothesis. A structured questionnaire was developed and data was collected through these self-administered questionnaires. They were made available to the respondents by a means of the snowball technique and data was collected from 218 respondents. Each construct was defined and operationalised. This was done by using themes from previous studies, as well as self developed themes. Cronbach‟s alpha coefficients were used to confirm reliability and validity of the measuring instruments. Completed questionnaires were subject to different statistical tests. A descriptive analysis was carried out, as well as an exploratory factor analysis, multiple regression and an analysis of variance. The findings of this study showed that Innovativeness has a negative relationship to Business performance whilst Competitive aggressiveness, Proactiveness, Risk-taking, and Autonomy have a significant positive relationship to Business performance. Furthermore, the findings established that Financial capital has a significant relationship to Competitive aggressiveness, Innovativeness, and Proactiveness, whilst there is no relationship to Risk-taking and Autonomy. In addition, it was established that there is a significant relationship between Human capital and Competitive aggressiveness, Proactiveness, and Autonomy, whilst there is no relationship to Innovativeness and Risk-taking. Moreover, the study also showed that a relationship exists between some selected demographic variables of the African immigrant-owned small business and entrepreneurial orientation, as measured by Innovativeness (H1a), Pro-activeness (H1b), Risk-taking (H1c), Competitive aggressiveness (H1d) and Autonomy (H1e). An exception was the demographic variable, the Level of education, which was not found to be as stipulated in the hypothesis. In the context of this study, it was found that 62% of change in African immigrant-owned small business performance is affected by entrepreneurial orientation while other factors accounted for the remaining 38%. Management should revisit its entrepreneurial orientation capabilities and determine whether these are delivering values. This will require a review of policies and procedures in addition to benchmarking these activities to identify whether the business is committing an unwarranted and misplaced amount of resources to a given entrepreneurial orientation activity. Blind pursuit of the uniform implementation of an entrepreneurial dimension is not an effective way for African immigrant-owned small businesses to create an advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Akah Ndang, William
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13868 , vital:27315
- Description: Given the rapid inflow of African immigrant entrepreneurs into South Africa, as well as the lack of understanding and research attention given to African immigrant entrepreneurial orientation, the failure rate of their businesses in South Africa is very high. The purpose of this study is to contribute to more effective and robust African immigrant entrepreneurship in South Africa by investigating the impact of African immigrant entrepreneurial orientation on business performance. With this purpose in mind, the primary objective of this study is to establish the level of entrepreneurial orientation of African immigrant-owned small businesses in the Eastern Cape Province, and to determine the influence of this orientation on business performance. This study sets out to pull together previous findings and theories on the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation, and business performance, to find support for the theories on the determinants of entrepreneurial orientation in the literature, and to combine these findings into a simple model. An overview of small businesses was first conducted, in which the nature of small businesses and African immigrant-owned small businesses was taken into consideration, as well as the role small businesses play within the economy and the different challenges small businesses face. The dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation were discussed. These included Innovativeness, Pro-activeness, Risk-taking, Competitive aggressiveness, and Autonomy. Business performance was discussed and was measured in terms of financial and non-financial measures. The resource based view was also discussed and human, social, and financial capitals were taken into consideration. A proposed theoretical framework was established to show the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and business performance of African immigrant-owned small businesses and this was later tested by developing a hypothesis. A structured questionnaire was developed and data was collected through these self-administered questionnaires. They were made available to the respondents by a means of the snowball technique and data was collected from 218 respondents. Each construct was defined and operationalised. This was done by using themes from previous studies, as well as self developed themes. Cronbach‟s alpha coefficients were used to confirm reliability and validity of the measuring instruments. Completed questionnaires were subject to different statistical tests. A descriptive analysis was carried out, as well as an exploratory factor analysis, multiple regression and an analysis of variance. The findings of this study showed that Innovativeness has a negative relationship to Business performance whilst Competitive aggressiveness, Proactiveness, Risk-taking, and Autonomy have a significant positive relationship to Business performance. Furthermore, the findings established that Financial capital has a significant relationship to Competitive aggressiveness, Innovativeness, and Proactiveness, whilst there is no relationship to Risk-taking and Autonomy. In addition, it was established that there is a significant relationship between Human capital and Competitive aggressiveness, Proactiveness, and Autonomy, whilst there is no relationship to Innovativeness and Risk-taking. Moreover, the study also showed that a relationship exists between some selected demographic variables of the African immigrant-owned small business and entrepreneurial orientation, as measured by Innovativeness (H1a), Pro-activeness (H1b), Risk-taking (H1c), Competitive aggressiveness (H1d) and Autonomy (H1e). An exception was the demographic variable, the Level of education, which was not found to be as stipulated in the hypothesis. In the context of this study, it was found that 62% of change in African immigrant-owned small business performance is affected by entrepreneurial orientation while other factors accounted for the remaining 38%. Management should revisit its entrepreneurial orientation capabilities and determine whether these are delivering values. This will require a review of policies and procedures in addition to benchmarking these activities to identify whether the business is committing an unwarranted and misplaced amount of resources to a given entrepreneurial orientation activity. Blind pursuit of the uniform implementation of an entrepreneurial dimension is not an effective way for African immigrant-owned small businesses to create an advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Measures of success of small and medium-sized family and non-family-owned businesses in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Carelsen, Mispah
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Success in business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3479 , vital:20434
- Description: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are recognised internationally and in South Africa as a critical component of the economic development of a country as a result of their contribution to job creation, alleviation of poverty, sustainability and innovation. Furthermore, the majority of SMEs are also family-owned and play an increasingly important role in the South African economy, making up approximately 84 per cent of businesses in the country. Despite the critical role that family and non-family SMEs play in economic development, they are still plagued with high failure rates and unique challenges that make it difficult for them to survive. These challenges include, amongst others, regulatory burdens, restrictive labour policies, a lack of access to finance, markets and technology, as well as an overwhelmingly constant emphasis on survival. As a result of the added dynamic of family relationships within family-owned SMEs, they face additional challenges such as conflict between family members and inadequate succession planning. Focus is often placed on the factors leading to failure, but little is known about success-aiding behaviours that could reduce the high failure rate and improve the success rate of these businesses. As a result, it is important to examine what determines success and how it is measured. Success can be defined as the attainment of goals, therefore the achievement of goals plays a critical role in the success of the business.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Carelsen, Mispah
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Success in business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3479 , vital:20434
- Description: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are recognised internationally and in South Africa as a critical component of the economic development of a country as a result of their contribution to job creation, alleviation of poverty, sustainability and innovation. Furthermore, the majority of SMEs are also family-owned and play an increasingly important role in the South African economy, making up approximately 84 per cent of businesses in the country. Despite the critical role that family and non-family SMEs play in economic development, they are still plagued with high failure rates and unique challenges that make it difficult for them to survive. These challenges include, amongst others, regulatory burdens, restrictive labour policies, a lack of access to finance, markets and technology, as well as an overwhelmingly constant emphasis on survival. As a result of the added dynamic of family relationships within family-owned SMEs, they face additional challenges such as conflict between family members and inadequate succession planning. Focus is often placed on the factors leading to failure, but little is known about success-aiding behaviours that could reduce the high failure rate and improve the success rate of these businesses. As a result, it is important to examine what determines success and how it is measured. Success can be defined as the attainment of goals, therefore the achievement of goals plays a critical role in the success of the business.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
Impact of microfinance institutions on small business sustainability in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Mgoduka, Bulelwa Keitumetse
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Microfinance , Financial institutions -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8564 , vital:26407
- Description: The rise of microfinance in South Africa as a development trajectory has dismissed ideas that small business enterprises have no significant contribution to the economic growth and development of the country. The primary objective of the study is to assess the impact of microfinance service providers on the success and sustainability of small business enterprises in the Nelson Mandela Bay. By applying descriptive statistics, 2 ordinary least square regression analyses as well as correlation matrix; the results reveal that microfinance has a positive and significant impact on the success and sustainability on small business enterprises in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The research findings hold a variety of implications for Government and policymakers. The study recommends that the microfinance sector must be under good governance through the microfinance regulatory and supervisory structures, since the sector contributes a great deal towards one of the most important objectives of the Post-Apartheid Government. Further, small business entrepreneurs must be well exposed to the requirements, standards and norms which govern the financial sector. This is particularly important in terms of the National Credit Act provisions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mgoduka, Bulelwa Keitumetse
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Microfinance , Financial institutions -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8564 , vital:26407
- Description: The rise of microfinance in South Africa as a development trajectory has dismissed ideas that small business enterprises have no significant contribution to the economic growth and development of the country. The primary objective of the study is to assess the impact of microfinance service providers on the success and sustainability of small business enterprises in the Nelson Mandela Bay. By applying descriptive statistics, 2 ordinary least square regression analyses as well as correlation matrix; the results reveal that microfinance has a positive and significant impact on the success and sustainability on small business enterprises in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The research findings hold a variety of implications for Government and policymakers. The study recommends that the microfinance sector must be under good governance through the microfinance regulatory and supervisory structures, since the sector contributes a great deal towards one of the most important objectives of the Post-Apartheid Government. Further, small business entrepreneurs must be well exposed to the requirements, standards and norms which govern the financial sector. This is particularly important in terms of the National Credit Act provisions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Customer relationship management in small to medium tourism enterprises (SMTEs) in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Vallabh, Dinesh
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Customer relations -- Management , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9322 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020797
- Description: The role of entrepreneurship in small to medium tourism enterprises is well recognised and acknowledged as a significant contributor to economic development and employment opportunities. Worldwide, small to medium tourism enterprises play a dominant role in the tourism industry. These businesses are often vulnerable to external economic forces and find it increasingly difficult to transform their strategic and operational management to face the challenges placed upon them. This study focuses on small to medium tourism enterprises in the Eastern Cape Province, which is economically the poorest province of South Africa. To ensure the growth and sustainability of small to medium tourism enterprises, owners need to make efficient and effective business decisions regarding the challenges their businesses face. The study examines the factors impacting customer relationship management in the context of small to medium tourism enterprises in the Eastern Cape. Customer relationship management, that is, building relationships with customers, has become of pivotal importance to many organisations as businesses strive to be competitive and profitable. While large organisations practice customer relationship management to enable them to better target profitable customers, improve customer services, enhance customer retention and ultimately improve business performance, small businesses often need assistance in understanding and effecting this complex relationship. The factors that could impact customer relationship management in the organisations are the focus of this study. Three major factors were identified, namely, strategic, operational, and organisational factors. The study furthermore examined the extent to which these factors are present in the tourism and hospitality sector of the Eastern Cape and investigated the relationships between these factors. Quantitative research was deemed appropriate for this study. Systematic random sampling was employed to select a sample of 332 respondent organisations from the 2012 database of the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency consisting of formally registered small to medium tourism enterprises. A total of 310 usable questionnaires were finally obtained. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the study. Descriptive statistics were computed to reflect the organisations‟ and respondent managers‟ general characteristics and to summarise their measurement scores. Using inferential statistics, the study further investigated relationships between customer relationship management factors, as well as demographic factors. Data were subjected to exploratory factor analysis and both the validity (refer to section 2.10.1) and reliability (refer to section 2.10.2) of the research instrument was assessed. The relationships between customer relationship management variables were also investigated (refer to section 2.11.4). The research results support an overall significant association between customer relationship management readiness and business strategy, customer strategy, touch points and competencies, skills and technology. Relationships were also explored among customer relationship management factors and demographic characteristics. Significant results were found between perceived business performance and the gender of managers, family businesses and gross annual turnover. The most salient contributions of this research can be summarised as follows. The overview of the importance of tourism and the role of small to medium enterprises in the tourism and hospitality industry of the Eastern Cape will benefit researchers and potential owners who have an interest in this sector. The study contributes to an improved understanding of the factors that should precede customer relationship management. The study established a profile of the small to medium tourism enterprises in the Eastern Cape which can serve as a basis for future research. A measuring instrument for assessing respondents‟ views on the existence of the strategic, operational and organisational factors in their organisations was developed. This instrument showed good internal validity and reliability and can serve as a basis for the same purpose in contexts other than the tourism and hospitality sector. This research has made a contribution toward a largely under-researched area concerning customer relationship management in small to medium enterprises. Recommendations for managers and consideration of future research included the following. Managers need to have a strategic vision and a strong customer-centric focus. Through understanding customers and their needs, offerings can be tailored to maximize the overall value of customers, thereby, improving business performance. Through efficient operational processes in place, enhanced customer service levels can be attained in the organisations. Managers need to effectively manage customer information through data warehousing and technology. Top management commitment is a crucial element for ensuring improved customer services. Managers need to train staff with respect to customer services, thus enhancing CRM. Future researchers can conduct a longitudinal study and investigate the same factors which could impact customer relationship management. A verification of the usefulness of the measuring instrument in examining the determinants of customer relationship management and the level of development regarding other small businesses is suggested. It is recommended that this study be replicated abroad in an effort to verify to what extent the determinants of customer relationship management are evident in small businesses of other countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Vallabh, Dinesh
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Customer relations -- Management , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9322 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020797
- Description: The role of entrepreneurship in small to medium tourism enterprises is well recognised and acknowledged as a significant contributor to economic development and employment opportunities. Worldwide, small to medium tourism enterprises play a dominant role in the tourism industry. These businesses are often vulnerable to external economic forces and find it increasingly difficult to transform their strategic and operational management to face the challenges placed upon them. This study focuses on small to medium tourism enterprises in the Eastern Cape Province, which is economically the poorest province of South Africa. To ensure the growth and sustainability of small to medium tourism enterprises, owners need to make efficient and effective business decisions regarding the challenges their businesses face. The study examines the factors impacting customer relationship management in the context of small to medium tourism enterprises in the Eastern Cape. Customer relationship management, that is, building relationships with customers, has become of pivotal importance to many organisations as businesses strive to be competitive and profitable. While large organisations practice customer relationship management to enable them to better target profitable customers, improve customer services, enhance customer retention and ultimately improve business performance, small businesses often need assistance in understanding and effecting this complex relationship. The factors that could impact customer relationship management in the organisations are the focus of this study. Three major factors were identified, namely, strategic, operational, and organisational factors. The study furthermore examined the extent to which these factors are present in the tourism and hospitality sector of the Eastern Cape and investigated the relationships between these factors. Quantitative research was deemed appropriate for this study. Systematic random sampling was employed to select a sample of 332 respondent organisations from the 2012 database of the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency consisting of formally registered small to medium tourism enterprises. A total of 310 usable questionnaires were finally obtained. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the study. Descriptive statistics were computed to reflect the organisations‟ and respondent managers‟ general characteristics and to summarise their measurement scores. Using inferential statistics, the study further investigated relationships between customer relationship management factors, as well as demographic factors. Data were subjected to exploratory factor analysis and both the validity (refer to section 2.10.1) and reliability (refer to section 2.10.2) of the research instrument was assessed. The relationships between customer relationship management variables were also investigated (refer to section 2.11.4). The research results support an overall significant association between customer relationship management readiness and business strategy, customer strategy, touch points and competencies, skills and technology. Relationships were also explored among customer relationship management factors and demographic characteristics. Significant results were found between perceived business performance and the gender of managers, family businesses and gross annual turnover. The most salient contributions of this research can be summarised as follows. The overview of the importance of tourism and the role of small to medium enterprises in the tourism and hospitality industry of the Eastern Cape will benefit researchers and potential owners who have an interest in this sector. The study contributes to an improved understanding of the factors that should precede customer relationship management. The study established a profile of the small to medium tourism enterprises in the Eastern Cape which can serve as a basis for future research. A measuring instrument for assessing respondents‟ views on the existence of the strategic, operational and organisational factors in their organisations was developed. This instrument showed good internal validity and reliability and can serve as a basis for the same purpose in contexts other than the tourism and hospitality sector. This research has made a contribution toward a largely under-researched area concerning customer relationship management in small to medium enterprises. Recommendations for managers and consideration of future research included the following. Managers need to have a strategic vision and a strong customer-centric focus. Through understanding customers and their needs, offerings can be tailored to maximize the overall value of customers, thereby, improving business performance. Through efficient operational processes in place, enhanced customer service levels can be attained in the organisations. Managers need to effectively manage customer information through data warehousing and technology. Top management commitment is a crucial element for ensuring improved customer services. Managers need to train staff with respect to customer services, thus enhancing CRM. Future researchers can conduct a longitudinal study and investigate the same factors which could impact customer relationship management. A verification of the usefulness of the measuring instrument in examining the determinants of customer relationship management and the level of development regarding other small businesses is suggested. It is recommended that this study be replicated abroad in an effort to verify to what extent the determinants of customer relationship management are evident in small businesses of other countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The impact of labour laws on small firms : a study of employer perceptions of the Labour Relations Act (66 of 1995) and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (75 of 1997) in Grahamstown, Port Alfred and Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Mfecane, Asanda
- Date: 2014 , 2014-07-10
- Subjects: Industrial relations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial laws and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3371 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012953
- Description: This study sought to explore and explain the impact of labour laws on small firms, focusing on employer perceptions of the Labour Relations Act of 1995 and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act of 1997 in three towns of the Eastern Cape. It is important to focus on this impact of labour laws on these firms because of the high unemployment that faces the country. In this regard, it must be emphasised, firstly, that small firms are central to job creation; therefore, they contribute to a reduction in the unemployment rate; hence, the strategies created by the government to reduce any burdens (including regulatory burdens) on small firms. It is therefore important to study the impact of labour law on small businesses in order to assess the regulatory burden on small firms. The theoretical framework which underpins this study on the impact of labour law on small firms arises from the neo-corporatist critique of neo-liberalism. The two frameworks maintain the extent to which the government should intervene in the industrial relations system. Liberalism maintains that there should be a minimum role of the government, which involves only the facilitation of a framework for negotiations between employers and employees. Corporatism, however, maintains a social democratic approach, and holds that there should be an active role of the government in the industrial relations system with business, labour and the state working co-operatively (Klerck, 2009). This theoretical framework therefore shapes the extent to which employers perceive labour laws or state’s regulatory role impacts small businesses. The data was collected through the qualitative inquiry; using face-to-face, semi-structured interviews. The findings in this study included negative employer perceptions of labour laws. More specifically, many of the employers that were interviewed claimed that labour laws were burdensome on their businesses. They claimed that labour laws imposed financial and administrative costs to their firms, negatively affected the employer-employee relationships in these firms as well as the employing decisions of the employers. As a result, the employers saw labour laws as undermining flexibility and imposing unfair rigidities on small firms. Furthermore, employers perceived South African labour laws as not addressing the unique iii circumstances of small firms. They maintained that labour laws treated small firms similarly to large firms. Even though the employers held these perceptions of labour laws, it was evident that these subjective perceptions did not reflect the objective impact of labour laws on small firms. This was firstly related to the fact that many of the employers that were interviewed had negative views of labour laws but these views were not substantiated by particular events in their firms. Secondly, it was revealed that the employers’ perceptions of labour laws were based on their misconception or misunderstanding of labour law. Thirdly, it was revealed in this thesis that small firms were not affected in the same way to big firms by labour regulation. This was related to the fact that many of the small firms’ employers that were interviewed tended to be less concerned by regulation. Specifically, although many employers that were interviewed claimed that labour laws were burdensome on their firms it was evident that regulation was avoided because of the informality that characterised these firms. Consequently informality mediated the impact of labour laws on these firms, and labour laws imposed less ‘costs’ on these firms. However, it cannot be argued that small firms are isolated from the sphere of labour laws. Rather, although these firms were governed by regulation it was found that the extent to which employers complied with regulation depended on the extent to which organisational practice already reflected similarity with the legislative objective. , Acrobat PDFMaker 10.1 for Word , Adobe PDF Library 10.0
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mfecane, Asanda
- Date: 2014 , 2014-07-10
- Subjects: Industrial relations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial laws and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3371 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012953
- Description: This study sought to explore and explain the impact of labour laws on small firms, focusing on employer perceptions of the Labour Relations Act of 1995 and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act of 1997 in three towns of the Eastern Cape. It is important to focus on this impact of labour laws on these firms because of the high unemployment that faces the country. In this regard, it must be emphasised, firstly, that small firms are central to job creation; therefore, they contribute to a reduction in the unemployment rate; hence, the strategies created by the government to reduce any burdens (including regulatory burdens) on small firms. It is therefore important to study the impact of labour law on small businesses in order to assess the regulatory burden on small firms. The theoretical framework which underpins this study on the impact of labour law on small firms arises from the neo-corporatist critique of neo-liberalism. The two frameworks maintain the extent to which the government should intervene in the industrial relations system. Liberalism maintains that there should be a minimum role of the government, which involves only the facilitation of a framework for negotiations between employers and employees. Corporatism, however, maintains a social democratic approach, and holds that there should be an active role of the government in the industrial relations system with business, labour and the state working co-operatively (Klerck, 2009). This theoretical framework therefore shapes the extent to which employers perceive labour laws or state’s regulatory role impacts small businesses. The data was collected through the qualitative inquiry; using face-to-face, semi-structured interviews. The findings in this study included negative employer perceptions of labour laws. More specifically, many of the employers that were interviewed claimed that labour laws were burdensome on their businesses. They claimed that labour laws imposed financial and administrative costs to their firms, negatively affected the employer-employee relationships in these firms as well as the employing decisions of the employers. As a result, the employers saw labour laws as undermining flexibility and imposing unfair rigidities on small firms. Furthermore, employers perceived South African labour laws as not addressing the unique iii circumstances of small firms. They maintained that labour laws treated small firms similarly to large firms. Even though the employers held these perceptions of labour laws, it was evident that these subjective perceptions did not reflect the objective impact of labour laws on small firms. This was firstly related to the fact that many of the employers that were interviewed had negative views of labour laws but these views were not substantiated by particular events in their firms. Secondly, it was revealed that the employers’ perceptions of labour laws were based on their misconception or misunderstanding of labour law. Thirdly, it was revealed in this thesis that small firms were not affected in the same way to big firms by labour regulation. This was related to the fact that many of the small firms’ employers that were interviewed tended to be less concerned by regulation. Specifically, although many employers that were interviewed claimed that labour laws were burdensome on their firms it was evident that regulation was avoided because of the informality that characterised these firms. Consequently informality mediated the impact of labour laws on these firms, and labour laws imposed less ‘costs’ on these firms. However, it cannot be argued that small firms are isolated from the sphere of labour laws. Rather, although these firms were governed by regulation it was found that the extent to which employers complied with regulation depended on the extent to which organisational practice already reflected similarity with the legislative objective. , Acrobat PDFMaker 10.1 for Word , Adobe PDF Library 10.0
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The influence of gender on access to venture capital and firm performance in small, medium and micro enterprises in King Williams Town, South Africa
- Authors: Shava, Herring
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Venture capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/767 , vital:26495 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Venture capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study examined the influence of gender on access to venture capital and firm performance on Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises in King Williams Town, South Africa. This study sought to establish whether there was differential access to venture capital between genders; to establish whether men- and women-owned SMMEs differ in performance; to identify whether an association between gender and business related experience can be found; and to assess the extent to which the gender gap in SMME access to venture capital and performance could be allocated to gender differences in levels of business related experience. A total sample of 109 SMMEs was used which comprised 53 female- and 56 male-owned. The quota sampling technique was implemented and a self-administered questionnaire was used for the purpose of gathering primary data. Data for this study was gathered from SMME owners only as they were the targeted respondents. The t-test and Chi-square test were used for the statistical analysis in order to arrive at findings and conclusions. Based on a 64% survey response rate, the study reports the existence of statistically significant gender gap in SMME access to venture capital and SMME performance. In addition, this study also reports the existence of a gender gap in business related experience amongst SMME owners. However, after controlling for business related experience, the gender gap in SMMEs access to venture capital and performance disappears. This study therefore argues that the variation in business related experience between gender plays a major role in the noted gender gap. This study therefore concludes that addressing gender gap in business related experience is of vital importance as this would also assist in eliminating the apparent gender gap in access to venture capital and firm performance. To address the gender gap in business related experience, the study recommends that innovations in the design and delivery of training programmes should be implemented. Establishing and monitoring targets for current women managers who are also potential future business owners/SMME owners, should be a policy being practiced in both the private and public sector, among other recommendations outlined in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Shava, Herring
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Venture capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/767 , vital:26495 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Venture capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study examined the influence of gender on access to venture capital and firm performance on Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises in King Williams Town, South Africa. This study sought to establish whether there was differential access to venture capital between genders; to establish whether men- and women-owned SMMEs differ in performance; to identify whether an association between gender and business related experience can be found; and to assess the extent to which the gender gap in SMME access to venture capital and performance could be allocated to gender differences in levels of business related experience. A total sample of 109 SMMEs was used which comprised 53 female- and 56 male-owned. The quota sampling technique was implemented and a self-administered questionnaire was used for the purpose of gathering primary data. Data for this study was gathered from SMME owners only as they were the targeted respondents. The t-test and Chi-square test were used for the statistical analysis in order to arrive at findings and conclusions. Based on a 64% survey response rate, the study reports the existence of statistically significant gender gap in SMME access to venture capital and SMME performance. In addition, this study also reports the existence of a gender gap in business related experience amongst SMME owners. However, after controlling for business related experience, the gender gap in SMMEs access to venture capital and performance disappears. This study therefore argues that the variation in business related experience between gender plays a major role in the noted gender gap. This study therefore concludes that addressing gender gap in business related experience is of vital importance as this would also assist in eliminating the apparent gender gap in access to venture capital and firm performance. To address the gender gap in business related experience, the study recommends that innovations in the design and delivery of training programmes should be implemented. Establishing and monitoring targets for current women managers who are also potential future business owners/SMME owners, should be a policy being practiced in both the private and public sector, among other recommendations outlined in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An exploration of corporate social responsibility in SME liquor retail outlets in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mupazi, Rutendo Getrude
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Retail trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor laws -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/799 , vital:26498 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Retail trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor laws -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In the contemporary business environment, a plethora of retail literature exists which examine the influence of CSR on the business. However, literature that explores Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the liquor retail sector has been relatively sparse. This study explored CSR in Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) liquor retail outlets in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The objectives of the study were to investigate the engagement of SME liquor retailers in CSR practices, to ascertain whether a relationship exists between providing employee training on responsible retailing of alcohol and CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to investigate whether employee involvement in decision making influences CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to ascertain whether a relationship exists between the practical actions to reduce alcohol-related harm and CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to investigate whether SME liquor retailers do social good as an expression of CSR as well as to determine whether SME liquor retailers are influenced by stakeholders to engage in CSR initiatives. Both primary and secondary data sources were used in this study. A quantitative research design was used in conducting this research. Convenience sampling, a non-probability sampling technique, was used to select a sample of 94 from the sample frame of 123 SME liquor retailers. The survey method, by way of a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) as statistical software was used to analyse data. The Chi-square test, Pearson correlation, and descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. The findings of this research revealed that Stakeholder influence, employee involvement in decision making and employee training in responsible retailing of alcohol have an influence on the CSR practices of SME liquor retailers. The study also identified the safety and practical measures that SME liquor retailers are practicing as a way of reducing alcohol related-harm. A recommendation to stakeholders, such as suppliers and government to find more strategies of influencing SME liquor retailers to practice CSR, was made. Lastly, recommendations were made to SME liquor owners and managers on how to improve their CSR practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mupazi, Rutendo Getrude
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Retail trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor laws -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/799 , vital:26498 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Retail trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor laws -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In the contemporary business environment, a plethora of retail literature exists which examine the influence of CSR on the business. However, literature that explores Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the liquor retail sector has been relatively sparse. This study explored CSR in Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) liquor retail outlets in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The objectives of the study were to investigate the engagement of SME liquor retailers in CSR practices, to ascertain whether a relationship exists between providing employee training on responsible retailing of alcohol and CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to investigate whether employee involvement in decision making influences CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to ascertain whether a relationship exists between the practical actions to reduce alcohol-related harm and CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to investigate whether SME liquor retailers do social good as an expression of CSR as well as to determine whether SME liquor retailers are influenced by stakeholders to engage in CSR initiatives. Both primary and secondary data sources were used in this study. A quantitative research design was used in conducting this research. Convenience sampling, a non-probability sampling technique, was used to select a sample of 94 from the sample frame of 123 SME liquor retailers. The survey method, by way of a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) as statistical software was used to analyse data. The Chi-square test, Pearson correlation, and descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. The findings of this research revealed that Stakeholder influence, employee involvement in decision making and employee training in responsible retailing of alcohol have an influence on the CSR practices of SME liquor retailers. The study also identified the safety and practical measures that SME liquor retailers are practicing as a way of reducing alcohol related-harm. A recommendation to stakeholders, such as suppliers and government to find more strategies of influencing SME liquor retailers to practice CSR, was made. Lastly, recommendations were made to SME liquor owners and managers on how to improve their CSR practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The development of a framework to empower SME's in the Eastern Cape to overcome barriers in the adoption of e-commerce
- Authors: Siwundla, Sabelo Emmanuel
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8900 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020971
- Description: The primary objective of the study was to establish the role that e-commerce can play in improving some Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) business processes and transactions. This was undertaken by investigating how SMEs in the Eastern Cape can be empowered to use e-commerce and overcome barriers in the adoption of e-commerce. The study was modelled on the concept that there are four key factors that influence the adoption of e-commerce, namely: level of e-commerce awareness, level of computer literacy, availability of Information Technology and telecommunication infrastructure, as well as trust and security of e-commerce applications. The literature study revealed that SMEs play a vital role in the development and growth of a country’s economy. The literature review also identified a wide-range of barriers hindering e-commerce development and adoption by SMEs, namely: lack of computer skills, low level of e-commerce awareness, lack of Information Technology and telecommunication infrastructure, as well as lack of e-commerce trust and security. Further, the literature study showed that Internet availability and affordability is key to e-commerce growth and development, as in developing countries Internet is not yet universally accessible. This is due to a lack of necessary policies and infrastructure enabling wide-spread Internet use. The empirical study consisted of a structured questionnaire distributed to a population of executive management, middle management, operational employees and directors/owners in various SMEs in the Eastern Cape. The structured questionnaire was aimed at gathering views about e-commerce development and adoption by SMEs in the Eastern Cape with a special focus on barriers to the adoption of e-commerce by SMEs. The results of the empirical study revealed that: E-commerce awareness needs to be created among SMEs. Awareness needs to be created among SMEs about all aspects surrounding the use of e-commerce. Improvements in the telecommunications infrastructure could reduce the unreliable connections experienced by SMEs. Skills development strategies could assist in equipping SMEs with skills required in the e-commerce environment. Non-governmental organizations, government and companies assisting SMEs could provide free Internet access to SMEs. Alternatively, Internet cafes could be placed at different places and charge reasonable fees. NGO’s and higher education institutions could help in developing electronic literacy skills among SMEs. Companies assisting SMEs with funding could provide more funds to allow SMEs interested in e-commerce to start e-commerce systems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Siwundla, Sabelo Emmanuel
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Electronic commerce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8900 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020971
- Description: The primary objective of the study was to establish the role that e-commerce can play in improving some Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) business processes and transactions. This was undertaken by investigating how SMEs in the Eastern Cape can be empowered to use e-commerce and overcome barriers in the adoption of e-commerce. The study was modelled on the concept that there are four key factors that influence the adoption of e-commerce, namely: level of e-commerce awareness, level of computer literacy, availability of Information Technology and telecommunication infrastructure, as well as trust and security of e-commerce applications. The literature study revealed that SMEs play a vital role in the development and growth of a country’s economy. The literature review also identified a wide-range of barriers hindering e-commerce development and adoption by SMEs, namely: lack of computer skills, low level of e-commerce awareness, lack of Information Technology and telecommunication infrastructure, as well as lack of e-commerce trust and security. Further, the literature study showed that Internet availability and affordability is key to e-commerce growth and development, as in developing countries Internet is not yet universally accessible. This is due to a lack of necessary policies and infrastructure enabling wide-spread Internet use. The empirical study consisted of a structured questionnaire distributed to a population of executive management, middle management, operational employees and directors/owners in various SMEs in the Eastern Cape. The structured questionnaire was aimed at gathering views about e-commerce development and adoption by SMEs in the Eastern Cape with a special focus on barriers to the adoption of e-commerce by SMEs. The results of the empirical study revealed that: E-commerce awareness needs to be created among SMEs. Awareness needs to be created among SMEs about all aspects surrounding the use of e-commerce. Improvements in the telecommunications infrastructure could reduce the unreliable connections experienced by SMEs. Skills development strategies could assist in equipping SMEs with skills required in the e-commerce environment. Non-governmental organizations, government and companies assisting SMEs could provide free Internet access to SMEs. Alternatively, Internet cafes could be placed at different places and charge reasonable fees. NGO’s and higher education institutions could help in developing electronic literacy skills among SMEs. Companies assisting SMEs with funding could provide more funds to allow SMEs interested in e-commerce to start e-commerce systems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The entrepreneurial orientation of small businesses in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Matchaba-Hove, Mtonhodzi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job creation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9304 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1017139
- Description: The high failure rate among small businesses in South Africa has created an urgent need to identify strategies that will improve their levels of performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the entrepreneurial orientation of small businesses in the Eastern Cape and their level of business success. Entrepreneurial orientation was assessed in terms of the 5 dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation, namely Innovativeness, Proactiveness, Competitive aggressiveness, Risk-taking and Autonomy. Business success was assessed in terms of profitability and growth. A literature overview was firstly conducted. The nature and importance of small businesses were described, and the important contributions they make to economic growth, job creation and innovation, as well alleviating poverty and redistributing income were highlighted. The various challenges faced by small businesses were also discussed. Among these challenges, the lack of entrepreneurial orientation was specifically highlighted as a major barrier to small business success. The nature of entrepreneurial orientation and the five dimensions thereof were described. A theoretical framework was proposed illustrating the relationships between the 5 dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation and business success that were to be empirically tested. A positivistic research paradigm was followed and a quantitative approach was implemented. Convenience sampling was used and a total of 350 questionnaires were distributed to small businesses in the Eastern Cape; 317 usable questionnaires were yielded. A measuring instrument was developed based on reliable and valid items from existing studies. Statistical techniques including descriptive statistics, Pearson's product moment correlations, Structural Equation Modelling and an Analysis of Variance were performed on the gathered data. Demographic data relating to the gender, age and race of the respondents, as well as data relating to the number of employees, the tenure of the business, and nature of industry in which the small businesses operate, were collected. An exploratory factor analysis was undertaken, and Cronbach‟s alpha coefficients were calculated to assess the validity and reliability of the measuring instrument. The independent variables, Innovativeness and Proactiveness, could not be confirmed by the factor analysis and a new dimension emerged which was named Proactive innovativeness. As a result of the factor analysis the operational definitions were rephrased. The Cronbach‟s alpha coefficients reported were all greater than 0.7, deeming the scales measuring the various dimensions reliable. Descriptive statistics were calculated to summarise the sample data, and Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficients were established to investigate the associations between the variables. Significant positive correlations were reported between all of the variables. SEM was performed to determine the significance of the relationships hypothesised between the independent and dependent variables in this study. The results of this study showed that the independent variables Competitive aggressiveness, Proactive innovativeness and Autonomy have a significant positive influence on the dependent variable Business success, while Risk-taking was found to have a significant negative influence on Business success. Furthermore, the results showed that Proactive innovativeness was higher in larger-sized small businesses, Autonomy was reported to be higher in small businesses where the owner was in possession of a tertiary qualification, and Risk-taking was found to be higher in small businesses owned by people of colour than in businesses owned by White respondents. In a business environment where change is constant, small business owners need to be able to adapt their operations and strategies to these changes and the consumer demands these changes may bring. Small business owners need to be able to strategically reinvent their businesses if they are to survive over the long term. The level of entrepreneurial orientation has been identified as having a positive influence on business success. The more small businesses implement Proactive innovativeness, Competitive aggressiveness, calculated and cautions Risk-taking and Autonomy, the better the chances are that they will be successful
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Matchaba-Hove, Mtonhodzi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job creation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9304 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1017139
- Description: The high failure rate among small businesses in South Africa has created an urgent need to identify strategies that will improve their levels of performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the entrepreneurial orientation of small businesses in the Eastern Cape and their level of business success. Entrepreneurial orientation was assessed in terms of the 5 dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation, namely Innovativeness, Proactiveness, Competitive aggressiveness, Risk-taking and Autonomy. Business success was assessed in terms of profitability and growth. A literature overview was firstly conducted. The nature and importance of small businesses were described, and the important contributions they make to economic growth, job creation and innovation, as well alleviating poverty and redistributing income were highlighted. The various challenges faced by small businesses were also discussed. Among these challenges, the lack of entrepreneurial orientation was specifically highlighted as a major barrier to small business success. The nature of entrepreneurial orientation and the five dimensions thereof were described. A theoretical framework was proposed illustrating the relationships between the 5 dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation and business success that were to be empirically tested. A positivistic research paradigm was followed and a quantitative approach was implemented. Convenience sampling was used and a total of 350 questionnaires were distributed to small businesses in the Eastern Cape; 317 usable questionnaires were yielded. A measuring instrument was developed based on reliable and valid items from existing studies. Statistical techniques including descriptive statistics, Pearson's product moment correlations, Structural Equation Modelling and an Analysis of Variance were performed on the gathered data. Demographic data relating to the gender, age and race of the respondents, as well as data relating to the number of employees, the tenure of the business, and nature of industry in which the small businesses operate, were collected. An exploratory factor analysis was undertaken, and Cronbach‟s alpha coefficients were calculated to assess the validity and reliability of the measuring instrument. The independent variables, Innovativeness and Proactiveness, could not be confirmed by the factor analysis and a new dimension emerged which was named Proactive innovativeness. As a result of the factor analysis the operational definitions were rephrased. The Cronbach‟s alpha coefficients reported were all greater than 0.7, deeming the scales measuring the various dimensions reliable. Descriptive statistics were calculated to summarise the sample data, and Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficients were established to investigate the associations between the variables. Significant positive correlations were reported between all of the variables. SEM was performed to determine the significance of the relationships hypothesised between the independent and dependent variables in this study. The results of this study showed that the independent variables Competitive aggressiveness, Proactive innovativeness and Autonomy have a significant positive influence on the dependent variable Business success, while Risk-taking was found to have a significant negative influence on Business success. Furthermore, the results showed that Proactive innovativeness was higher in larger-sized small businesses, Autonomy was reported to be higher in small businesses where the owner was in possession of a tertiary qualification, and Risk-taking was found to be higher in small businesses owned by people of colour than in businesses owned by White respondents. In a business environment where change is constant, small business owners need to be able to adapt their operations and strategies to these changes and the consumer demands these changes may bring. Small business owners need to be able to strategically reinvent their businesses if they are to survive over the long term. The level of entrepreneurial orientation has been identified as having a positive influence on business success. The more small businesses implement Proactive innovativeness, Competitive aggressiveness, calculated and cautions Risk-taking and Autonomy, the better the chances are that they will be successful
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of entrepreneurship education on the performance of small, micro and medium enterprises in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Chimucheka, Tendai
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11321 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007107 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) play an important role in contributing to economic development of many countries around the world, including South Africa. Despite the importance of SMMEs an unacceptable and disappointingly high number of these ventures fail during the first few years of operation. It is in light of the importance and challenges faced by SMMEs that the performance of SMMEs is of interest to all countries. This study investigated the impact of entrepreneurship education on the performance of SMMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The objectives of the study were to investigate the role of entrepreneurship education in improving entrepreneurship skills and knowledge of owner/managers of SMMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, to determine the role of entrepreneurship education on the establishment and survival of SMMEs and to identify strategies that can be implemented to improve the performance of SMMEs. Both primary and secondary data sources were used in this study. A quantitative research design was used in conducting this research. Simple random sampling, a probability sampling technique was used to select a sample of 201 from the sample frame of 420 registered SMMEs. The survey method, by way of a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) is the statistical software that was used to analyse data. The Chi-square test, the T-test, Pearson Product Moment Correlation and descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. Validity and reliability of the research instrument and the findings was assured. The results for this study are useful for the development of the SMME sector, which is very important to South Africa for they contribute to the solving of socio-economic challenges. The findings of this research showed that entrepreneurship education has a positive impact on the performance of SMMEs and it plays a critical role in improving entrepreneurial skills and knowledge of SMME owners and managers. It was also found that entrepreneurial education is very important for the establishment and survival of SMMEs. Strategies that can be implemented to improve the performance of SMMEs in South Africa were suggested to the government, government agencies, educational institutions, other organisations, and SMME owners and managers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Chimucheka, Tendai
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11321 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007107 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee empowerment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) play an important role in contributing to economic development of many countries around the world, including South Africa. Despite the importance of SMMEs an unacceptable and disappointingly high number of these ventures fail during the first few years of operation. It is in light of the importance and challenges faced by SMMEs that the performance of SMMEs is of interest to all countries. This study investigated the impact of entrepreneurship education on the performance of SMMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The objectives of the study were to investigate the role of entrepreneurship education in improving entrepreneurship skills and knowledge of owner/managers of SMMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, to determine the role of entrepreneurship education on the establishment and survival of SMMEs and to identify strategies that can be implemented to improve the performance of SMMEs. Both primary and secondary data sources were used in this study. A quantitative research design was used in conducting this research. Simple random sampling, a probability sampling technique was used to select a sample of 201 from the sample frame of 420 registered SMMEs. The survey method, by way of a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) is the statistical software that was used to analyse data. The Chi-square test, the T-test, Pearson Product Moment Correlation and descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. Validity and reliability of the research instrument and the findings was assured. The results for this study are useful for the development of the SMME sector, which is very important to South Africa for they contribute to the solving of socio-economic challenges. The findings of this research showed that entrepreneurship education has a positive impact on the performance of SMMEs and it plays a critical role in improving entrepreneurial skills and knowledge of SMME owners and managers. It was also found that entrepreneurial education is very important for the establishment and survival of SMMEs. Strategies that can be implemented to improve the performance of SMMEs in South Africa were suggested to the government, government agencies, educational institutions, other organisations, and SMME owners and managers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The impact of motivations, personal values, management skills of managers on the perfomance of SME`s in selected towns (Port Elizabeth and Port Alfred) in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Tangwo, Asah Francis
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personalism , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11320 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007046 , Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personalism , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Description: This study investigates the impact of motivations, personal values and managerial skills of managers on the performance of Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa. The failure rate of SMEs in South Africa is very high and it is of great importance to investigate the factors that can impact on the performance of SMEs. Financial and non-financial methods were used to measure SMEs performance. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires. Exploratory factor analysis was used to improve the research problems and enhance the validity of the research. Data analysis for this study includes descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and regression analysis. Reliability was tested using the Cronbach‟s Alpha while validity was ensured by using a statistician and by pre-testing the research instrument in a pilot study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Tangwo, Asah Francis
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personalism , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11320 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007046 , Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personalism , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Description: This study investigates the impact of motivations, personal values and managerial skills of managers on the performance of Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa. The failure rate of SMEs in South Africa is very high and it is of great importance to investigate the factors that can impact on the performance of SMEs. Financial and non-financial methods were used to measure SMEs performance. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires. Exploratory factor analysis was used to improve the research problems and enhance the validity of the research. Data analysis for this study includes descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and regression analysis. Reliability was tested using the Cronbach‟s Alpha while validity was ensured by using a statistician and by pre-testing the research instrument in a pilot study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The impact of technological marketing on Porter's competitive forces model and SMEs' performance
- Authors: Hove, Progress
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marketing -- Mathematical models , Marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Technique , Telemarketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Competition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11323 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007120 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marketing -- Mathematical models , Marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Technique , Telemarketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Competition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: It is commonly understood that the adoption and development of technological marketing capabilities by firms provides them with immense opportunities to transform their business practices and strategies, so as to strategically position themselves in the market and enhance firm performance. Nevertheless, little attention has, thus far, been given to the empirical investigation of the impact of adopting and developing the technological marketing on Porter‟s five competitive forces and firm performance of SMEs. The principal objective of this study was to fill this void by investigating the influence of the technological marketing on Porter‟s five competitive forces model (industry structure) of SMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Secondarily, the study sought to determine the influence of technological marketing capability on firm performance of SMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality; in order to ascertain whether or not the competitiveness of SMEs impacts on their firm performance; to determine whether or not SMEs adopt new and advanced technological capabilities when marketing their products/services and to examine whether or not SMEs adopt new and advanced technological capabilities in order to enhance their performance. The study employs a quantitative method in data collection. Sample data from 211 SME owners/managers in the retail and manufacturing sectors of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality was collected for the final data analysis of this project. The sample data was analysed by performing a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using AMOS 7 Statistical Analysis software. The principal finding of this study reveals that technological marketing has no significant impact on Porter‟s five forces. In addition, the results showed that technological marketing capability has a positive and significant influence on firm performance. The findings also revealed that SMEs adopt new and advanced technologies when marketing their products and services. The conclusions and implications of the research findings are provided and recommendations are suggested. The researcher recommended non technological strategies for improving SMEs‟ competitiveness and the following technological strategies to boost performance: creating a customer-centric e-commerce strategy, embracing outsourcing, joining e-business community and integrating information management into new marketing technologies. Strategies were also recommended to the government as the policy maker. These include introducing e-business finance arrangement, marketing hubs for SMEs and promoting synergies between technology vendor companies and the small enterprises. The study tried to address marketing technologies‟ policy deficiencies on the side of both SMEs and the government.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Hove, Progress
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marketing -- Mathematical models , Marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Technique , Telemarketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Competition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11323 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007120 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Marketing -- Mathematical models , Marketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Technique , Telemarketing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Competition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: It is commonly understood that the adoption and development of technological marketing capabilities by firms provides them with immense opportunities to transform their business practices and strategies, so as to strategically position themselves in the market and enhance firm performance. Nevertheless, little attention has, thus far, been given to the empirical investigation of the impact of adopting and developing the technological marketing on Porter‟s five competitive forces and firm performance of SMEs. The principal objective of this study was to fill this void by investigating the influence of the technological marketing on Porter‟s five competitive forces model (industry structure) of SMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Secondarily, the study sought to determine the influence of technological marketing capability on firm performance of SMEs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality; in order to ascertain whether or not the competitiveness of SMEs impacts on their firm performance; to determine whether or not SMEs adopt new and advanced technological capabilities when marketing their products/services and to examine whether or not SMEs adopt new and advanced technological capabilities in order to enhance their performance. The study employs a quantitative method in data collection. Sample data from 211 SME owners/managers in the retail and manufacturing sectors of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality was collected for the final data analysis of this project. The sample data was analysed by performing a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using AMOS 7 Statistical Analysis software. The principal finding of this study reveals that technological marketing has no significant impact on Porter‟s five forces. In addition, the results showed that technological marketing capability has a positive and significant influence on firm performance. The findings also revealed that SMEs adopt new and advanced technologies when marketing their products and services. The conclusions and implications of the research findings are provided and recommendations are suggested. The researcher recommended non technological strategies for improving SMEs‟ competitiveness and the following technological strategies to boost performance: creating a customer-centric e-commerce strategy, embracing outsourcing, joining e-business community and integrating information management into new marketing technologies. Strategies were also recommended to the government as the policy maker. These include introducing e-business finance arrangement, marketing hubs for SMEs and promoting synergies between technology vendor companies and the small enterprises. The study tried to address marketing technologies‟ policy deficiencies on the side of both SMEs and the government.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Total quality management in training of SMMEs by government business support institutions in the Buffalo City Metropole
- Authors: Mfengwana, Thobelani
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Total quality management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Government aid to small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8823 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019705
- Description: The aim of the study is to determine the extent of Total Quality Management training by the government business support institutions in the enterprise development of Small Medium Micro Enterprises in Buffalo City Metro area. The study reflects on the Total Quality Management elements and enterprise development activities by the government institutions located in the Buffalo City Metro area. The researcher conducted literature review to ascertain what does Total Quality Management training entails. The study discussed the enterprise development services offered by the Government business support agencies in Buffalo City Metro. The empirical study conducted determined the views of Small Medium Micro Enterprises assisted by government business support service towards Total Quality Management. The researcher collected quantitative data from the judgemental sample using five point linkert scale questionnaire. The study achieved the response rate of 52.5 percent. Descriptive statistics of the data was analysed using MS Excel, and the internal consistency or reliability was determined using SPSS software. The data achieved the Chronbach’s Alpha co-efficient of 0.879. The research finding has certain limitations, and these limitations provide opportunities for further research studies. The limitation of this study was the fact that the sample was judgemental. It is possible that if another sampling method is used, it could arrive at a different conclusion. The results from the study indicate that the government business support institutions in Buffalo City area do not provide total quality management training. Although it was not a focus of the research, the study found that the three government institutions also located in Buffalo City Metro area are not used by the Small Medium Micro Enterprises. Government business support institutions need to offer total quality management training as part of enterprise development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Mfengwana, Thobelani
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Total quality management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Government aid to small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8823 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019705
- Description: The aim of the study is to determine the extent of Total Quality Management training by the government business support institutions in the enterprise development of Small Medium Micro Enterprises in Buffalo City Metro area. The study reflects on the Total Quality Management elements and enterprise development activities by the government institutions located in the Buffalo City Metro area. The researcher conducted literature review to ascertain what does Total Quality Management training entails. The study discussed the enterprise development services offered by the Government business support agencies in Buffalo City Metro. The empirical study conducted determined the views of Small Medium Micro Enterprises assisted by government business support service towards Total Quality Management. The researcher collected quantitative data from the judgemental sample using five point linkert scale questionnaire. The study achieved the response rate of 52.5 percent. Descriptive statistics of the data was analysed using MS Excel, and the internal consistency or reliability was determined using SPSS software. The data achieved the Chronbach’s Alpha co-efficient of 0.879. The research finding has certain limitations, and these limitations provide opportunities for further research studies. The limitation of this study was the fact that the sample was judgemental. It is possible that if another sampling method is used, it could arrive at a different conclusion. The results from the study indicate that the government business support institutions in Buffalo City area do not provide total quality management training. Although it was not a focus of the research, the study found that the three government institutions also located in Buffalo City Metro area are not used by the Small Medium Micro Enterprises. Government business support institutions need to offer total quality management training as part of enterprise development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
An analysis of the business relationship between SMEs and insurance companies in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan area
- Authors: Chodokufa, Kudakwashe
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Insurance -- Finance , Business insurance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business networks , Strategic alliances (Business)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11318 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/279 , Insurance -- Finance , Business insurance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business networks , Strategic alliances (Business)
- Description: Small and Medium enterprises (SMEs) play an important role as employers and in the economic growth of South Africa and in Africa as a whole. SMEs comprise over 90 percent of African business operations and contribute to over percent of African employment and GDP. SMEs sector has shown positive signs in South Africa, Mauritius and North Africa. SMEs constitute 95 percent of formal manufacturing activity in Nigeria. Senegal and Kenya have provided an environment which is conducive for SMEs (African Development Bank 2005). In August 2006, flood damage to small businesses and residential premises in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area was estimated at R120million (SABC News 2006). The holding of an insurance cover by SMEs is crucial and beneficial to the economy and to the survival and success of the Small and Medium Enterprise sector. If a business has an insurance policy and a relationship with its insurer it becomes easier for the company to over come such a catastrophe. However, literature has shown that insurance companies are not willing to insure SMEs and it is the aim of this research to establish whether a relationship between the two constructs exists. An article entitled New Deal In The Offering for SMMEs, the author stated that the insurance industry prefer to deal only with established businesses (Mthimkhulu 2008). The aim of this research is to establish the importance of business relationship between Insurance companies and SMEs. The research will show how beneficial such a relationship is to both industries. The data for the research was collected through a survey type structured questionnaire that was developed and validated. The questionnaire was administered to the owners or managers of SMEs in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area. The primary objective of this research was to establish whether SMEs in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area have insurance policies for their businesses, and the results have shown that most of the SMEs in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area do not have insurance policies for their businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Chodokufa, Kudakwashe
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Insurance -- Finance , Business insurance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business networks , Strategic alliances (Business)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11318 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/279 , Insurance -- Finance , Business insurance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business networks , Strategic alliances (Business)
- Description: Small and Medium enterprises (SMEs) play an important role as employers and in the economic growth of South Africa and in Africa as a whole. SMEs comprise over 90 percent of African business operations and contribute to over percent of African employment and GDP. SMEs sector has shown positive signs in South Africa, Mauritius and North Africa. SMEs constitute 95 percent of formal manufacturing activity in Nigeria. Senegal and Kenya have provided an environment which is conducive for SMEs (African Development Bank 2005). In August 2006, flood damage to small businesses and residential premises in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area was estimated at R120million (SABC News 2006). The holding of an insurance cover by SMEs is crucial and beneficial to the economy and to the survival and success of the Small and Medium Enterprise sector. If a business has an insurance policy and a relationship with its insurer it becomes easier for the company to over come such a catastrophe. However, literature has shown that insurance companies are not willing to insure SMEs and it is the aim of this research to establish whether a relationship between the two constructs exists. An article entitled New Deal In The Offering for SMMEs, the author stated that the insurance industry prefer to deal only with established businesses (Mthimkhulu 2008). The aim of this research is to establish the importance of business relationship between Insurance companies and SMEs. The research will show how beneficial such a relationship is to both industries. The data for the research was collected through a survey type structured questionnaire that was developed and validated. The questionnaire was administered to the owners or managers of SMEs in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area. The primary objective of this research was to establish whether SMEs in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area have insurance policies for their businesses, and the results have shown that most of the SMEs in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Area do not have insurance policies for their businesses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
An investigation into causes of success and failure in small businesses within the Department of Social Development in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Petrus, Henry George
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: South Africa -- Dept. of Social Development , South Africa -- Dept. of Trade and Industry , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Growth , Business enterprises -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job creation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:791 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003942
- Description: The failure rate of small business initiatives in South Africa is phenomenal, and much is needed to unravel the causes contributing to such failures. Yet small businesses are playing a vital part in our global economy and in particular in terms of job creation and poverty eradication. There are internal as well as external factors that play a significant role in determining the success of these small businesses. In South Africa much emphasis is placed by national, provincial and local governments on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to drive wealth creation and black economic empowerment. Therefore, an investigation into the factors contributing to the success and failure of SMEs is of vital importance. The South African government’s poverty eradication strategy, which is driven by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), allocated funds for job creation programmes as a method to combat poverty and more importantly, to develop young entrepreneurs. Among the seven departments mandated by DTI was the Department of Social Development. Since the birth of the new democracy, this department has transformed from offering a traditional remedial method of service delivery to an integrated developmental approach. This approach included extensive community work, which includes job creation and economic empowerment through the establishment of small businesses. Given the availability of funding, the inability to spend fiscal budgets as per allocation as well as the charity element of receiving involved, it is important to explore whether factors contributing to the success of these SMEs are any different to the traditional business strategies. In this study, the researcher gave special consideration to the social capital element and its contribution in the context of community support as well as the ability of SMEs to become sustainable business ventures over time. The research study aims to highlight unique factors contributing to the success and failures of SMEs established by the Department of Social Development and in doing so hopes to manifest an improved understanding of the management of these SMEs. In chapter one, the researcher gives a brief description of the activities of the Department of Social Development and its mandate to establish SMEs for job creation. A brief explanation regarding the context of the problem that was investigated is also given. Chapter two provides a detailed theoretical overview of the study, focusing in particular on factors contributing to the success and failure of small businesses. In chapter three, the research design and the various instruments used are discussed. Here, emphasis is placed on procedural issues and ethical considerations. The validity and reliability of the research is strongly motivated. In chapter four the research results are discussed. Chapter five aims to discuss the findings of the research with reference to the theoretical overview outlined in chapter two. Lastly, chapter six makes recommendations to the various stakeholders who may benefit from this research. These recommendations are the most important objectives of the research and should add value with regards to the management of SMEs in future, with special reference to the Department of Social Development in the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Petrus, Henry George
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: South Africa -- Dept. of Social Development , South Africa -- Dept. of Trade and Industry , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Growth , Business enterprises -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job creation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:791 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003942
- Description: The failure rate of small business initiatives in South Africa is phenomenal, and much is needed to unravel the causes contributing to such failures. Yet small businesses are playing a vital part in our global economy and in particular in terms of job creation and poverty eradication. There are internal as well as external factors that play a significant role in determining the success of these small businesses. In South Africa much emphasis is placed by national, provincial and local governments on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to drive wealth creation and black economic empowerment. Therefore, an investigation into the factors contributing to the success and failure of SMEs is of vital importance. The South African government’s poverty eradication strategy, which is driven by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), allocated funds for job creation programmes as a method to combat poverty and more importantly, to develop young entrepreneurs. Among the seven departments mandated by DTI was the Department of Social Development. Since the birth of the new democracy, this department has transformed from offering a traditional remedial method of service delivery to an integrated developmental approach. This approach included extensive community work, which includes job creation and economic empowerment through the establishment of small businesses. Given the availability of funding, the inability to spend fiscal budgets as per allocation as well as the charity element of receiving involved, it is important to explore whether factors contributing to the success of these SMEs are any different to the traditional business strategies. In this study, the researcher gave special consideration to the social capital element and its contribution in the context of community support as well as the ability of SMEs to become sustainable business ventures over time. The research study aims to highlight unique factors contributing to the success and failures of SMEs established by the Department of Social Development and in doing so hopes to manifest an improved understanding of the management of these SMEs. In chapter one, the researcher gives a brief description of the activities of the Department of Social Development and its mandate to establish SMEs for job creation. A brief explanation regarding the context of the problem that was investigated is also given. Chapter two provides a detailed theoretical overview of the study, focusing in particular on factors contributing to the success and failure of small businesses. In chapter three, the research design and the various instruments used are discussed. Here, emphasis is placed on procedural issues and ethical considerations. The validity and reliability of the research is strongly motivated. In chapter four the research results are discussed. Chapter five aims to discuss the findings of the research with reference to the theoretical overview outlined in chapter two. Lastly, chapter six makes recommendations to the various stakeholders who may benefit from this research. These recommendations are the most important objectives of the research and should add value with regards to the management of SMEs in future, with special reference to the Department of Social Development in the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Deriving value from IT investments within botique hotels: a Buffalo City case study
- Authors: Mathe, Thabelang
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Information technology , Hotels -- Finance , Boardinghouses -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11134 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1000975 , Information technology , Hotels -- Finance , Boardinghouses -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- Finance
- Description: Even though many organizations invest in IT, the value that IT is expected to contribute is still not clearly understood. Researchers agree that IT has become a crucial element to business operations and business existence. However, while there is continued investment in new information technologies and systems, organizations are not certain whether significant value is derived from IT investments. The failure to realize good return on IT investments is ascribed to a lack of understanding of IT by organizations and also the failure by organizations to align IT strategies with business strategies. The lack of alignment leads to the failure to match the right IT to the correct task, which leads to the poor application of systems and poor allocation of human resources to tasks. Therefore, organizations such as Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in particular Boutique Hotels, are noted for their failure to derive better IT value. Their unique characteristics are understood to be influential in the way IT is used and managed by affecting the delivery of value from technology. In order to enable Boutique Hotels to derive more value from IT, the IT governance frameworks, Val IT and CobiT (ITGI, 2007), were examined as these integrate good practices to ensure that an organization‘s IT supports the business objectives. In addition, the Task Technology Fit (TTF) (Goodhue and Thompson, 1995) and Gap Analysis (Heeks, 2001) theories were highlighted as these prescribe the platform ideal for more value to be derived from IT. The current status of Boutique Hotels in Buffalo City was assessed through the use of questionnaires and interviews. The collected data was analyzed and resulted in the development of a model that can be used by Boutique Hotels in order to derive more value from IT and to maximize the use of IT.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Mathe, Thabelang
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Information technology , Hotels -- Finance , Boardinghouses -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11134 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1000975 , Information technology , Hotels -- Finance , Boardinghouses -- Finance , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- Finance
- Description: Even though many organizations invest in IT, the value that IT is expected to contribute is still not clearly understood. Researchers agree that IT has become a crucial element to business operations and business existence. However, while there is continued investment in new information technologies and systems, organizations are not certain whether significant value is derived from IT investments. The failure to realize good return on IT investments is ascribed to a lack of understanding of IT by organizations and also the failure by organizations to align IT strategies with business strategies. The lack of alignment leads to the failure to match the right IT to the correct task, which leads to the poor application of systems and poor allocation of human resources to tasks. Therefore, organizations such as Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in particular Boutique Hotels, are noted for their failure to derive better IT value. Their unique characteristics are understood to be influential in the way IT is used and managed by affecting the delivery of value from technology. In order to enable Boutique Hotels to derive more value from IT, the IT governance frameworks, Val IT and CobiT (ITGI, 2007), were examined as these integrate good practices to ensure that an organization‘s IT supports the business objectives. In addition, the Task Technology Fit (TTF) (Goodhue and Thompson, 1995) and Gap Analysis (Heeks, 2001) theories were highlighted as these prescribe the platform ideal for more value to be derived from IT. The current status of Boutique Hotels in Buffalo City was assessed through the use of questionnaires and interviews. The collected data was analyzed and resulted in the development of a model that can be used by Boutique Hotels in order to derive more value from IT and to maximize the use of IT.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Determinants of capital structure of small and medium enterprises in the Buffalo City Municipality Eastern Cape Province South Africa
- Authors: Rungani, Ellen Chenesai
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Debt-to-equity ratio , Capital , Value , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11317 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/271 , Debt-to-equity ratio , Capital , Value , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study investigated the determinants of capital structure of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Buffalo city municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The objectives of the study were, to ascertain whether the use of internal equity (retained profits) was positively or negatively related to the size, age and profitability of the firm. Furthermore the study examined if the use of external equity (capital from owners) was negatively or positively related to the age, size and profitability of the firm. Finally the study wanted to establish if the use of debt was positively or negatively related to the size, age and profitability of the firm. To achieve these objectives, the study hypothesised that age, size and profitability amongst other factors were determinants of capital structure. The study further hypothesised that the use of retained profits by SMEs was negatively related with age, size and profitability of the firm. Furthermore the study hypothesised that the use of external equity by SMEs was negatively related with age, size and profitability of the firm. Finally, the study hypothesised that the use of debt by SMEs was negatively related to the size, age and profitability of the firm. The results revealed that size, age and profitability of the firm were some of the major determinants of capital structure. Finally, the study recommended that SMEs, commercial banks and the South African government take measures to improve access to capital by SMEs. Such measures included government intervention in reducing discrimination from the banks as well as encouragement of SMEs training and education so that they are empowered with business and financial management skills.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Rungani, Ellen Chenesai
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Debt-to-equity ratio , Capital , Value , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: vital:11317 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/271 , Debt-to-equity ratio , Capital , Value , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study investigated the determinants of capital structure of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Buffalo city municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The objectives of the study were, to ascertain whether the use of internal equity (retained profits) was positively or negatively related to the size, age and profitability of the firm. Furthermore the study examined if the use of external equity (capital from owners) was negatively or positively related to the age, size and profitability of the firm. Finally the study wanted to establish if the use of debt was positively or negatively related to the size, age and profitability of the firm. To achieve these objectives, the study hypothesised that age, size and profitability amongst other factors were determinants of capital structure. The study further hypothesised that the use of retained profits by SMEs was negatively related with age, size and profitability of the firm. Furthermore the study hypothesised that the use of external equity by SMEs was negatively related with age, size and profitability of the firm. Finally, the study hypothesised that the use of debt by SMEs was negatively related to the size, age and profitability of the firm. The results revealed that size, age and profitability of the firm were some of the major determinants of capital structure. Finally, the study recommended that SMEs, commercial banks and the South African government take measures to improve access to capital by SMEs. Such measures included government intervention in reducing discrimination from the banks as well as encouragement of SMEs training and education so that they are empowered with business and financial management skills.
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- Date Issued: 2009